Podcasts about top headlines

Top Stories for January 29th Publish Date: January 29th PRE-ROLL: GCPS From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Thursday, January 29th and Happy birthday to Tom Selleck I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. UGA’s online degree programs rank among nation’s best Archer students walk out of school to protest ICE actions State Rep. Scott Hilton files bill to protect kindergarten 'redshirting' Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats 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: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING STORY 1: UGA’s online degree programs rank among nation’s best The University of Georgia’s online programs are making waves again, landing several top-10 spots in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best Online Programs rankings. UGA held strong at No. 18 overall, keeping its place among the nation’s top 20. What’s behind the rankings? The annual survey looks at things like student engagement, faculty credentials, tech, and peer reviews. And UGA? It’s shining. The numbers tell the story: UGA’s online retention ranking climbed to No. 4, and its graduation ranking jumped from No. 20 to No. 7. The Mary Frances Early College of Education continues to lead the charge, offering programs that help Georgia’s teachers grow their skills while staying in the classroom. Highlights include: No. 3 in Best Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction (up from No. 11) No. 3 in Educational/Instructional Media Design No. 4 in Special Education No. 6 in Educational Administration and Policy UGA’s programs for veterans also earned recognition, ranking No. 11 for making education more accessible through the GI Bill and other financial aid. The Terry College of Business wasn’t left out either—its online master’s in business and technology ranked No. 23 nationally. STORY 2: Archer students walk out of school to protest ICE actions At Archer High School, Sandra Brown-Peraza says immigrant students live with a constant, gnawing fear. Every day, stepping off campus feels like stepping into the unknown. “We’ve seen ICE waiting outside schools—places that are supposed to be safe,” she said. That fear boiled over on Tuesday when hundreds of students walked out, chanting “No more ICE.” Organizer Nehemiah Hamilton estimated 800 students braved the freezing cold to protest. The protest wasn’t just about raids—it was about lives lost. Students spoke of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, U.S. citizens killed by ICE agents in Minnesota. “They’re killing innocent people,” said Sasha Molnar. Not everyone supports the protests. U.S. Rep. Mike Collins dismissed them as “woke indoctrination,” but Hamilton fired back: “We’re not safe. We’re not backing down.” Meanwhile, Gwinnett Board Chairwoman Tarece Johnson-Morgan stood with the students, saying, “Their voices demand our empathy and care.” STORY 3: State Rep. Scott Hilton files bill to protect kindergarten 'redshirting' A new bill could give Georgia parents the final say on when their kids start kindergarten—at 5 or 6. Right now, the law says kids must be in school by 6, but it’s up to local districts to decide if a 6-year-old can start in kindergarten or must go straight to first grade. State Rep. Scott Hilton introduced House Bill 1048 to clear up the confusion. The bill comes after Gwinnett County Public Schools stirred controversy by ending its long-standing practice of allowing “redshirting,” where parents delay kindergarten until age 6. GCPS now sends all 6-year-olds straight to first grade, even if they’ve never been in a classroom. Parents pushed back hard, arguing that some kids—especially younger ones—need that extra year to mature. GCPS has hinted at a compromise, with an “expedited student support team” process to decide on a case-by-case basis if redshirted kids can go to kindergarten. But it’s no guarantee. If Hilton’s bill passes, though? That decision would be in parents’ hands, not the district’s. 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: KIA Mall Of Ga - GCPL Passport STORY 4: Gwinnett Stripers hiring gameday staff for 2026 The Gwinnett Stripers are gearing up for the 2026 season and looking for gameday staff to join the team. If you’re all about creating awesome fan experiences, this might be your shot. You can apply online now at GoStripers.com/jobs, or swing by their in-person Job Fair on Saturday, Feb. 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It’s happening in the Suite Lounge at Gwinnett Field. They’re hiring for part-time, seasonal roles in concessions, fan services, ticket sales, security, parking, gameday production, and even photography. Pro tip: Bring a few printed resumes to the Job Fair. Parking’s free, and you’ll enter through the Main Gate. STORY 5: Nalani Gainey reaches 2,000 career points in Seckinger victory It was a big night for Nalani Gainey—2,000 career points and counting. Oh, and Seckinger’s girls basketball team took down Chattahoochee 47-32 in Region 7-AAAAA action on Tuesday. Not a bad way to celebrate. Gainey was everywhere, racking up 24 points, five rebounds, five assists, five steals, and two blocks. The Jaguars, now 14-8 overall and 6-3 in the region, leaned on her leadership—and she delivered. Savan Johnson chipped in eight points and three boards, while Janyla Reed and Selah Wells dominated the paint with a combined 16 rebounds and four blocks. Titi Makinde added three points to round it out. GLADIATORS: The Atlanta Gladiators edged out the Orlando Solar Bears 2-1 Monday night in a gritty ECHL matchup at the Kia Center. It wasn’t pretty, but it was effective—and it keeps Atlanta rolling. Orlando struck first, capitalizing on a 5-on-3 power play midway through the first. Jack Adams buried a backdoor pass to make it 1-0, and the Solar Bears carried that lead into the second, outshooting Atlanta 9-6. But the Gladiators answered. Jack Matier ripped a power-play rocket from the point to tie it 1-1 in the second, with assists from Mike McNamee and Ryan Francis. Both teams traded chances—power plays, odd-man rushes, you name it—but the goalies stood tall. After two periods, Orlando had a 25-11 shot advantage, but the score stayed deadlocked. Then came the dagger. Early in the third, Alex Young sniped one short side off a slick feed from Isak Walther, giving Atlanta the 2-1 lead. From there, it was all about Semptimphelter, who slammed the door with 31 saves, earning his 12th win of the season. The Gladiators improved to 25-9-1, extending their point streak to five games. Next up? A three-game showdown with the Everblades in Estero. Buckle up—it’s going to be a battle. We’ll be right back. Break 3: EAGLE THEATRE And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats We’ll have closing comments after this Break 5: 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 Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill Team GCPS News Podcast, Current Events, Top Headlines, Breaking News, Podcast News, Trending, Local News, Daily, News, Podcast, Interviews See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for January 28th Publish Date:  January 28th Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, January 28th and Happy Birthday to Jermaine Dye I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Local student Mathletes to compete in Cobb County Math Contest Support Cobb law enforcement and get a state tax credit Lawmakers push transparency in school board public comments 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: Local student Mathletes to compete in Cobb County Math Contest Cobb County’s middle school math whizzes are gearing up for the local MATHCOUNTS competition on Feb. 28 at Marietta High School. Organized by the Cobb County Chapter of the Georgia Society of Professional Engineers, the event will feature teams from Dickerson, Dodgen, and Hightower Trail middle schools. These students have been prepping since fall—hours of practice, problem-solving, and probably a few late-night algebra sessions. The competition includes both individual and team rounds, with topics like geometry, probability, and statistics. Oh, and there’s a fast-paced oral round too—no pressure, right? Winners will snag prizes and move on to the state finals on March 9 in Buford. MATHCOUNTS, a national program, aims to spark a love for math in middle schoolers—because let’s face it, this is the age where kids either embrace math or start running from it. With 50,000 students competing nationwide this year, it’s a big deal. For details, check out www.mathcounts.org. STORY 2: Support Cobb law enforcement and get a state tax credit Tax season is here, and if you live in Cobb County, there’s a way to support local law enforcement and get a state income tax credit. Thanks to the 2022 LESS Crime Act (short for Law Enforcement Strategic Support Act), Georgia taxpayers can donate to approved public safety foundations and get a dollar-for-dollar credit on their state taxes. Here’s the deal: individuals can donate up to $5,000, couples filing jointly can give $10,000, and corporations can contribute up to 75% of their state tax liability. Statewide, there’s a $75 million cap, and each foundation can accept up to $5 million annually. The process? Register with the Georgia Tax Center, wait for approval, and send your donation within 60 days. Funds go toward training, equipment, officer wellness, and community programs. In Cobb, you can donate to: Cobb Sheriff’s Foundation Acworth Police Community Foundation Cobb County Public Safety Foundation Kennesaw Public Safety Foundation Marietta Police Foundation For links and details, visit their websites. STORY 3: Lawmakers push transparency in school board public comments  Cobb County lawmakers are pushing for more transparency in school board meetings with House Bill 989, which would require public comments to be broadcast or recorded if the rest of the meeting is aired. Rep. David Wilkerson said it’s about consistency: “If you’re showing the meeting, show all of it. Don’t cut out the tough parts.” The bill comes after Cobb’s school board stopped broadcasting public comments last year, sparking backlash from parents and lawmakers. Critics called it censorship; the board cited liability concerns. Rep. Solomon Adesanya said public comments are crucial for oversight: “If you only hear one side, you control the narrative.” The bill has bipartisan support, with Rep. Jordan Ridley also signing on. “Transparency matters,” he said. “If you’re broadcasting, show the good, bad, and everything in between.” Meanwhile, Ridley floated the idea of an independent audit for Cobb schools, similar to one he championed in Cherokee County. Cobb school board Chair Randy Scamihorn defended the district, saying claims of a lack of transparency are “absolutely false.” Still, he invited lawmakers to review their processes, adding, “No organization is perfect.” We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 9 STORY 4: Cobb opens $24M joint police, sheriff firing range Cobb County just unveiled its shiny new $24 million firing range, and let’s just say—it’s a game-changer. Sheriff Craig Owens and Police Chief Dan Ferrell cut the ribbon Friday morning, joined by the Board of Commissioners, a crowd of officers, and deputies. The 65,000-square-foot facility, located next to the Public Safety Training Academy in Austell, replaces the old outdoor range that had been around for over 30 years. That one? It had a strict 8 p.m. curfew because of nearby neighborhoods. Now? Training can happen 24/7. The range features three separate areas, including a 100-yard precision range, and a high-tech 360-degree targeting system for realistic drills. Officers can train in low-light, no-light, and even less-lethal scenarios. Paid for with SPLOST funds, the range is a long-term investment in public safety—and a big win for Cobb County. STORY 5: Northwest Georgia voters to head to polls March 10 for federal and, now, state election Northwest Georgia voters are in for a political doubleheader on March 10. Not only will they pick a new state senator, but they’ll also decide if the former holder of that Senate seat, Colton Moore, should head to Congress. Here’s the backstory: Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene resigned in January with a year left in her U.S. House term, triggering a special election for District 14. Moore, who represented Senate District 53 (Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, Walker, and part of Floyd counties), stepped down mid-January to join the crowded race for Greene’s seat—22 candidates, to be exact. Qualifying for Moore’s old Senate seat runs Jan. 29 to Feb. 2. Voter registration closes Feb. 9, with early voting starting Feb. 16. If no one wins outright, expect a runoff on April 7. Buckle up, northwest Georgia—it’s going to be a busy ballot. Break: STORY 6: Chris Carr talks public safety in Cobb Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr didn’t hold back when he spoke to the Cobb County Republican Women’s Club on Friday. Public safety, he said, isn’t just about stopping crime—it’s about supporting law enforcement, tackling mental health, and improving education. And now, as a candidate for governor, he’s making his case. Carr highlighted his record: creating units to fight human trafficking, gangs, opioids, and organized retail crime. “Keeping people safe is the most basic job of government,” he said. “If families don’t feel safe, we’ve failed.” He shared staggering numbers—over 200 children rescued from trafficking, 115 gang members convicted—and warned about the fentanyl crisis, calling it a “war” fueled by Mexican cartels. His office recently seized 15 pounds of the drug, enough to kill millions. On education, he stressed the importance of literacy by third grade and slammed “woke progressivism” in schools. “Our kids aren’t social experiments,” he said. “Schools should teach reading, writing, and math—not radical ideology.” Mental health? Another priority. Carr called for more facilities statewide, saying jails shouldn’t double as treatment centers. He also floated limiting phones in high schools, blaming social media for worsening students’ mental health. When asked about gambling, Carr stood firm against casino betting, citing addiction concerns. On minors accessing pornography, he tied it to human trafficking and expressed fears about AI being used to exploit kids. Former Cobb GOP Chair Rose Wing praised Carr’s tough stance on drug cartels and said she believes he’d make a “great governor.” STORY 7: Woodstock native Bolt named assistant golf coach at KSU  Abigail Bolt, a former Woodstock High School star, is heading back to familiar turf—this time as the new assistant women’s golf coach at Kennesaw State. Owls head coach Ket Vanderpool, who worked with Bolt for three seasons at Georgia State, made the announcement Friday. Bolt, who played collegiate golf at Appalachian State from 2017-21, brings a mix of coaching chops and on-course expertise. At Georgia State, she helped lead the team to nine top-five finishes and four tournament wins. Before that? She honed her skills at Towne Lake Hills Golf Club, running junior clinics and managing tournaments. As a player, Bolt was a standout at Appalachian State, earning MVP honors her senior year and finishing with a 77.81 stroke average. Since graduating in 2021, she’s stayed active in the game, competing in amateur events and continuing to build her career in golf. 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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Weekly, produced by TAB Media Group, which publishes The Alabama Baptist and The Baptist Paper. Each episode features news headlines read by TAB Media Group staff and volunteers. New episodes are released weekly on Wednesday mornings. Articles featured in this episode: First person: People of all faiths can work together when threats arise World Watch List 2026: Which countries are among the worst? First person: Two ponytail holders and the role of parents in discipleship Explore the Bible and Bible Studies for Life Sunday School Lessons 'Innocent until proven guilty': Stages of a crime investigation Preacher turns old sermons into global ministry through social media Seniors experience 'life-changing' deer hunts Ministries help eliminate medical burdens as debt grows Soccer coach uses life experience to teach players off the pitch George Bullard's new book released by TAB Media Group Order Soaring with Faith here! Visit TAB Media HERE Subscribe on iTunes HERE

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for January 23rd Publish Date:  January 23rd    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, January 23rd and Happy Birthday to Earl Falconer I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal KSU students rally on campus to protest ICE, deportations and detentions National Weather Service: Potential ‘major winter storm’ incoming this weekend Cobb victim advocate appointed to State Parole Board Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads 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 8 STORY 1: KSU students rally on campus to protest ICE, deportations and detentions  Hundreds of Kennesaw State students walked out of class Tuesday, joining a nationwide protest against ICE on the anniversary of Donald Trump’s second inauguration. The “Free America” walkout, organized by Students for Socialism at KSU, called for justice for those detained, deported, or killed by ICE—like Renee Nicole Good, who was fatally shot by an ICE agent in Minneapolis earlier this month. Students gathered on the campus green, holding signs and chanting, “Justice for Renee” and “The people united will never be defeated.” Some marched around the student center, megaphones in hand, their voices echoing across campus. Grace Blomberg, one of the organizers, said the walkout was about solidarity. “We have a responsibility to stand with our immigrant brothers and sisters and with students in Minneapolis who’ve been striking for days,” she said. Not everyone agreed. Andre Stafford, chair of the Cobb Young Republicans, called the protests “misinformed” and said, “At the end of the day, it’s about law and order.” STORY 2: National Weather Service: Potential ‘major winter storm’ incoming this weekend  Winter’s about to make its presence known in Georgia, and the National Weather Service is urging everyone to stay alert. A major winter storm is brewing, set to hit the eastern U.S. this weekend, but where it’ll hit hardest? Still up in the air. Meteorologist Sam Marlow explained the storm’s setup: Arctic air surging south meets warm, moisture-packed air from the Gulf and Pacific. Somewhere along a line from the Carolinas to Texas, they’ll collide—bringing snow, freezing rain, and chaos. For Cobb County, expect a messy mix. Rain and snow showers could start early Saturday, with temps hovering around 40. By nightfall, it’s all but guaranteed—precipitation, freezing rain, and lows dipping to 26. Sunday? More of the same, with highs near 36 and lows plummeting to 19. And once the storm’s gone? Bitter cold sticks around. The advice? Be ready. Stock up on groceries, cover outdoor pipes, and pack an emergency kit for your car. If roads get bad, stay put—it helps crews clear them faster. For those without a warm place to stay, MUST Ministries is opening its winter warming shelter Saturday through Feb. 3. Located at 1297 Bells Ferry Road in Marietta, the shelter offers hot meals, beds, and breakfast. Guests should arrive by 8 p.m., and transportation is available through county transit vouchers. Stay safe, Georgia. STORY 3: Cobb victim advocate appointed to State Parole Board  Kimberly McCoy, a veteran in victim advocacy from Cobb County, has been appointed to the Georgia State Board of Pardons and Paroles by Gov. Brian Kemp. She steps into the role left by Meg Heap, who departed in August to become U.S. attorney for Georgia’s Southern District. McCoy’s resume is stacked. She co-founded the Cobb Family Justice Center, served 25 years as director of the Cobb DA’s Victim Witness Unit, and holds degrees in criminal justice and public administration. But her new role hasn’t been without controversy. Attorneys for death row inmate Stacey Humphreys, convicted of killing two Cobb real estate agents, argued McCoy’s past work with victims’ families creates a conflict of interest in his clemency case. Though McCoy planned to abstain from voting, a judge ruled her involvement could still unfairly sway the outcome. Humphreys’ execution, originally set for Dec. 17, has been delayed until a full, impartial clemency hearing can take place. McCoy’s appointment marks a new chapter in her career, but it’s already proving to be a challenging one. 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 8 STORY 4: Severe blood shortage: Give blood to Red Cross now  The American Red Cross is in desperate need of blood donors—like, now. Winter always strains the blood supply, but this year? It’s critical. Patients can’t afford delays in lifesaving care, so if you’re eligible, roll up your sleeve and help. As a thank-you, donors through Jan. 25 are entered to win a trip to Super Bowl LX in California. From Jan. 26 to Feb. 28, you’ll snag a $20 e-gift card. Local drives are happening all over Cobb County—Marietta, Kennesaw, Smyrna, and more. Check RedCrossBlood.org for dates and locations. And remember: your donation could literally save a life. STORY 5: F BRAVES: Carlos Beltrán and Andruw Jones are headed to Cooperstown, two center fielders who dominated their eras with a mix of power, speed, and jaw-dropping defense. Born just a day apart in April 1977, they’ll now share the stage at the Hall of Fame induction on July 26. Beltrán, in his fourth year on the ballot, finally crossed the 75% threshold, earning 84.2% of the vote. Jones, in his ninth year, got 78.4%. Both had to climb uphill—Beltrán’s path clouded by the Astros’ sign-stealing scandal, Jones’ by a slow start in Hall voting (just 7.3% in 2018). Beltrán, a nine-time All-Star, hit .279 with 435 homers and 1,587 RBIs over 20 seasons. He was a postseason monster, batting .307 with 16 homers in 65 playoff games. “The Mets are a big part of my identity,” he said, though his career spanned stints with Kansas City, Houston, St. Louis, and others. Jones, meanwhile, was a defensive wizard, winning 10 Gold Gloves and smashing 434 homers. He’s now the sixth Braves legend from their 1990s dynasty to make the Hall, joining Maddux, Glavine, Smoltz, Chipper, and McGriff. I'm Keith Ippolito and that’s your MDJ Sports Minute. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 8 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at 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 January 22nd Publish Date: January 22nd PRE-ROLL: Gwinnett County Public Schools From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Thursday, January 22nd and Happy birthday to Sam Cooke I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. A winter storm is coming, but its impact remains unclear Jeff Foxworthy to tape comedy special at Gwinnett's Gas South Theater Struggling Georgia timber industry could receive big tax break Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads 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: Sugar Hill Ice Skating Rink STORY 1: A winter storm is coming, but its impact remains unclear Gwinnett County, keep your eyes on the skies this weekend—forecasters are still piecing together just how hard Georgia will get hit by the winter storm barreling across the East Coast. Here’s what we know: a storm is coming. The National Weather Service in Peachtree City confirmed Tuesday night that north Georgia is in its path. “Significant impacts from ice and snow are anticipated,” they said. But the details? Still fuzzy. How far south will it reach? How much snow, ice, or that dreaded wintry mix? Timing? All TBD. Earlier Tuesday, forecasters weren’t even sure if the storm would touch Georgia. By nightfall, they were calling for an 80% chance of winter weather in the north Georgia mountains, tapering to 50% in middle Georgia. FOX 5 meteorologist Jonathan Stacey explained it’s all about Arctic air slamming into Gulf moisture. North Georgia? Likely stuck on the messy line between snow and ice. And with the ground already frozen from days of cold, conditions could get ugly fast. STORY 2: Jeff Foxworthy to tape comedy special at Gwinnett's Gas South Theater Jeff Foxworthy—Grammy nominee, comedy legend, and Atlanta’s own—is coming home to tape a live comedy special, and it’s happening right here in Gwinnett. Two nights only: April 15 and 16 at Gas South Theater. These shows? They’re gonna be up close and personal, packed with brand-new material. Tickets? Artist pre-sale started Wednesday, Jan. 21 at 10 a.m. (use code “JEFF”). General sales kick off Friday, Jan. 23 at 10 a.m. at GasSouthDistrict.com. Foxworthy isn’t just the king of redneck jokes (though, let’s be honest, they’re iconic). His humor dives into family life, human quirks, and the everyday absurdities we all know too well—think Mark Twain, but with a Southern drawl. With the best-selling comedy album of all time, 26 books, and a spot in the Georgia Music Hall of Fame, he’s a comedy powerhouse. His latest special, The Good Old Days, is streaming now on Netflix, and his SiriusXM channel, Jeff and Larry’s Comedy Roundup, keeps the laughs rolling. STORY 3: Struggling Georgia timber industry could receive big tax break Georgia lawmakers are pushing to end sales taxes on timber—a lifeline for an industry that’s been hit hard by mill closures and devastating storms. House Majority Leader Chuck Efstration says the bipartisan effort is about protecting rural Georgia’s backbone. “Timber is a cornerstone of our state’s economy,” he said. “But between sawmill closures and Hurricane Helene’s destruction, timber farmers are struggling. This tax cut could help save livelihoods.” Georgia’s forestry industry, once the nation’s largest, has taken a beating. Hurricane Helene alone wiped out 1.5 million acres in 2024, costing $1.28 billion. Mill closures in Savannah, Riceboro, and Cedar Springs haven’t helped. The proposed tax cut would cost the state $18 million annually, but local governments would be reimbursed. Clint Mueller of the Association County Commissions of Georgia says counties reliant on timber need this industry to survive. If two-thirds of the legislature approves, voters will decide in November. Meanwhile, Gov. Brian Kemp’s budget proposal includes $14 million to boost timber tech in industries like auto manufacturing. 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: Kia Mall of Georgia - GCPL Passport STORY 4: Norcross man arrested after disturbance at Social Security Office Gwinnett County Police arrested a Norcross man last week after back-to-back disturbances at two different locations. It started on Jan. 14 at the Social Security office on Shackleford Road. Witnesses told police that 65-year-old Robert Burke was yelling, making threats, and hurling insults—right in front of kids, no less. Employees said this wasn’t his first outburst there. Someone even had video, which helped officers identify him. But by the time they arrived? Burke was gone. An arrest warrant for disorderly conduct was issued, and, well, it didn’t take long to find him. The very next day, Jan. 15, police were called to a Courtyard Marriott in Duluth for—you guessed it—another disturbance involving Burke. No one was hurt in either incident, but the investigation’s still ongoing. STORY 5: Millender's three-point play in final seconds lifts No. 21 Georgia past Missouri 74-72 Marcus “Smurf” Millender stole the show Tuesday night, dropping 18 points and sealing No. 21 Georgia’s 74-72 win over Missouri with a clutch three-point play in the final 5.5 seconds. Missouri thought they had it when Jacob Crews nailed a wild, off-balance three with 21 seconds left, putting them up 72-71. But Millender—just 5-foot-11 and coming off the bench, as always—drove hard to the rim, took the hit, and somehow got the layup to fall. Oh, and he sank the free throw too. Crews had one last shot at the buzzer, but his deep three clanged off. Georgia, who usually lights up the scoreboard (96 points per game!), struggled offensively, shooting just 36.9%. Jeremiah Wilkinson added 14 points, and Kannon Catchings chipped in 12. Up next: Georgia heads to Texas on Saturday, while Missouri hosts Oklahoma. BRAVES: Carlos Beltrán and Andruw Jones are headed to Cooperstown, two center fielders who dominated their eras with a mix of power, speed, and jaw-dropping defense. Born just a day apart in April 1977, they’ll now share the stage at the Hall of Fame induction on July 26. Beltrán, in his fourth year on the ballot, finally crossed the 75% threshold, earning 84.2% of the vote. Jones, in his ninth year, got 78.4%. Both had to climb uphill—Beltrán’s path clouded by the Astros’ sign-stealing scandal, Jones’ by a slow start in Hall voting (just 7.3% in 2018). Beltrán, a nine-time All-Star, hit .279 with 435 homers and 1,587 RBIs over 20 seasons. He was a postseason monster, batting .307 with 16 homers in 65 playoff games. “The Mets are a big part of my identity,” he said, though his career spanned stints with Kansas City, Houston, St. Louis, and others. Jones, meanwhile, was a defensive wizard, winning 10 Gold Gloves and smashing 434 homers. He’s now the sixth Braves legend from their 1990s dynasty to make the Hall, joining Maddux, Glavine, Smoltz, Chipper, and McGriff. We’ll be right back. Break 3: EAGLE THEATRE And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads We’ll have closing comments after this Break 5: 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 Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill Team GCPS News Podcast, Current Events, Top Headlines, Breaking News, Podcast News, Trending, Local News, Daily, News, Podcast, Interviews See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of January 23rd Publish Date: January 23rd   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, January 23rd and Happy Birthday to Earl Falconer I’m Chris Culwell and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Former Cherokee County Probate Court judge retires New Kilwin's store opens at The Mill on Etowah in Canton Cherokee County school board member won’t seek reelection Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads 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 2 STORY 1: Former Cherokee County Probate Court judge retires After 50 years in the legal world, Kipling “Kip” McVay has officially retired, closing the book on a career that spanned everything from title research to serving as Cherokee County’s probate judge. Her last day? December 4, 2025, when Governor Brian Kemp accepted her resignation. McVay’s career began in 1973, digging into title research at Sen. Sam Nunn’s old law firm. From there, she wore countless hats: prosecutor, trial attorney, ethics commission director, private practice owner, and eventually, Cherokee County’s first female probate judge. Oh, and she also became the first woman to conduct a jury trial in the county. Her time as probate judge (1997–2008) was transformative. She modernized the office, introduced mediation to resolve family disputes, and even handpicked her successor, Keith Wood, who’s still serving today. After stepping down as probate judge, McVay wasn’t done. She served as a senior judge for Georgia’s Probate Courts, taking on cases across the state—sometimes for years at a time. One particularly messy case involved an estate with no will, feuding heirs, and years of unresolved disputes. Now retired, McVay has traded courtrooms for family time and volunteering at Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville, where she moved in 2020. “It’s been a good run,” she said, “but I’m enjoying this new chapter.” STORY 2: New Kilwin's store opens at The Mill on Etowah in Canton Canton just got a little sweeter—Kilwin’s is now open at The Mill on Etowah, serving up chocolate, fudge, and over 30 flavors of ice cream. The shop, which opened Dec. 18, sits next to Rock N Roll Sushi and shares a building with Campania. Franchisee Mona Rathore, who also owns the downtown Woodstock location, said Canton was the perfect spot. “We wanted to create a family-friendly space where people could enjoy our sweets. The Mill felt like the heart of the community—it just made sense.” Kilwin’s menu is a sugar lover’s dream: hand-dipped caramel apples (made fresh in-store), creamy fudge, specialty chocolates, and, of course, their famous ice cream. So far, the response has been incredible. “We love seeing families stop by after dinner,” Rathore said. “Even though we’re a franchise, we feel like a local business. We live, shop, and eat here—it’s home.” Kilwin’s Canton is open daily from noon to 8 p.m., with extended hours coming this summer. Online ordering and delivery through DoorDash and Uber Eats are on the way, too. STORY 3: Cherokee County school board member won’t seek reelection  Cherokee County School Board Member Susan Padgett-Harrison is calling it a career. After decades in education and public service, she’s announced she’ll retire at the end of the year and won’t seek another term. Padgett-Harrison’s career spans 29 years as a teacher, principal, and district leader before joining the board in 2023. During her tenure, CCSD’s state “report card” score hit a record 87, and the district climbed from 21st to 8th in state rankings. She’s proud of the progress: lower debt, expanded career programs, and rising AP scores. Three other board seats (Districts 3, 4, and 5) are also up for grabs this year, with elections set for May 19 and Nov. 3. 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 3 STORY 4: Creekview wins back-to-back duals state titles Creekview did it again—back-to-back Class AAAAA duals state champs. And this one? It was a nail-biter. The Grizzlies edged out South Effingham 36-35 in the final, capping off a perfect 4-0 run at Legacy Arena in Douglasville. Wins over Habersham Central, Villa Rica, and Dunwoody set the stage, but the finale? That was something else. Down 35-6 with five matches left, Creekview pulled off the unthinkable: five straight pins. Aaron Campbell, Pierce Marsh, Weston Wilkie, Logan Pritchett, and Costen Wright stepped up, with Wright sealing the deal at 175 pounds. Even a loss at 132 pounds by Bo Richardson turned out to be crucial, saving a team point that made the difference. South Effingham was no pushover—they’d dominated all tournament long, just like Creekview. But the Grizzlies weren’t about to let this one slip. With the traditional tournament still ahead, Creekview’s not done yet. BRAVES: Carlos Beltrán and Andruw Jones are headed to Cooperstown, two center fielders who dominated their eras with a mix of power, speed, and jaw-dropping defense. Born just a day apart in April 1977, they’ll now share the stage at the Hall of Fame induction on July 26. Beltrán, in his fourth year on the ballot, finally crossed the 75% threshold, earning 84.2% of the vote. Jones, in his ninth year, got 78.4%. Both had to climb uphill—Beltrán’s path clouded by the Astros’ sign-stealing scandal, Jones’ by a slow start in Hall voting (just 7.3% in 2018). Beltrán, a nine-time All-Star, hit .279 with 435 homers and 1,587 RBIs over 20 seasons. He was a postseason monster, batting .307 with 16 homers in 65 playoff games. “The Mets are a big part of my identity,” he said, though his career spanned stints with Kansas City, Houston, St. Louis, and others. Jones, meanwhile, was a defensive wizard, winning 10 Gold Gloves and smashing 434 homers. He’s now the sixth Braves legend from their 1990s dynasty to make the Hall, joining Maddux, Glavine, Smoltz, Chipper, and McGriff. STORY 5: Winter storm watch issued for Cherokee County this weekend  Brace yourselves, north Georgia—winter’s about to get messy. The National Weather Service says a storm is rolling in this weekend, and Cherokee County is under a winter storm watch from 1 a.m. Saturday to 10 a.m. Monday. South of Cherokee? No watch, but don’t get too comfortable. Here’s the deal: expect freezing rain, sleet, and maybe some snow. Saturday starts with rain, but by nightfall, temps drop to 27, and things get icy—literally. Sunday? More freezing rain, highs around 34, and a low of 17. Power outages? Likely. Roads? Treacherous. If you must travel, pack a winter kit—blankets, water, flashlight, the works. And don’t forget to protect your pets, plants, and pipes. Need shelter? MUST Ministries’ warming center on Bells Ferry Road opens Saturday, serving dinner at 5 p.m. Stay safe, stay warm, and keep an eye on updates. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: INGLES 4   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.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for January 21st Publish Date:  January 21st Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, January 21st and Happy Birthday to Jack Nicklaus I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Students shine at the Marietta City Schools district spelling bee Atlanta mayor talks FIFA, housing, transit Dog gained 57 pounds after rescue; owner now charged with animal cruelty 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: Students shine at the Marietta City Schools district spelling bee Seventh-grader Ella Grace Beard from Marietta Middle School clinched the top spot at the Marietta City Schools spelling bee on Friday, sealing her victory with the word “allergenic.” The competition was intense—10 students, each a champion from their school, battled it out for 26 rounds. Now, Ella Grace is headed to the Georgia District 2 spelling bee in Cherokee County. Her dad, Jason Beard, couldn’t be prouder. “She’s been studying like crazy—she even got a dictionary for Christmas last year,” he shared. Superintendent Grant Rivera, who handed out trophies to Ella Grace and runner-up Sreenika Arcot, called the spelling bee one of the most stressful events of the year. Jeff Hubbard, president of the Cobb County Association of Educators, praised the event as a celebration of intelligence. Words like “archetype” and “tenement” challenged the spellers, but Ella Grace rose to the occasion. Now, she’s ready for the next round. STORY 2: Atlanta mayor talks FIFA, housing, transit Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens had a simple message at the Cobb Chamber luncheon: when Atlanta thrives, the whole region wins. Borrowing JFK’s famous line, “A rising tide lifts all boats,” Dickens made it clear that Atlanta’s success ripples far beyond city limits. Take the FIFA World Cup, for example. Starting in June, Atlanta will host eight matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, but the impact? It’ll stretch across the metro—Cobb County, Truist Park, Six Flags, Marietta Square. Through “Showcase Atlanta,” a leadership initiative chaired by Dickens, Arthur Blank, and UPS CEO Carol Tomé, the city plans to maximize the World Cup’s economic impact while spotlighting Atlanta’s culture and hospitality. And it’s not just about FIFA—Atlanta’s hosting the Super Bowl in 2028 and the NCAA Final Four in 2031. But Dickens didn’t shy away from challenges. With the metro population expected to grow by 1.8 million by 2050, he stressed the need for affordable housing and better transportation. “Teachers, first responders—they’re being priced out of the communities they serve. That’s a loss for all of us,” he said. And traffic? Atlanta’s infamous for it. Dickens wants to change that, starting with MARTA expansion into Cobb and Gwinnett. “We can’t keep doing this one-person-per-car thing forever,” he said. Dickens closed with a reminder: safety, health, opportunity—these aren’t partisan issues. “We all want thriving communities,” he said. “That’s something we can all agree on.” STORY 3: Dog gained 57 pounds after rescue; owner now charged with animal cruelty   Jordan Dean, 30, of Marietta, is facing an animal cruelty charge after what authorities describe as a heartbreaking case involving his Great Dane, Snoop. On Oct. 23, 2025, Dean reportedly brought Snoop to Cobb County Animal Services, claiming he’d found the dog as a stray near a Walgreens on Canton Road. But Snoop’s condition told a different story. Severely emaciated, his ribs and bones jutted out—no fat, barely any muscle. A cruelty exam scored Snoop at 1/9 on the body condition scale. He weighed just 50 pounds. After care, he reached 107 pounds with no medical issues causing the weight loss. Dean was arrested Jan. 5 and released the next day on a $10,000 bond. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 7 STORY 4: Where the sidewalk ends: Mableton mayor talks SPLOST goals Mableton Mayor Michael Owens has his sights set on two big priorities: public safety and economic growth. And with the upcoming vote on a 1% special sales tax (SPLOST), he sees a chance to make it happen. If approved, the 2028 SPLOST would bring $97.6 million to Mableton—its first time creating its own project list since becoming a city in 2022. For Owens, it’s a defining moment. Top of the list? Sidewalks. “It’s the one thing everyone’s asking for,” Owens said, pointing to gaps along Veterans Memorial Highway and Nickajack Road. Parks, neighborhoods, and even businesses are disconnected, making walking unsafe—or impossible. But sidewalks are just the start. Owens envisions SPLOST funds going toward civic spaces, recreation centers, and even office parks to attract businesses. “You drive down Veterans Memorial, and it’s all shopping centers—no office buildings, no tech parks. That has to change,” he said. For Owens, the November vote is more than a tax—it’s a chance for Mableton residents to shape their city’s future. STORY 5: Marietta Police paint vibrant interrogation room for child witnesses, victims   The Marietta Police Department has turned one of its interview rooms into something truly special—a space designed with kids in mind. Gone are the cold, blank walls. In their place? A vibrant, hand-painted mural that feels more like a storybook than a police station. It’s colorful, calming, and, most importantly, comforting—created to help children, especially those who’ve experienced trauma, feel a little less scared during tough conversations. Marietta High School art teachers Amanda Rudolph and Katherine Robinson, along with students from the National Art Honor Society, poured their hearts into this project. The department’s goal? To make sure every child feels protected and heard. Break: STORY 6: Mableton earns recognition as environmentally friendly city    Mableton just snagged some serious recognition for going green. Mayor Michael Owens and city council members accepted the Silver-level Green Communities certification from the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC). It’s a big deal—proof that the city’s making real moves to cut its environmental impact. How’d they do it? Think tree preservation ordinances, a community composting program, expanded recycling, and even switching to a 100% electric vehicle fleet. Practical stuff with long-term impact. The certification also boosts Mableton’s chances for state and federal grants, meaning more investment without raising taxes. The Green Communities program evaluates cities on their environmental performance, and Mableton’s efforts earned them a spot among metro Atlanta’s leaders. But the work doesn’t stop here—the certification lasts four years, and the city will need to keep proving its commitment to stay certified. STORY 7: Senate bill would hold down property tax increases that fund Georgia schools  Georgia lawmakers are back at it, debating how to handle property taxes—and this time, they’re eyeing a cap tied to inflation. A new bill from Senate Republicans would force all school systems to limit property tax hikes, even as rising home values push assessments higher. Here’s the twist: last year, 71% of Georgia’s school systems voted to reject a similar cap. Why? Because it slashes funding for education. If this bill passes, schools would lose the ability to tax property values that outpace inflation, leaving them scrambling to cover costs. Sen. Chuck Hufstetler, the bill’s sponsor, argues it’s about fairness. The bill would also impact city and county governments that opted out of last year’s cap. Lt. Gov. Burt Jones called it a priority, saying it’s about “putting more money back in Georgians’ pockets.” Meanwhile, other tax proposals are swirling at the Capitol—like eliminating income taxes or ending homestead property taxes altogether. Gov. Brian Kemp? He’s pushing for tax rebates and a slight income tax cut. 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.

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for January 16th Publish Date:  January 16th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, January 16th and Happy Birthday to Albert Pujols I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal 50th Annual Kennesaw/Big Shanty Festival Community holds out hope for Ted's Montana Grill on Marietta Square Cobb advances 2028 SPLOST, sets community meetings Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on raw 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 6 STORY 1: 50th Annual Kennesaw/Big Shanty Festival  Mark your calendars—April 18 and 19 is the 50th Annual Kennesaw/Big Shanty Festival, brought to you by Superior Plumbing. It’s all happening in downtown Kennesaw, with hours from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. What’s in store? Over 250 arts and crafts booths, fair food galore, a beer garden, kids’ activities, and live acoustic music in the food court all weekend. Don’t miss the Georgia Grown Member Village, showcasing local goods from across the state. Scott Thompson of Brother Mojo will play at the 1885 Grill food court, while the United Bankshares Amphitheater and Main Street’s entertainment stage will feature local dance groups, school choirs, and more. Admission’s free, and parking’s available at Adams Park, Kennesaw First Baptist, and Swift-Cantrell Park, with shuttles running from Swift-Cantrell. Questions? Call 770-423-1330 or email missy@jrmmanagement.com. STORY 2: Community holds out hope for Ted's Montana Grill on Marietta Square  So, Ted’s Montana Grill is out. The long-vacant lot at 77 North Park Square stays empty, and the bison burgers? Not happening—at least for now. CEO George McKerrow, a Cobb local, said the decision came after a wave of public backlash. “In 50 years in this business, I’ve never seen this kind of vitriol,” he said. But here’s the twist: the tide on social media had actually shifted. By the time Ted’s pulled out, most comments were supportive. Even Mayor Steve “Thunder” Tumlin invited McKerrow to walk the Square and reconsider. The lot’s been an eyesore since 2010, and Councilman Johnny Walker, who’s been pushing for something—anything—to fill the space, is frustrated. “If Ted’s doesn’t come back, it could be years before anyone else steps up,” he said. The $5 million project was ready to go: a 4,311-square-foot building designed to match the Square’s historic charm. But now? It’s back to square one. STORY 3: Cobb advances 2028 SPLOST, sets community meetings  Cobb County’s 2028 SPLOST plan is officially in motion. On Tuesday, commissioners gave a unanimous thumbs-up to a preliminary list of projects, kicking off months of public input. What’s on the table? Everything from new fire stations and libraries to pedestrian safety upgrades and a $30 million aquatic center. The total? A hefty $790 million. Chair Lisa Cupid called it a balancing act: “Every dollar has a constituency. We need projects that move the county forward but also maintain the basics—roads, public safety, services.” Nine community meetings are set through March, giving residents a chance to weigh in before the final vote in April. 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 6 STORY 4: Addison Elementary School principal charged with DUI  Addison Elementary Principal Jill Spiva was arrested Thursday for DUI after a crash near the school, according to Cobb County Police. The wreck happened around 4:45 p.m. at Ebenezer and Sandy Plains roads, just minutes from Addison. Officers said Spiva appeared intoxicated and was at fault for the crash. A half-empty bottle of Smirnoff vodka was reportedly found in her car, per WSB-TV. Spiva refused sobriety and blood tests, prompting a judge to issue a warrant for a blood draw. She’s facing charges of DUI, open container, and failure to maintain lane. The district acknowledged the incident but declined to comment on her status. STORY 5: Mount Paran Christian enter apparel agreement with Nike and BSN Sports Mount Paran Christian School just announced a big win for its athletics program—a multi-year partnership with Nike and BSN SPORTS. Translation? Top-tier gear and branded apparel for student-athletes, coaches, and the entire MPC sports community. Nike will now be the official provider of athletic apparel and equipment, while BSN SPORTS steps in as the school’s brand distributor. “This partnership is huge,” said Athletic Director Mike Walker. “It’s about giving our athletes the best—gear that matches their heart and hustle.” The deal also lowers costs for families, sharpens team branding, and fuels MPC’s mission to compete at a championship level. FALCONS: The Atlanta Falcons officially introduced Matt Ryan as their new president of football on Tuesday, and honestly, it feels like a full-circle moment. At the press conference in Flowery Branch, Ryan—who spent 14 seasons as the face of the franchise—spoke about his “unfinished business” with the team. “Since I was drafted, my mission’s been the same: help this organization win championships. We came close, had some success, but I believe we’ll get there,” he said. After retiring and working as a CBS Sports analyst, Ryan said he wasn’t looking for a new job—unless it was with the Falcons. Now, he’ll report directly to owner Arthur Blank, focusing on hiring a head coach and GM who share a unified vision. I'm Keith Ippolito and that’s your MDJ Sports Minute. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on raw milk We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 6 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at 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 January 15th Publish Date: January 15th From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Thursday, January 15th and Happy birthday to Martin Luther King Jr. I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Dinosaur World Live returns to Gwinnett's Gas South Theater Gwinnett service organizations look to Families First model to better help others Ethics board dismisses complaint over Holtkamp's transit videos Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on raw 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: Sugar Hill Ice Skating Rink STORY 1: Dinosaur World Live returns to Gwinnett's Gas South Theater Dinosaur World Live is back—bigger, bolder, and fresh off its 2024 Olivier Award win for Best Family Entertainment. And guess what? It’s stomping into Gas South Theater on Feb. 7 for two shows. This isn’t your average dino show. Think jaw-dropping puppetry, life-sized dinosaurs so real you’ll swear they’re breathing, and a lineup that includes the mighty T. Rex, Triceratops, and more. The story? Miranda, daughter of paleontologists, grew up on a remote island surrounded by dinosaurs. Now, she’s bringing her prehistoric pals to meet you—just don’t get too close. Some of them bite. Tickets at GasSouthDistrict.com. STORY 2: Gwinnett service organizations look to Families First model to better help others LaShawna Edwards has always been a giver. It’s in her DNA. Helping others was just what her family did. So when life flipped the script and she found herself needing help? That was hard. “We’ve always been the ones giving,” she said. “To be on the other side of it? It’s rough.” Edwards, 50, had been juggling two jobs, raising her teenage sister, and caring for her mom, whose health was failing. Then came the rent hike—73%—and suddenly, they were living out of their car. What came next was Families First, a nonprofit that doesn’t just help—it acts. Edwards calls her caseworker, Angela Wylie, her “angel.” Wylie helped her find housing, food, and job resources. Edwards is still in a hotel, still searching for stability, but she’s hopeful. STORY 3: Ethics board dismisses complaint over Holtkamp's transit videos Gwinnett County Commissioner Matthew Holtkamp got some relief Tuesday when an ethics panel ruled he didn’t violate county rules by filming a video on a Ride Gwinnett bus urging voters to reject the 2024 T-SPLOST referendum. “I’ve been completely vindicated,” Holtkamp said. “This had no merit, and it’s unfortunate we had to waste resources on it.” The complaint, filed by a resident in Holtkamp’s district, claimed he improperly used county property for personal advocacy. But Holtkamp argued he paid his bus fare and had a friend—not county staff—film the video. The ethics board agreed, saying his actions didn’t break the rules. 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: Kia Mall of Georgia - GCPL Passport STORY 4: Gwinnett County, Lawrenceville get federal funds for water and police projects Gwinnett County and Lawrenceville just scored over $2 million in federal funding for water upgrades and public safety improvements. U.S. Rep. David Scott announced the approval, with $1.09 million earmarked for Snellville’s water infrastructure—upgrading a booster station’s electrical system and adding backup power—and $1.03 million heading to the Lawrenceville Police Department. The police funds? They’ll cover new patrol cars, trauma kits, breaching tools, and other gear to boost safety for both officers and the public. “This $2.12 million investment will make a real difference,” Scott said. “Better water, safer streets—I’m proud to deliver for Gwinnett.” STORY 5: Dacula Boys Basketball Seizes Region Lead with Victory at Central Gwinnett Dacula’s boys basketball team just keeps rolling. With a nail-biting 60-57 win over Central Gwinnett on Tuesday, the Falcons snagged first place in Region 8-AAAAAA and stretched their win streak to 11 games. Now sitting at 16-1 overall and 5-0 in the region, Dacula handed Central its first region loss, dropping them to 5-1. Case Presley led the charge with 21 points, eight boards, and three assists. Josh Brown notched a double-double (10 points, 10 rebounds), while Kenny LaRue chipped in 10 points and some clutch playmaking. George Fajemirokun added six points and steady contributions all around. FALCONS: The Atlanta Falcons officially introduced Matt Ryan as their new president of football on Tuesday, and honestly, it feels like a full-circle moment. At the press conference in Flowery Branch, Ryan—who spent 14 seasons as the face of the franchise—spoke about his “unfinished business” with the team. “Since I was drafted, my mission’s been the same: help this organization win championships. We came close, had some success, but I believe we’ll get there,” he said. After retiring and working as a CBS Sports analyst, Ryan said he wasn’t looking for a new job—unless it was with the Falcons. Now, he’ll report directly to owner Arthur Blank, focusing on hiring a head coach and GM who share a unified vision. We’ll be right back. Break 3: EAGLE THEATRE And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on raw milk We’ll have closing comments after this Break 5: 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 Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill Team GCPS News Podcast, Current Events, Top Headlines, Breaking News, Podcast News, Trending, Local News, Daily, News, Podcast, Interviews See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of January 16th Publish Date: January 16th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, January 16th and Happy Birthday to Albert Pujols I’m Chris Culwell and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Woodstock elected officials sworn in to serve new terms Kemp to build roads, bridges during final year as Georgia governor Canton man charged in Christmas shopping center fire Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on raw 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 1 STORY 1: Woodstock elected officials sworn in to serve new terms Woodstock kicked off the week with a swearing-in ceremony on Monday, welcoming back familiar faces and appointing new ones to key boards. Municipal Court Judge Robert Tidwell swore in Mayor Michael Caldwell and Council Members Warren Johnson (Ward 1), Colin Ake (Ward 3), and Brian Wolfe (Ward 5)—all re-elected in November. Caldwell also administered oaths to Lisa Morton, Spencer Nix, and Melissa Madigan for the Downtown Development Authority, and Rob Hogan, Ali Najafi, and Chase Roth for the Planning Commission. “Public trust is no small thing,” Caldwell said. “Congratulations to everyone stepping up to serve.” The council also made appointments to the Ethics Board and Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. STORY 2: Kemp to build roads, bridges during final year as Georgia governor Gov. Brian Kemp isn’t coasting through his final year in office. Nope, he’s dropping over $2 billion into highway upgrades south and east of Atlanta—part of a $6 billion infrastructure push during his tenure. Speaking at the Georgia Chamber’s Eggs and Issues event Wednesday, Kemp credited “conservative budgeting” for making it all possible. “While some politicians just talk about affordability,” he said, “we’re actually doing something.” Big-ticket items? $1.8 billion for express lanes on I-75 in Henry County, $200 million to overhaul Georgia 316, and $250 million for local road grants. Oh, and $50 million to tackle homelessness ahead of the World Cup. Meanwhile, Lt. Gov. Burt Jones and House Speaker Jon Burns are laser-focused on taxes—property, income, you name it. Burns even floated eliminating homestead property taxes statewide. It’s a busy year for Georgia politics, to say the least. STORY 3: Canton man charged in Christmas shopping center fire  A Canton teenager is facing serious charges after allegedly setting fire to a vacant shopping center on Christmas Day. Firefighters were called to the Canton Village shopping center on Marietta Road around 3:15 p.m., finding smoke pouring from the roof and flames inside. Crews worked quickly—hoses out, building searched—but thankfully, no one was inside, and no injuries were reported. After an investigation involving fire officials, Canton Police, and the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office, 19-year-old Blake Louis Bishop was arrested Tuesday. He’s charged with first-degree arson, second-degree criminal damage, and loitering. The city-owned shopping center, set for demolition, required 30 firefighters and hours to fully extinguish the blaze. 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 2 STORY 4: Morales breaks record, Gold returns for New Years Kickoff meet At the New Year’s Kickoff swim meet, held Jan. 9-11 at UGA’s Ramsey Center, Mila Morales of Chattahoochee Gold shattered a 19-year-old club record in the girls’ 8U 50-yard freestyle. Her time? A blazing 30.95 seconds, dethroning Lauren Case’s long-standing mark. The meet wasn’t scored—more of a post-holiday tune-up—but Chattahoochee Gold swimmers still made waves. Ava Gana stole the show with five wins, including the 12U 400 IM (4:56.31) and 200 backstroke (2:20.22). Meanwhile, Ella Malave snagged gold in the 13+ 100 breaststroke (1:05.96), and Bryston Burks dropped six seconds to win the 12U 200 breaststroke (2:48.08). Plenty of top-10 finishes, too—this team’s on fire. FALCONS: The Atlanta Falcons officially introduced Matt Ryan as their new president of football on Tuesday, and honestly, it feels like a full-circle moment. At the press conference in Flowery Branch, Ryan—who spent 14 seasons as the face of the franchise—spoke about his “unfinished business” with the team. “Since I was drafted, my mission’s been the same: help this organization win championships. We came close, had some success, but I believe we’ll get there,” he said. After retiring and working as a CBS Sports analyst, Ryan said he wasn’t looking for a new job—unless it was with the Falcons. Now, he’ll report directly to owner Arthur Blank, focusing on hiring a head coach and GM who share a unified vision. STORY 5: Georgia GOP senators target Raffensperger over voter registration lists  A group of Georgia Republican senators is pressuring Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger to hand over the state’s unredacted voter registration list to the Trump administration—a move Raffensperger flatly opposes. His reasoning? State law. Sharing private voter details like Social Security numbers, birthdates, and driver’s license info is a no-go, he says. The DOJ, meanwhile, has been requesting voter lists from all 50 states, claiming it’s about ensuring accuracy. They even sued Georgia last month over the issue. The Senate resolution, led by Lt. Gov. Burt Jones’ allies, is mostly symbolic. But it accuses Raffensperger of “obstruction” for only providing a public version of the list. Raffensperger’s office fired back, saying he’s already complied as far as state law allows. “He won’t break the law or risk voters’ private information,” his office said. The DOJ’s lawsuit heads to federal court in Macon later this month. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on raw milk Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: INGLES 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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for January 14th Publish Date:  January 14th Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, January 14th and Happy Birthday to Dave Grohl I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal East Cobb protest calls to end ICE after deadly shooting Interstate lane closure advisory for the I-285/I-20 West Interchange project ‘Ready to work for it’: Miss Cobb County 2026 looks toward Miss Georgia competition 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: East Cobb protest calls to end ICE after deadly shooting The intersection of Johnson Ferry and Roswell roads buzzed with energy Sunday afternoon as over 150 protesters gathered for the “ICE Out for Good” rally, part of a nationwide movement calling for the abolition of ICE. Chants of “No ICE, no fear, immigrants are welcome here” echoed across the streets, accompanied by honking horns and waves from passing cars. Protesters held handmade signs with messages like “Melt ICE,” “Justice for Renee,” and “Keep Orwell fiction.” The rally followed the recent fatal shooting of Renee Good, a Minneapolis woman, by an ICE agent during an immigration operation. Protesters, led by Indivisible Cobb, called out what they described as ICE’s unchecked violence. “This is about justice,” said Susan Lopez of Smyrna. “ICE is overstepping, and it’s time to hold them accountable.” Not everyone agreed. Terry Frost, a lone counter-protester, stood silently with a Trump campaign flag, voicing his support for ICE. “I can’t stand with people defending criminals,” he said. The protest remained peaceful, with no arrests reported. STORY 2: Interstate lane closure advisory for the I-285/I-20 West Interchange project  Heads up, drivers: weather permitting, GDOT contractors will be closing lanes around the I-285/I-20 West Interchange for a major reconstruction project. Expect delays, lane shifts, and some frustration—so plan ahead. The project? Widening ramps, adding collector-distributor lanes, and improving traffic flow. But first, the closures: I-285 Northbound: Cascade to Bolton, nightly Jan. 12-16. Single-lane closures start at 9 p.m., double-lane closures at 11 p.m. I-285 Southbound: Hollowell to MLK Jr. Drive, same deal. I-20 Westbound: Anderson to Riverside, 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. I-20 Eastbound: Riverside to I-285, alternating lane closures. Flagging operations and pacing will also hit nearby roads. Check 511ga.org for updates, and drive safe! STORY 3: ‘Ready to work for it’: Miss Cobb County 2026 looks toward Miss Georgia competition   For Dominique Verville, crowned Miss Cobb County 2026 last August, life’s best moments often sit just past fear. “Fear shows up when something matters,” the 23-year-old from Kennesaw told the Kiwanis Club of Marietta on Thursday. “It doesn’t mean you’re unprepared—it means you’re standing at the edge of growth.” A graduate of Auburn University with degrees in aviation management and finance, Verville is a classically trained dancer, a licensed pilot, and now an aviation insurance underwriter. But her heart? It’s in service. Through her nonprofit, Hearts for Heroes, she supports veterans transitioning to civilian life, delivering supplies and reading her children’s book, Dear Soldier, to students. “The crown isn’t about me,” she said. “It’s about serving others.” 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: Mableton swears in new councilmembers, elects mayor pro tem The Mableton City Council kicked off the year with a packed agenda—and a little drama. New council members Cassandra Brown and Michael McNeely were sworn in, while Debora Herndon, reelected unopposed, will take her oath later this month. Then came the vote for mayor pro tem. After a 3-3 tie between Ron Davis and Keisha Jeffcoat, McNeely flipped his vote in a second round, giving Davis the role with a 4-2 majority. “Big shoes to fill,” Davis said, “but I’m ready to make this city the best it can be.” The council also approved Mableton’s participation in HUD’s Community Development Block Grant program, partnering with Cobb County to fund affordable housing, infrastructure upgrades, and economic development. STORY 5: Wood you believe it? New art exhibits open in Marietta   Two fresh exhibitions are taking over the Marietta-Cobb Museum of Art and they couldn’t be more different. Downstairs, “Georgia Wood Artists” showcases 50 stunning woodworks from 39 Georgia artists—everything from bowls to mandolins to abstract sculptures. Upstairs? Lawrenceville painter Maya Perez-Lugones makes her solo debut with a series of bold, surreal bathroom scenes. “It’s like night and day,” said museum director Sally Macaulay. “Every piece evokes something different. I love hearing what people feel.” Perez-Lugones’ work, inspired by light bouncing off bathroom surfaces, explores ego and compulsion. Meanwhile, the wood exhibit highlights craftsmanship, from whittling to woodturning. Tickets are $10; kids under 6 get in free. Break: STORY 6: Braves re-sign reliever Tyler Kinley    The Braves are keeping their bullpen busy this offseason, signing right-hander Tyler Kinley to a $3 million deal for 2026, with a $5.5 million club option for 2027 (or a $1.25 million buyout). Kinley, 34, was lights-out last season—5-0 with a ridiculous 0.72 ERA in just 25 innings after being traded from Colorado in July. Not bad, right? This move follows Atlanta’s other bullpen splashes: a $45 million deal for Robert Suarez and a $16 million re-signing of closer Raisel Iglesias. STORY 7: Health inspection follow-up brings big change for Hoboken Cafe  The Hoboken Café on Whitlock Avenue, a local favorite for Italian eats, bounced back this week after a rough health inspection in December. The follow-up? A shiny 97 out of 100—an “A” for food safety excellence. Back in December, though, things weren’t so great. The café scored a 69, just one point above a failing grade. Violations included raw meat stored above ready-to-eat foods, cooling and reheating issues, and sanitizer buckets with way too much solution. The last inspection found just one issue—improper cooling for stuffed peppers, which was fixed on the spot. Management says everything’s been addressed. 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.

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for January 9th Publish Date:  January 9th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, January 9th and Happy Birthday to Jimmy Page I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Georgia schedules election to replace Marjorie Taylor Greene Marietta Theatre Company announces 2026 season Flu season hits Georgia harder this year — What you should be watching for Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats 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 4 STORY 1: Georgia schedules election to replace Marjorie Taylor Greene  Georgia’s 14th Congressional District is gearing up for a special election on March 10, following Marjorie Taylor Greene’s abrupt resignation. Greene, once a staunch Trump ally, stepped down after a public fallout with the president over her push to release Jeffrey Epstein-related documents. Trump called her a “traitor” and vowed to back her challenger if she ran again. Ouch. The race? Already crowded. Nearly two dozen candidates are eyeing the seat, including two Democrats, an independent, and 20 Republicans. Big names like State Sen. Colton Moore and Dalton Councilman Nicky Lama are in the mix. Qualifying runs Jan. 12–14, with a $5,220 fee. STORY 2: Marietta Theatre Company announces 2026 season Marietta Theatre Company just dropped its 2026 season lineup, and honestly? It’s a good one. Tickets are already on sale—season passes start at $65, and they’re flexible, so no stressing over dates. “Live theater sticks with you—it’s magic that lingers,” said Katrina Stroup, the company’s president. “This season? Laughter, music, joy. We’ve got it all.” Here’s what’s coming: Little Shop of Horrors (Jan. 22-31): A cult classic with humor, heart, and a man-eating plant. 9 to 5: The Musical (May 28-June 6): Dolly Parton. Friendship. Revenge. Enough said. All Shook Up (Aug. 13-22): Elvis meets Twelfth Night. Chaos ensues. Details at mariettatheatre.tix.com. STORY 3: Flu season hits Georgia harder this year — What you should be watching for  Flu season’s here, and Georgia’s getting hit hard—again. Over 300 people have been hospitalized since Dec. 21, and it’s not just the flu. RSV and colds are making the rounds too. Feeling run down? Fever, chills, body aches, sore throat? Yeah, it might be the flu. Dr. Earl Stewart Jr. from Wellstar says Influenza A (H3N2) is the big culprit this year, hitting kids, seniors, and folks with chronic conditions the hardest. Symptoms usually last 5–7 days, but that cough? It might stick around for weeks. When to worry? If you’re struggling to breathe, have chest pain, or your kid’s lethargic and not drinking fluids—get to the ER. Prevention? The usual suspects: flu shots, handwashing, rest, and staying hydrated. And if you do catch it, antivirals like Tamiflu can help—especially if you act fast. Stay safe, everyone. 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 4 STORY 4: Cobb Prom Swap  Got an old prom dress or suit gathering dust in your closet? Give it a second life at the Cobb Prom Swap! The Cobb County Public Library is collecting gently used dresses, suits, shoes, jewelry, accessories, and even new, unused cosmetics through Feb. 7. Drop-off locations include: East Cobb Library, Marietta North Cobb Library, Kennesaw Powder Springs Library, Powder Springs Vinings Library, Atlanta West Cobb Library, Kennesaw Then, teens can shop for free at the Prom Swap events—first-come, first-served—on Feb. 21 (South Cobb Library, Mableton) and Feb. 28 (Switzer Library, Marietta). Perfect outfits, no price tags. STORY 5: Wheeler overcomes rocky start to beat Cherokee Cherokee came out swinging, but Wheeler landed the knockout punch, pulling away for a 78-64 win Tuesday night at Cherokee High. The Wildcats (12-3, 4-0 Region 5AAAAAA) have been living out of suitcases for weeks, and while this wasn’t their cleanest game, they handed the Warriors (11-5, 3-1) their first region loss—without starters Kevin Savage and Lamarrion Lewis. UConn commit Colben Landrew was unstoppable, dropping 26 points. Jaron Saulsberry added 17, and Amare James chipped in 16, including a half-court buzzer-beater that sparked Wheeler’s comeback. Cherokee started hot—Sean Hamilton’s seven-point run helped build a 20-6 lead. But Wheeler clawed back, outscoring the Warriors 26-12 in the second quarter and never looking back. FALCONS: Kirk Cousins and the Falcons just shook up his contract—again. According to reports, they’ve reworked the final two years of his four-year, $180 million deal, giving Atlanta some breathing room with the salary cap. But here’s the kicker: by March 13, 2026, they’ll have to decide if Cousins sticks around. Why? A $67.9 million guarantee for 2027 kicks in that day. And let’s be real—at 38, with a no-trade clause, Cousins isn’t exactly a hot commodity. The new deal slashes his 2026 base salary from $35 million to $2.1 million, shifting that cash to 2027. Still, he’s got a $10 million roster bonus locked in for next year. Atlanta signed Cousins in 2024 with $100 million guaranteed, then drafted Michael Penix Jr. at No. 8. But when Penix tore his ACL, Cousins stepped in, starting seven games. His numbers? Solid-ish: 1,721 yards, 10 TDs, five picks. Not bad for a guy nearing 40. I'm Keith Ippolito and that’s your MDJ Sports Minute. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 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.

Top Stories for January 8th Publish Date: January 8th From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Thursday, January 8th and Happy birthday to Elvis Presley I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Suwanee breathing new life into popular pocket park Gwinnett's 2026 budget will be even smaller than previously thought Ex-legislator accused of lying to get pandemic unemployment money Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats 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: Sugar Hill Ice Skating Rink STORY 1: Suwanee breathing new life into popular pocket park Main Street Park, a Suwanee staple since 1998, is getting a much-needed glow-up. Nearly $846,000 worth of renovations are kicking off this week, and honestly? It’s about time. The basketball court—loved, worn, and always in use—is staying, but it’s getting a fresh surface, new hoops, and extra seating. Assistant City Manager Denise Brinson put it simply: “It’s well-loved, so we couldn’t take it away.” The old pavilion? Gone. In its place, a modern design with tables and seating—more hangout, less performance space. They’re also adding greenspace, walking paths, and a few parking spots. “It’s like PlayTown Suwanee,” Brinson said. “Sometimes, you just have to start over.” STORY 2: Gwinnett's 2026 budget will be even smaller than previously thought Gwinnett County’s 2026 budget just got even smaller than expected—$84 million smaller, to be exact. On Tuesday, commissioners approved a $2.58 billion budget, trimming more than the $66 million reduction they floated back in November. And yet, they still managed to squeeze in a 4% pay bump for county employees. How? “Efficiencies,” they say. “This budget reflects our commitment to delivering top-notch services while staying fiscally responsible,” Financial Services Director Russell Royal explained. The budget funds big-ticket projects like a new police HQ, fire station relocations, and $44 million for road repaving. But officials warn: some savings were one-time deals. Next year? Could be trickier. STORY 3: Ex-legislator accused of lying to get pandemic unemployment money Former state Rep. Karen Bennett, who resigned last week, is now facing federal charges for allegedly lying to collect nearly $14,000 in unemployment benefits during the pandemic. Prosecutors claim she falsely said she couldn’t work for her therapy business, Metro Therapy Providers, due to COVID-19 restrictions. The catch? They say she only had an administrative role, working from her home office the entire time. Bennett, from Stone Mountain, allegedly received $13,940 in Pandemic Unemployment Assistance funds, despite also earning $905 a week from a church—something she reportedly didn’t disclose. She’s pleaded not guilty, calling her resignation a “retirement.” 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: Kia Mall of Georgia - GCPL Passport STORY 4: Several Gwinnettians make influential, notable Georgians lists The new year always brings fresh lists, and Georgia Trend’s 2026 lineup of “Most Influential” and “Notable Georgians” is out—and, as usual, Gwinnett’s well-represented. On the “100 Most Influential Georgians” list? Big names like Gwinnett County Commission Chair Nicole Love Hendrickson, Gwinnett Chamber CEO Nick Masino, and Latin American Association CEO Santiago Marquez. But the “Notable Georgians” list? That’s where Gwinnett really shines. Peachtree Corners Mayor Mike Mason made the cut, along with Michael “Sully” Sullivan, David Hult, Clyde Tuggle, and Mason Ailstock, who’s leading the massive Rowen project. Even beyond Gwinnett, leaders like GDOT Commissioner Russell McMurry and Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger—both with ties to the area—made waves. STORY 5: Buford Grad Ashton Daniels Commits to Florida State Buford’s own Ashton Daniels is on the move again. After a season at Auburn, the 6'2", 219-pound quarterback announced Tuesday he’s heading to Florida State. Big news for the Seminoles. Daniels started three of Auburn’s last four games in 2025, putting up solid numbers: 797 passing yards, three touchdowns, plus 280 rushing yards and two scores. His best? A monster game against Vandy—353 yards, two TDs. Oh, and he balled out against Bama, too: 259 passing yards, 108 rushing. Before Auburn, he spent three seasons at Stanford, racking up nearly 6,200 total yards. And let’s not forget—he led Buford to three state titles in high school. FALCONS: Kirk Cousins and the Falcons just shook up his contract—again. According to reports, they’ve reworked the final two years of his four-year, $180 million deal, giving Atlanta some breathing room with the salary cap. But here’s the kicker: by March 13, 2026, they’ll have to decide if Cousins sticks around. Why? A $67.9 million guarantee for 2027 kicks in that day. And let’s be real—at 38, with a no-trade clause, Cousins isn’t exactly a hot commodity. The new deal slashes his 2026 base salary from $35 million to $2.1 million, shifting that cash to 2027. Still, he’s got a $10 million roster bonus locked in for next year. Atlanta signed Cousins in 2024 with $100 million guaranteed, then drafted Michael Penix Jr. at No. 8. But when Penix tore his ACL, Cousins stepped in, starting seven games. His numbers? Solid-ish: 1,721 yards, 10 TDs, five picks. Not bad for a guy nearing 40. We’ll be right back. Break 3: EAGLE THEATRE And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats We’ll have closing comments after this Break 5: 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 Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill Team GCPS News Podcast, Current Events, Top Headlines, Breaking News, Podcast News, Trending, Local News, Daily, News, Podcast, Interviews See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of January 9th Publish Date: January 9th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, January 9th and Happy Birthday to Jimmy Page I’m Chris Culwell and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Fincher wins runoff for Cherokee County’s state House seat Farm Bureau seeks entries for High School Art Contest Georgia Republicans move to scrap state income tax by 2032 despite concerns Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats 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 10 STORY 1: Fincher wins runoff for Cherokee County’s state House seat Republican Bill Fincher is poised to take the Georgia House District 23 seat, according to unofficial results. With all precincts reporting by 8:57 p.m. Tuesday, Fincher secured 71.38% of the vote—4,345 ballots—against Democrat Scott Sanders, who pulled in 1,742 votes. Fincher, a retired assistant DA and RV park owner, thanked supporters on Facebook: “To everyone who voted, knocked doors, prayed, or just believed—thank you. I’m humbled and ready to get to work.” Sanders, meanwhile, called his campaign a success, saying, “We hit every goal and laid the groundwork for 2026. No more uncontested elections.” The seat, left vacant after Rep. Mandi Ballinger’s passing, saw six candidates in the Dec. 9 special election. Fincher and Sanders advanced to the runoff. Turnout was low—just 13.75%—with most votes cast on Election Day. Results will be certified Friday after the elections board reviews one provisional ballot. STORY 2: Farm Bureau seeks entries for High School Art Contest Hey, high school artists—this one’s for you! The 2026 Georgia Farm Bureau High School Art Contest is here, and there’s cash on the line. The state winner gets $250, and 10 district winners snag $100 each. Not bad, right? It’s open to all 9th–12th graders (public, private, or homeschool). The rules? Create your masterpiece on 8.5 x 11-inch white paper using black, white, and gray. Use whatever works—charcoal, graphite, pen, chalk, mixed media, you name it. Just one entry per person, though. Deadline? Feb. 6. Drop your entry at the Cherokee County Farm Bureau office. Questions? Call 770-479-1481. Let’s see what you’ve got! STORY 3: Georgia Republicans move to scrap state income tax by 2032 despite concerns  Cutting state income taxes sounds great, right? But here’s the catch: how do you replace billions in lost revenue without gutting schools, health care, or public safety—or jacking up other taxes? That’s the question Georgia Republicans are wrestling with as they push to eliminate the state’s personal income tax by 2032. Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, eyeing the governor’s mansion in 2026, is leading the charge, with State Sen. Blake Tillery backing him up. Their plan? Start by exempting the first $50,000 of income for singles ($100,000 for couples) in 2027. Sounds nice, but it’d cost the state $3.8 billion in year one alone. Tillery says they’ll cover it with surplus funds and borrowing for infrastructure, but critics—Democrats and even some Republicans—aren’t sold. For now, the debate rages on. 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 1 STORY 4: Prep Roundup: Hamby, Bass have record-setting nights Creekview’s Kailyn Hamby had a night to remember, shattering both the single-game and all-time scoring records as the Grizzlies rolled past Sprayberry, 62-35. Hamby dropped 33 points, grabbed six boards, and helped Creekview climb to 13-1 overall and 4-0 in Region 6AAAAA. They’re now neck-and-neck with River Ridge for the top spot. Next up? A Friday showdown at Pope. Meanwhile, River Ridge stayed unbeaten in region play, edging Pope 70-60 behind Finley Parker’s 28 points and Makayla Roberson’s 25. Elsewhere, North Paulding handled Etowah 56-46, and Sequoyah crushed Woodstock 78-50 with a dominant third-quarter run. Cherokee also outlasted Wheeler, 41-34. PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Will Rajecki. If you’ve followed Cherokee County football these past few years, you know the name. It’s only fitting he caps off his high school career as the 2025 Cherokee County Offensive Player of the Year. Records? He smashed them. Flashy stats? Oh, plenty. Rajecki was the heart of Sequoyah’s offense, leading the Chiefs to their first region title since 2003 and back-to-back state quarterfinals for the first time ever. The numbers are wild: 4,049 career rushing yards (a school record), 66 all-purpose touchdowns, and a jaw-dropping seven-touchdown game against Sprayberry that landed him third in state history. This season alone, he racked up 1,974 rushing yards, 30 touchdowns, and helped Sequoyah to a 35-14 record over his four varsity years. Now? He’s weighing offers from Arkansas, Oregon State, and Georgia after decommitting from Memphis. Wherever he lands, one thing’s clear: Rajecki’s story is just getting started. STORY 5: Cagle names appointee to Cherokee County T-SPLOST committee  Cherokee County just named the first three members of its new T-SPLOST Citizens Review Committee, a group tasked with keeping an eye on how the county spends its transportation sales tax dollars. On Tuesday, Commissioner Will Cagle appointed Jack Norton, a Canton resident, Marine Corps vet, and small business owner with a background in transportation. Norton joins Ashley Holcomb, appointed by Chairman Harry Johnston, and Tom Teague, chosen by Commissioner Benny Carter. Two spots are still open, but Johnston isn’t worried. The 1% T-SPLOST, approved by voters in November, kicks off April 1 and is expected to bring in $445 million over six years. The committee’s job? Make sure the funds are spent responsibly and projects stay on track. They’ll review reports, offer recommendations, and keep the public informed—but they can’t change the project list. Meetings will be open to the public, with the 2026 schedule set at the first session. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: INGLES 2   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for January 7th Publish Date:  January 7th Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, January 7th and Happy Birthday to Kenny Loggins I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Interstate lane closure advisory for the I-285/I-20 West Interchange Project Infants, toddlers learn, play together in Saturday story time Kennesaw Catholic school sees financial awards, growth in third year of operation 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: Interstate lane closure advisory for the I-285/I-20 West Interchange Project Heads up, drivers: weather permitting, GDOT contractors will be closing lanes around the I-285/I-20 West Interchange for a major reconstruction project. Expect delays, detours, and, let’s be honest, some frustration. The project? It’s a big one—widening ramps, adding collector-distributor lanes, and improving traffic flow. But first, the closures: I-285 Northbound: Cascade to Bolton, nightly Jan. 5–9, with single-lane closures starting at 9 p.m. and double-lane closures at 11 p.m. I-285 Southbound: Donald Lee Hollowell to MLK Jr. Drive, same dates and times, with alternating lane closures. I-20 Westbound: Anderson Ave. to Riverside Parkway, nightly closures from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. I-20 Eastbound: Riverside Parkway to I-285, alternating lane closures nightly. Flagging operations and pacing will also hit local roads like Collier Drive and Delmar Lane. Check 511ga.org or the Georgia 511 app for real-time updates. And please—slow down, stay alert, and watch for workers. STORY 2: Infants, toddlers learn, play together in Saturday story time  Saturday morning at the Lewis A. Ray Library was pure chaos—the good kind. Ten little ones, from wobbly toddlers to wide-eyed infants, gathered on a colorful mat in the children’s section, ready for story time. Their parents? Mostly trying to keep up. Jess Fulcher, the library’s assistant senior librarian of youth services, led the charge. There were songs (“Wheels on the Bus,” of course), dancing, and two books about big feelings: Mad, Mad Bear and Leo Wakes Up Grumpy. The kids shook maracas, froze mid-dance, and popped bubbles from a machine that sent hundreds floating through the air. “It’s amazing,” Fulcher said, smiling. “I’ve been seeing some of these kids for over a year now. Watching them grow, connect, and learn—it’s the best part of my job.” The library, located at 4500 Oakdale Road, hosts family story time every other Saturday. For details, visit cobbcounty.gov/location/lewis-ray-library. STORY 3: Kennesaw Catholic school sees financial awards, growth in third year of operation  The 2025-26 school year has been a big one for Kennesaw’s Chesterton Academy of Atlanta. Just three years in, this small Catholic high school is growing steadily—and racking up some impressive wins along the way. Founded in 2023, the school is part of the global Chesterton Schools Network, which aims to provide affordable, classical Catholic education. Tuition? $9,185 per year. This year, the network snagged the prestigious $1 million Yass Prize for education innovation, while the Kennesaw campus received a $3,000 grant from the Catholic Foundation of North Georgia to upgrade its art room and cafeteria. From just 10 students in its first year to over 30 now, Chesterton Academy is carving out a special place in Georgia’s Catholic education landscape. For more, visit chestertonatl.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: INGLES 3 STORY 4: Cobb lawmakers react to U.S. strike on Venezuela Cobb County lawmakers are weighing in on the U.S. military’s strike in Venezuela, which ended with the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. The operation, ordered by President Trump, has sparked a firestorm of reactions—both praise and sharp criticism. U.S. Rep. Barry Loudermilk, R-Cassville, called the move “decisive and courageous,” hailing it as the end of a “tyrannical regime” and a chance for a brighter future for Venezuela. But not everyone’s cheering. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Rome, slammed the strike, questioning its consistency with Trump’s stance on Ukraine and accusing the administration of prioritizing foreign conflicts over domestic issues. “Why is it okay when we do it?” she asked on X. Rep. Lucy McBath, D-Marietta, echoed concerns, demanding clarity on the strike’s legality and its potential to destabilize Venezuela further. Sen. Raphael Warnock, D-Georgia, went even further, calling it a “broken promise” from a president more focused on foreign oil than Americans’ struggles. Locally, the Cobb Democratic Party condemned the strike as “unlawful,” while Cobb GOP President Mary Clarice Hathaway defended Trump’s decision, saying, “Sometimes hard decisions are necessary.” STORY 5: Cobb Police arrest suspect in New Year’s Day homicide   A New Year’s Day stabbing at the Millwood Apartment Complex in Marietta left one man dead and another behind bars. Cobb County Police say they responded to a call around 8:30 a.m. on Jan. 1 at 300 Pat Mell Road, near Austell Road. When officers arrived, they found 47-year-old Jerry Sampson Jr. with a stab wound. He was rushed to the hospital but didn’t make it. The suspect, 50-year-old Zuberi A. Douglas, was arrested the next day at the same apartment complex where the incident happened. He’s now facing charges, including felony murder. The investigation is ongoing. Got info? Call 770-499-3945. Break: STORY 6: Mac’s Chophouse scores 64 on health inspection, owners say violations are being corrected     Mac’s Chophouse, a Marietta Square favorite, hit a rough patch, scoring a 64 on its health inspection—an unsatisfactory “U” grade. Ouch. Co-owners Randy McCray and Chef Mike Fuller didn’t shy away from the news. “This score doesn’t reflect who we are,” they said, calling most violations “administrative” rather than food safety issues. The inspection cited nine problems, from improper handwashing to black buildup in ice machines. A half-eaten burger on a prep table? Not a great look. McCray admitted, “We fell behind during a busy season.” They’ve since cleaned house—literally—and are prepping for a re-inspection by Jan. 9. STORY 7: Wheeler falls in title game of Hoophall West  Darius Wabbington was unstoppable. He dropped 23 points, grabbed nine boards, and led Sunnyslope to a nail-biting 61-59 win over Wheeler in the Hoophall West Nike Tournament of Champions final on Saturday. Wheeler (11-3), ranked No. 5 by MaxPreps, had a solid run—beating Salesian (CA) and No. 6 Millennium (AZ)—but three games in three days and 1,800 miles of travel caught up with them. Still, they fought. Down 47-45 heading into the fourth, they clawed back to lead 53-51. But Sunnyslope? Ice cold at the line. They hit all 15 free throws, including six clutch ones from Colorado signee Rider Portela, who finished with 14 points. The game was chaos—nine ties, 16 lead changes, and no lead bigger than five. Wheeler’s Amare James (16 points) and Colben Landrew (20 points, six assists) kept it close, but Wabbington’s second-half threes and Sunnyslope’s composure sealed it. Tough loss, but what a game. 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.

Welcome to The Weekly, produced by TAB Media Group, which publishes The Alabama Baptist and The Baptist Paper. Each episode features news headlines read by TAB Media Group staff and volunteers. New episodes are released weekly on Wednesday mornings. Articles featured in this episode: Most popular Bible app verses of 2025 Thanks to Beeson Divinity School for sponsoring this week's TAB edition! ALCAP Prayer Rally First person: Could calmness, intentionality and awareness be the key? 'Prayer in pain': Vroegop teaches students about power of lament Senior project turned into worship ministry, debut album Retired worship pastor leverages gifts to invest in others with Worship Practice Alabama pastor finds way to reach nonbelievers as a chaplain Largest faith-based foster care provider in Alabama ready to expand, and 'everyone can do something' 'Anchors in My Sea' shares a story of faith through struggles, tragedy Explore the Bible and Bible Studies for Life Sunday School Lessons Brandon Heath's new album reaching out to Deaf community Visit TAB Media HERE Subscribe on iTunes HERE

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for January 2nd Publish Date:  January 2nd    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, January 2nd and Happy Birthday to Cuba Gooding Jr. I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal No more cars up Kennesaw Mountain, starting January Paychex founder makes historic $50 million gift to Wellstar Meet Aloka, the peace dog winning hearts nationwide during Walk for Peace Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads 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 2 STORY 1: No more cars up Kennesaw Mountain, starting January  Starting this month, private cars will no longer be allowed up Kennesaw Mountain. The park’s steep, winding Mountain Road—famous for its blind curves and 12% grade—has become a safety headache, with too many close calls between cars, cyclists, and hikers. Instead, visitors can reach the summit by shuttle, bike, or on foot. A new pedestrian lane will make the 1.5-mile trek safer for walkers, while the unpaved hiking trail remains untouched. Acting Superintendent Beth Wheeler said the changes address “growing safety concerns” and aim to protect the park’s natural and historic beauty. Road striping starts Jan. 6, with closures lasting through March. STORY 2: Paychex founder makes historic $50 million gift to Wellstar Philanthropist and Paychex founder Tom Golisano just made history with a $50 million gift to Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia (WCHOG), the largest donation in Wellstar’s history. In recognition, the hospital will now be called the Wellstar Golisano Children’s Hospital of Georgia. This isn’t just a check—it’s a game-changer. The hospital is joining the Golisano Children’s Alliance, a network of 12 children’s hospitals across the U.S., opening doors to collaboration, innovation, and shared expertise. It’s the only hospital in the alliance representing Georgia and its neighboring states. The donation will fund projects like a cutting-edge pediatric cardiac ICU, further cementing Wellstar’s reputation for top-tier pediatric care. Other hospitals in the alliance include institutions in Buffalo, Fort Myers, and Hershey, Pa.—all part of Golisano’s mission to improve children’s health nationwide. STORY 3: Meet Aloka, the peace dog winning hearts nationwide during Walk for Peace   If you’ve ever seen a serene dog strolling alongside Buddhist monks—sometimes dressed better than the humans—you’ve probably met Aloka, the Peace Dog. Aloka isn’t flashy. He doesn’t bark for attention or demand the spotlight. But somehow, he’s become the quiet soul of the Walk for Peace, embodying everything it stands for. He walks when he can, rides when he’s tired, and never strays from the monks’ side. Once a stray in India, Aloka chose this life. Literally. He started following the monks during a peace walk years ago and never stopped. Now, he’s trekking across the U.S., his calm presence lifting spirits and drawing fans online. Despite the growing attention, Aloka stays grounded. He’s shy with fans, content to rest his paws in the grass or wait patiently for the next step. He doesn’t need words or signs to make his point. Aloka just shows up, step after step, proving that quiet compassion can be the loudest message of all. 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 2 STORY 4: Duo Arpeggione to perform Jan. 11 at St. Catherine’s Episcopal Church  St. Catherine’s Episcopal Church in Marietta (571 Holt Road) is hosting something special: a performance by the world-renowned Duo Arpeggione as part of its Friends of Music series. Mark your calendar—Sunday, Jan. 11, at 3 p.m., in the church sanctuary. Duo Arpeggione, formed in 2017, brings together pianist Catherine Lan and cellist Claudio Jaffe. Their program, “Romantic Resonance,” promises a journey through the evolution of piano and cello music, from Beethoven’s refined elegance to the fiery, nationalistic flair of Cassadó and Chopin. Admission is free—donations welcome. Seating is first-come, first-served. Questions? Call 770-971-2839 or email stcats@stcatherines.org. STORY 5: Sprayberry comes back to upend Sandy Creek Down 12 in the second half against three-time defending state champs Sandy Creek, Sprayberry’s boys basketball team could’ve folded. But they didn’t. Instead, they clawed their way back for a gritty 50-45 win Monday at the Lemon Street Classic. Sandy Creek (6-2) brought the heat early, showing why they’re one of the toughest defensive teams around. Sprayberry (9-3) struggled to find rhythm, trailing 26-18 at halftime. Nate McDaniel sparked an 11-2 run in the third, hitting a three and sinking free throws to pull Sprayberry within three. McDaniel, who’s been part of the program since he was a kid, finished with 16 points, 10 in the second half. The Yellow Jackets opened the fourth with eight straight points, taking a 39-34 lead. Sandy Creek fought back, briefly reclaiming the lead at 42-41, but McDaniel’s clutch three-point play and a layup from Christian Bass sealed the deal. ANTHONY JOSHUA: The boxing world is reeling after a tragic car crash near Lagos on Monday left Anthony Joshua injured and claimed the lives of two of his closest friends, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele. Joshua, a two-time heavyweight champ and Olympic gold medalist, is recovering in stable condition, his promoter confirmed. But the loss of Ghami, his strength coach, and Ayodele, a trainer, has left a deep void. Just hours before the crash, Joshua and Ayodele had shared a lighthearted moment on social media, playing table tennis together. Tributes poured in from the boxing community. Tyson Fury called it “heartbreaking,” while Chris Eubank Jr. remembered Ghami and Ayodele as “genuinely good men.” Shannon Courtenay urged fans to keep Joshua in their prayers, adding, “No one should have to witness what he did.” The crash is a stark reminder of the fragility of life, even for giants like Joshua. I'm Keith Ippolito and that’s your MDJ Sports Minute. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 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.

Top Stories for January 1st Publish Date: January 1st From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Thursday, January 1st and Happy birthday to Verne Troyer I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Meet Aloka, the peace dog winning hearts nationwide during Walk for Peace Gwinnettians urged to 'treecycle' their live Christmas trees $100K in Pokémon cards stolen from Carrollton shop Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads 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: Sugar Hill Ice Skating Rink STORY 1: Meet Aloka, the peace dog winning hearts nationwide during Walk for Peace If you’ve ever seen a serene dog strolling alongside Buddhist monks—sometimes dressed better than the humans—you’ve probably met Aloka, the Peace Dog. Aloka isn’t flashy. He doesn’t bark for attention or demand the spotlight. But somehow, he’s become the quiet soul of the Walk for Peace, embodying everything it stands for. He walks when he can, rides when he’s tired, and never strays from the monks’ side. Once a stray in India, Aloka chose this life. Literally. He started following the monks during a peace walk years ago and never stopped. Now, he’s trekking across the U.S., his calm presence lifting spirits and drawing fans online. Despite the growing attention, Aloka stays grounded. He’s shy with fans, content to rest his paws in the grass or wait patiently for the next step. He doesn’t need words or signs to make his point. Aloka just shows up, step after step, proving that quiet compassion can be the loudest message of all. STORY 2: Gwinnettians urged to 'treecycle' their live Christmas trees Christmas 2025 is officially in the rearview mirror, and if you went with a live tree this year, you’re probably staring at it now, wondering, “What the heck do I do with this thing?” Gwinnett Clean and Beautiful has your answer: “Treecycle” it. Yep, their annual Bring One for the Chipper program is back, and they’re asking families to drop off their used live trees at participating fire stations by Jan. 21, 2026. The trees will be chipped into mulch for parks and public spaces—because why let a perfectly good tree go to waste? The big chipping event happens Jan. 24 at Bethesda Park in Lawrenceville, and volunteers are needed. Want to help? You’ve got to be at least 14, and you can sign up through Volunteer Gwinnett. Oh, and a quick heads-up: no lights, tinsel, ornaments, or stands—just the tree, bare and ready for its second act. Questions? Call 770-822-5187 or email gwinnettcb@gwinnettcb.org. STORY 3: $100K in Pokémon cards stolen from Carrollton shop Christmas Eve took a sour turn for Tag Collects, a local trading card shop, when a thief smashed their way in and made off with over $100,000 in rare Pokémon cards and sealed merchandise. Co-owner Tommy Brown got the alert early that morning—someone had hurled a tow hitch ball through the front door. In under two minutes, the thief grabbed rare gems like the coveted Umbreon “Moonbreon” card (worth $3,000) and Gold Star Rayquazas, valued at $14,000 combined. Sealed boxes, some worth up to $12,000 each, were also taken. The store has launched a GoFundMe to cover repairs and payroll, while Carrollton police are asking anyone with tips to come forward. 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: Kia Mall of Georgia STORY 4: Is New Year's Day a federal holiday? Here's what's open and closed The first day of 2026 is here, and while it’s a holiday for many, it might throw a wrench in your plans if you’re trying to run errands or grab last-minute essentials. Here’s the deal: Walmart? Open. Target? Open. Costco? Nope, closed. Same for Aldi and Trader Joe’s. Whole Foods? Modified hours. CVS and Walgreens? Open, but check for reduced pharmacy hours. Mail? Forget it—USPS, UPS, and FedEx are all taking the day off. Banks and government offices? Closed too. Moral of the story? Plan ahead. STORY 5: Wesleyan Grad Eva Garabadian Earns Auburn Basketball Spot in Open Tryout Eva Garabadian thought basketball was behind her. Done. She’d moved on. A former three-sport star at Wesleyan—basketball, lacrosse, softball—she started her college hoops career at Georgia College and State University, a Division II school. One season, 16 games off the bench. Then she transferred to Auburn, not for sports, but for life. Basketball? That chapter was closed. She played pickup games, joined Auburn’s club lacrosse team, and settled into her new normal. Until October. A random Instagram post about walk-on tryouts flipped everything. Two weeks later, she was at Neville Arena, trying out. No nerves, just drills she’d done a hundred times. Worst case? She’d go back to her regular life. Best case? A dream she thought was over might come back. And it did. A text from Auburn’s new head coach, Larry Vickers, sealed it: she made the team. Now, she’s an SEC basketball player. From Division II to SEC, from thinking it was over to living the dream again—Eva’s story is proof that sometimes, life gives you a second chance when you least expect it. FALCONS: The Falcons’ season, a rollercoaster of confusion and chaos, somehow got even weirder Monday night. Already eliminated from playoff contention weeks ago, Atlanta (7-9) pulled off a dramatic 27-24 win over the Rams, their third straight victory in a season that’s been equal parts frustrating and baffling. Zane Gonzalez nailed a 51-yard field goal with 21 seconds left, capping a game where Atlanta blew a 21-point lead but still managed to hang on. It’s been that kind of year—beating Super Bowl contenders like Buffalo and L.A., but losing to teams like the Jets and Panthers. Go figure. Bijan Robinson was unstoppable, racking up 195 rushing yards, two touchdowns, and a highlight-reel 93-yard run that left jaws on the floor. Rookie safety Xavier Watts continued his breakout season with two interceptions, tying Deion Sanders’ rookie record for Atlanta. But let’s not sugarcoat it—this season’s been a mess. Special teams? A disaster, with yet another blocked field goal returned for a touchdown. The Cousins signing? A head-scratcher. And yet, somehow, the Falcons are ending the year on a high note, showing flashes of the potential fans expected back in August. For now, though, they’ll be watching the playoffs from the couch—again. Break 3: GCPL Passport And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads We’ll have closing comments after this Break 5: 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 Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill Team GCPS News Podcast, Current Events, Top Headlines, Breaking News, Podcast News, Trending, Local News, Daily, News, Podcast, Interviews See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of January 2nd Publish Date: January 2nd   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, January 2nd and Happy Birthday to Cuba Gooding Jr. I’m Chris Culwell and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cherokee County’s Development Service Center going cashless Cherokee County musician Kurt Lee Wheeler performs in movie MLK Day Unity Breakfast returning to Canton after hiatus Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads 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 9 STORY 1: Cherokee County’s Development Service Center going cashless The Cherokee County Development Service Center is now cashless—no more bills or coins at the counter. If you’re handling business licenses, building permits, alcohol licenses, or even motorized cart registrations, you’ll need to pay with a card, check, money order, or online. The office, located on the ground floor of the county’s admin building in Canton, says this change will speed things up and make transactions more secure. So, plan ahead—no cash, no exceptions. Got questions? Call 770-721-7810 or email dsc@cherokeecountyga.gov. And hey, for more details, check out their website. STORY 2: Cherokee County musician Kurt Lee Wheeler performs in movie Kurt Lee Wheeler’s had plenty to smile about this holiday season. By day, he’s teaching at Creekland Middle School in Canton—a job he loves. But outside the classroom? He’s been busy releasing a new album and making his movie debut. After hearing his music, producer and actress Roberta Sparta invited Wheeler to perform in The Secret Life of a Good Wife, a Lifetime movie that premiered Thanksgiving Day. In a scene shot in Acworth, Wheeler and his band played during an outdoor gathering. Wheeler’s new album, Lathemtown, features some of the best bluegrass talent around, including Aaron Ramsey and Jake Stargel. A Cherokee County favorite, Wheeler’s also known for writing the county’s official song and performing at countless local events. With retirement from teaching on the horizon this May, Wheeler’s looking forward to traveling, spending time with his new grandchild, and, of course, making more music. STORY 3: MLK Day Unity Breakfast returning to Canton after hiatus  The MLK Day Unity Breakfast is making its long-awaited return to Canton on Jan. 19 after a six-year break. This free event kicks off at 8 a.m. with breakfast at the Cherokee County Conference Center (1130 Bluffs Parkway), followed by a program at 9 a.m. honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy of equality, justice, and service. The keynote speaker? Canton native and weather-climate expert Dr. James Marshall Shepherd, a Cherokee High valedictorian who’s advised NASA, Congress, and even the White House. The program will also feature local leaders, a community choir, creative dance, and the CFCC Unity Award Presentation. For more info or to donate, visit cfergusoncc.org. 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 10 STORY 4: Johns Creek holds off Cherokee Cherokee had its shot—literally—but couldn’t quite close the deal, falling 69-63 to Johns Creek in Monday’s Lemon Street Classic at Marietta High. Down two with 33 seconds left, Polk Corben’s steal and layup gave Cherokee life. Then Johns Creek missed two free throws, leaving the door wide open. But Braylon Luster’s potential game-tying shot? Off the mark. Forced to foul, Cherokee watched the Gladiators ice it with four free throws. Tatum Holmes led the Gladiators with 25 points, while Kaysan Brock added 13. For Cherokee, Sean Williams and Braylon Luster each dropped 21, with Luster sparking a furious fourth-quarter rally. Trailing 58-46 after three, Cherokee clawed back with a 10-2 run, cutting the lead to one. But Brock’s clutch three-pointer with 1:33 left sealed the Gladiators’ win. It was a back-and-forth battle early. Cherokee’s hot start from deep gave them a 9-2 lead, but Johns Creek answered with a 12-4 run, fueled by three triples. By halftime, the Gladiators clung to a 30-28 edge. In the end, Cherokee’s fight wasn’t enough. FALCONS: The Falcons’ season, a rollercoaster of confusion and chaos, somehow got even weirder Monday night. Already eliminated from playoff contention weeks ago, Atlanta (7-9) pulled off a dramatic 27-24 win over the Rams, their third straight victory in a season that’s been equal parts frustrating and baffling. Zane Gonzalez nailed a 51-yard field goal with 21 seconds left, capping a game where Atlanta blew a 21-point lead but still managed to hang on. It’s been that kind of year—beating Super Bowl contenders like Buffalo and L.A., but losing to teams like the Jets and Panthers. Go figure. Bijan Robinson was unstoppable, racking up 195 rushing yards, two touchdowns, and a highlight-reel 93-yard run that left jaws on the floor. But let’s not sugarcoat it—this season’s been a mess. Special teams? A disaster, with yet another blocked field goal returned for a touchdown. The Cousins signing? A head-scratcher. And yet, somehow, the Falcons are ending the year on a high note, showing flashes of the potential fans expected back in August. For now, though, they’ll be watching the playoffs from the couch—again. I’m Keith Ippolito and this is your tribune ledger sports minute. STORY 5: New laws will address professional services, homeowner protections, car owners and politicians  While most laws from this year’s legislative session kicked in back in July, a few big ones kicked off on New Year’s Day. They tackle everything from dentist shortages to car tags, with a little campaign finance reform thrown in for good measure. Take House Bill 148, for example. Rep. John Carson, a CPA from Cobb, is trying to fix Georgia’s accountant shortage. His bill updates a 30-year-old licensing system, making it easier to become a CPA and letting out-of-state firms work here without opening an office. Then there’s House Bill 567, aimed at solving the dentist drought. Rep. Katie Dempsey’s bill allows licensed dentists to practice online—yes, teledentistry is now a thing—and ensures dental plans cover it. Homeowners get a win, too. Senate Bill 35 doubles the notice period for nonrenewal of certain insurance policies to 60 days. And Senate Bill 112 makes HVAC warranties transferable to new buyers and bans those annoying “register your product or lose your warranty” rules. Campaign finance? Senate Bill 199 tightens the rules, requiring PACs to keep detailed bank records and file disclosures with the State Ethics Commission. Oh, and candidates can’t be investigated within 60 days of an election. And for the patriotic crowd, there’s Senate Bill 291. It introduces a new license plate with the American flag and “America First” slogan. Proceeds go to the state’s general fund. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: INGLES 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.

1 / 4 MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 31st Publish Date: December 31st Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. Today is Wednesday, December 31st and Happy Birthday to Donna Summer I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal 1. ‘Bittersweet’ goodbye: Marietta school board says farewell to three colleagues 2. New Cobb Young Republicans Chair looks to affordability, voter engagement 3. Cumberland CID details big projects, future plans 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: ‘Bittersweet’ goodbye: Marietta school board says farewell to three colleagues The final meeting of the year for the Marietta Board of Education was a bittersweet one, full of hugs, tears, and heartfelt goodbyes as three longtime members—A.B. Almy, Kerry Minervini, and Jason Waters—stepped down. During the meeting, emotions ran high. Vice Chair Jaillene Hunter praised Almy for her relentless push for academic excellence. Angela Orange called Minervini “a woman who gives a million percent,” while Irene Berens, tearing up, described Waters as “an exceptional man and a dear friend.” Waters, who’s moving on to the Marietta City Council, called the moment “surreal.” Minervini, meanwhile, joked about finding a new hobby, and Almy expressed gratitude for her time on the board. The night ended with a video tribute, glass plaques, and a reminder of the board’s legacy: being named Georgia’s 2025 School Board of the Year. STORY 2: New Cobb Young Republicans Chair looks to affordability, voter engagement At just 25, Andre Stafford is stepping up as the new chairman of the Cobb Young Republicans, ready to shake things up. “I’m all in,” he says, a mantra that’s driven him since he first got involved in politics after the 2024 assassination attempt on Donald Trump—a moment that, for him, changed everything. Stafford, a restaurant manager by day, wants to grow the group, boost voter turnout, and focus on issues like affordability. “The American Dream feels like a fairy tale to my generation,” he says. “We need more homeowners, less paycheck-to-paycheck living.” His goal? Turn Cobb red—and keep it that way. STORY 3: Cumberland CID details big projects, future plans 2 / 4 Big things are happening in Cumberland, and Kim Menefee, the CID’s executive director, couldn’t be prouder. “2025 was our best year yet,” she told lawmakers at a recent meeting. One highlight? The first phase of the New Day Palisades project at Paces Mill Park. With $6.3 million in upgrades—like better parking, trail access, and erosion control—it’s already drawing millions of visitors. Phase 2 kicks off in 2026, with a $9.5 million price tag and plans for a visitor center and river overlooks. Oh, and driverless shuttles? Coming in 2027. Free rides connecting The Battery, Truist Park, and more. Cumberland’s future? Bold. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info. We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 1 STORY 4: Cobb Superior Court Clerk asks judge to dismiss charges against her Lawyers for Cobb Superior Court Clerk Connie Taylor are fighting to get her case dismissed before it even reaches trial. Meanwhile, prosecutors are busy filing motions over what evidence can and can’t be shown in court. Taylor, elected in 2020, faces four felony charges tied to allegations she mishandled passport fee records—pocketing over $425,000 in fees during her first two years in office. Things escalated when a whistleblower claimed Taylor ordered records destroyed, reportedly saying, “We’re just going to Donald Trump this thing.” Taylor denies wrongdoing, but if convicted, she’ll lose her job permanently. A hearing is set for Feb. 5. STORY 5: Marietta residents call for increased safety measures after crash on train tracks Residents are sounding the alarm after a truck barreled off the road and crashed near the train tracks at Kennesaw Avenue and Church Street last week. Melissa Korczyk, out for a walk with her toddler and dog, heard the screech of tires just before 10 a.m. “I look up, and this car is flying down Kennesaw Avenue,” she said. “It hit the tracks, went airborne, and slammed into the pedestrian signal.” The driver, who also hit a light post and tree, escaped with minor injuries and was charged with reckless driving. “It’s scary,” Korczyk said. “That intersection feels like an accident waiting to happen.” Break: 3 / 4 STORY 6: Marietta celebrates legacy of service as three council members retire The Marietta Fire Museum was full of laughter, hugs, and a few teary eyes last week as friends, family, and city staff gathered to honor retiring council members Andy Morris, Grif Chalfant, and Johnny Walker. “You’ve left a footprint on this city that just keeps getting better,” said Mayor Steve “Thunder” Tumlin, summing up the mood of the night. Chalfant, who’s been on the council since 2005, joked about finally tackling 20 years of neglected home projects—and maybe fixing up his Triumph TR3. Morris, a lifelong Marietta resident, said he’s ready to relax with his new dog, Harry. “I might even pick up golf again,” he added. Walker, proud of his work on school traffic safety, plans to focus on real estate, photography, and more time at home. Each was presented with a Distinguished Service Award, a fitting send-off for years of dedication. STORY 7: Baby clothes program helps mothers in need year-round For nearly two decades, Rosemary Buckley has quietly made life a little easier for new moms in need. Every month, she gathers bundles of baby clothes—layettes—and delivers them to Wellstar Kennestone, where they’re given to families who could use a little extra help. “It’s not just store-bought stuff,” Buckley says. “Parishioners make blankets, tiny hats, even mittens. It’s beautiful.” Inspired by her 12 grandchildren and a simple church request back in 2007, Buckley has turned this into her mission. Monsignor John Walsh calls her a “woman of action.” She just calls it “something that needs to be done.” 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.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sam Cohen shared today's BIGGEST headlines in the world of sports with Pat Donovan this morning

One legendary NFL HC has revealed what he might look forward to in 2026 and beyond. Will he make it happen?

Chris Mathis shares today's intriguing top headlines!

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 26th Publish Date:  December 26th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, December 26th and Happy Birthday to Lars Ulrich I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Piastra closing, reopening as café and grocery in January Salleigh Grubbs appointed to State Election Board Bittersweet: Candymakers navigate tariff, supply chain challenges during holiday season Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on holiday foods All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 10 STORY 1: Piastra closing, reopening as café and grocery in January  Big changes are coming to Piastra, the Italian spot that’s been a Marietta Square favorite since 2015. After New Year’s Eve, the restaurant will close its doors—but not for good. In January, it’ll reopen as Asher and Rose Modern Grocers, a café and market dreamed up by co-owners Greg Lipman and his mom, Betty Bahl. Why the shift? “We’ve been listening,” Lipman said. Locals have been asking for a specialty grocery store on the Square for years, and now they’re getting one—complete with fresh bread, local produce, prepared meals, and an all-day breakfast café. “We love this community,” Lipman added. STORY 2: Salleigh Grubbs appointed to State Election Board Salleigh Grubbs, former Cobb GOP Chair, is stepping into a new role on the State Election Board. The Georgia Republican Party announced Monday that Lt. Gov. Burt Jones appointed her to fill the seat left vacant by Rick Jeffares. It’s a “recess appointment,” Grubbs explained, and she’s diving in immediately. “I’m honored, humbled, all of it,” she said. “Fair elections are something I’ve been passionate about for years, and I’m ready to get to work.” A Marietta native, Grubbs led the Cobb GOP until earlier this year and now serves as the Georgia GOP’s first vice chair. “This is about transparency,” she added. STORY 3: Bittersweet: Candymakers navigate tariff, supply chain challenges during holiday season   For Jocelyn Dubuke, owner of Jardi Chocolates, 2025 has been a rollercoaster. Tariffs, supply chain chaos, rising costs—it’s enough to make anyone panic. And yet, back in January, she made a bold move: she spent every penny of last year’s revenue stockpiling chocolate. “I told my distributors, ‘Whatever you’ve got in the States, I’ll take it,’” she said. “I wasn’t about to tell my customers halfway through the year, ‘Oh, by the way, your chocolate’s double the price now.’” Chocolate’s tricky—rules you can’t break, ingredients you can’t grow here. But for Dubuke, it’s personal. 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 10 STORY 4: Georgia DOT suspends lane closures for the holidays  With the holidays happening, the Georgia Department of Transportation is hitting pause on lane closures—at least on interstates, major routes, and roads near shopping hubs. From Dec. 23 at 6 a.m. to Dec. 28 at 10 p.m., and again from Dec. 31 at 5 a.m. to Jan. 2 at 5 a.m., you’ll get a break from the usual construction chaos. But don’t get too comfortable—crews might still be working nearby, and emergency closures? Yeah, those can still happen. Stay sharp, watch for signs, and if you’re curious about road updates, check out GDOT’s website or the 511GA app. STORY 5: Walton claims first county title in nearly two decades Walton’s boys wrestling team finally broke through, snagging their first Cobb County title in nearly 20 years Saturday at Harrison High. And they did it in style—five wrestlers in the finals, five gold medals. Coach Dylan Turner couldn’t stop smiling. “We’ve got everyone back from last year, and it took every single one of them to pull this off,” he said. “They’re just gamers.” The standout? Brandon Whiteford. An eighth seed at 165 pounds, he shocked the top seed with a pin in his opener, then clinched the title with a gritty 6-3 win in the final. “I love the pressure,” he said. FALCONS: Bijan Robinson was electric, C.J. Henderson clutch, and the Falcons? They held on—barely. Atlanta edged Arizona 26-19 on Sunday, thanks to Henderson’s diving interception with 90 seconds left, slamming the door on the Cardinals’ final drive. Robinson? Unreal. 171 total yards, a touchdown grab, and a spot in Falcons history—just the third player to hit 2,000 scrimmage yards in a season. Not bad company: Jamal Anderson, William Andrews. Arizona? Another heartbreak. Seven straight losses, 12 of their last 13. Brissett’s 203 yards weren’t enough, and a wild Michael Wilson TD catch wasn’t either. Atlanta’s still alive. Barely. I'm Keith Ippolito and that’s your MDJ Sports Minute. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on holiday foods We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 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.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of December 26th Publish Date: December 26th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, December 26th and Happy Birthday to Lars Ulrich I’m Chris Culwell and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cherokee High School student places in statewide art contest Salleigh Grubbs appointed to State Election Board Georgia DOT suspends lane closures for the holidays Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on holiday foods 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 8 STORY 1: Cherokee High School student places in statewide art contest Cherokee High senior Grace Dai just snagged second place in the Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites Art Contest, and her piece, “The Fall of the House of Chief Vann,” is heading to the Georgia State Capitol for the 2026 legislative session. Pretty cool, right? Dai’s no stranger to recognition—she’s been in the Governor’s Honors Program for Visual Arts, featured in the Atlanta High School Art Exhibit, and, oh yeah, she’s also a National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist. Her art teacher, Morgan Clifton, must be beaming. Grace? She’s clearly on a roll, and it doesn’t look like she’s slowing down anytime soon. STORY 2: Salleigh Grubbs appointed to State Election Board Salleigh Grubbs, former Cobb GOP Chair, is stepping into a new role on the State Election Board. Lt. Gov. Burt Jones appointed her to fill the seat left by Rick Jeffares, who stepped down last week. It’s a “recess appointment,” Grubbs explained, and she’s diving in right away. “I’m honored, humbled—really, all of it,” she said. “Fair elections have been my focus for years, and I’m ready to get to work.” A Marietta native, Grubbs led the Cobb GOP until earlier this year and now serves as the Georgia GOP’s first vice chair. “This is about transparency,” she added. STORY 3: Georgia DOT suspends lane closures for the holidays  With the holidays here, the Georgia DOT is giving drivers a little gift: no lane closures on interstates, major routes, or roads near shopping hotspots. From Dec. 23 at 6 a.m. to Dec. 28 at 10 p.m., and again from Dec. 31 at 5 a.m. to Jan. 2 at 5 a.m., you’ll get a break from the cones. But don’t get too comfy—crews might still be working nearby, and emergencies? Yeah, those closures can still happen. Stay sharp, watch for signs, and check the 511GA app for updates. Safe travels, y’all. 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 9 STORY 4: High-Scoring Georgia Men's Basketball Continues Non-Conference Roll With SEC play looming, Georgia’s men’s basketball team has plenty to feel good about. Monday night, they steamrolled West Georgia 103-74, improving to 11-1 and keeping their spotless 35-0 home non-conference record under coach Mike White intact. Blue Cain and Jeremiah Wilkinson were on fire, combining for 39 points. Cain dropped 20 on 9-of-13 shooting, adding four assists and three steals. “They told me about the 100-point record after the game,” Cain said. “It’s cool, but we’re just focused on playing the right way.” Somto Cyril? A beast. Fifteen points, 15 boards, four blocks. SEC, here they come. FALCONS: Bijan Robinson was electric, C.J. Henderson clutch, and the Falcons? They held on—barely. Atlanta edged Arizona 26-19 on Sunday, thanks to Henderson’s diving interception with 90 seconds left, slamming the door on the Cardinals’ final drive. Robinson? Unreal. 171 total yards, a touchdown grab, and a spot in Falcons history—just the third player to hit 2,000 scrimmage yards in a season. Not bad company: Jamal Anderson, William Andrews. Arizona? Another heartbreak. Seven straight losses, 12 of their last 13. Brissett’s 203 yards weren’t enough, and a wild Michael Wilson TD catch wasn’t either. Atlanta’s still alive. Barely. I’m Keith Ippolito and this is your tribune ledger sports minute. STORY 5: Incoming Mayor Dennis Nelson shares goals for Ball Ground  Dennis Nelson has big plans for Ball Ground. The incoming mayor, set to be sworn in Jan. 15, wants to turn Ball Ground Highway into a bustling commercial corridor and add a new park—maybe even the city’s first dog park. “Right now, it’s just an empty stretch,” he said. “People want to stay local, not drive miles for dinner or shopping.” Nelson’s also focused on the truck bypass project, aiming to keep heavy traffic out of downtown. “Everyone’s tired of the trucks,” he said. A Ball Ground resident since 2018, Nelson’s roots run deep—his great-great-grandfather helped settle the nearby city of Nelson. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on holiday foods Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: INGLES 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.

In this special year-end episode, Jada and Brian talk about Nikkei Asia's most popular stories from 2025. ・A selection of headlines ・A discussion on the year's hottest news You can read more at: https://asia.nikkei.com/ We will take a short holiday break and will be back with a new episode on Jan. 16. Thanks!

Top Stories for December 25th Publish Date: December 25th PRE-ROLL: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Thursday, December 25th and Happy birthday to Jimmy Buffett I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Duluth named Georgia's most Hallmark movie-like city Solicitor's Office donates 5K proceeds to help domestic violence victims Salleigh Grubbs appointed to State Election Board Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on holiday foods 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: GCPS Hiring STORY 1: Duluth named Georgia's most Hallmark movie-like city If you’re dreaming of a Hallmark-style Christmas, Gwinnett County’s got you covered—no need to pack your bags. According to The Action Network, three Gwinnett cities made Georgia’s top five most Hallmark-like towns, with Duluth taking the crown as number one. Why Duluth? Think walkable streets, a buzzing town green, and a community that actually shows up—for festivals, concerts, and all the holiday feels. “It’s less about historic landmarks and more about people-driven traditions,” they said. Lawrenceville and Suwanee also made the list, proving Gwinnett’s got that small-town magic—minus the guaranteed snow or last-minute romantic plot twists. STORY 2: Solicitor's Office donates 5K proceeds to help domestic violence victims Three local groups that support domestic violence survivors got a little holiday cheer last week, courtesy of the Gwinnett County Solicitor’s Office. Solicitor General LisaMarie Bristol handed out checks to Mosaic Georgia, the Partnership Against Domestic Violence, and Ahimsa House during a ceremony at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center. The $12,080 came from the office’s third annual Dash 4 Domestic Violence 5K. “This is about more than money—it’s about action,” the office said. The event drew 170 runners, 65 volunteers, and 33 sponsors, raising over $12K to help survivors and their families across Gwinnett. STORY 3: Salleigh Grubbs appointed to State Election Board Former Cobb GOP Chair Salleigh Grubbs has been tapped for the State Election Board, the Georgia Republican Party announced Monday. Lt. Gov. Burt Jones made the appointment, filling the seat left vacant by Rick Jeffares. Grubbs called it a “recess appointment” and said she’s ready to get to work immediately. “Salleigh’s leadership and commitment to election integrity are unmatched,” said Georgia GOP Chair Josh McKoon. A Marietta native, Grubbs has been a vocal advocate for fair elections for years. “I’m honored and humbled,” she said. “This is about transparency, bipartisanship, and making Georgia’s elections better for everyone.” 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: Kia Mall of Georgia - DTL HOLIDAY STORY 4: Bittersweet: Candymakers navigate tariff, supply chain challenges during holiday season For Jocelyn Dubuke, owner of Jardi Chocolates, 2025 was a gamble. Faced with rising tariffs and supply chain chaos, she spent every dollar of last year’s revenue to stockpile chocolate. Why? To keep her customers from feeling the pinch. “Come January, I told my distributors, ‘Whatever chocolate you’ve got in the States, I want it,’” she said. “I wasn’t about to tell my customers halfway through the year, ‘Oh, by the way, your price just doubled.’” Chocolate’s tricky—rules you can bend, but not break. And with cacao only grown overseas, tariffs hit hard. STORY 5: Brookwood Tops Archer for First Deep South Classic Title in 10 Years Masai Knight spent most of the game dishing out assists—nine of them, to be exact—but his biggest play came when it mattered most. With Brookwood clinging to a four-point lead in the final minute of the Deep South Classic championship, Knight threaded a perfect pass to Grant Dehnke, who scored inside to stretch the lead to six. A defensive stop, a couple of free throws, and that was it—Brookwood sealed a 61-52 win, their first tournament title in a decade. FALCONS: Bijan Robinson was electric, C.J. Henderson clutch, and the Falcons? They held on—barely. Atlanta edged Arizona 26-19 on Sunday, thanks to Henderson’s diving interception with 90 seconds left, slamming the door on the Cardinals’ final drive. Robinson? Unreal. 171 total yards, a touchdown grab, and a spot in Falcons history—just the third player to hit 2,000 scrimmage yards in a season. Not bad company: Jamal Anderson, William Andrews. Arizona? Another heartbreak. Seven straight losses, 12 of their last 13. Brissett’s 203 yards weren’t enough, and a wild Michael Wilson TD catch wasn’t either. Atlanta’s still alive. Barely. Break 3: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on holiday foods Break 4: We’ll have closing comments after this Break 5: Ingles Markets 3 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 https://www.downtownlawrencevillega.com/ Team GCPS News Podcast, Current Events, Top Headlines, Breaking News, Podcast News, Trending, Local News, Daily, News, Podcast, Interviews See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hey BillOReilly.com Premium and Concierge Members, welcome to the No Spin News for Tuesday, December 23, 2025. Stand Up for Your Country.  Today's show is a special Q & A edition of the No Spin News, where Bill answers your questions! But first, Bill runs through some important headlines, including the situation between Ukraine and Russia.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Top Headlines: welivesecurity.com | LongNosedGoblin tries to sniff out governmental affairs in Southeast Asia and Japan: https://www.welivesecurity.com/en/eset-research/longnosedgoblin-tries-sniff-out-governmental-affairs-southeast-asia-japan/ Resecurity | DIG AI: Uncensored Darknet AI Assistant at the Service of Criminals and Terrorists: https://www.resecurity.com/blog/article/dig-ai-uncensored-darknet-ai-assistant-at-the-service-of-criminals-and-terrorists?&web_view=true koi.ai | NPM Package With 56K Downloads Caught Stealing WhatsApp Messages: https://www.koi.ai/blog/npm-package-with-56k-downloads-malware-stealing-whatsapp-messages zscaler.com | Zscaler Threat Hunting Catches Evasive SideWinder APT Campaign: https://www.zscaler.com/blogs/security-research/zscaler-threat-hunting-catches-evasive-sidewinder-apt-campaign?&web_view=true ---------- Stay in Touch! Twitter: https://twitter.com/Intel471Inc LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/intel-471/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIL4ElcM6oLd3n36hM4_wkg Discord: https://discord.gg/DR4mcW4zBr Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Intel471Inc/

Small Cap Breaking News You Can't Miss! Here's a quick rundown of the latest updates from standout small-cap companies making big moves today: F3 Uranium Corp. (TSXV: FUU)F3 Uranium reached a major milestone by outlining its first Indicated Mineral Resource at the JR Zone in Saskatchewan's Athabasca Basin.11.8M lbs U₃O₈ at 4.39% average gradeIncludes a standout high-grade core of 10.8M lbs at 12.23%Fully funded with $26.1M in treasury and shifting focus to the new Tetra Zone for 2026 drillingA big step from discovery to definition in one of the world's top uranium districts.48.05 m of 6.68% ZnEq, including 39% ZnEq over 2.9 mNew hydrothermal footprint helping guide future drilling5 more holes pending, with results expected January 2026Early results + geophysics = smarter targeting ahead.Gold trend now stretches 500+ metresHighlight: 40 m grading 0.98 g/t goldAdditional assays pending from 12 more holesContinued drilling is adding value even after a completed PEA.285 m of 0.47% copper, including 56 m of 0.89% copperFirst new silver discovery since the 1980s: 10.7 m of 420.5 g/t AgEq at Southern FlatsUpdated geophysics sharpening targets for 2026 drillingOne project, two mineral systems, and expanding upside.4.05 g/t gold over 30.48 m, including 8.84 g/t over 13.72 m107 of 107 holes hit gold103 additional assays pending into early 2026Momentum is building toward a maiden resource.Bottom line: From uranium to gold, copper, and silver, these small-cap companies are hitting milestones, expanding discoveries, and setting up key catalysts for 2026.TomaGold Corp. (TSXV: LOT)TomaGold kicked off drilling at the Berrigan Mine in Québec with high-grade gold-polymetallic hits and signs the system could be larger than expected.Spanish Mountain Gold Ltd. (TSXV: SPA)Spanish Mountain Gold extended high-grade mineralization along its Orca Fault in B.C.'s Cariboo Gold Corridor.Hercules Metals Corp. (TSXV: BIG)Hercules delivered a two-for-one update in Idaho: copper growth at Leviathan and a brand-new silver discovery.Tectonic Metals Inc. (TSXV: TECT)Tectonic Metals delivered near-surface, high-grade gold at its Flat Gold Project in Alaska and kept its perfect drill record intact.

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 19th Publish Date:  December 19th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, December 19th and Happy Birthday to Al Kaline I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal South Cobb mayors speak on accomplishments, future Jaha Howard wins runoff for Georgia Senate District 35 Cobb County staff trade desk work for Christmas carols Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats As well as Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre 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!  Now here is Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre BREAK: THE STRAND STORY 1: South Cobb mayors speak on accomplishments, future  Three mayors, three cities, and a lot to reflect on. Austell Mayor Ollie Clemons, Mableton Mayor Michael Owens, and Powder Springs Mayor Al Thurman gathered at the Riverside EpiCenter to talk about 2025 wins and what’s next for 2026 during the State of South Cobb event. Clemons? He’s proud of Austell’s bold move to raise the millage rate for the first time in decades. “It’s about reinvesting in our community,” he said, pointing to plans for downtown revitalization and hiring a city manager—finally. Owens celebrated Mableton’s new departments and leadership team, calling 2025 a year of “building the foundation.” Next year? It’s all about community engagement and growth. Thurman highlighted Powder Springs’ shiny new city hall and parking garage, plus job-creating developments. His focus for 2026? Sustainable growth and leaving a legacy of leadership. STORY 2: Jaha Howard wins runoff for Georgia Senate District 35 Jaha Howard pulled off a narrow win Tuesday night, defeating fellow Democrat Roger Bruce in the runoff for state Senate District 35. Unofficial results show Howard, a dentist and former Cobb school board member, edging out Bruce with 51.9% of the vote to Bruce’s 48.1%. The seat, which covers parts of Cobb and Fulton counties, was left open when Jason Esteves stepped down to run for governor. Howard credited his win to personal outreach—hundreds of phone calls, he said, to build trust. “People want to feel heard,” he said. Bruce’s campaign struggled with name recognition, especially in Cobb. STORY 3: Cobb County staff trade desk work for Christmas carols  Glover Park got a dose of holiday magic Tuesday, thanks to Cobb County’s newest choir, “Cobb County Sonic Sound” (or, as they like to call themselves, “CoCo SoSo”). Led by Dr. Jatunn Gibson, head of the county’s Public Services Agency, the group—decked out in festive sweaters and holiday flair—belted out classics like “Joy to the World” and “White Christmas.” Oh, and they’ve got their own band too, all county employees. Between songs, they performed skits about elves saving Christmas. “It’s all about fun and camaraderie,” said Grace Williams, a choir member. “We’re connecting beyond work—and it’s a blast.” 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: Villa Rica Wonderland Train STORY 4: Jason Gaines named Mableton Citizen of the Year  Jason Gaines didn’t see it coming. This week, he was named the 2025 Mableton Citizen of the Year at the South Cobb Area Council meeting, and the surprise left him, well, a little speechless. “It just warms my heart,” Gaines said. “To know the work I’ve done is appreciated like this—it’s humbling.” Gaines, who’s the director of planning at Croy Engineering and chairs the Mableton Development Authority Board, was honored by Mayor Michael Owens. “Jason’s been a force,” Owens said. “His expertise and passion have shaped this community at such a critical time.” The guy’s résumé? Stacked. Leadership programs, board memberships—he’s everywhere. STORY 5: Anderson steps down as Walker football coach TJ Anderson pulled off something close to miraculous in 2025. With just 23 players—yes, 23—he guided Walker through a grueling 10-game season. The Wolverines finished 2-8, but they still earned a spot in the Class A-AAA Private state playoffs. Unfortunately, injuries piled up, and the team had to decline the bid. “We had to make the best decision for our kids,” Anderson said, reflecting on the tough call. But that season? It was his last. Anderson announced on X that he’s stepping down as Walker’s head coach after three years. “It’s been a journey,” he wrote, thanking the community and his family. BRAVES: Ha-Seong Kim is staying put in Atlanta—at least for another year. The 30-year-old shortstop signed a one-year, $20 million deal with the Braves on Monday, locking him in as the team’s starter for 2026. Not bad, considering he turned down a $16 million option just last month and walked away with an extra $4 million. Kim joined the Braves late last season, claimed off waivers from Tampa Bay on Sept. 1. He made an immediate impact, hitting .309 with a .372 OBP, three homers, and 12 RBIs in his first 19 games. Sure, he cooled off at the end—1-for-19 in the last five games—but the Braves clearly see his potential. Kim’s journey hasn’t been without bumps. Injuries sidelined him for much of 2025 with the Rays, where he hit just .214 in 24 games. But let’s not forget—this guy won a Gold Glove with the Padres in 2023 and has 84 career stolen bases. The Braves are betting on a bounce-back. And if Kim can channel his San Diego form, he could be a 3-4 WAR player. High hopes, but hey, the talent’s there. I'm Keith Ippolito and that’s your MDJ Sports Minute. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 8 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at 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 December 18th Publish Date: December 18th PRE-ROLL: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Thursday, December 18th and Happy birthday to Keith Richards I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Arizona developer building 300-plus apartments in Peachtree Corners' Technology Park First buildings underway at Sugarloaf Crest in Lawrenceville GGC celebrates future nurses during pinning ceremony Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats 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: GCPS Hiring-Villa Rica Wonderland Train STORY 1: Arizona developer building 300-plus apartments in Peachtree Corners' Technology Park Technology Park Atlanta, a hub for Fortune 500 companies and tech innovators, is about to get a residential twist. Soon, it won’t just be a place to work—it’ll be home for hundreds. Alliance Residential Company, the Arizona-based developer behind Broadstone Peachtree Corners, has snagged 10.7 acres in the park to build Broadstone Innovation, a 326-unit apartment community set to open in spring 2027. Think sleek, modern living: a salt sauna, red-light therapy pods, a resort-style pool, EV chargers, and even a food truck zone. STORY 2: First buildings underway at Sugarloaf Crest in Lawrenceville Parkland Residential has kicked off vertical construction at Sugarloaf Crest, a new build-to-rent community in Gwinnett County. What’s that mean? Townhomes—67 of them—are going up on 5.2 acres, complete with a big central green space. Located on Sugarloaf Parkway, right next to Richards Middle and Cedar Hill Elementary, these two- and three-bedroom homes are designed for modern living: open layouts, sleek kitchens, walk-in closets, and even washers and dryers included. The three-bedroom units? They’ve got lofts and nearly 2,000 square feet of space. STORY 3: GGC celebrates future nurses during pinning ceremony In a room buzzing with pride and emotion, 39 nursing students at Georgia Gwinnett College celebrated their pinning ceremony—a moment that marks the leap from student to nurse. “Y’all, it’s been two years!” joked Merick Sanogo, the class speaker, earning laughs and cheers. His classmates surprised him with a pineapple, a nod to his quirky tradition of gifting one on every birthday. The ceremony, steeped in tradition, included the lighting of the Nightingale Lamp and the Nurse Pledge. For Prudence Donald, an international student from Tanzania, it was a dream realized. “If you can dream it, you can achieve it,” she said. 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- DTL HOLIDAY STORY 4: Freight rail line from coast to northwest Georgia reports record traffic Georgia’s freight rail line from the Port of Savannah to Murray County just hit a record: nearly 4,000 containers moved in November, a 35% jump from last year. Seven CSX trains a week now roll through the Appalachian Regional Port near Chatsworth, cutting truck traffic—and emissions—in metro Atlanta. Opened in 2018, the inland port is fueling growth in northwest Georgia. A UGA study found it added 5,600 jobs in Dalton, Rome, and beyond over two years. And there’s more to come: the $127 million Blue Ridge Connector, opening next spring, promises to expand rail capacity even further. STORY 5: GGC's Devontre Chaney, Brasen James Earn Continental Athletic Conference Awards Georgia Gwinnett College juniors Devontre Chaney and Brasen James just snagged Continental Athletic Conference Player of the Week honors after leading the Grizzlies to a big road win. Chaney? He was unstoppable—15 points, 15 boards, and eight assists. Oh, and he went 9-for-10 at the line. That’s his seventh double-double this season. The guy’s averaging 15.9 points and 10.2 rebounds. James locked it down defensively, holding his matchup to just six points (16 below average) while adding 14 of his own. FALCONS: As the Falcons limp toward the end of a rough 2025 season, the big question looms: will Raheem Morris and Terry Fontenot keep their jobs? Atlanta’s 5-9 record doesn’t inspire much confidence, even after Thursday’s wild 29-28 comeback win over Tampa Bay. Sure, it was fun—rallying from 14 down in the fourth quarter—but in the grand scheme? It’s meaningless. The playoffs are out of reach, even in the laughable NFC South. Despite a 13-18 record, failed coaching hires, and some head-scratching moves (what was that with Ike Hilliard?), Morris has the locker room behind him. Bijan Robinson, for one, is all in. Owner Arthur Blank will have a tough call to make. Morris says it’s about building for next year, but will he get the chance? Three games remain—Arizona, the Rams, and the Saints. If the Falcons finish strong, maybe Morris gets another shot. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats We’ll have closing comments after this Break 3: Ingles Markets 10 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 https://www.downtownlawrencevillega.com/ Team GCPS News Podcast, Current Events, Top Headlines, Breaking News, Podcast News, Trending, Local News, Daily, News, Podcast, Interviews See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of December 19th Publish Date: December 19th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, December 19th and Happy Birthday to Al Kaline I’m Chris Culwell and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Sawnee EMC announces a balanced rate approach for 2026 Northside Hospital Cherokee named one of the best in U.S. for maternity care School board honors retiring Chief of Staff Mike McGowan Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats As well as Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre 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!  Here is Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre Commercial: THE STRAND STORY 1: Sawnee EMC announces a balanced rate approach for 2026 Sawnee EMC has some good news for its members heading into 2026—most will see their monthly bills drop slightly in January compared to December. It’s not a huge change, but hey, every little bit helps, right? Here’s the deal: the Board of Directors voted to lower the Wholesale Power Cost Adjustment (WPCA) by $4.72 per month for accounts using 1,500 kWh. At the same time, they approved small increases to base charges—about $2 to $3 per month. The net result? A $2 monthly savings for most members using 1,500 kWh. For those using less energy, the savings will be smaller, but still there. Sawnee says it’s committed to keeping rates affordable and only making changes when absolutely necessary. Serving over 203,000 accounts across seven counties in north Georgia, they also offer energy-saving tips, rebates, and incentives to help members cut costs. Questions? Call 770-887-2363 or visit www.sawnee.coop. STORY 2: Northside Hospital Cherokee named one of the best in U.S. for maternity care Northside Hospital Cherokee just snagged a big honor—it’s been named one of the nation’s top hospitals for maternity care by U.S. News & World Report. The “High Performing” rating puts it in the top 10% for uncomplicated pregnancies, making it one of only seven hospitals in Georgia to earn the distinction. Last year, nearly 3,000 babies were born at the Canton hospital, which also holds a Level III maternal care verification. Christina Roberts, director of women’s services, called the recognition a testament to their “high-quality, compassionate care.” Oh, and it’s not just maternity—Northside Cherokee also excels in 15 other areas, from cancer surgeries to heart failure care. STORY 3: School board honors retiring Chief of Staff Mike McGowan  After nearly 30 years with the Cherokee County School District, Mike McGowan is hanging up his hat—and the farewell was as heartfelt as you’d expect for someone who’s been a cornerstone of the district. At his final school board meeting last week, McGowan, CCSD’s first-ever chief of staff, was showered with gratitude, stories, and a few tears. Here is Superintendent Mary Elizabeth Davis and several school board members thanking McGowan for his service to CCSD. VO CLIPS From “hall monitor” to “everybody’s best friend,” McGowan’s legacy is clear: he made things better—for students, staff, and the entire community. 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 8 STORY 4: Names approved for new Cherokee High School athletic facilities Tommy Baker Field isn’t going anywhere—at least in name. Cherokee County’s school board made it official on Dec. 11: the new Cherokee High School’s football field will still be called Tommy Baker Field, while the stadium itself gets a fresh name, Warrior Stadium. For Cherokee’s athletic director Jeremy Adams, keeping the name alive wasn’t up for debate. The original Tommy Baker Field, home to the Warriors for 70 seasons, was named in 1958 after Tommy Baker, a student who passed away tragically in 1957. His legacy? Still strong. BRAVES: Ha-Seong Kim is staying put in Atlanta—at least for another year. The 30-year-old shortstop signed a one-year, $20 million deal with the Braves on Monday, locking him in as the team’s starter for 2026. Not bad, considering he turned down a $16 million option just last month and walked away with an extra $4 million. Kim joined the Braves late last season, claimed off waivers from Tampa Bay on Sept. 1. He made an immediate impact, hitting .309 with a .372 OBP, three homers, and 12 RBIs in his first 19 games. Sure, he cooled off at the end—1-for-19 in the last five games—but the Braves clearly see his potential. Kim’s journey hasn’t been without bumps. Injuries sidelined him for much of 2025 with the Rays, where he hit just .214 in 24 games. But let’s not forget—this guy won a Gold Glove with the Padres in 2023 and has 84 career stolen bases. The Braves are betting on a bounce-back. And if Kim can channel his San Diego form, he could be a 3-4 WAR player. High hopes, but hey, the talent’s there. I’m Keith Ippolito and this is your tribune ledger sports minute. STORY 5: Tanner Place in Canton will soon welcome its first residents  Come January 1, the first families will finally move into Tanner Place, a long-awaited affordable housing community in Canton. The ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday wasn’t just about opening doors—it was about honoring a legacy. Pat Tanner, the neighborhood’s namesake and a former Canton City Council member, stood alongside her 98-year-old mother, Ozella Tanner, as she cut the ribbon. “This is humbling,” Tanner said, her voice full of emotion. “We knew this city needed safe, decent housing, and today, we’ve made that happen.” Tanner Place replaces 39 old units with 70 new ones, funded through state tax credits, HUD vouchers, and local contributions. Mayor Bill Grant called it “money well spent,” noting it’s the first new public housing in Canton in over 50 years. CHA Director Jacquelyn Loberg said 18 units are ready now, with more to follow in January. This project is just the beginning—next up, the redevelopment of Oakside Drive. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: VILLA RICA WONDERLAND TRAIN   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.

Small Cap Breaking News You Can't Miss! Here's a quick rundown of the latest updates from standout small-cap companies making big moves today.Waste Energy Corp. (OTCQB: WAST)Waste Energy cleared a major regulatory milestone by securing USMCA certification for its waste-to-energy system. With most equipment already across the border and installation set for early January in Midland, Texas, the company expects to be fully operational by the end of the month and targeting first revenue in Q1 2026. Management is positioning the Midland facility as a scalable blueprint for future U.S. expansion.NorthWest Copper Corp. (TSX-V: NWST)NorthWest reported strong drill results at its Kwanika copper-gold project in British Columbia. Highlights include a 43-metre high-grade copper-gold intercept at depth and a 123-metre near-surface interval, supporting the company's strategy to focus on higher-grade zones. Management says the results could help improve project economics in a future updated economic study.Cartier Resources Inc. (TSX-V: ECR)Cartier delivered a meaningful resource update at its Cadillac Project in Quebec. The new estimate outlines 767,800 ounces of gold in Measured & Indicated resources and 2.4 million ounces Inferred, with especially strong growth in the Inferred category. With existing underground infrastructure and multiple development options, Cartier is lining up 2026 as a key year with drilling, studies, and an updated economic assessment planned.Omai Gold Mines Corp. (TSX-V: OMG)Omai reported an eye-catching drill result at its Gilt Creek deposit in Guyana, intersecting over 700 metres averaging 1.06 g/t gold, including several higher-grade zones. The results reinforce the scale and continuity of the system and are expected to feed into an updated preliminary economic assessment in H1 2026, combining both the Gilt Creek and Wenot deposits.Stay ahead of the small-cap curve.Follow AGORACOM for more breaking small-cap news, in-depth investor updates, and don't forget to tune in and follow us on the AGORACOM Podcast for conversations that go beyond the headlines.

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 12th Publish Date:  December 12th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, December 12th and Happy Birthday to Frank Sinatra I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Pedestrian safety improvements coming to south Cobb Gateway Marietta CID seeks public input on 12 projects The Georgia Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk As well as Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre 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!  Now here is Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre BREAK: THE STRAND STORY 1: Pedestrian safety improvements coming to south Cobb  Cobb County’s making moves to keep pedestrians safer in south Cobb, tackling two big projects: a pedestrian bridge near Factory Shoals Road and new bollards at Mableton Town Square Park. Let’s start with Factory Shoals. That bridge over I-20? Built in 1963, and, well, it shows. No sidewalks, no bike lanes—just a narrow shoulder that’s barely walkable. Commissioner Monique Sheffield said it’s been a problem for years, especially for folks working at nearby businesses. Now, the county’s greenlit a plan for a new pedestrian bridge alongside the old one, connecting sidewalks on both sides. And Mableton Park? Bollards are coming to stop cars from driving onto the grounds—because, yes, that’s been happening. STORY 2: Gateway Marietta CID seeks public input on 12 projects  The Gateway Marietta CID wants your thoughts—yes, yours—on 12 infrastructure projects they’re planning. These aren’t just random ideas; they’re focused on Franklin Gateway, South Marietta Parkway, and Delk Road. What’s on the table? Everything from streetscapes and trails to bridge replacements and new road connections. Some projects, like the Rottenwood Creek Trail extension ($20 million!) and Franklin Gateway bridge rebuild, are already in motion. Others, like adding Gateway signage or narrowing roads for multiuse trails, are still in the “what do you think?” phase. Your input will help shape what gets prioritized. Got opinions? Take the survey before the master plan wraps next year. Visit engage.publiccoordinate.com/en/project/gateway-marietta-cid-project-prioritization. STORY 3: The Georgia Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker  The Georgia Ballet’s The Nutcracker is back, running Dec. 18–23 at the Jennie T. Anderson Theatre, and it’s bringing all the holiday magic you’d expect—plus a little extra sparkle this year. Here’s the twist: they’ve teamed up with Hamp & Harry’s, a Marietta Square favorite, to add some festive flair. Think Nutcracker-themed cocktails (yes, there’s wine and beer too) in the lobby before the show and during intermission. The ballet itself? Pure enchantment. Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, Clara’s midnight adventure, snowflakes, sweets, and Daet Rodriguez’s choreography. There’s even a Sensory-Friendly performance on Dec. 18—perfect for kids or anyone needing a gentler experience. Tickets start at $23. Don’t wait. 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: Villa Rica Wonderland Train STORY 4: North Cobb Christian student wins statewide essay contest  North Cobb Christian seventh-grader Samille Shy just snagged first place in Georgia for her essay, “What Is Patriotism to Me?”—a big win in the VFW’s Patriot’s Pen contest, which had over 120,000 entries nationwide. Samille’s take on patriotism? It’s about giving back. She wrote about volunteering at a food pantry, helping out at The Humane Society, singing with her school chorus on Veterans Day, and being part of the Sea Cadet Corps. The Georgia VFW loved it, awarding her top honors. Next stop? The regional competition. Not bad for a middle schooler, huh? STORY 5: McEachern rolls into state championship game  Every time McEachern scores, the announcer calls out the updated score. And when the opponent has zero? Oh, the crowd lives for it. They stretch it out—“zerooooooo”—like it’s a victory chant. They’ve had plenty of practice. Over the last two seasons, McEachern’s flag football team has gone 51-2, allowing just 2.9 points per game with 35 shutouts. Monday was no different. The Indians blanked Lithia Springs 19-0, then crushed North Forsyth 33-0 to punch their ticket to the state championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Now, McEachern heads to the championship, chasing back-to-back titles. GEORGIA TECH: No. 22 Georgia Tech is heading to the Pop-Tarts Bowl to take on No. 12 BYU on Saturday, Dec. 27, at Camping World Stadium in Orlando. Kickoff’s at 3:30 p.m., and you can catch it live on ABC. This marks Tech’s third straight bowl trip—something they haven’t pulled off since 2012-14—and their 48th all-time, which ranks 14th in college football history. With a 9-3 record, it’s their best regular season since 2014. BYU (11-2) comes in hot, despite two losses to Texas Tech. It’s a ranked-vs.-ranked showdown, Tech’s first since the 2014 Orange Bowl. History’s on their side—they’re 2-0 in this bowl. I'm Keith Ippolito and that’s your MDJ Sports Minute. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 6 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at 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 December 12th Publish Date: December 12th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, December 12th and Happy Birthday to Frank Sinatra I’m Chris Culwell and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Canton Lions Club donates $6K to 'Shop with a Cop' program New taco fusion restaurant opens in Woodstock’s Towne Lake Road closure planned for Cherokee Avenue in Nelson Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk As well as Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre 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!  Here is Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre Commercial: THE STRAND STORY 1: Canton Lions Club donates $6K to 'Shop with a Cop' program The Canton Lions Club stepped up in a big way Tuesday, donating $6,000 to the Canton Police Department’s “Shop with a Cop” program—a holiday tradition that brings smiles to kids and families in need across Cherokee County. Lions Club members Shawn Tolan and Marty Taylor handed over the check, and they weren’t alone in their generosity. The Laurel Canyon Optimist Club chipped in another $1,500 to help make this year’s event even bigger. “This program is everything,” said Canton Police Chief Marty Ferrell. “It’s about connection, joy, and showing kids we’re here for them. We couldn’t do it without these amazing partners.” STORY 2: New taco fusion restaurant opens in Woodstock’s Towne Lake There’s a new taco spot in Towne Lake, and it’s not your typical taco joint. Towne Lake Taco Co., owned by Rick and Julie VanBuren, is throwing a grand opening party this Thursday through Saturday, complete with deals, giveaways, and a special-edition taco. “We’re not a Mexican restaurant,” Rick said. “We’re a fusion spot—tacos are just our canvas to play with flavors.” And play they do. This weekend’s exclusive? A steak au poivre taco with sirloin, greens, and a peppercorn sauce spiked with Grandaddy Mimm’s sorghum rum. Deals include free tacos, $45 taco flights, and $8 sangrias. Oh, and brownie chimichangas for dessert. STORY 3: Road closure planned for Cherokee Avenue in Nelson  Heads up, Nelson residents—storm drainpipe work is coming to Cherokee Avenue, and it’s going to mean a road closure. From Dec. 15 to Dec. 19, the stretch between 61 and 98 Cherokee Avenue will be shut down. Here’s the deal: if you’re at 61, you’ll need to head west to get in or out. If you’re at 98, it’s east for you. Signs will go up at Dogwood Pass and Hillside Lane to mark the closure. Be careful around the crews and equipment, and please follow the work zone signs—it’s for everyone’s safety. Questions? Call 678-493-6077. Thanks for your patience! 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 7 STORY 4: Chattahoochee Gold grabs top three finish at senior state championships  The Chattahoochee Gold Swim Club made waves at the Georgia Senior State Championships in Athens last weekend, with both the boys and girls teams landing top-three finishes. The boys snagged second place with 587.5 points, just behind Swim Atlanta (622) and ahead of Dynamo (505). Asher Cooper was the standout, racking up 90 points with wins in the 200 backstroke (1:47.77) and 200 butterfly (1:51.11). Parker Hebert and Jack Lynch also delivered big, with Hebert taking second in the 500 freestyle (4:33.09). On the girls’ side, they finished third overall, led by Ashlyn Loftin’s 55 points and Ariana Lutz’s two first-place swims, including the 500 freestyle (4:58.75). BRAVES: The Atlanta Braves just inked a deal with free-agent outfielder Mike Yastrzemski—yep, Carl Yastrzemski’s grandson—for two years and $23 million, with an option for a third. Yaz (the younger) has had an up-and-down career. He burst onto the scene in 2019, hitting .272 with 21 homers as a rookie, and even snagged some MVP votes in 2020 when he batted .297 during the shortened season. But since 2021? He hasn’t quite found that same spark, hitting .233 with 17 homers last year between the Giants and Royals. At 35, he’s likely looking at left field or a fourth-outfielder role—Acuña’s got right field locked down. I’m Keith Ippolito and this is your tribune ledger sports minute. STORY 5: Cherokee Chick-fil-As donate $155K for local charities  The Operators and Marketing Directors of Cherokee County’s six Chick-fil-A and Truett’s Grill locations handed over a jaw-dropping $155,000 check to the Cherokee County Educational Foundation (CCEF)—all thanks to the 12th Annual Cherokee County Chick-fil-A 5K. This year’s event? Bigger than ever, with over 2,700 runners and walkers showing up. It wasn’t just a race—it was a full-on celebration. Think Chick-fil-A biscuits, a petting zoo, balloon animals, face painting, live dance performances, and giveaways galore. Oh, and nonprofits got free booth space to connect with the community. The best part? That $155,000 will support CCEF and Cherokee County Special Olympics. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: VILLA RICA WONDERLAND TRAIN   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 December 11th Publish Date: December 11th PRE-ROLL: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Thursday, December 11th and Happy birthday to Nikki Six I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Atlanta Christkindl Market proving a hit in Lawrenceville Gwinnett commissioners OK 4% salary adjustment for county employees Paul Duke STEM High School honored for work to improve student outcomes Plus Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre 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: GCPS Hiring-Villa Rica Wonderland Train STORY 1: Atlanta Christkindl Market proving a hit in Lawrenceville Avery Boutin and Jordan Lettis had never been to the Atlanta Christkindl Market before, but now that it’s landed in their backyard? They couldn’t resist. Sunday night, they joined the crowd under twinkling string lights, wandering the aisles, riding the Ferris wheel, and—of course—grabbing raclette sandwiches. This is the market’s first year in Lawrenceville, and it’s already a hit. City Manager Chuck Warbington said it’s tripled downtown foot traffic. Vendors? 90 booths, everything from bratwursts to alpaca scarves. And the hot chocolate line? Let’s just say, patience required. STORY 2: Gwinnett commissioners OK 4% salary adjustment for county employees Gwinnett County employees just got an early Christmas surprise—4% raises, approved by commissioners on Tuesday. Starting pay? Now at least $40,000 a year for full-timers. Not bad, right? The adjustment, retroactive to Oct. 25, bumps up pay ranges across the board, including public safety roles. Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson called it a step toward addressing inflation and keeping Gwinnett competitive. “We’re investing in the people who keep this county running,” she said. With a $2.6 billion budget vote looming in January, it’s unclear how this raise fits in. But for now? A little extra in the paycheck feels good. STORY 3: Paul Duke STEM High School honored for work to improve student outcomes Paul Duke STEM High just snagged a huge honor—one of only two schools in Georgia named a 2025 National ESEA Distinguished School. Pretty big deal, right? This recognition isn’t handed out lightly. It’s for Title I schools that are crushing it academically and making real strides with their students. Principal Dr. Jonathon Wetherington couldn’t be prouder. “This is about our students, our teachers, our families—all of us,” he said. Their STEMforALL initiative? Game-changer. It’s hands-on, rigorous, and inclusive, reaching multilingual learners, students with disabilities, and those facing economic challenges. Oh, and Flex Fridays? Genius. Targeted support, projects, college prep—it’s working. Graduation rates? Over 90%. 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: Kia Mall of Georgia - DTL HOLIDAY STORY 4: Gwinnett County Public Library offering RISE Teen Entrepreneurship program Got a teen with big dreams of running their own business? Gwinnett County Public Library’s RISE Teen Entrepreneurship Program might be just the thing. Starting Feb. 17, 2026, this four-week crash course will teach teens (ages 13–19) how to turn ideas into real businesses. Here’s the deal: they’ll brainstorm, build a business plan, and pitch their ideas to local entrepreneurs in a Shark Tank-style showdown. Winners? Cash prizes. Meetings are weekly, 5:30–7:30 p.m., at the Lawrenceville Hooper-Renwick branch. Deadline to apply? Jan. 5. Oh, and library cardholders can use maker spaces—think laser printers, podcast gear, sewing machines—for free. Dream big, Gwinnett! STORY 5: Touchdown Club of Gwinnett Honors Best in 2025 High School Football The Touchdown Club of Gwinnett threw a big bash Monday at 12Stone Church, celebrating the absolute best of Gwinnett high school football from the 2025 season. And wow, what a lineup. Buford’s Tyriq Green snagged Athlete of the Year—no surprise there, considering he’s leading his team to the Class AAAAAA state finals. North Gwinnett cleaned up too, with Zach Lewis (Offensive Lineman), Max Patterson (Tight End), and Chauncey Davis (Defensive Back) all taking home top honors. Other schools? Brookwood, Collins Hill, and Grayson had multiple winners, too. Honestly, the talent in this county is unreal. Full list? It’s long—like, really long. But trust me, these kids earned it. GEORGIA SWARM: The Georgia Swarm are itching to get back on the floor. After dropping their season opener to Buffalo—yeah, the three-time champs, no big deal—they’ve had a week off to regroup. That 15-11 loss? Not ideal. Saturday, Dec. 13, they’re finally at home, Gas South Arena, facing the Oshawa FireWolves. Rookie Nolan Byrne? Scored his first goal in Buffalo. Shayne Jackson? Four goals, still a beast. And this team? Big. Fast. Aggressive. Fans better buckle up—it’s gonna be fun. Here is Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre Break 3: THE STRAND - Ingles Markets 7 - 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 Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill Holiday Celebration 2025 – City of Sugar Hill https://www.downtownlawrencevillega.com/ Team GCPS News Podcast, Current Events, Top Headlines, Breaking News, Podcast News, Trending, Local News, Daily, News, Podcast, Interviews See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 10th Publish Date:  December 10th Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, December 10th and Happy Birthday to Med White Seven Nation Army I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cobb Library Foundation launches online store to boost fundraising Powder Springs man charged in fatal shooting of mother and stepfather Kennesaw "Holly Days" parade spreads holiday cheer 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: Cobb Library Foundation launches online store to boost fundraising The Cobb County Library Foundation just got a little more creative with its fundraising—say hello to The Cobb Library Shop, an online store packed with bookish goodies. From cozy throw blankets and pet sweaters to pickleball paddles and “Get Carded” T-shirts, there’s something for every library lover. The shop, designed by library staff, features six themed collections, including merch for the bookmobile and holiday gifts. Proceeds? They go straight back into library programs like the Summer Reading Program and Teen Book’d. “This isn’t just about selling stuff,” said Sandra Morris, the foundation’s executive director. “It’s about building a bridge between the library and the community.” Shop now at cobblibrary.shop. STORY 2: Powder Springs man charged in fatal shooting of mother and stepfather A tragic scene unfolded in Powder Springs on Saturday, where a man is accused of fatally shooting his mother and stepfather. Police arrived at a home on Yoshino Terrace around 12:30 p.m. after a domestic disturbance call. Inside, they found Monica Brookins, 72, and John Wells, 73, both suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite being rushed to the hospital, neither survived. The suspect? Martin Duberry, 31—Brookins’ son and Wells’ stepson—who also lived in the home. He’s now facing two counts of murder, eight counts of aggravated battery, and a firearm charge, according to authorities. A heartbreaking loss for the family and community. STORY 3: Kennesaw "Holly Days" parade spreads holiday cheer   Downtown Kennesaw was buzzing with holiday cheer as the Holly Days parade rolled through, bringing floats, marching bands, dancers, and, of course, Santa Claus himself. The parade, with over 50 entries, started at Adams Park and wound its way down Watts Drive and Main Street. Kennesaw Mayor Derek Easterling stole the show, pedaling a tricycle decked out in Christmas lights and decorations, waving to the crowd in his festive suit. The parade wasn’t just for spectators. Performers like Sophia Allsen, a North Cobb High color guard member, said marching in the cold was worth it. “Seeing everyone’s smiles makes it all worthwhile,” she said. The festivities wrapped up with Santa waving from his sleigh float, followed by photos in Depot Park. Preston Bell, 10, summed it up: “I loved the candy—and I’m asking Santa for Robux!” For more Holly Days fun, visit kennesaw-ga.gov/hollydays. 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: Villa Rica Wonderland Train STORY 4: Braves great Dale Murphy falls short of Hall of Fame induction Dale Murphy’s wait for the Hall of Fame continues. The Braves legend fell short again on Sunday, earning just six of the 12 votes needed from the Contemporary Baseball Era Committee. It’s the same result as 2022, leaving fans and supporters—who’ve rallied around him for years—disappointed but undeterred. “From the bottom of my heart, thank you,” Murphy wrote on X before the announcement, overwhelmed by the outpouring of love. “Words can’t describe how much this support means.” Murphy’s career? A mix of brilliance and heartbreak. Seven All-Star nods, back-to-back MVPs in ’82 and ’83, 398 homers, five Gold Gloves. But injuries slowed him, and his Hall of Fame case has always been a debate. For now, the wait goes on. STORY 5: Senior living development advances  The Cobb County Planning Commission gave the green light to a 16-home senior living development in southwest Cobb—unanimously, no less. The project, proposed by Atlanta-based Romusa Properties, would rezone 3.29 acres on West Sandtown Road, right by Mud Creek Soccer Complex. The plan? Build attached homes, at least 1,800 square feet each, with brick, stone, and cedar shake exteriors. Pretty traditional, but cozy. There’s also a recreational area and a mail kiosk in the mix, plus a mandatory HOA and private streets. No objections, no drama—it sailed through. Next stop: Cobb Board of Commissioners on Dec. 16. Break: STORY 6: Marietta celebrates girls cross country team’s sixth state championship    The Marietta High girls cross country team took a well-earned victory lap Friday—on a bus, through the entire school district. Why? Six straight state championships. Six. Decked out in bright pink shirts, the 21 runners stopped at all 12 schools, greeted by cheering students, handmade signs, pom-poms, and blaring anthems like “We Are the Champions.” High-fives everywhere. Superintendent Grant Rivera led the charge, calling the team an “inspiration.” Senior Mary Nesmith, a two-time state champ herself, said, “It’s so special seeing the little kids. They’re so sweet.” The tour ended with Mayor Steve Tumlin’s proclamation. Six titles—and counting. The move follows “Wesley’s Law,” passed last year, which req ======uires schools to stock naloxone and train staff to use it. 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.

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 5th Publish Date:  December 5th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, December 5th and Happy Birthday to Walt Disney I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Daniel Gaddis elected to Marietta City Council Proposed Atlanta Road apartments delayed amid safety, school capacity concerns Honorees announced for 41st annual Tribute to Women of Achievement 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 4 STORY 1: Daniel Gaddis elected to Marietta City Council City planner Daniel Gaddis clinched the Ward 3 Marietta City Council seat Tuesday night, defeating life coach Nora Gaudet in the runoff election. With all precincts reporting, Gaddis secured 698 votes (64.15%) to Gaudet’s 390 (35.85%). The results will be certified Dec. 8. “It’s been a long road, but we worked hard and had incredible support,” Gaddis said, reflecting on a campaign that reached over 3,500 voters. Still, he admitted the race wasn’t without challenges, particularly the push to label him politically. “Parks, sidewalks, public safety—these aren’t partisan issues,” he said. Gaudet, who moved to Georgia five years ago, acknowledged the uphill battle of being a “wild card” candidate. “I didn’t have deep connections here,” she said, adding that campaigning through the holidays was exhausting. “People are tired by a runoff—they just want it over.” Both candidates highlighted inequities in Marietta, from neglected neighborhoods to housing affordability. Gaddis spoke of the need to preserve Marietta’s charm while addressing real issues like homelessness and unsafe streets. Gaudet, meanwhile, emphasized the voices of overlooked residents. “We’ve done great work,” Gaudet said. “And I hope those quiet voices finally get heard.” STORY 2: Proposed Atlanta Road apartments delayed amid safety, school capacity concerns  After hearing concerns about traffic and overcrowding, the Cobb County Planning Commission hit pause Tuesday on a proposed 249-unit apartment complex at Atlanta Road and I-285. The decision? Delayed until February. Flournoy Development Group wants to rezone 3.79 acres to build the rental apartments—mostly one-bedrooms—but the project’s sparked pushback. Locals worry about traffic, U-turn safety, and overcrowding at Nickajack Elementary, which is already 269 students over capacity. Attorney Kevin Moore, representing Flournoy, said the plan has been revised: fewer units (down from 274), shorter building height along Atlanta Road, and a parking deck tucked into the five-story section near the interstate. But traffic remains a sticking point. Residents like Nat Milburn, from Olde Ivy at Vinings, raised alarms about U-turns, claiming the project could add 500 daily U-turns and spike accidents by 800%. Moore dismissed the data as “opinion,” but Planning Chair Nadia Faucette wasn’t sold. “I’m for the project, but safety’s a big concern,” she said. The commission will revisit the case Feb. 3, giving Flournoy time to address traffic, signage, and other community concerns. STORY 3: Honorees announced for 41st annual Tribute to Women of Achievement  LiveSafe Resources, a Marietta-based shelter for domestic violence survivors, has revealed the honorees for its 41st annual Tribute to Women of Achievement. Every year, the organization celebrates 15 women who’ve made waves—personally, professionally, and through volunteer work. One will be crowned 2026 Woman of the Year at the awards gala on March 20 at the Atlanta Marriott Northwest. This year’s honorees include leaders like Cobb Solicitor General Makia Metzger, Braves exec DeRetta Rhodes, and Judge Jaret Usher. The gala will feature dinner, auctions, and awards like the Pat Head Dignity Award for public safety and the Kim Gresh Survivor’s Award, honoring a survivor whose story inspires. Tickets are available now. 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 4 STORY 4: Carlyle Kent reelected to Marietta City Council  Councilman Carlyle Kent is staying put in Ward 5, clinching reelection with a commanding 80.49% of the vote over challenger and former Councilman Reggie Copeland, who pulled in just 19.51%. Unofficial results show Kent received 495 votes to Copeland’s 120, with all precincts reporting. The results will be certified Dec. 8. This race felt like déjà vu—Kent unseated Copeland back in 2021. “My neighbors pushed me to run four years ago because they felt the ward wasn’t being represented well,” Kent said Tuesday, surrounded by family, friends, and supporters who cheered as the final numbers came in. Kent credited his team’s hard work—canvassing, phone banking, and connecting with newly redistricted voters—for the win. “I’m always optimistic, but it’s humbling to see that support,” he said, adding, “I give thanks to the Lord for putting the right people in my life.” Looking ahead, Kent said his focus remains on improving Ward 5. “I want to leave it better than I found it.” STORY 5: Wheeler to host big-name programs in Tournament of Champions SPORTS UPDATE Wheeler’s boys basketball team will host the Tournament of Champions Holiday Classic on Saturday, featuring 16 top teams from Georgia and beyond. Games start at 10 a.m. and run every 90 minutes, with $22 tickets covering all eight matchups. Highlights include Kell, led by BJ Love and Kamari Kilgore, facing Meadowcreek at 11:30 a.m., and Wheeler, ranked No. 1 in Georgia and No. 4 nationally, taking on Nevada’s Coronado at 8:30 p.m. Wheeler boasts five Division I recruits, including Colben Landrew (UConn) and Amare James (Clemson). Coronado’s Munir Greig, Nevada’s top player, will also take the court. SOCCER: The U.S. Men’s National Team will face top-tier competition in its final pre-World Cup tune-ups, with Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium hosting two marquee matchups. On March 28, the U.S. takes on No. 8 Belgium at 3:30 p.m., followed by a clash with No. 6 Portugal on March 31 at 7 p.m. Both games will air on TNT, HBO Max, and more. As the new home of U.S. Soccer, Atlanta gets the spotlight, offering fans a front-row seat to world-class soccer as the team preps for the 2026 World Cup on home soil. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on carrots We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 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.

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CTL Script/ Top Stories of December 5th Publish Date: December 5th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, December 5th and Happy Birthday to Walt Disney I’m Chris Culwell and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal New Jersey Mike’s Subs location opening in Hickory Flat FBI warns about rise in charity and disaster-relief fraud as holiday season ramps up Walmart launches drone delivery service in Woodstock 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 5 STORY 1: New Jersey Mike’s Subs location opening in Hickory Flat Jersey Mike’s Subs opened its doors at 6764 Hickory Road in the Hickory Flat community this Wednesday. From Dec. 3 to 7, the new location will support Every Link Matters, a nonprofit helping kids with KBG Syndrome. Got one of their special fundraising coupons? Donate at least $3, and you’ll snag a regular sub in return. No coupon, no deal—so keep an eye out for those flyers. “We’re so excited to join the Woodstock community,” said franchise owner Diego Rangel. “Giving back is who we are. Partnering with Every Link Matters lets us make a real difference—one sub at a time.” Hungry? You can order in-store, online, or through the Jersey Mike’s app. Delivery and curbside pickup are also options. The shop will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more info, visit jerseymikes.com or call 470-523-8055. Looking for a job? Email nico@rangelcompanies.com. STORY 2: FBI warns about rise in charity and disaster-relief fraud as holiday season ramps up The holidays are here, and so are the scammers—because, of course, they are. The FBI is warning folks to watch out for charity and disaster-relief fraud, which always seems to spike after major disasters or crises. These scammers? They’re sneaky. They’ll pose as legit charities, relief workers, or even government agencies, using emails, fake websites, crowdfunding pages, or social media to tug at your heartstrings—and your wallet. Sometimes they’ll even offer cleanup services, demand payment upfront, and then vanish. The FBI’s advice? Double-check charities before donating, skip sketchy links, and stick to secure payments (no gift cards or wire transfers). Stay sharp out there. STORY 3: Walmart launches drone delivery service in Woodstock  Residents near the Woodstock Walmart on Highway 92 can now have small packages delivered by drone—yes, drones. Walmart and Wing, the drone company behind the service, kicked things off Wednesday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and the first official delivery. Woodstock is one of six metro Atlanta cities chosen for the launch, alongside Conyers, Dallas, Hiram, Loganville, and McDonough. The drones, fully electric and weighing about 11 pounds, can carry up to two pounds of goods and fly six miles one way. They operate quietly at low altitudes, dropping packages to designated spots like driveways or backyards. Here is what Senator John Albers had to say about these new delivery drones. JOHN ALBERS CUT To see if you’re eligible, visit wing.com/atlanta. 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 6 STORY 4: Wolverines perfect through five games Woodstock basketball is on fire. Under third-year coach Eric Blair, the Wolverines are off to a perfect 5-0 start—already their best in nearly a decade. They crushed Roswell 58-34 before Thanksgiving, thanks to sophomore phenom Jahmar Maurice dropping 21 points. The team’s averaging 70.4 points per game, a huge leap from last year’s 57.7. They’ve blown out opponents like Blessed Trinity (by 30!) and edged out a nail-biter against Chapel Hill. With region play kicking off today against Creekview, the Wolverines are eyeing a championship. They swept the Grizzlies last year, and a win this week would be a big step toward that goal. For now, though, this team is rolling—and it’s hard not to get excited about what’s ahead. GA BULLDOGS: Georgia lost five-star quarterback Jared Curtis to Vanderbilt just before National Signing Day, dropping their recruiting class to No. 6. Despite the hit, the Bulldogs signed 30 players, including one five-star, defensive lineman Valdin Sone, and 22 four-stars. Key signees include local standout Craig Dandridge Jr., three top tight ends like Kaiden Prothro, and Colquitt County running back Jae Lamar. Defense was a focus, with edge rushers Pierre Dean and Khamari Brooks, plus safeties Jordan Smith and Zech Fort. Gwinnett County contributed five players, including Carter Luckie, continuing his family’s Georgia legacy. Coach Kirby Smart’s class remains strong despite the late shakeup. I’m Keith Ippolito and this is your Tribune Sports Minute. STORY 5: Cherokee County to form T-SPLOST citizen committee Cherokee County is forming a five-member citizen committee to keep an eye on how the county spends the $445 million expected from the new T-SPLOST, which kicks off April 1 and runs for six years. The Board of Commissioners approved the plan on Dec. 2, and each commissioner will appoint one member to the group. Their job? Make sure the county sticks to the approved project list and spends the money responsibly. They can give advice and updates but can’t change the project list. The committee, unpaid and open to the public, will hold its first meeting in early 2026. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on carrots Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 7   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 December 4th Publish Date: December 4th PRE-ROLL: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Thursday, December 4th and Happy birthday to Jeff Bridges I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Lake Lanier Association Completes Phase Three of Shoreline Protection Program Hilscher wins another term in Suwanee City Council Police aim to deter youth gun violence in slain officer's memory 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: GCPS Hiring STORY 1: Lake Lanier Association Completes Phase Three of Shoreline Protection Program  Lake Lanier’s shoreline just got a little more secure—5,280 feet of it, to be exact. The Lake Lanier Association (LLA) announced the completion of the third phase of Project Armor, its ongoing effort to fight erosion caused by heavy boat traffic. This phase reinforced 16 badly eroded areas with rip rap, a method that helps absorb wave energy and protect the shoreline. Over the past 12 years, the LLA has armored 3 miles of shoreline, saving 28 islands and areas from disappearing into the lake. Why does it matter? These islands aren’t just pretty—they’re vital. They provide wildlife habitats, beaches, and safe spots for fishing and recreation. Without protection, some islands have already vanished, and erosion is making the lake shallower, threatening both recreation and the drinking water supply for over 5 million Georgians. This project, supported by partners like the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and local counties, is far from over. With 12 million visitors a year, Lake Lanier’s waves aren’t slowing down anytime soon. STORY 2: Hilscher wins another term in Suwanee City Council  Suwanee City Councilwoman Beth Hilscher is sticking around for another four years after edging out David Martinez in Tuesday’s runoff for the Post 4 seat. Unofficial results show Hilscher pulled in 734 votes to Martinez’s 638. Suwanee wasn’t the only Gwinnett city with a runoff—Duluth voters also hit the polls to decide the Post 3 City Council race between incumbent Lamar Doss and challenger Marlene Denise Tucker. In Suwanee, it’s Hilscher who’s celebrating. STORY 3: Police aim to deter youth gun violence in slain officer's memory   Gwinnett County police have rolled out a new program aimed at steering kids away from guns while honoring Officer Antwan Toney, who was tragically killed in the line of duty seven years ago. Called Toney’s Program, it launched in September and focuses on first-time or minor handgun offenses among juveniles. The program, named after Toney—who was shot by a teen in 2018—pairs participants with mentors for a seven-week curriculum and three months of follow-up support. Families are involved too, attending sessions alongside their kids. Teens hear from gun violence victims and learn conflict resolution, emotional awareness, and nonviolent decision-making. The first group graduated last month, with the next starting in January. 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- DTL HOLIDAY STORY 4: Snellville man convicted of attacking former basketball teammates   A Snellville man, just 20 years old, is headed to prison for 25 years after a string of violent attacks on his former high school basketball teammates. Jet Horne, once a senior on South Gwinnett High’s 2022-23 team, was convicted last week on a laundry list of charges—aggravated assault, firearm possession, criminal damage, even hijacking a car. The incidents? Three separate attacks between December 2024 and May 2025. In December, Horne ambushed Talal Ansah, shooting him eight times as he returned home from work. Ansah barely survived. Then, in March, Horne fired into Timair Walker’s car, injuring a neighbor with a stray bullet. By May, he escalated—holding Maalik Leitch at gunpoint, stealing his BMW, and leading police on a chase. Ballistics tied it all together, sealing Horne’s fate. “This was a violent, senseless series of crimes,” said DA Patsy Austin-Gatson. “We’re grateful for justice and continue to pray for the victims.” STORY 5: BOYS BASKETBALL ROUNDUP: Dacula Keeps Rolling with Lopsided Win Dacula cruised past Jackson County on Tuesday night, dominating with an 82-58 win in boys basketball. Case Presley was unstoppable, racking up 20 points, 12 rebounds, and five assists. Josh Brown added 15 points, six boards, and four steals, while Dorian Douglas chipped in 15 points, five steals, and four assists. Kenny LaRue (nine points, six assists), Luke Anderson (nine points), and Caleb Golding (nine points, four rebounds) rounded out the Falcons’ balanced attack. Dacula now sits at 6-1 on the season. ATLANTA FALCONS: The Falcons, with six losses in their last seven games, will take on the Seahawks, who’ve won six of their last seven. Led by coach Mike Macdonald and quarterback Sam Darnold, the 9-3 Seahawks face the Falcons at 1 p.m. Sunday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. U.S. MENS SOCCER: The U.S. Men’s National Team will face Belgium, Portugal, and Germany in a high-stakes pre-World Cup series. Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium hosts two matches: USA vs. Belgium on March 28 at 3:30 p.m. ET and USA vs. Portugal on March 31 at 7 p.m. ET. Both games will air on TNT, HBO Max, Telemundo, and Peacock. We’ll be right back. Break 3: THE SUGAR HILL HOLIDAY And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on carrots Break 4: BUFORD HOLIDAY FESTIVAL We’ll have closing comments after this Break 5: Ingles Markets 4 Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com www.kiamallofga.com 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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.