Episodes

  • What's New in Cobb and Marietta Schools This Year?

    What's New in Cobb and Marietta Schools This Year?
    Jul 26 2024

    From the BG Ad Group Studio this is your news minute on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast presented by Credit Union of Georgia. Today is Friday, July 26th, and I'm Keith Ippolito.

    What's New in Cobb and Marietta Schools This Year?

    Next week, over 100,000 students will return to schools across Cobb and Marietta. But this year, there's a twist. Cobb County is introducing a groundbreaking VR tool, Prisms of Reality, in select math and science classes. This $2 million investment aims to make learning more interactive by solving real-world problems in a virtual environment.

    Cobb schools are also expanding their free meal program through the Community Eligibility Provision, removing barriers for students who need it most.

    And in Marietta, a revamped cafeteria menu focusing on healthy, multicultural options awaits students, thanks to Chef David Garcia. Plus, new phone policies and literacy programs are rolling out to improve focus and reading skills.

    For more news about our community, visit mdjonline.com. For the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, I'm Keith Ippolito.

    Produced by The BG Podcast Network

    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 #podcast #podcasts #podcaster #podcastlife #podcastshow #podcasting #podcasters #podcastersofinstagram #itunes #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #soundcloud #youtube #radio #radioshow #comedy #music #hiphop #art #entrepreneur #covid #motivation #interview #repost #love

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    2 mins
  • County Warns More Rain Could Worsen Smyrna Flooding

    County Warns More Rain Could Worsen Smyrna Flooding
    Jul 25 2024
    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 Thursday, July 25th and Happy heavenly Birthday to NFL HOF Walter Peyton. ***07.25.24 – BIRTHDAY – WALTER PEYTON*** I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Credit Union of Georgia. County Warns More Rain Could Worsen Smyrna FloodingMayor and Coaches Kick Off football season with a CookoutCupid's Comments on Keeping Millage Rate Flat Plus, Bruce Jenkins sits down with Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on Laura Lynn products. 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: CU of GA STORY 1: County Warns More Rain Could Worsen Smyrna Flooding Cobb County is addressing flood aftermath in Smyrna's Coppers Creek neighborhood, where Tuesday night's flooding displaced residents and damaged 13 buildings. The county's transportation department is clearing debris on Coppers Creek Drive to improve stormwater flow. Emergency teams advise residents to relocate vehicles from the cul-de-sac to Cooper Lake Road due to potential road closures from ongoing rain and repairs. Cobb Police are increasing patrols, and emergency management is assisting residents who remain in their homes. With more rain expected, the county warns against walking or driving through flood waters, emphasizing the dangers posed by even shallow water depths. STORY 2: Mayor, Coaches Kick Off Season with Cookout Mayor Steve “Thunder” Tumlin and Councilman Johnny Walker hosted Marietta High School football staff at their annual steak dinner to kick off the football season. Held at Mayor Tumlin’s home on Hickory Drive, the event has become a cherished tradition before the season starts in August. This year marked the largest turnout yet, with around 40 guests, including coaches from various levels. Steaks were prepared by chefs Scott Grieve and Jason Meade, with ingredients from The Butcher on Whitlock. The event also featured beer from Glover Park Brewery and sides by Tricia Wilson and Kim Walker. Walker emphasized the event’s importance in showing appreciation for the coaches’ hard work and dedication to the students. STORY 3: Cupid’s Comments on Keeping Milage Rate Flat In a contentious 3-2 vote along party lines, the Cobb County Board of Commissioners approved a $1.3 billion budget and maintained a flat general fund millage rate. Chairwoman Lisa Cupid addressed public concerns before the vote, acknowledging challenges and defending the decision not to roll back the millage rate. She highlighted economic factors driving property costs and emphasized the county’s support for home ownership through measures like homestead exemptions. Cupid also defended spending decisions, including the use of federal funds for consultants under the American Rescue Plan Act, which she stated was necessary for maximizing benefits and ensuring compliance. 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: DRAKE STORY 4: AAA Urges Drivers to Stay Alert as Students Return to School As 1.7 million Georgia children return to school, AAA emphasizes driver caution in school zones and neighborhoods. With heightened pedestrian risk during school hours, particularly in the afternoon, drivers are urged to slow down and remain alert. AAA's School's Open-Drive Carefully campaign aims to reduce unsafe driving near schools, addressing behaviors like speeding and distracted driving. Data shows significant risks during weekday hours, reinforcing the need for vigilance. AAA advises drivers to obey speed limits, eliminate distractions, check surroundings before reversing, and watch for bicyclists. The campaign also highlights the importance of stopping completely at intersections and involving teens in safe driving discussions. STORY 5: CISGA Back-To-School Wish List Campaign Communities In Schools of Georgia in Cobb County is preparing for the 2024-25 school year with their Back-To-School Wish List Campaign. The initiative aims to provide essential school supplies to ensure every student is fully equipped for learning. Amazon Wish Lists feature items like notebooks, backpacks, shoes, and hygiene supplies crucial for student success. Donations through www.cisga.org/cisgawishlists enable community members to support local schools directly by selecting specific items to donate. It's a proactive effort to enhance students' educational experiences and well-being as they return to classrooms. We’ll be back in a moment Break: INGLES 1 And now here is Bruce Jenkins’ conversation with Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on Laura Lynn products. LEAH INTERVIEW We’ll have closing comments ...
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    11 mins
  • Cobb Passes $1.3 Billion Budget, Keeps Millage Rate Flat in Partisan Votes

    Cobb Passes $1.3 Billion Budget, Keeps Millage Rate Flat in Partisan Votes
    Jul 24 2024

    From the BG Ad Group Studio this is your news minute on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast presented by Credit Union of Georgia. Today is Wednesday, July 24th, and I'm Keith Ippolito.

    Cobb Passes $1.3 Billion Budget, Keeps Millage Rate Flat in Partisan Votes

    The Cobb County Board of Commissioners has made a significant budget decision. Despite public calls for a rollback in the millage rate and reductions in the general fund budget, the Board voted to pass a $1.3 billion budget and maintain the current millage rate.

    The vote was split along partisan lines, with a 3-2 outcome. Commissioners Keli Gambrill and JoAnn Birrell, both Republicans, opposed the budget and millage rate, citing concerns over excess revenue collection.

    While the tax rates will stay flat at 8.46 mills for the general fund and 2.99 mills for the fire fund, rising home values will result in an additional $22.6 million in general fund property tax revenue and $11.7 million more for the fire fund compared to last year.

    Chairwoman Lisa Cupid highlighted the importance of understanding the numbers tied to the budget's "impact items," which include an $8.4 million step-and-grade plan for public safety personnel.

    For more information or to get involved, visit kids-care2018.org.

    For more news about our community, visit mdjonline.com. For the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, I'm Keith Ippolito.

    Produced by The BG Podcast Network

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    2 mins
  • 'Backing the Need:' School Supply Drive Returns to Cobb Civic Center

    'Backing the Need:' School Supply Drive Returns to Cobb Civic Center
    Jul 23 2024
    MDJ Script/ Top Stories for July 23rd Publish Date: July 23rd Commercial: DRAKE From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. Today is Tuesday, July 23rd and Happy 59th Birthday to rocker Slash. ***07.23.24 – BIRTHDAY – SLASH*** I’m Dan Radcliffe and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Credit Union of Georgia. 'Backing the Need:' School Supply Drive Returns to Cobb Civic CenterCobb Approves Acworth Senior Living DevelopmentBrandsMart USA Celebrates Grand Opening in Kennesaw 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: CU of GA STORY 1: ‘Backing the Need:’ School Supply Drive Returns to Cobb Civic Center In Marietta, the fourth annual Backing the Need drive saw 70 volunteers gathering at the Cobb Civic Center to sort and pack backpacks filled with school supplies for local students in need. Co-hosted by KIDS CARE and the Cobb County Police Department, the event collected donations from precincts, headquarters, and local businesses. Over 350 backpacks were packed and distributed to nonprofits like Communities in Schools and Simple Needs Georgia. This effort, spearheaded by KIDS CARE, aims to instill kindness and service in volunteers of all ages, emphasizing community support and educational empowerment through practical donations. STORY 2: Cobb Approves Acworth Senior Living Development In Marietta, the Cobb Board of Commissioners voted 4-0 to approve a rezoning request by Creator’s Group Investments for a senior-living community in Acworth. The development will feature 39 homes on 11.8 acres at 2856 Wade Green Road, including amenities like walking trails, a pavilion, and sport courts. The decision addresses the increasing senior population in Cobb County, with Commissioner JoAnn Birrell setting conditions such as a maximum of 39 homes and a 10% rental cap. Planning Commissioner Christine Lindstrom also specified requirements for construction and site amenities during earlier meetings. STORY 3: BrandsMart USA Celebrates Grand Opening in Kennesaw In Kennesaw, BrandsMart USA's new location at Cobb Place Shopping Center drew hundreds for its grand opening, featuring local officials and eager shoppers. Attendees lined up early for a chance at a $50 gift card, with longtime customers like Sharon and Larry Dover excited to return after the previous store's closure in 2014. BrandsMart President Steve Olsen highlighted the brand's expansion and its community impact, including new job creation and a partnership with Kennesaw State University. The store offers a wide range of products and lease-to-own options, attracting shoppers from across northern Georgia. 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: DRAKE STORY 4: AROUND TOWN: Cobb Leaders React to Biden Dropping Out In response to President Biden's announcement to drop out and endorse Vice President Kamala Harris for the upcoming election, Cobb County leaders expressed diverse opinions. Democratic leaders like State Rep. Teri Anulewicz praised Biden for guiding the nation through challenges like the recession and the COVID-19 pandemic, expressing support for Harris. On the Republican side, Cobb GOP Chair Salleigh Grubbs criticized Biden, questioning his fitness for office. State Rep. David Wilkerson commended Biden's leadership and anticipated a successful convention for the Democrats. Meanwhile, U.S. Rep. Barry Loudermilk emphasized the need to change policies in November. STORY 5: Amerigroup Hosts Annual Back-to-School-Bash Amerigroup Georgia organized its annual "Tools for School 2024" event at the Riverside EpiCenter in Austell, providing free backpacks and school supplies to students gearing up for the new school year in Cobb County. The event also featured access to the EpiCenter's amenities like bowling, arcade games, and rock climbing. Vendors such as Community Organized Relief Efforts and Cobb and Douglas Public Health set up booths, offering information and services to attendees. Over 1,000 backpacks were prepared, with an expected turnout of 500 to 1,000 people. Families appreciated the support and community engagement, highlighting the event's positive impact. We’ll be back in a moment Break: INGLES 10 STORY 6: Turner Chapel to Host Back-to-School Block Party Turner Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church is hosting a back-to-school block party on July 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 492 North Marietta Parkway. Organized by the Evangelism and Generation Activated with a Purpose (G.A.P) Youth Ministries, the event will offer free food, games, community resources, and giveaways for kids and families. This year, they aim to involve more of the community, especially the neighborhood of Roosevelt Circle, showing love and ...
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    10 mins
  • 'Backing the Need:' School Supply Drive Returns to Cobb Civic Center

    'Backing the Need:' School Supply Drive Returns to Cobb Civic Center
    Jul 22 2024

    From the BG Ad Group Studio this is your news minute on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast presented by Credit Union of Georgia. Today is Monday, July 22nd, and I'm Keith Ippolito.

    'Backing the Need:' School Supply Drive Returns to Cobb Civic Center

    In Marietta, about 70 volunteers gathered at the Cobb Civic Center for the fourth annual "Backing the Need" drive, co-hosted by KIDS CARE and the Cobb County Police Department. The event aimed to collect new backpacks and school supplies for local students in need.

    Volunteers sorted donations from Cobb police precincts and local businesses, packing 350 backpacks for distribution to seven local nonprofits. Notably, Two Men and a Truck donated a moving truck and mover to assist.

    KIDS CARE, co-founded by Amie Burke and her daughter Jaida, organizes monthly volunteer opportunities for all ages. The drive not only provided supplies but also educated young volunteers on the impact of their contributions. Since its inception, the event has distributed over 1,374 backpacks to students in Cobb schools.

    For more information or to get involved, visit kids-care2018.org.

    For more news about our community, visit mdjonline.com. For the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, I'm Keith Ippolito.

    Produced by The BG Podcast Network

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    2 mins
  • Whitefield Academy Alum Chosen for Third Paralympics

    Whitefield Academy Alum Chosen for Third Paralympics
    Jul 19 2024

    From the BG Ad Group Studio this is your news minute on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast presented by Credit Union of Georgia. Today is Friday, July 19th, and I'm Keith Ippolito.

    Whitefield Academy Alum Chosen for Third Paralympics

    The United States Association of Blind Athletes has announced the roster for the U.S. Paralympic men’s goalball team, headlined by Smyrna native Matt Simpson, who is gearing up for his third Paralympics. Simpson, a Whitefield Academy alum, previously competed in Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020, where the team secured a silver medal. Veteran Tyler Merren will lead the team, marking his fifth Paralympics since Athens 2004. The squad also includes second-time Paralympian Calahan Young and newcomers Tre’Shaun Faison, Christian King, and Zion Walker.

    Head coach Keith Young expressed excitement about the team's blend of experience and emerging talent. The Paris Paralympics, running from Aug. 28 to Sept. 8, will see over 4,400 athletes from 22 sports, including goalball. Simpson will be among 12 athletes with ties to Cobb County competing in Paris, alongside notable names in other sports.

    For more news about our community, visit mdjonline.com. For the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, I'm Keith Ippolito.

    Produced by The BG Podcast Network

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    2 mins
  • Cobb County and Six Cities Enter Historic Mediation at Marietta Hilton

    Cobb County and Six Cities Enter Historic Mediation at Marietta Hilton
    Jul 18 2024
    MDJ Script/ Top Stories for July 18th Publish Date: July 18th Commercial: GON :30 From the Ingles Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. Today is Thursday, July 18th and Happy heavenly Birthday to astronaut John Glenn. ***07.18.24 – BIRTHDAY – JOHN GLENN*** I’m Dan Radcliffe and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Credit Union of Georgia. Cobb County and Six Cities Enter Historic Mediation at Marietta HiltonCobb School Board to Set Millage RateCobb Denies Austell Man Selling Antiques from Home Plus, Bruce Jenkins sits down with Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on seedless watermelons. 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: CU of GA STORY 1: ‘Historic’: Cobb County and Cities Enter Mediation In a historic development, Cobb County and its six cities are undergoing formal mediation for the first time under state law regarding Service Delivery Strategy Agreements. Held at the Marietta Hilton, the mediation aims to resolve disputes over how services and funding are distributed between the county and cities, crucial for state compliance. Issues include differing interpretations of duplicate services and fiscal responsibilities, with potential consequences like loss of state funding if no agreement is reached by October 31. Mableton, transitioning to cityhood, observes closely as its services depend on the mediation's outcome. STORY 2: Cobb Scholl Board to Set Milage Rate The Cobb County Board of Education is set to decide on maintaining a flat millage rate of 18.7 mills for 2024, despite rising property values expected to bring in an additional $54.96 million in tax revenue, a 7.32% increase from last year. While this won’t increase taxes, homeowners could see an average increase of $255.17 in property taxes for a $450,000 home. Debate among board members includes potential implications of rolling back the millage rate to mitigate tax hikes, amid community concerns over tax burdens and budget allocations already in place. Public input will influence the final decision at tonight’s meeting. STORY 3: Cobb Denies Austell Man Selling Antiques from Home This week, the Cobb Board of Commissioners rejected Edwin Stafford’s request to operate an antique store and yard sale from his home on Austell Powder Springs Road. Stafford sought a 24-month permit to sell antiques on weekends after complaints from neighbors and businesses about his previous unauthorized sales. Despite Stafford’s plea that this business was his livelihood, Commissioner Monique Sheffield cited ongoing violations of county codes and noted that Stafford’s activities didn’t fit the area’s development plans, which aim to attract more structured businesses. The board unanimously denied Stafford’s application, leaving him to consider alternatives for sustaining his business. 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: DRAKE STORY 4: Proposed East Cobb Whataburger Deferred The Cobb Board of Commissioners voted 4-0 to extend Whataburger's request for a site plan change for a new restaurant at the former O’Charley’s location in east Cobb. The fast-food chain, aiming to establish its fifth Cobb County location, faced delays due to incomplete architectural landscaping plans. Issues arose regarding compliance with Cobb County Tree Ordinance parking lot tree standards, requiring adjustments such as additional parking lot peninsulas. The proposed site plan conflicts with prior land-use restrictions prohibiting fast-food restaurants and drive-thru services, stipulated in a settlement with Sembler Retail and Sembler Family Partnership in 1999. The matter will be reconsidered at the next zoning hearing on August 20. STORY 5: OUT AND ABOUT: 5 Things to do This Weekend in Cobb County—July 19-21 The Southern-Fried Gaming Expo, Atlanta's 11th annual gaming convention, takes place at the Cobb Galleria Centre and Renaissance Waverly Hotel & Convention Center this weekend. Attendees can enjoy free play on over 500 arcade games, pinball machines, and video game consoles, alongside celebrity guests and hundreds of tabletop games and events. Hours are Friday 3-11:45 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-11:45 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Swiftie Night at Jennie T. Anderson Theatre offers karaoke, trivia, and music bingo this Saturday from 5 to 8 p.m., featuring activities and themed attire for Taylor Swift fans. Kennesaw presents an outdoor movie screening of "Top Gun: Maverick" at Swift-Cantrell Park on Friday, starting with family activities at 6 p.m. and the movie at sundown. Nickel Creek and Andrew Bird perform at Coca-Cola Roxy on Friday at 7 p.m. Tickets range from $61 to $181 for VIP, celebrating Nickel Creek’s new album. Black ...
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    14 mins
  • One Killed in Multi-Car Collision in Austell

    One Killed in Multi-Car Collision in Austell
    Jul 17 2024

    From the BG Ad Group Studio this is your news minute on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast presented by Credit Union of Georgia. Today is Wednesday, July 17th, and I'm Keith Ippolito.

    One Killed in Multi-Car Collision in Austell

    Tragedy struck in Austell on Tuesday afternoon after a multi-car collision left one person dead. The incident occurred on Hicks Road, near Cobb Fire Department's Station 7.

    At around 3:30 p.m., a white GMC Sierra veered across the center line, colliding with a black GMC Yukon and causing it to flip onto its side. The Sierra continued its path of destruction, crashing into a silver Ford Escape and pushing it into a guardrail over a creek, before finally hitting a grey Hyundai Sonata.

    The driver of the Ford Escape sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The names of those involved are yet to be released as authorities work to notify next of kin.

    The driver of the Sierra and the Sonata were hospitalized with visible injuries, while the Yukon driver escaped unharmed. Police expect charges to be filed and urge anyone with information to contact them at 770-499-3987

    For more news about our community, visit mdjonline.com. For the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, I'm Keith Ippolito.

    Produced by The BG Podcast Network

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    2 mins