Marietta Daily Journal Podcast

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for July 4th  Publish Date:  July 4th      Commercial:   From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.      Today is Friday, July 4th and Happy Birthday to Bill Withers    I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal  1. Justin Ross Harris, accused in son's 2014 hot car death, released from jail 2. Chattahoochee River NRA seeks public comment 3. Fourth of July Fireworks: What You Need to Know   Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on sodas    All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!     BREAK: Ingles Markets 10    STORY 1: Justin Ross Harris, accused in son's 2014 hot car death, released from jail [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/police_fire/justin-ross-harris-accused-in-sons-2014-hot-car-death-released-from-jail/article_70c88a55-04e5-44b4-b341-4b7cabbb9ac7.html]  Justin Ross Harris, convicted in his toddler son’s 2014 hot-car death before the murder conviction was overturned, has been released from jail after serving time for unrelated charges. Harris, 44, completed his sentence for disseminating harmful materials to minors after previously serving 10 years for sexual exploitation of a child. His murder conviction was overturned in 2022 by the Georgia Supreme Court, citing prosecutorial misuse of evidence. While former Cobb DA Flynn Broady declined to retry Harris, current DA Sonya Allen is reviewing the case. The release has reignited emotions surrounding the tragic death of 22-month-old Cooper Harris.    STORY 2: Chattahoochee River NRA seeks public comment [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/chattahoochee-river-nra-seeks-public-comment/article_fb840897-05a5-403f-b5c3-644bd4c3589f.html]  The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area seeks public input on an environmental assessment for access improvements at the Roswell Gateway and Vickery Creek Unit. Open for comments from July 1-31, the assessment evaluates two proposals: **Preferred Alternative A**, which includes a pedestrian bridge, trail enhancements, and traffic flow improvements, requiring 2.59 acres of parkland for transportation use, and **No Action Alternative B**, which maintains current management. While the projects may impact park resources, mitigation efforts aim to enhance accessibility and connectivity. Comments can be submitted online via the NPS website.    STORY 3: Fourth of July Fireworks: What You Need to Know [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/fourth-of-july-fireworks-what-you-need-to-know/article_e5715a94-3eb1-43c7-9ea7-73092ea544f1.html]  With the Fourth of July approaching, fireworks stores like Phantom Fireworks in Kennesaw and Sky King Fireworks in Smyrna are seeing a surge in customers. Popular items include Phantom’s $260 Phandemonium and Sky King’s $700 Mic Drop finale fireworks. Both stores emphasize safety, offering tips like keeping water nearby, using fireworks in clear areas, and avoiding alcohol. Firework-related injuries have dropped significantly, thanks to better products and education. In Cobb County, fireworks are allowed from 10 a.m. to midnight on July 3-4 but are restricted near sensitive areas like hospitals and fuel stations.      We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.     Break: Ingles Markets 10    STORY 4: Wellstar Cardiac Rehab patients bring home numerous medals from World Heart Games [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/lifestyle/wellstar-cardiac-rehab-patients-bring-home-numerous-medals-from-world-heart-games/article_c950c815-1598-4595-973a-d2a5514c7cf9.html]  Sixteen patients from Wellstar Health System’s Cardiac Rehabilitation program competed in the World Heart Games on June 20-21 at Piedmont University, earning over 45 medals. Participants, aged 65-91, engaged in heart-healthy events like walking, bocce, basketball, and cardiac trivia. Marietta’s Mary Lynne Thomas won six medals, emphasizing the joy of staying active despite cardiac conditions. The event, hosted by the American College of Sports Medicine and Georgia Heart Institute, celebrated recovery, community, and perseverance. Wellstar’s team participation was supported by a scholarship, showcasing that cardiac rehab is about thriving and rediscovering joy.    STORY 5:  Student-staffed marketing firm raising success of real-world clients [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/education/student-staffed-marketing-firm-raising-success-of-real-world-clients/article_d2f3f8aa-3d40-41da-8470-d5d1e8274734.html]  Ground Work Agency, a student-run marketing firm at Kennesaw State University, combines professional services with hands-on learning for its staff. Founded in 2023, the agency offers affordable marketing solutions to clients, including KSU departments and nonprofits like The Learning Collaborative in Wisconsin. Students handle campaigns, branding, and digital strategies, gaining real-world experience under faculty guidance. Success stories include a campaign for KSU’s Bagwell College of Education that boosted enrollment. The agency attracts students from various disciplines, providing a year-round internship-like experience. Graduates credit Ground Work with preparing them for professional careers, blending education with impactful client work.    Break:     And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on sodas    We’ll have closing comments after this.  Break: Ingles Markets 10    Signoff-    Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com  Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.  Produced by the BG Podcast Network [https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/]     Show Sponsors:  * www.ingles-markets.com [https://www.ingles-markets.com/]    #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations  See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for July 2nd  Publish Date:  July 2nd      Commercial:   From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.      Today is Wednesday, July 2nd and Happy Birthday to     I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal  1. Cobb K9 finds murder victim remains, suspect sentenced to life 2. Acworth student named a Stephen D. Lee Scholar at Mississippi State University 3. ‘The Bluebird Guy’ Leads 13-Year Conservation Effort in West Cobb   All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!     BREAK: INGLES 9  STORY 1:   Cobb K9 finds murder victim remains, suspect sentenced to life [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/cobb-k9-finds-murder-victim-remains-suspect-sentenced-to-life/article_fdd60f51-8eb2-4d50-b137-e9086baecbf4.html]  A Cobb County investigator, Dr. Tracy Sargent, and her K-9 partner, Taz, played a key role in solving the murder of Carrie Hardin, a Fayetteville woman. Taz, a cadaver dog rescued and trained by Sargent, discovered Carrie’s burned body in a shallow grave near her home. Carrie’s husband, Kenneth Hardin Jr., confessed to the murder after a domestic dispute and was arrested in Louisiana following a multi-state manhunt. He pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including felony murder, and was sentenced to life without parole. Sargent and Taz have a history of assisting law enforcement nationwide in missing persons and homicide cases.    STORY 2: Acworth student named a Stephen D. Lee Scholar at Mississippi State University [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/education/acworth-student-named-a-stephen-d-lee-scholar-at-mississippi-state-university/article_d192fc63-c09d-42db-8168-52b6e4df9c0d.html]  Katherine Ullmer of Acworth was honored as a Stephen D. Lee Scholar during Mississippi State University's spring 2025 commencement. Among over 3,500 graduates, she was one of 140 students to achieve this distinction, awarded to those with a perfect 4.0 GPA. Ullmer earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in Management and Marketing from MSU's College of Business.    STORY 3: ‘The Bluebird Guy’ Leads 13-Year Conservation Effort in West Cobb [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/the-bluebird-guy-leads-13-year-conservation-effort-in-west-cobb/article_8a0d60c6-64cd-489a-8fdb-9336aacb7f37.html]  Jim Bearden, a 79-year-old retired event planner from Alabama, is affectionately known as “the Bluebird Guy” for his 13-year conservation efforts to repopulate bluebirds in the southeast. Starting with one nesting box at Green Meadows Preserve in Cobb County, Bearden has expanded the Bluebird Trail to over 30 boxes, helping over 3,000 bluebirds thrive. His work combats the species' decline caused by DDT in the 1960s and ’70s. Bearden funds much of the effort himself, including $200 monthly for mealworms, but annual fundraisers like the Marietta Wine Market event help offset costs. The trail’s success has inspired community involvement, with Bearden sharing tips like planting native plants and avoiding pesticides. His work is also shared with Cornell’s NestWatch program, ensuring a lasting impact.    We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.     We’ll be right back.    Break: INGLES 9    STORY 4: 'Love and diversity': Thousands celebrate LGBTQ+ community at Smyrna Pride [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/love-and-diversity-thousands-celebrate-lgbtq-community-at-smyrna-pride/article_e769fc98-aaee-46ab-931c-627447f9bef7.html]    The fifth annual Smyrna Pride festival brought together over 3,500 attendees on Saturday to celebrate love, diversity, and the LGBTQ+ community. Hosted by Smyrna is Fabulous, the event is Cobb County’s only Pride festival and featured over 50 LGBTQ-owned or inclusive vendors, live music, face painting, and food. Campbell High School’s Pride Coalition engaged guests with a signed rainbow flag tradition, fostering a safe space for LGBTQ+ students. Attendees, including families and allies, embraced the festival’s message of love and acceptance. Organizers highlighted the importance of creating a welcoming space in Georgia, celebrating the beauty of diverse identities and connections.    STORY 5: Cobb D.A. launches chaplain program to support staff facing trauma [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/cobb-d-a-launches-chaplain-program-to-support-staff-facing-trauma/article_49accc9d-dc3b-4e48-bb93-449d4f0fa857.html]  Cobb District Attorney Sonya Allen introduced a chaplain program to support her team of prosecutors, investigators, and staff who face trauma from handling violent crimes. At a luncheon, Senior DA Jared Horowitz and others shared the emotional toll of cases involving murder, rape, and child abuse. The program, offering spiritual care from various faiths, aims to help staff process their experiences and maintain mental well-being. Pastor Dorcas Rodriguez emphasized providing compassion and support, while Horowitz highlighted the importance of staying emotionally strong to serve victims and the community. The event concluded with prayers, marking the program's start in fostering justice and compassion.      Break:     STORY 6: Marietta Awards $1.4M in Arts and Tourism Grants [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/marietta-awards-1-4m-in-arts-and-tourism-grants/article_0bd007da-0d84-4292-a104-c29ddb97c2f4.html]  The Marietta City Council approved $1.39 million in grants to 18 local arts, culture, and tourism organizations, funded by auto rental and hotel/motel taxes. Major recipients included the Marietta History Center ($160,000), Strand Theatre ($100,000), and Marietta/Cobb Museum of Art ($95,000). The Georgia Symphony Orchestra received $24,000, far below their $95,000 request, sparking concern from Councilwoman Cheryl Richardson, who highlighted the orchestra’s 75-year contribution to the community. Despite her opposition, the council approved the recommendations. The grants support programming, marketing, and staffing for organizations, ensuring continued investment in Marietta’s cultural scene.  STORY 7: Truist Park, Battery revenues continue to outpace county debt service [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/truist-park-battery-revenues-continue-to-outpace-county-debt-service/article_328528ab-211d-4b0a-97f7-8ba58af3c32a.html]  Cobb County’s partnership with the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta continues to generate significant revenue, surpassing its debt obligations. In 2024, the county netted $3 million in general fund gains, with property tax revenues from The Battery increasing to $2.6 million. Since 2014, The Battery’s taxable value has grown from $5 million to $577 million. Additional sales tax revenues from the development totaled $28 million in 2024, benefiting the county, schools, and state. Braves Development Company highlighted ongoing projects, including new restaurants, residential towers, and the upcoming MLB All-Star Week, showcasing the partnership’s long-term success and economic impact.    We’ll have closing comments after this.   Break: INGLES 9    Signoff-    Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com  Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.  Produced by the BG Podcast Network [https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/]     Show Sponsors:  * www.ingles-markets.com [https://www.ingles-markets.com/] #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations  See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for June 27th  Publish Date:  June 27th      Commercial:   From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.      Today is Friday, June 27th and Happy Birthday to Chris O’Donnell    I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal  1. Cobb & Fulton County first responders teach preschoolers safety 2. McEachern Alum Ace Bailey Drafted at No. 5, Joins Fellow Cobb Products in Utah 3. $10k reward offered in Marietta car dealership arson investigation   Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on grass fed beef     All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!     BREAK: TOP TECH MECHANICAL    STORY 1: Cobb & Fulton County first responders teach preschoolers safety [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/police_fire/cobb-fulton-county-first-responders-teach-preschoolers-safety/article_5b1ae3c1-84de-4cba-95c8-896691729c02.html]  Preschoolers at Primrose Schools in Bells Ferry and Roswell East enjoyed a hands-on safety lesson during National Safety Month. Cobb County Safety Village and Johns Creek Fire Station 63 officers and firefighters taught 3- and 4-year-olds about safety, showcased their gear, and let them explore a sheriff's vehicle and fire truck, making safety education interactive and fun.    STORY 2: McEachern Alum Ace Bailey Drafted at No. 5, Joins Fellow Cobb Products in Utah [https://www.mdjonline.com/sports/mceachern-alum-ace-bailey-drafted-at-no-5-joins-fellow-cobb-products-in-utah/article_ff696197-d048-4ffe-9dd8-08eb268012e8.html]  Former McEachern and Rutgers star Ace Bailey was selected fifth overall by the Utah Jazz in the NBA Draft, despite skipping workouts with several teams, including the Jazz. Bailey, praised for his talent, averaged 17.6 points and 7.2 rebounds as a Rutgers freshman and earned Big Ten honors. Excited to join a rebuilding Jazz team, Bailey aims to lead and work hard alongside fellow Cobb County players Collin Sexton and Isaiah Collier. The Jazz, who finished last in the Western Conference, also acquired guard Walter Clayton Jr. Bailey joins a legacy of McEachern players drafted into the NBA.    STORY 3: $10k reward offered in Marietta car dealership arson investigation [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/police_fire/10k-reward-offered-in-marietta-car-dealership-arson-investigation/article_dc9ec272-1630-448b-b77d-a884a5b7d5a1.html]  A $10,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest of a suspect accused of setting five vehicles on fire at two Marietta dealerships late Monday night. Fires were reported at Atlanta Luxury Motors and Unlimited Auto Group, both on Cobb Parkway, with no injuries reported. Investigators have determined the cause to be arson and believe the same suspect, seen walking along Cobb Parkway South that night, is responsible. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Marietta Fire Marshal’s Office or the Georgia Arson Hotline.      We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.     Break: Ingles Markets 8    STORY 4: Cobb, mayors talk sidewalks, infrastructure, maintenance for proposed $950M SPLOST [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/cobb-mayors-talk-sidewalks-infrastructure-maintenance-for-proposed-950m-splost/article_f34e3bb1-b56f-4f89-acaf-7429c7d3b22e.html]  Cobb County officials and mayors discussed priorities for the proposed 2028 SPLOST, a 1% sales tax projected to generate $950 million over six years. Key focuses include infrastructure, sidewalks, parks, and public safety. Mableton, participating for the first time, emphasized catching up on neglected infrastructure. Officials highlighted challenges like inflation, project delays, and maintenance costs for joint projects. Public input meetings are planned for early 2026, with the final project list set for a November 2026 vote. Leaders stressed the importance of collaboration to ensure SPLOST funds address community needs effectively.    STORY 5:  Connecticut-style pizza restaurant coming to Town Center [https://www.mdjonline.com/dining/connecticut-style-pizza-restaurant-coming-to-town-center/article_9a351d54-3c83-4573-9af6-d9f6aa4f4a25.html]  Ah-Beetz New Haven Pizza, a Florida-based chain specializing in Connecticut-style pizza, is opening its first Georgia location in Marietta's Barrett Creek Plaza near Town Center mall this July. Known for its crispy, smoky crusts baked in 750-degree ovens, the restaurant brings the authentic taste of New Haven pizza to Cobb County. This marks the chain's fifth location and part of a broader expansion into multiple states. Founded in 1976 by Nicholas Laudano, Ah-Beetz aims to share the unique flavor of his hometown pizza. An exact opening date has yet to be announced.    Break:     And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on grass fed beef     We’ll have closing comments after this.  Break: TIDWELL TREES    Signoff-    Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com  Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.  Produced by the BG Podcast Network [https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/]     Show Sponsors:  * www.ingles-markets.com [https://www.ingles-markets.com/]   * tidwelltrees.com [https://tidwelltrees.com/index.html]   * toptechmech.com [https://toptechmech.com/]    #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations  See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for June 25th  Publish Date:  June 25th      Commercial:   From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.      Today is Wednesday, June 25th and Happy Birthday to Mick Fleetwood.    I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal  1. Marietta Schools Foundation appoints new executive director 2. Cobb, cities to meet over new sales tax referendum 3. Cobb to consider in-house paramedic program   All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!     BREAK: TIDWELL TREES_FINAL  STORY 1:   Marietta Schools Foundation appoints new executive director [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/education/marietta-schools-foundation-appoints-new-executive-director/article_1ea4bcd5-438d-4b59-af6f-2adfca4a36d4.html]  The Marietta Schools Foundation has appointed Laura Kraus, a Marietta City Schools alumna, as its first female executive director, succeeding Joe Kinstle. Established in 1983, the nonprofit supports students, teachers, and district initiatives through scholarships, teacher awards, and funding for classroom needs. Kraus, a former teacher and administrator, aims to expand the foundation’s impact across the district. With over $2 million awarded in scholarships and endowments, the foundation continues to grow, supporting the community with a focus on educational excellence and service to Marietta City Schools.    STORY 2: Cobb, cities to meet over new sales tax referendum [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/cobb-cities-to-meet-over-new-sales-tax-referendum/article_e2e67f94-5637-4d17-9acb-1a18356d9ab6.html]  The Cobb Board of Commissioners will meet with mayors of the county’s seven cities this week to discuss the 2028 SPLOST referendum, a 1% sales tax funding infrastructure projects. Each city will present its project priorities, with a focus on roads, transportation, and community needs. The current SPLOST, collecting $750 million, ends in 2027. A draft project list is due by October, with public feedback sessions in early 2026. Voters will decide on the package in November 2026. Officials aim to address rising costs and ensure impactful projects to gain voter support.    STORY 3: Cobb to consider in-house paramedic program [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/cobb-to-consider-in-house-paramedic-program/article_3249515f-3491-4f9b-9c53-6d527f75d74d.html]  The Cobb Board of Commissioners will vote on an agreement with MetroAtlanta Ambulance Service to establish an in-house paramedic program at Cobb Fire & Emergency Services. The program aims to double the number of paramedics trained annually, expanding care and serving as a recruitment tool. Limited to employees of Cobb Fire or MetroAtlanta, the program will cost $650 per student, significantly less than typical tuition. Cobb Fire will provide classroom space and instructors, while MetroAtlanta oversees accreditation and enrollment. Officials see this as a cost-effective way to increase paramedics and improve community emergency services.    We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.     We’ll be right back.    Break: TOP TECH_FINAL    STORY 4: Cobb faces shortfall in '26 general fund budget [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/cobb-faces-shortfall-in-26-general-fund-budget/article_f5ef2c5f-cebc-4df3-945e-ba6be784a066.html]    Cobb County staff will brief commissioners on a $7 million shortfall in the $644.5 million general fund budget for next year. Proposed solutions include raising the millage rate, eliminating commissioners’ $200,000 contingency funds, maintaining a 5% water revenue transfer, cutting $1 million in public safety overtime, and shifting 0.05 mills from the fire fund to the general fund. The budget doesn’t account for 290 new staff requests, costing $27.8 million, while the county still has 468 vacant positions, primarily in police, fire, and water departments.     STORY 5: Events: Celebrate July Fourth in Cobb County [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/lifestyle/events-celebrate-july-fourth-in-cobb-county/article_a1a409e8-608d-49ab-878e-cd6b4086a52b.html]  Cobb County offers several Independence Day celebrations:      - **July 3**: Kennesaw’s Salute to America (6-10 p.m.) features live music, kids' activities, and fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Six Flags Over Georgia (July 3-6) offers rides and fireworks nightly.    - **July 4**: Marietta’s Fourth in the Park includes a parade (10 a.m.), concerts, and fireworks at dark. Acworth hosts live music (5:30 p.m.) and fireworks at Lake Acworth (9:30 p.m.). Powder Springs features a car show, live bands, and fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Truist Park combines a Braves game (7:15 p.m.) with post-game fireworks.      Enjoy food, music, and patriotic fun across the county!      Break: INGLES 7    STORY 6: CDPH offering free HIV testing in honor of National HIV Testing Day [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/lifestyle/cdph-offering-free-hiv-testing-in-honor-of-national-hiv-testing-day/article_5171699d-4855-4bdd-b8e6-2d4c468f4129.html]  June 27 is National HIV Testing Day, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and linking individuals to care. Cobb & Douglas Public Health (CDPH) will offer free HIV testing at Walgreens in Austell from 2-6 p.m. and continues to provide free testing at its health centers. Testing helps prevent HIV through tools like PrEP and condoms or enables rapid treatment for those who test positive. Cobb County, identified as a high-incidence area, is part of a federal initiative to end HIV by 2030. Free OraQuick self-test kits are also available for pick-up or delivery.  STORY 7: 'Out on the water': Professional wakeboarding tour returns to Allatoona [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/out-on-the-water-professional-wakeboarding-tour-returns-to-allatoona/article_3f7e9f46-758e-4f1d-a23a-b701db908d49.html]  The Pro Wakeboard Tour made a splash at Allatoona Lake in Acworth, where professional and amateur wakeboarders, wakesurfers, and jet skiers showcased thrilling tricks and flips. The event, part of a national competition, aims to crown a champion while promoting the sport’s growth and family-friendly appeal. Acworth’s strong support, with hundreds of spectators and boats, makes it a favorite stop for athletes like 10-time jet ski champion Lee Stone and pro wakeboarder Noah Wildman. This marks nearly 20 years of the tour visiting Allatoona Lake, with the next stop set for July in Florida.    We’ll have closing comments after this.   Break: TOP TECH_FINAL    Signoff-    Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com  Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.  Produced by the BG Podcast Network [https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/]     Show Sponsors:  * www.ingles-markets.com [https://www.ingles-markets.com/]  * tidwelltrees.com [https://tidwelltrees.com/index.html]  * toptechmech.com [https://toptechmech.com/]    #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations  See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for June 20th  Publish Date:  June 20th      Commercial:   From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.      Today is Friday, June 20th and Happy Birthday to Brian Wilson    I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal  1. Sprayberry grad heads to Naval Academy 2. Georgia Power offers energy efficiency resources to beat the summer heat 3. Pharma company with major presence in Smyrna plans new factory   Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on Soda    All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!     BREAK: TOP TECH MECHANICAL    STORY 1: Sprayberry grad heads to Naval Academy    Daniel Silva, a Sprayberry High School graduate, earned a spot at the prestigious U.S. Naval Academy with a nomination from Sen. Jon Ossoff. Inspired by his Marine father, Silva dedicated himself to academic and leadership excellence, earning a $200,000 NROTC scholarship and founding Sprayberry’s men’s volleyball team. A first-generation Brazilian-American, Silva credits his family, faith, and mentors like Cmdr. Axel Spens for his success. He plans to major in computer science and become a Marine cyber officer, blending his passion for service with technology. Silva’s journey reflects resilience, community values, and a commitment to leadership, inspiring those around him.    STORY 2: Georgia Power offers energy efficiency resources to beat the summer heat [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/georgia-power-offers-energy-efficiency-resources-to-beat-the-summer-heat/article_ee9cb4ed-722d-4ced-96ac-f39c9e182cee.html]    As summer begins, Georgia Power helps customers stay cool and manage energy bills with energy-saving tips and resources. Suggestions include changing air filters, sealing air leaks, using LED bulbs, and running appliances outside peak hours. The EASE Program offers free home upgrades for qualifying low-income households, while the My Power Usage tool tracks energy consumption and provides alerts to stay within budget. Customers can access local assistance for utilities, food, and shelter via GeorgiaPower.com/Assistance and explore income-based programs at GeorgiaPower.com/IQPortal. With tools, programs, and community partnerships, Georgia Power empowers customers to reduce energy costs and navigate summer efficiently.    STORY 3: Pharma company with major presence in Smyrna plans new factory [https://www.mdjonline.com/cobb_business_journal/pharma-company-with-major-presence-in-smyrna-plans-new-factory/article_d2bf99b4-e854-4632-9c64-a09d408ce0b9.html]    UCB, a Belgium-based biopharmaceutical company, announced plans to build a state-of-the-art drug manufacturing facility in the U.S., creating 300 permanent jobs and over 500 construction jobs. The facility, aimed at supporting UCB’s growing U.S. patient base, will have an estimated $5 billion economic impact. A feasibility study is underway to select a location prioritizing talent and innovation. UCB’s U.S. workforce has grown 73% since 2017, supported by $4.5 billion in investments and 15 FDA approvals. CEO Jean-Christophe Tellier emphasized the facility’s role in strengthening UCB’s supply chain, advancing innovation, and contributing to the U.S. biomedical and economic landscape.    We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.     Break: Ingles Markets 6    STORY 4: KSU police officer fired, charged with attacking colleague [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/police_fire/ksu-police-officer-fired-charged-with-attacking-colleague/article_5107a8dc-5262-49aa-9057-43cc183fc301.html]  A Kennesaw State University police officer, Brandall Irving, 39, was fired and faces battery and false imprisonment charges after allegedly detaining a female staff member against her will. The incident occurred on June 3 at KSU’s Marietta campus, where Irving reportedly pushed the woman against a desk, blocked the door, and refused her repeated requests to leave. He also allegedly grabbed her arm when she tried to open the door. Following an internal investigation, Irving was terminated on June 6. Arrested the same day, he was charged with misdemeanor battery and felony false imprisonment, later released on a $10,000 bond.    STORY 5: Lockheed announces reliability breakthrough for Marietta-made C-130s [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/frontpage/lockheed-announces-reliability-breakthrough-for-marietta-made-c-130s/article_239048d6-c8f3-4177-8485-23383cb7851e.html]    Lockheed Martin announced a significant breakthrough in the wing structure design of its C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, extending its lifespan by 40% to 122,500 flight hours. The new design, tested rigorously in a program funded by the U.S. and Royal Canadian Air Forces, exceeded expectations by simulating real-world flying conditions. Built at Lockheed’s Marietta plant, the C-130J is a tactical airlifter used by 28 operators across 23 nations, with over 560 units delivered and 3 million flight hours logged. Since 2009, the aircraft has featured an Enhanced Service Life center wing box, doubling its original 45,000-hour service life.    Break:     And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on Soda    We’ll have closing comments after this.  Break: TIDWELL TREES    Signoff-    Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com  Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.  Produced by the BG Podcast Network [https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/]     Show Sponsors:  * www.ingles-markets.com [https://www.ingles-markets.com/]   * tidwelltrees.com [https://tidwelltrees.com/index.html]   * toptechmech.com [https://toptechmech.com/]    #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations  See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.