Marietta Daily Journal Podcast

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for July 25th Publish Date:  July 25th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, July 25th and Happy Birthday to Walter Peyton   I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal 1. Cobb commission approves property tax rate, budget 2. Riverside Parkway residents sound alarm over 'unsafe' living conditions 3. West Cobb VA Clinic closed due to flooding   Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on diabetes   All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!    BREAK: Ingles Markets 6   STORY 1: Cobb commission approves property tax rate, budget [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/cobb-commission-approves-property-tax-rate-budget/article_53300d97-1e3e-4d84-93ce-2191923f62c7.html] Cobb County commissioners approved a $1.3 billion budget for the upcoming fiscal year along partisan lines, keeping the general fund millage rate flat at 8.46 mills. The budget includes a 3.8% increase over last year, staff raises of 2-5%, and four new positions funded by fire and water funds. While the fire fund millage rate was slightly reduced, rising property values will generate $13 million more in tax revenue. Public commenters raised concerns about transparency, spending, and the impact on renters. Chairwoman Lisa Cupid defended the budget, emphasizing sustainability and efficient use of resources.   STORY 2: Riverside Parkway residents sound alarm over 'unsafe' living conditions [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/riverside-parkway-residents-sound-alarm-over-unsafe-living-conditions/article_4f5d318d-52f9-45bf-9c31-73cd8c0536df.html] Residents along Riverside Parkway in Mableton are demanding action to address unsafe and neglected conditions in apartment complexes like Five 7 Five, Residence at Riverside Row, and Silver Creek Crossings. Issues include pest infestations, overgrown grass, leaks, and broken windows, with many residents feeling ignored. The properties, now under receivership, are managed by Foresight Asset Management, but residents report little improvement. Mableton Mayor Michael Owens and local leaders are pushing for stricter ordinances and collaboration to ensure safe, affordable housing without displacing residents. Advocates stress the need for long-term solutions for essential workers living in the area.   STORY 3: West Cobb VA Clinic closed due to flooding [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/west-cobb-va-clinic-closed-due-to-flooding/article_43e646f7-5783-4b03-a878-12d96685cfbc.html] The West Cobb VA Clinic in Marietta is temporarily closed due to flooding reported on July 15. Repairs are underway, but the reopening date is unknown. The Atlanta VA Health Care System is converting appointments to virtual or rescheduling to minimize disruptions, with outreach efforts ongoing. Veterans can check updates by calling 404-545-9452 or the main VA line at 404-321-6111. For emergencies, veterans are advised to call 911 or visit the nearest ER.     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: Kennesaw takes steps to regulate short-term rentals, address neighbor concerns [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/kennesaw-takes-steps-to-regulate-short-term-rentals-address-neighbor-concerns/article_f3a886bb-8218-4d96-bb4a-0d2a68b75fb7.html] Kennesaw City Council has approved an ordinance requiring short-term rental property owners to obtain licenses starting Oct. 1. The $250 license applies to single-family residential zones, with a cap of 150 licenses issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Owners must meet requirements like liability insurance, notifying neighbors, and designating a 24-hour contact. Violations can result in fines or license revocation. The ordinance aims to address noise, parking complaints, and neighborhood integrity while testing the program’s effectiveness during an initial trial period. Feedback will be reviewed in March 2026.   STORY 5: OUT AND ABOUT: 5 things to do this weekend in Cobb County — July 25 - 27 [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/frontpage/out-and-about-5-things-to-do-this-weekend-in-cobb-county-july-25-/article_49fc9f42-341a-45a1-93f9-d4c985413ab7.html] This weekend in Cobb County offers a variety of events: The Strand Theatre wraps up *Jukebox Giants: Motown and More* with performances Friday through Sunday (tickets start at $40). Glover Park hosts a free Billy Joel tribute concert Friday at 8 p.m., with front-table rentals available. The Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre screens *Wonka* Friday at 7 p.m., with free entry and parking. On Saturday, the Southern Museum in Kennesaw holds its Railroad Rendezvous, featuring hands-on activities and a chance to board *The General* (admission $10 adults, $5 kids). Sunday, Smyrna Market Village hosts its weekly market with 60+ vendors from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on diabetes             We’ll have closing comments after this.   Break: Ingles Markets 6   Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network [https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/]   Show Sponsors: * 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 23rd Publish Date:  July 23rd    Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, July 23rd and Happy Birthday to Slash   I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal 1. Whataburger opens first Acworth location 2. Smyrna ice cream business issues recall for listeria contamination 3. Mableton approves EV fleet purchases   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:  Whataburger opens first Acworth location [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/whataburger-opens-first-acworth-location/article_7879f401-4795-48c0-91c9-bcaec357a8a6.html] Whataburger opened its first Acworth location on Cobb Parkway Northwest, marking the 20th Georgia location and fourth in Cobb County. Mayor Tommy Allegood welcomed the franchise during a ribbon-cutting ceremony, celebrating its investment in the community. Known for fresh, customizable burgers and popular items like the Patty Melt and breakfast taquitos, Whataburger aims to stand out with quality ingredients. The grand opening treated the first 100 customers to free food and swag. Regional leaders announced plans for further expansion in Georgia, including a Marietta location, as the brand approaches its 75th anniversary in 2025.   STORY 2: Smyrna ice cream business issues recall for listeria contamination [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/smyrna-ice-cream-business-issues-recall-for-listeria-contamination/article_0c1bd043-438b-448c-81e5-054688883b54.html] Smyrna-based Paleteria La Providencia has voluntarily recalled three popsicle flavors—Coconut, Cookies and Cream, and Coffee—due to potential listeria contamination. The affected products, with date codes of 6/17/25 and 6/11/25, were sold via mobile carts and Atlanta-area stores. Listeria can cause severe illness, particularly in vulnerable groups, and may lead to miscarriages in pregnant women. While no illnesses have been reported, consumers experiencing symptoms are urged to contact the Georgia Department of Public Health. Authorities are working to trace the distribution of the contaminated products.   STORY 3: Mableton approves EV fleet purchases [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/mableton-approves-ev-fleet-purchases/article_0f14a2b3-c6bb-4d27-88f4-bc03384a4d1e.html] The Mableton City Council approved the purchase of 11 all-electric Ford vehicles, including 10 Lightning Trucks and 1 Mach E, for up to $470,425 from fiscal 2026 capital funds. The vehicles will address staff shortages and support city departments like code enforcement. Special Projects Manager Xavier Ross highlighted the phased purchase approach and potential grant opportunities tied to the EV investment. Mayor Michael Owens praised Wade Ford for offering discounted prices below market and state contract rates. Additionally, the council approved a rezoning request for TKHC Ministries to build a church and held a public hearing on issuing city alcohol licenses, with no action taken.   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: Cobb eyes funding for microtransit pilot in Acworth, Kennesaw [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/cobb-eyes-funding-for-microtransit-pilot-in-acworth-kennesaw/article_07dc53a2-8f20-49a1-9394-f2c738b4bf15.html]   The Cobb County Board of Commissioners is considering expanding its successful CobbLinc Go microtransit program to Acworth and Kennesaw, targeting areas like Kennesaw State University and Town Center. The $6.4 million pilot would be funded primarily through state grants, with a local match to boost competitiveness. The service, modeled after the south Cobb pilot, offers flexible, curb-to-curb rides for $2.50. While some commissioners support the program for its potential to reduce congestion and serve nontraditional students, others question its necessity given existing transit options. The board will vote on applying for grant funding, with final approval pending project selection.   STORY 5: KSU student's research aims to create more confident math teachers [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/education/ksu-students-research-aims-to-create-more-confident-math-teachers/article_f3f8f668-85fb-45db-9bf2-d7696bfb8ece.html] Kennesaw State University senior Summer Funk is researching math anxiety among preservice teachers through the Summer Undergraduate Research Program, inspired by her own struggles with algebra. Under the mentorship of Professor Paula Guerra, Funk is surveying education students to understand their experiences with math anxiety and its impact. Early findings reveal that all participants recognize math anxiety as common among future teachers. Funk hopes her research will lead to curriculum changes that address and mitigate this issue, ultimately fostering more confident math educators. This project marks a significant milestone in her academic journey.     Break:   STORY 6: Great Southeast Pollinator Census – Citizen Science at Work webinar is Aug. 12 [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/lifestyle/great-southeast-pollinator-census-citizen-science-at-work-webinar-is-aug-12/article_0fd626ad-dc09-44dc-9d10-151e519243d6.html] The Master Gardener Volunteers of Cobb County will host a free virtual webinar, “Great Southeast Pollinator Census – Citizen Science at Work,” on Aug. 12 at 7 p.m., led by UGA Extension’s Becky Griffin. The webinar will explore pollinator ecology and encourage participation in the 2025 Great Southeast Pollinator Census on Aug. 22-23. The census will take place at various gardens in Marietta and Roswell, offering opportunities for individuals to contribute to pollinator research. For details, registration, and participation, visit the event’s website. STORY 7: Anesthesiologist Arrested Over Operating Room Drug [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/police_fire/anesthesiologist-arrested-over-operating-room-drug/article_584ad68c-2d16-4e90-a227-4ff87ef48310.html] Ariana Nicole Lyons, a 33-year-old anesthesiologist from Smyrna, was arrested on July 7 for allegedly possessing 10 vials of Drprivan Propofol, a controlled substance valued at $100 each, outside its authorized area at Wellstar Vinings Health Park. According to an arrest warrant, the drug is restricted to operating rooms. Lyons faces charges of theft and possession. She was booked into the Cobb County Adult Detention Center and released on July 9 on a $2,000 bond.   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 [https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/]   Show Sponsors: * 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 18th  Publish Date:  July 18th      Commercial:   From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.      Today is Friday, July 18th and Happy Birthday to John Glen    I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal  1. Cobb Hits a Grand Slam with All-Star Festivities 2. Former Cobb police officer drowns after rescuing family in rip current 3. Marietta Marine Honored on 10th Anniversary of Chattanooga Terror Attack   Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on picky toddlers     All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!     BREAK: Ingles Markets 4    STORY 1: Cobb Hits a Grand Slam with All-Star Festivities [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/cobb-hits-a-grand-slam-with-all-star-festivities/article_a984a313-7e6e-4e88-97aa-3f2f5a85b04c.html]  Cobb County hosted MLB’s All-Star festivities at Truist Park, drawing thousands, including Georgia leaders and fans, for events like the Home Run Derby, Celebrity Softball Game, and All-Star Game. Smyrna Mayor Derek Norton and others praised the week as a showcase of community pride, economic impact, and Southern hospitality. Highlights included a tribute to Hank Aaron, the Budweiser Clydesdales, and interactive activities at the All-Star Village. Officials noted flawless coordination, no major incidents, and significant benefits for local businesses and tax revenues. The event cemented Cobb County as a premier destination for major events.    STORY 2: Former Cobb police officer drowns after rescuing family in rip current [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/police_fire/former-cobb-police-officer-drowns-after-rescuing-family-in-rip-current/article_6d4bd2cc-688f-441c-a1b5-f3853658e021.html]  Former Cobb County police officer and ex-professional baseball player Chase Childers tragically died while saving a family caught in a rip current on Pawleys Island, South Carolina. Childers successfully rescued the family with another person but was swept away and later found by the Coast Guard. Known for his heroism, Childers had received a lifetime achievement award during his time with Cobb PD and was also a skilled fisherman and builder. He leaves behind his wife, Nataley, and three children. A GoFundMe page, “Blessings for Nataley and children in memory of Chase,” has raised over $46,000 to support his family.    STORY 3: Marietta Marine Honored on 10th Anniversary of Chattanooga Terror Attack [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/marietta-marine-honored-on-10th-anniversary-of-chattanooga-terror-attack/article_acfd889c-5218-4f82-9bb5-9f222de61bfb.html]  Lance Cpl. Squire “Skip” Wells, a Marietta Marine killed in the 2015 Chattanooga terrorist attack, was honored on the 10th anniversary of his death at Georgia National Cemetery. Family, friends, and fellow servicemembers gathered to remember Wells, one of the “Chattanooga Fallen Five.” The ceremony, led by the Marine Corps League’s Detachment 647, highlighted Wells’ legacy as a dedicated Marine and beloved community member. Cobb Commissioner JoAnn Birrell and others paid tribute, emphasizing his sacrifice at just 21 years old. Wreaths and a white rose were placed at his headstone, with his mother urging all to “say their names” to honor their memory.      We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.     Break: Ingles Markets 4    STORY 4: LOUD Security Systems closes on purchase of new headquarters [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/loud-security-systems-closes-on-purchase-of-new-headquarters/article_a3e69b54-d3c1-4901-a6cd-5f5c93286a25.html]  LOUD Security Systems has purchased a new 51,000-square-foot headquarters in Kennesaw at 1990 Vaughn Rd., marking a significant milestone for the company. The facility will undergo upgrades to support workforce expansion, enhanced technology, and improved collaboration. Serving over 10,000 customers with a team of 60, LOUD’s president, John Loud, emphasized the investment as a commitment to the community and the company’s future. Celebrating 30 years in business, LOUD Security is known for cutting-edge solutions in intrusion detection, fire monitoring, and surveillance, with Cobb County remaining central to its growth strategy.    STORY 5:  OUT AND ABOUT: 5 things to do this weekend in Cobb County — July 18 - 20 [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/frontpage/out-and-about-5-things-to-do-this-weekend-in-cobb-county-july-18-/article_fec9c353-62d4-42dd-a7d3-b266f2ae706b.html]  This weekend in Cobb County offers a variety of events:      - **"Jukebox Giants: Motown and More"** at Marietta’s Strand Theatre showcases ’50s-’70s music with performances Friday through Sunday. Tickets start at $40.    - **Mableton Food Truck Friday** runs 6-9 p.m. at Mableton Town Square with free admission, parking, and activities.    - **"Scene on the Green"** features Shakespeare’s *A Midsummer Night’s Dream* Friday at 6 p.m. at the Art Place in Marietta, with free admission.    - **Marietta Square Farmer’s Market** on Saturday morning offers 65+ vendors with unique goods.    - **Epic Farmer’s Market** in Mableton runs Saturday and Sunday with 50+ vendors, live music, and artisan products.      Visit event websites for details!    Break:     And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on picky toddlers    We’ll have closing comments after this.  Break: Ingles Markets 4    Signoff-    Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com  Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.  Produced by the BG Podcast Network [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 16th  Publish Date:  July 16th      Commercial:   From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.      Today is Wednesday, July 16th and Happy Birthday to Will Ferrell    I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal  1. Marietta School Board to consider vape detection, substitute teacher funding 2. Acworth Book & Storytelling Festival is Aug. 23 3. Letter shows Cobb's threat to halt police services in Mableton   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:   Marietta School Board to consider vape detection, substitute teacher funding [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/education/marietta-school-board-to-consider-vape-detection-substitute-teacher-funding/article_8c728eab-669f-4578-87e8-968d15ba57f7.html]  The Marietta Board of Education is set to discuss installing Halo vape detection systems in Marietta High, Middle, and Woods-Wilkins Campus. These devices, costing up to $60,000 funded by grants, discreetly monitor air quality, alerting staff to harmful chemicals like nicotine. Superintendent Grant Rivera and his team aim to tackle vaping issues proactively. Additionally, the board will consider a $2.4M contract with Kelly Services for substitute staffing and appointing R.K. Redding Construction for Marietta High renovations, scheduled for summers 2026-2027, funded by SPLOST.    STORY 2: Acworth Book & Storytelling Festival is Aug. 23 [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/lifestyle/acworth-book-storytelling-festival-is-aug-23/article_f110b218-5473-483c-a981-847fb325bffd.html]  The Acworth Book & Storytelling Festival is set for Aug. 23, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at The Roberts School in Acworth. Hosted by Acworth Cultural Arts, this free event features local and regional authors, professional storytellers, vendors, and a panel discussion themed “Ink & Echo: Writing the stories. Speaking the truth.” Keynote speaker Bren McClain, author of *One Good Mama Bone*, will join T.M. Brown in conversation.    STORY 3: Letter shows Cobb's threat to halt police services in Mableton [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/police_fire/letter-shows-cobbs-threat-to-halt-police-services-in-mableton/article_b4178635-63aa-4f46-ab23-0157f350952b.html]  Mableton officials agreed to pay Cobb County $9.5 million for police and transportation services after the county threatened to halt them by June 1. Mayor Michael Owens said the city was forced into the deal to ensure public safety, despite concerns of "double taxation" for residents already paying county taxes. The agreement funds services until May 2026, with Mableton exploring a special service district to cover costs. While Cobb County claimed it wouldn’t abandon residents, a May 30 letter revealed threats to cease services if no deal was reached. The city council initially rejected the plan but later approved it after mediation.    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: Austell approves 158% property tax increase [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/austell-approves-158-property-tax-increase/article_b78fd175-50e4-46cd-a21b-dfded961d901.html]    The Austell City Council approved a 158% property tax increase, raising the millage rate from 3.25 to 8.25 mills, despite strong opposition from residents. The hike, expected to double property tax revenue to $3.85 million, aims to stabilize finances and address a $1.6 million budget shortfall. Mayor Ollie Clemons defended the decision as necessary for the city’s future, while critics, including Council member Meredith Adams, opposed the sharp increase, citing its impact on residents, especially those on fixed incomes. Many residents blamed city leadership for financial mismanagement, while Clemons attributed the issues to inflation and past inaction.    STORY 5:   Cobb Water Authority manager talks fluoride, forever chemicals, costs [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/cobb-water-authority-manager-talks-fluoride-forever-chemicals-costs/article_6b5eef4d-64e6-42c6-8cca-56c572da9316.html]  Cole Blackwell, general manager of the Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority, emphasized proactive planning for water quality, affordability, and infrastructure reliability during a Kiwanis Club talk. The authority, sourcing water from Lake Allatoona and the Chattahoochee River, is addressing emerging contaminants like PFAS, though current levels remain safe. Inflation and rising construction costs have impacted operations, but costs are stabilizing, and the authority has a water supply sufficient through 2055. Blackwell reassured residents of continued fluoride use, compliance with regulations, and efforts to maintain reasonable water rates while ensuring future reliability.      Break:     STORY 6: Marietta man charged with stealing from Ford Elementary School [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/police_fire/marietta-man-charged-with-stealing-from-ford-elementary-school/article_ae1f5a42-2ae0-4d90-81d7-1cd7e96f1708.html]  Jamie Jr. Cline, 44, of Marietta, faces two theft charges for allegedly stealing a trailer and hay blower from Ford Elementary School in Acworth during separate incidents on June 29 and 30. According to police, Cline accessed the school by opening chained gates. Arrested on July 8, he was booked into the Cobb County Adult Detention Center and released the next morning on a $35,000 bond.  STORY 7: Shaw Park Community Block Party is July 19 [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/lifestyle/shaw-park-community-block-party-is-july-19/article_0c047f1f-bbe0-4ddc-b441-7cc8eb0654e0.html]  The Shaw Park Community Block Party will take place on July 19, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Gritters Library in Marietta. Hosted by Gritters Library, CobbWorks, and Cobb PARKS, this free, family-friendly event features a live DJ, inflatable games, face painting, bilingual storytime, and a Bollywood Dance Challenge. Food will be available for purchase from The Patty Wagon and King of Pops. The event aims to bring the community together and highlight local resources while celebrating the library’s recent reopening.    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 [https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/]     Show Sponsors:  * www.ingles-markets.com [https://www.ingles-markets.com/]    See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for July 11th  Publish Date:  July 11th      Commercial:   From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.      Today is Friday, July 11th and Happy Birthday to President John Quincy Adams     I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal  1. Cobb to see increased police presence, some traffic during MLB All-Star events 2. Marietta school board approves property tax increase 3. Cobb eyes ‘slight' reduction in fire fund millage   Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on seed oils    All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!     BREAK: Ingles Markets 2    STORY 1: Cobb to see increased police presence, some traffic during MLB All-Star events [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/cobb-to-see-increased-police-presence-some-traffic-during-mlb-all-star-events/article_b4e80360-a8ba-497a-b028-88bd0c013cf3.html]  Cobb County is prioritizing safety and smooth operations for the MLB All-Star festivities at Truist Park and surrounding areas, expecting tens of thousands of attendees. Enhanced security measures include increased police presence, barriers, and collaboration with federal and state agencies. Traffic impacts are expected to be minimal, with real-time monitoring and adjustments by the Department of Transportation. The week-long events, including the All-Star Village at Cobb Galleria, are projected to bring significant economic benefits. Residents are encouraged to use CobbLinc for affordable transportation and stay updated via the Cobb Commute app.    STORY 2: Marietta school board approves property tax increase [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/education/marietta-school-board-approves-property-tax-increase/article_1e01b71d-39ae-4f09-9d76-0332ce602d69.html]  The Marietta Board of Education voted to maintain its 17.97 millage rate, resulting in a 0.89% property tax increase due to rising property values. This decision, aimed at funding teacher raises and staying competitive in the labor market, will increase taxes by $31 for a $500,000 home and $57 for a $900,000 non-homestead property. The district expects $84.95 million in property tax revenue, a 1.82% increase from last year. The millage rate has remained unchanged since 2013, and the board recently approved a $167 million budget, including average raises of 3.3% for employees.    STORY 3: Cobb eyes ‘slight' reduction in fire fund millage [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/cobb-eyes-slight-reduction-in-fire-fund-millage/article_2fb87ac8-1ae3-4a7d-afd9-a12165ff9538.html]    Cobb County officials proposed a slight reduction in the fire fund millage rate from 2.99 to 2.97 mills, citing a $107 million surplus. The change would reduce fire fund revenue by $1 million but would not impact fire operations, personnel, or capital funding. Some residents and commissioners expressed concerns, emphasizing the critical role of fire services. The proposed $1.33 billion budget for 2026 includes a 3.8% increase from last year, funding raises for public safety employees and other staff. Public hearings on the millage rate are scheduled for July 16 and 22.    We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.     Break: Ingles Markets 2    STORY 4: Access Cobb Debuts as Cobb County’s Only Headquartered Community Bank [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/access-cobb-debuts-as-cobb-county-s-only-headquartered-community-bank/article_48218d35-68fd-449c-b838-0b398b600988.html]  Access Cobb, a Craft Bank, has opened at 145 Church Street near Marietta Square, marking the only community bank headquartered in Cobb County. Focused on personal relationships, the bank offers a range of services, from personal savings to commercial banking, with a commitment to knowing clients by name. The modern, art-filled space emphasizes community ties, partnering with Robert Kent Galleries to display local artwork. President Terri Bunten Guthrie and CEO Ross Mynatt highlighted the bank’s dedication to supporting small businesses and fostering local growth. Future expansion plans will depend on the success of this branch.    STORY 5:  The Clydesdales are coming: Budweiser delivers big branding for MLB All-Star Week [https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/the-clydesdales-are-coming-budweiser-delivers-big-branding-for-mlb-all-star-week/article_c7214ffb-91ae-4b95-82d8-11ad58ac86e3.html]  Budweiser is celebrating MLB All-Star Week in Smyrna with special beer deliveries via iconic Clydesdale horses. The deliveries start Friday at 4 p.m. in Market Village, with a parade route available on Smyrna’s Facebook page. The Clydesdales, a symbol of Budweiser and American tradition for over 90 years, will also be featured at the Budweiser Zone near the Capital One All-Star Village at Cobb Galleria. Handlers will share fun facts about the horses, adding to the excitement of All-Star festivities, which include games and events leading up to Tuesday’s MLB All-Star Game.    Break:     And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on seed oils    We’ll have closing comments after this.  Break: Ingles Markets 2    Signoff-    Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com  Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. 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