A 32-game losing streak shattered—now South Cobb is chasing a win streak. In this week’s Cobb Football Friday, Brian Giffin and John Bednarowski break down the biggest stories from Week 3, including McEachern’s national ranking rise, Sprayberry’s comeback thriller, and Kel’s quiet dominance. From standout players like Cooper Buzarski and Chris Carbon to rivalry rematches and region play kickoffs, it’s a full slate of high school football action across Cobb County. Tune in for insights, surprises, and what to watch heading into Week 4.

Cobb Football Friday

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cobb Football Friday
02:04 Highlights from Last Week's Games
05:47 Team Performances and Player Spotlights
09:50 Upcoming Matchups and Predictions
14:00 Community and Cultural Impact of High School Football
17:45 Closing Thoughts and Future Games

A 32-game losing streak shattered&mdash;now South Cobb is chasing a win streak.&nbsp;In this week&rsquo;s&nbsp;Cobb Football Friday, Brian Giffin and John Bednarowski break down the biggest stories from Week 3, including McEachern&rsquo;s national ranking rise, Sprayberry&rsquo;s comeback thriller, and Kel&rsquo;s quiet dominance. From standout players like Cooper Buzarski and Chris Carbon to rivalry rematches and region play kickoffs, it&rsquo;s a full slate of high school football action across Cobb County. Tune in for insights, surprises, and what to watch heading into Week 4.
<a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/cobb_football_friday/">Cobb Football Friday</a>
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Cobb Football Friday 02:04 Highlights from Last Week's Games 05:47 Team Performances and Player Spotlights 09:50 Upcoming Matchups and Predictions 14:00 Community and Cultural Impact of High School Football 17:45 Closing Thoughts and Future Games

Get the news for Marietta, Kennesaw, Smyrna, and all of Cobb County with the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.

Marietta Daily Journal - https://www.mdjonline.com 

Cobb Life Magazine - www.cobblifemagazine.com 

 

 

 

This podcast is produced by BG Ad Group

 

For advertising inquiries, please email j.southerland@bgadgroup.com

For more information be sure to visit https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/

Get the news for Marietta, Kennesaw, Smyrna, and all of Cobb County with the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.
Marietta Daily Journal - <a href="https://www.mdjonline.com">https://www.mdjonline.com </a>
Cobb Life Magazine - <a href="http://www.cobblifemagazine.com">www.cobblifemagazine.com </a>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
This podcast is produced by BG Ad Group
&nbsp;
For advertising inquiries, please email <a href="mailto:j.southerland@bgadgroup.com">j.southerland@bgadgroup.com</a>
For more information be sure to visit <a href="https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/">https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/</a>

Marietta Daily Journal Podcast

McEachern Makes National Noise—Who’s Next?

  =====  MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 19th 

Publish Date:  December 19th 

   

Commercial:  

From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.  

  

Today is Friday, December 19th and Happy Birthday to Al Kaline 

 

I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal 
South Cobb mayors speak on accomplishments, future
Jaha Howard wins runoff for Georgia Senate District 35
Cobb County staff trade desk work for Christmas carols

 

Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats 

As well as Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre 

 

All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  

 

Now here is Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre 

 

BREAK: THE STRAND 

STORY 1:  South Cobb mayors speak on accomplishments, future 

 Three mayors, three cities, and a lot to reflect on. Austell Mayor Ollie Clemons, Mableton Mayor Michael Owens, and Powder Springs Mayor Al Thurman gathered at the Riverside EpiCenter to talk about 2025 wins and what’s next for 2026 during the State of South Cobb event. 

Clemons? He’s proud of Austell’s bold move to raise the millage rate for the first time in decades. “It’s about reinvesting in our community,” he said, pointing to plans for downtown revitalization and hiring a city manager—finally. 

Owens celebrated Mableton’s new departments and leadership team, calling 2025 a year of “building the foundation.” Next year? It’s all about community engagement and growth. 

Thurman highlighted Powder Springs’ shiny new city hall and parking garage, plus job-creating developments. His focus for 2026? Sustainable growth and leaving a legacy of leadership.  

STORY 2:  Jaha Howard wins runoff for Georgia Senate District 35 

Jaha Howard pulled off a narrow win Tuesday night, defeating fellow Democrat Roger Bruce in the runoff for state Senate District 35. Unofficial results show Howard, a dentist and former Cobb school board member, edging out Bruce with 51.9% of the vote to Bruce’s 48.1%. 

The seat, which covers parts of Cobb and Fulton counties, was left open when Jason Esteves stepped down to run for governor. Howard credited his win to personal outreach—hundreds of phone calls, he said, to build trust. “People want to feel heard,” he said. 

Bruce’s campaign struggled with name recognition, especially in Cobb. 

STORY 3: Cobb County staff trade desk work for Christmas carols 

 Glover Park got a dose of holiday magic Tuesday, thanks to Cobb County’s newest choir, “Cobb County Sonic Sound” (or, as they like to call themselves, “CoCo SoSo”). 

Led by Dr. Jatunn Gibson, head of the county’s Public Services Agency, the group—decked out in festive sweaters and holiday flair—belted out classics like “Joy to the World” and “White Christmas.” Oh, and they’ve got their own band too, all county employees. 

Between songs, they performed skits about elves saving Christmas. “It’s all about fun and camaraderie,” said Grace Williams, a choir member. “We’re connecting beyond work—and it’s a blast.” 

We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  

We’ll be right back. 

 

Break: Villa Rica Wonderland Train 

STORY 4: Jason Gaines named Mableton Citizen of the Year 

 Jason Gaines didn’t see it coming. This week, he was named the 2025 Mableton Citizen of the Year at the South Cobb Area Council meeting, and the surprise left him, well, a little speechless. 

“It just warms my heart,” Gaines said. “To know the work I’ve done is appreciated like this—it’s humbling.” 

Gaines, who’s the director of planning at Croy Engineering and chairs the Mableton Development Authority Board, was honored by Mayor Michael Owens. “Jason’s been a force,” Owens said. “His expertise and passion have shaped this community at such a critical time.” 

The guy’s résumé? Stacked. Leadership programs, board memberships—he’s everywhere. 

STORY 5: Anderson steps down as Walker football coach 

TJ Anderson pulled off something close to miraculous in 2025. 

With just 23 players—yes, 23—he guided Walker through a grueling 10-game season. The Wolverines finished 2-8, but they still earned a spot in the Class A-AAA Private state playoffs. Unfortunately, injuries piled up, and the team had to decline the bid. “We had to make the best decision for our kids,” Anderson said, reflecting on the tough call. 

But that season? It was his last. Anderson announced on X that he’s stepping down as Walker’s head coach after three years. “It’s been a journey,” he wrote, thanking the community and his family. 

BRAVES:  Ha-Seong Kim is staying put in Atlanta—at least for another year. The 30-year-old shortstop signed a one-year, $20 million deal with the Braves on Monday, locking him in as the team’s starter for 2026. Not bad, considering he turned down a $16 million option just last month and walked away with an extra $4 million. 

Kim joined the Braves late last season, claimed off waivers from Tampa Bay on Sept. 1. He made an immediate impact, hitting .309 with a .372 OBP, three homers, and 12 RBIs in his first 19 games. Sure, he cooled off at the end—1-for-19 in the last five games—but the Braves clearly see his potential. 

Kim’s journey hasn’t been without bumps. Injuries sidelined him for much of 2025 with the Rays, where he hit just .214 in 24 games. But let’s not forget—this guy won a Gold Glove with the Padres in 2023 and has 84 career stolen bases. 

The Braves are betting on a bounce-back. And if Kim can channel his San Diego form, he could be a 3-4 WAR player. High hopes, but hey, the talent’s there. 

 

I'm Keith Ippolito and that’s your MDJ Sports Minute. 

 

And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats 

 

We’ll have closing comments after this. 

 

Break: INGLES 8 

 

Signoff-   

Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com 

Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. 

Produced by the BG Podcast Network 

  

Show Sponsors: 
www.ingles-markets.com  

&nbsp; =====&nbsp;&nbsp;MDJ&nbsp;Script/&nbsp;Top Stories for&nbsp;December&nbsp;19th&nbsp;
Publish Date: &nbsp;December&nbsp;19th&nbsp;
  &nbsp;
Commercial:&nbsp;&nbsp;
From the&nbsp;BG AD Group&nbsp;Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. &nbsp;
 &nbsp;
Today is&nbsp;Friday,&nbsp;December&nbsp;19th&nbsp;and Happy Birthday to&nbsp;Al Kaline&nbsp;
&nbsp;
I&rsquo;m&nbsp;Keith Ippolito&nbsp;and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by&nbsp;Times Journal&nbsp;
<ol>
<li>South Cobb mayors speak on accomplishments, future</li>
<li>Jaha Howard wins runoff for Georgia Senate District 35</li>
<li>Cobb County staff trade desk work for Christmas carols</li>
</ol>
&nbsp;
Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets&nbsp;on&nbsp;saturated fats&nbsp;
As well as Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre&nbsp;
&nbsp;
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! &nbsp;
&nbsp;
Now here is Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre&nbsp;
&nbsp;
BREAK:&nbsp;THE STRAND&nbsp;
STORY 1:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/south-cobb-mayors-speak-on-accomplishments-future/article_b7b62952-ddcd-4a44-b575-2aa9736eb0aa.html">South Cobb mayors speak on accomplishments, future</a>&nbsp;
 Three mayors, three cities, and a lot to reflect on. Austell Mayor Ollie Clemons, Mableton Mayor Michael Owens, and Powder Springs Mayor Al Thurman gathered at the Riverside&nbsp;EpiCenter&nbsp;to talk about 2025 wins and&nbsp;what&rsquo;s&nbsp;next for 2026 during the State of South Cobb event.&nbsp;
Clemons?&nbsp;He&rsquo;s&nbsp;proud of Austell&rsquo;s bold move to raise the millage rate for the first time in decades. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s about reinvesting in our community,&rdquo; he said, pointing to plans for downtown revitalization and hiring a city manager&mdash;finally.&nbsp;
Owens celebrated Mableton&rsquo;s new departments and leadership team, calling 2025 a year of &ldquo;building the foundation.&rdquo; Next year?&nbsp;It&rsquo;s&nbsp;all about community engagement and growth.&nbsp;
Thurman highlighted Powder Springs&rsquo; shiny new city hall and parking garage, plus job-creating developments. His focus for 2026? Sustainable growth and leaving a legacy of leadership.&nbsp;&nbsp;
STORY 2:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/news/elections/jaha-howard-wins-runoff-for-georgia-senate-district-35/article_1639c98b-6e84-4613-87c3-cc543962a4b6.html">Jaha Howard wins runoff for Georgia Senate District 35</a>&nbsp;
Jaha Howard pulled off a narrow win Tuesday night, defeating fellow Democrat Roger Bruce in the runoff for state Senate District 35. Unofficial results show Howard, a dentist and former Cobb school board member,&nbsp;edging out&nbsp;Bruce with 51.9% of the vote to Bruce&rsquo;s 48.1%.&nbsp;
The seat, which covers parts of Cobb and Fulton counties, was left open when Jason Esteves stepped down to run for governor. Howard credited his win to personal outreach&mdash;hundreds of phone calls, he said, to build trust. &ldquo;People want to feel heard,&rdquo; he said.&nbsp;
Bruce&rsquo;s campaign struggled with name recognition, especially&nbsp;in&nbsp;Cobb.&nbsp;
STORY 3:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/cobb-county-staff-trade-desk-work-for-christmas-carols/article_f6c39121-5336-4e2c-a25c-4a7bc6d85122.html">Cobb County staff trade desk work for Christmas carols</a>&nbsp;
 Glover Park got a dose of holiday magic Tuesday, thanks to Cobb County&rsquo;s newest choir, &ldquo;Cobb County Sonic Sound&rdquo; (or, as they like to call themselves, &ldquo;CoCo&nbsp;SoSo&rdquo;).&nbsp;
Led by Dr.&nbsp;Jatunn&nbsp;Gibson, head of the county&rsquo;s Public Services Agency, the group&mdash;decked out in festive sweaters and holiday flair&mdash;belted out classics like &ldquo;Joy to the World&rdquo; and &ldquo;White Christmas.&rdquo; Oh, and&nbsp;they&rsquo;ve&nbsp;got their own band too, all county employees.&nbsp;
Between songs, they performed skits about elves saving Christmas. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s all about fun and camaraderie,&rdquo; said Grace Williams, a choir member. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re connecting beyond work&mdash;and it&rsquo;s a blast.&rdquo;&nbsp;
We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info. &nbsp;
We&rsquo;ll&nbsp;be right back.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Break:&nbsp;Villa Rica Wonderland Train&nbsp;
STORY&nbsp;4:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/jason-gaines-named-mableton-citizen-of-the-year/article_84af549a-2b58-45ef-8e76-133a5d7339e9.html">Jason Gaines named Mableton Citizen of the Year</a>&nbsp;
 Jason Gaines&nbsp;didn&rsquo;t&nbsp;see it coming. This week, he was named the 2025 Mableton Citizen of the Year at the South Cobb Area Council meeting, and the surprise left him, well, a little speechless.&nbsp;
&ldquo;It just warms my heart,&rdquo; Gaines said. &ldquo;To know the&nbsp;work&nbsp;I&rsquo;ve done is appreciated like this&mdash;it&rsquo;s humbling.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Gaines,&nbsp;who&rsquo;s&nbsp;the director of planning at Croy Engineering and chairs the Mableton Development Authority Board, was honored by Mayor Michael Owens. &ldquo;Jason&rsquo;s been a force,&rdquo; Owens said. &ldquo;His expertise and passion have shaped this community at such a critical time.&rdquo;&nbsp;
The guy&rsquo;s r&eacute;sum&eacute;? Stacked. Leadership programs, board memberships&mdash;he&rsquo;s&nbsp;everywhere.&nbsp;
STORY&nbsp;5:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/cobb_football_friday/anderson-steps-down-as-walker-football-coach/article_d3e84d9e-28dd-4e27-965b-9f274177d7b3.html">Anderson steps down as Walker football coach</a>&nbsp;
TJ Anderson pulled off something close to miraculous in 2025.&nbsp;
With just 23 players&mdash;yes, 23&mdash;he guided Walker through a grueling 10-game season. The Wolverines finished 2-8, but they still earned a spot in the Class A-AAA Private&nbsp;state&nbsp;playoffs. Unfortunately, injuries piled up, and the team had to decline the bid. &ldquo;We had to make the best decision for our kids,&rdquo; Anderson said, reflecting on the tough call.&nbsp;
But that season? It was his last. Anderson announced on X that&nbsp;he&rsquo;s&nbsp;stepping down as Walker&rsquo;s head coach after three years. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s been a journey,&rdquo; he wrote, thanking the community and his family.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.tribuneledgernews.com/sports/braves/braves-re-sign-ss-ha-seong-kim-on-1-year-20m-deal/article_2148a387-0104-560d-82da-217cf98ac4ad.html">BRAVES:</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Ha-Seong Kim is&nbsp;staying put&nbsp;in&nbsp;Atlanta&mdash;at least&nbsp;for another year. The 30-year-old shortstop signed a one-year, $20 million deal with the Braves on Monday, locking him in as the team&rsquo;s starter for 2026. Not bad, considering he turned down a $16 million&nbsp;option&nbsp;just last month and walked away with an extra $4 million.&nbsp;
Kim joined the Braves late last season,&nbsp;claimed&nbsp;off&nbsp;waivers from Tampa Bay on Sept. 1. He made an immediate impact, hitting .309 with a .372 OBP, three homers, and 12 RBIs in his first 19 games. Sure, he cooled off at the end&mdash;1-for-19 in the last five games&mdash;but the Braves clearly see his potential.&nbsp;
Kim&rsquo;s journey&nbsp;hasn&rsquo;t&nbsp;been without bumps. Injuries sidelined him for much of 2025 with the Rays, where he hit just .214 in 24 games. But&nbsp;let&rsquo;s&nbsp;not forget&mdash;this guy won a Gold Glove with the Padres in 2023 and has 84 career stolen bases.&nbsp;
The Braves are betting on a bounce-back. And if Kim can channel his San Diego form, he could be a 3-4 WAR player. High hopes, but hey, the talent&rsquo;s there.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
I'm&nbsp;Keith Ippolito and&nbsp;that&rsquo;s&nbsp;your MDJ Sports Minute.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles&nbsp;Markets&nbsp;on&nbsp;saturated&nbsp;fats&nbsp;
&nbsp;
We&rsquo;ll&nbsp;have closing comments after this.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Break:&nbsp;INGLES&nbsp;8&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Signoff-  &nbsp;
Thanks again for hanging out with us on today&rsquo;s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other&nbsp;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&nbsp;
Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling&nbsp;great stories&nbsp;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&nbsp;us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or&nbsp;your Google&nbsp;Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/">Produced by the BG Podcast Network</a>&nbsp;
&nbsp;&nbsp;
Show Sponsors:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.ingles-markets.com/">www.ingles-markets.com</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

South Cobb mayors speak on accomplishments, future | Jaha Howard wins runoff for Georgia Senate District 35 | Cobb County staff trade desk work for Christmas carols

 MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 17th 

Publish Date:  December 17th 

 

Commercial:  

From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.  

  

Today is Wednesday, December 17th and Happy Birthday to Eugene Levy 

 

I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal 
‘History Rocks!’: Sonny Perdue celebrates America’s 250th at Allatoona High
Sheriff’s annual Santa On Wheels donates thousands of toys
100+ wreaths placed at veteran tombstones at Kennesaw cemetery

 

Plus, Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre 

All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  

 

BREAK: INGLES 7 

STORY 1: ‘History Rocks!’: Sonny Perdue celebrates America’s 250th at Allatoona High 

  Allatoona High kicked off the buzz for America’s 250th birthday this week with a visit from the U.S. Department of Education’s “History Rocks! Trail to Independence” tour. And yes, former Gov. Sonny Perdue was there, rallying students to think big about the next 250 years. 

“America doesn’t stay great by accident,” Perdue told the crowd. “It takes work—your work. Education is what keeps democracy alive.” 

The event wasn’t just speeches. Students played history-themed games like “E Pluribus Unum” and a patriotic spin on “Family Feud.” 

Cobb Superintendent Chris Ragsdale called it “tremendous,” reminiscing about celebrating the bicentennial as a kid in 1976. Full circle, indeed. 

STORY 2: Sheriff’s annual Santa On Wheels donates thousands of toys 

Cobb Sheriff Craig Owens and his team brought some serious holiday magic to Mableton schools on Saturday with their fourth annual Santa On Wheels toy drive. 

Over 1,600 toys were handed out at Lindley and Floyd middle schools, turning the day into a Christmas wonderland for families in need. “Seeing those kids’ smiles—it’s everything,” Owens said. “Times are tough, but this? This is why we do it.” 

Owens, dressed as Santa (with Mrs. Claus by his side), posed for photos and handed out gifts, while Christmas music played and kids lined up for presents—and even a chance to win a bike. 

STORY 3: 100+ wreaths placed at veteran tombstones at Kennesaw cemetery 

  On a chilly Saturday afternoon, Kennesaw City Cemetery became a quiet, reverent place of remembrance. Volunteers—city officials, Scouts, families—gathered to lay wreaths on the graves of 139 veterans as part of the Wreaths Across America campaign. 

Each headstone, marked with an American flag, received a wreath. Volunteers paused, saluted, and reflected. “This is Christmas,” said Mayor Derek Easterling, a Navy veteran. “We honor them because they gave everything for our freedom.” 

For 8-year-old Scout Archer Linscott, it was about tradition. “We’ll be back,” his dad said. “It’s about remembering the past as we move forward.” 

We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  

 

We’ll be right back. 

 

Break: Villa Rica Wonderland Train 

 

STORY 4: Second suspect in Kell High School vandalism case charged, released from custody 

The second suspect in the Thanksgiving break vandalism at Kell High School has been charged, according to jail records. 

Hunter Bridges, 18, of Marietta, was arrested last Thursday and released on a $16,720 bond. He and Micah Zefo, 22, of Acworth, allegedly broke into the school on Nov. 24, causing over $12,000 in damage. 

Police say the pair climbed onto the roof, entered through a hatch, and spent hours inside. They reportedly drove floor scrubbers across the gym’s newly refinished hardwood, leaving deep scratches, and even tampered with school buses. 

Both face multiple felonies. The district called the behavior “unacceptable.” 

STORY 5:  Cobb 911 earns triple accreditation as center of excellence 

 Cobb County’s Emergency Communications team just hit a major milestone: triple accreditation from the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED). That’s right—Tri-ACE status. Only 27 agencies in the world have it, and Cobb’s the first county agency in Georgia to pull it off. 

This recognition means Cobb’s 911 center excels in fire, police, and medical dispatch. It wasn’t easy—earning this required meeting 20 tough accreditation standards and passing expert reviews. 

“This is the gold standard,” said E911 Director Melissa Alterio. “It’s proof of the incredible work our team does every single day.” 

Break:  

STORY 6: Cobb Collaborative, Cobb Community Foundation honor community leaders 

   The Cobb Collaborative and Cobb Community Foundation came together for the 32nd annual Human Services Awards Luncheon, a heartfelt celebration of the people and organizations transforming lives in Cobb County. 

“This is about selflessness, innovation, and teamwork,” said Irene Barton, Cobb Collaborative’s executive director. “These honorees remind us what’s possible when we work together to tackle issues like homelessness and food insecurity.” 

Among the winners: Mark Riggans of Cobb Christmas and Janet Porter of Four Corners Group, honored for their service; Kelsey Thompson-White Battersby, recognized for her housing initiatives; and Kidz2Leaders, awarded $10,000 for breaking cycles of generational incarceration. 

STORY 7: Navigating Food Allergies During the Holiday Season: What Families Need to Know 

The holidays are all about food, right? But for families dealing with food allergies, festive treats can feel more like a minefield than a celebration. One wrong bite, and it’s not just a ruined party—it’s a trip to the ER. 

Over 33 million Americans have food allergies, and anaphylaxis-related emergencies have skyrocketed in recent years. Dr. Joanna Dolgoff says about 1 in 20 kids now has a diagnosed food allergy. Why? Better diagnoses, sure, but also changes in diet, environment, and how kids’ immune systems develop. 

Feeling overwhelmed? Totally normal. Start small: communicate, read labels, pack safe snacks, and always—always—carry epinephrine. 

Now, here is Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre 

Break: THE STRAND HOLIDAY 

 

Signoff-   

Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com 

Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. 

Produced by the BG Podcast Network 

  

Show Sponsors: 
www.ingles-markets.com

&nbsp;MDJ Script/&nbsp;Top Stories for&nbsp;December&nbsp;17th&nbsp;
Publish Date: &nbsp;December&nbsp;17th&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Commercial:&nbsp;&nbsp;
From the&nbsp;BG Ad Group&nbsp;Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. &nbsp;
 &nbsp;
Today is&nbsp;Wednesday,&nbsp;December&nbsp;17th&nbsp;and Happy Birthday to&nbsp;Eugene Levy&nbsp;
&nbsp;
I&rsquo;m&nbsp;Keith Ippolito&nbsp;and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by&nbsp;Times Journal&nbsp;
<ol>
<li>&lsquo;History Rocks!&rsquo;: Sonny Perdue celebrates America&rsquo;s 250th at Allatoona High</li>
<li>Sheriff&rsquo;s annual Santa On Wheels donates thousands of toys</li>
<li>100+ wreaths placed at veteran tombstones at Kennesaw cemetery</li>
</ol>
&nbsp;
Plus, Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre&nbsp;
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! &nbsp;
&nbsp;
BREAK:&nbsp;INGLES&nbsp;7&nbsp;
STORY 1:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/news/education/history-rocks-sonny-perdue-celebrates-america-s-250th-at-allatoona-high/article_308f64ce-40c8-4cc8-bc52-516bdbb68ae9.html">&lsquo;History Rocks!&rsquo;: Sonny Perdue celebrates America&rsquo;s 250th at Allatoona High</a>&nbsp;
&nbsp;&nbsp;Allatoona High kicked off the buzz for America&rsquo;s 250th birthday this week with a visit from the U.S. Department of Education&rsquo;s &ldquo;History Rocks! Trail to Independence&rdquo; tour. And yes, former Gov. Sonny Perdue was there, rallying students to think big about the next 250 years.&nbsp;
&ldquo;America doesn&rsquo;t stay great by accident,&rdquo; Perdue told the crowd. &ldquo;It takes work&mdash;your work. Education is what keeps democracy alive.&rdquo;&nbsp;
The event&nbsp;wasn&rsquo;t&nbsp;just speeches. Students played history-themed games like &ldquo;E Pluribus Unum&rdquo; and a patriotic spin on &ldquo;Family Feud.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Cobb Superintendent Chris Ragsdale called it &ldquo;tremendous,&rdquo; reminiscing about celebrating the bicentennial as a kid in 1976. Full circle, indeed.&nbsp;
STORY 2:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/news/sheriff-s-annual-santa-on-wheels-donates-thousands-of-toys/article_4e3ad8ee-e5bd-4f95-b255-e4807e20ad90.html">Sheriff&rsquo;s annual Santa On Wheels donates thousands of toys</a>&nbsp;
Cobb Sheriff Craig Owens and his team brought some serious holiday magic to Mableton schools on Saturday with their fourth annual Santa&nbsp;On&nbsp;Wheels toy drive.&nbsp;
Over 1,600 toys were handed out at Lindley and Floyd middle schools, turning the day into a Christmas wonderland for families in need. &ldquo;Seeing those&nbsp;kids&rsquo;&nbsp;smiles&mdash;it&rsquo;s everything,&rdquo; Owens said. &ldquo;Times are tough, but this? This is why we do it.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Owens, dressed as Santa (with Mrs. Claus by his side), posed for photos and handed out gifts, while Christmas music&nbsp;played&nbsp;and kids lined up for presents&mdash;and even a chance to win a bike.&nbsp;
STORY 3:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/news/100-wreaths-placed-at-veteran-tombstones-at-kennesaw-cemetery/article_0ccdcf0c-d3bf-43c3-afde-a9f3fb72b744.html">100+ wreaths placed at veteran tombstones at Kennesaw cemetery</a>&nbsp;
  On a chilly Saturday afternoon, Kennesaw City Cemetery became a quiet, reverent place of remembrance. Volunteers&mdash;city officials, Scouts, families&mdash;gathered to lay wreaths on the graves of 139 veterans as part of the Wreaths Across America campaign.&nbsp;
Each headstone, marked with an American flag, received a wreath. Volunteers paused, saluted, and reflected. &ldquo;This is Christmas,&rdquo; said Mayor Derek Easterling, a Navy veteran. &ldquo;We honor them because they gave everything for our freedom.&rdquo;&nbsp;
For 8-year-old Scout Archer Linscott, it was about tradition. &ldquo;We&rsquo;ll be back,&rdquo; his dad said. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s about remembering the past as we move forward.&rdquo;&nbsp;
We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info. &nbsp;
&nbsp;
We&rsquo;ll&nbsp;be right back.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Break:&nbsp;Villa Rica Wonderland Train&nbsp;
&nbsp;
STORY 4:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/news/second-suspect-in-kell-high-school-vandalism-case-charged-released-from-custody/article_e43f04a3-cce9-464f-b5bc-5ab522a73e20.html">Second suspect in Kell High School vandalism case charged, released from custody</a>&nbsp;
The second suspect in the Thanksgiving&nbsp;break&nbsp;vandalism at Kell High School has been charged, according to jail records.&nbsp;
Hunter Bridges, 18, of Marietta, was arrested&nbsp;last&nbsp;Thursday and released on a $16,720 bond. He and Micah&nbsp;Zefo, 22, of Acworth, allegedly broke into the school on Nov. 24, causing over $12,000 in damage.&nbsp;
Police say the pair climbed onto the roof, entered through a hatch, and spent hours inside. They&nbsp;reportedly drove&nbsp;floor scrubbers across the gym&rsquo;s newly refinished hardwood, leaving deep scratches, and even tampered with school buses.&nbsp;
Both face multiple felonies. The district called the behavior &ldquo;unacceptable.&rdquo;&nbsp;
STORY 5:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/cobb-911-earns-triple-accreditation-as-center-of-excellence/article_96afecfb-74ba-4d11-aba4-bbdb9c72b1bd.html">Cobb 911 earns triple accreditation as center of excellence</a>&nbsp;
 Cobb County&rsquo;s Emergency Communications team just hit a major milestone: triple accreditation from the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED).&nbsp;That&rsquo;s&nbsp;right&mdash;Tri-ACE status. Only 27 agencies in the world have it, and Cobb&rsquo;s the first county agency in Georgia to pull it off.&nbsp;
This recognition means Cobb&rsquo;s 911 center excels in fire, police, and medical dispatch. It&nbsp;wasn&rsquo;t&nbsp;easy&mdash;earning&nbsp;this required meeting 20 tough accreditation standards and passing expert reviews.&nbsp;
&ldquo;This is the gold standard,&rdquo; said E911 Director Melissa Alterio. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s proof of the incredible work our team does every single day.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Break:&nbsp;&nbsp;
STORY 6:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/cobb-collaborative-cobb-community-foundation-honor-community-leaders/article_d28601b0-1c74-4a1c-bdfd-bfb7943d7080.html">Cobb Collaborative, Cobb Community Foundation honor community leaders</a>&nbsp;
   The Cobb Collaborative and Cobb Community Foundation came together for the 32nd annual Human Services Awards Luncheon, a heartfelt celebration of the people and organizations transforming lives in Cobb County.&nbsp;
&ldquo;This is about selflessness, innovation, and teamwork,&rdquo; said Irene Barton, Cobb Collaborative&rsquo;s executive director. &ldquo;These honorees remind&nbsp;us&nbsp;what&rsquo;s possible when we work together to tackle issues like homelessness and food insecurity.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Among the winners: Mark Riggans of Cobb Christmas and Janet Porter of Four Corners Group, honored for their service; Kelsey Thompson-White Battersby, recognized for her housing initiatives; and Kidz2Leaders, awarded $10,000 for breaking cycles of generational incarceration.&nbsp;
STORY&nbsp;7:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/news/lifestyle/navigating-food-allergies-during-the-holiday-season-what-families-need-to-know/article_511e7c58-9596-4656-af59-36edd0082b1b.html">Navigating Food Allergies During the Holiday Season: What Families Need to Know</a>&nbsp;
The holidays are all about food, right? But for families dealing with food allergies, festive treats can feel more like a minefield than a celebration. One wrong bite, and&nbsp;it&rsquo;s&nbsp;not just a ruined party&mdash;it&rsquo;s&nbsp;a trip to the ER.&nbsp;
Over 33 million Americans have food allergies, and anaphylaxis-related emergencies have skyrocketed in recent years. Dr. Joanna Dolgoff says about 1 in 20 kids now&nbsp;has&nbsp;a diagnosed food allergy. Why? Better diagnoses, sure, but also changes in diet, environment, and how kids&rsquo; immune systems develop.&nbsp;
Feeling overwhelmed?&nbsp;Totally normal. Start small: communicate, read labels, pack safe snacks, and always&mdash;always&mdash;carry epinephrine.&nbsp;
Now, here is Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre&nbsp;
Break:&nbsp;THE STRAND HOLIDAY&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Signoff-  &nbsp;
Thanks again for hanging out with us on today&rsquo;s&nbsp;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&nbsp;
Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling&nbsp;great stories&nbsp;are what we do. Make sure you join us&nbsp;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&nbsp;your Google&nbsp;Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/">Produced by the BG Podcast Network</a>&nbsp;
&nbsp;&nbsp;
Show Sponsors:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.ingles-markets.com/">www.ingles-markets.com</a></li>
</ul>

‘History Rocks!’: Sonny Perdue celebrates America’s 250th at Allatoona High | Sheriff’s annual Santa On Wheels donates thousands of toys | 100+ wreaths placed at veteran tombstones at Kennesaw cemetery

  =====  MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 12th 

Publish Date:  December 12th 

   

Commercial:  

From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.  

  

Today is Friday, December 12th and Happy Birthday to Frank Sinatra 

 

I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal 
Pedestrian safety improvements coming to south Cobb
Gateway Marietta CID seeks public input on 12 projects
The Georgia Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker

 

Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk 

As well as Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre 

 

All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  

 

Now here is Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre 

 

BREAK: THE STRAND 

STORY 1: Pedestrian safety improvements coming to south Cobb 

 Cobb County’s making moves to keep pedestrians safer in south Cobb, tackling two big projects: a pedestrian bridge near Factory Shoals Road and new bollards at Mableton Town Square Park. 

Let’s start with Factory Shoals. That bridge over I-20? Built in 1963, and, well, it shows. No sidewalks, no bike lanes—just a narrow shoulder that’s barely walkable. Commissioner Monique Sheffield said it’s been a problem for years, especially for folks working at nearby businesses. Now, the county’s greenlit a plan for a new pedestrian bridge alongside the old one, connecting sidewalks on both sides. 

And Mableton Park? Bollards are coming to stop cars from driving onto the grounds—because, yes, that’s been happening. 

STORY 2:  Gateway Marietta CID seeks public input on 12 projects 

 The Gateway Marietta CID wants your thoughts—yes, yours—on 12 infrastructure projects they’re planning. These aren’t just random ideas; they’re focused on Franklin Gateway, South Marietta Parkway, and Delk Road. 

What’s on the table? Everything from streetscapes and trails to bridge replacements and new road connections. Some projects, like the Rottenwood Creek Trail extension ($20 million!) and Franklin Gateway bridge rebuild, are already in motion. Others, like adding Gateway signage or narrowing roads for multiuse trails, are still in the “what do you think?” phase. 

Your input will help shape what gets prioritized. Got opinions? Take the survey before the master plan wraps next year. Visit engage.publiccoordinate.com/en/project/gateway-marietta-cid-project-prioritization. 

 

STORY 3: The Georgia Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker 

 The Georgia Ballet’s The Nutcracker is back, running Dec. 18–23 at the Jennie T. Anderson Theatre, and it’s bringing all the holiday magic you’d expect—plus a little extra sparkle this year. 

Here’s the twist: they’ve teamed up with Hamp & Harry’s, a Marietta Square favorite, to add some festive flair. Think Nutcracker-themed cocktails (yes, there’s wine and beer too) in the lobby before the show and during intermission. 

The ballet itself? Pure enchantment. Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, Clara’s midnight adventure, snowflakes, sweets, and Daet Rodriguez’s choreography. There’s even a Sensory-Friendly performance on Dec. 18—perfect for kids or anyone needing a gentler experience. 

Tickets start at $23. Don’t wait. 

We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  

We’ll be right back. 

 

Break: Villa Rica Wonderland Train 

STORY 4: North Cobb Christian student wins statewide essay contest 

 North Cobb Christian seventh-grader Samille Shy just snagged first place in Georgia for her essay, “What Is Patriotism to Me?”—a big win in the VFW’s Patriot’s Pen contest, which had over 120,000 entries nationwide. 

Samille’s take on patriotism? It’s about giving back. She wrote about volunteering at a food pantry, helping out at The Humane Society, singing with her school chorus on Veterans Day, and being part of the Sea Cadet Corps. 

The Georgia VFW loved it, awarding her top honors. Next stop? The regional competition. Not bad for a middle schooler, huh? 

STORY 5: McEachern rolls into state championship game 

 Every time McEachern scores, the announcer calls out the updated score. And when the opponent has zero? Oh, the crowd lives for it. They stretch it out—“zerooooooo”—like it’s a victory chant. 

They’ve had plenty of practice. Over the last two seasons, McEachern’s flag football team has gone 51-2, allowing just 2.9 points per game with 35 shutouts. Monday was no different. The Indians blanked Lithia Springs 19-0, then crushed North Forsyth 33-0 to punch their ticket to the state championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. 

Now, McEachern heads to the championship, chasing back-to-back titles. 

GEORGIA TECH:No. 22 Georgia Tech is heading to the Pop-Tarts Bowl to take on No. 12 BYU on Saturday, Dec. 27, at Camping World Stadium in Orlando. Kickoff’s at 3:30 p.m., and you can catch it live on ABC. 

This marks Tech’s third straight bowl trip—something they haven’t pulled off since 2012-14—and their 48th all-time, which ranks 14th in college football history. With a 9-3 record, it’s their best regular season since 2014. 

BYU (11-2) comes in hot, despite two losses to Texas Tech. It’s a ranked-vs.-ranked showdown, Tech’s first since the 2014 Orange Bowl. History’s on their side—they’re 2-0 in this bowl. 

 

I'm Keith Ippolito and that’s your MDJ Sports Minute. 

 

And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk 

 

 

We’ll have closing comments after this. 

 

Break: INGLES 6 

 

Signoff-   

Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com 

Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. 

Produced by the BG Podcast Network 

  

Show Sponsors: 
www.ingles-markets.com  

&nbsp; =====&nbsp; MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 12th&nbsp;
Publish Date:  December 12th&nbsp;
  &nbsp;
Commercial:&nbsp;&nbsp;
From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. &nbsp;
 &nbsp;
Today is Friday, December 12th and Happy Birthday to Frank Sinatra&nbsp;
&nbsp;
I&rsquo;m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal&nbsp;
<ol>
<li>Pedestrian safety improvements coming to south Cobb</li>
<li>Gateway Marietta CID seeks public input on 12 projects</li>
<li>The Georgia Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker</li>
</ol>
&nbsp;
Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk&nbsp;
As well as Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre&nbsp;
&nbsp;
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! &nbsp;
&nbsp;
Now here is Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre&nbsp;
&nbsp;
BREAK: THE STRAND&nbsp;
STORY 1:&nbsp; <a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/pedestrian-safety-improvements-coming-to-south-cobb/article_572e1dfe-4604-4899-b9a9-072f8d0073de.html">Pedestrian safety improvements coming to south Cobb</a>&nbsp;
 Cobb County&rsquo;s making moves to keep pedestrians safer in south Cobb, tackling two big projects: a pedestrian bridge near Factory Shoals Road and new bollards at Mableton Town Square Park.&nbsp;
Let&rsquo;s start with Factory Shoals. That bridge over I-20? Built in 1963, and, well, it shows. No sidewalks, no bike lanes&mdash;just a narrow shoulder that&rsquo;s barely walkable. Commissioner Monique Sheffield said it&rsquo;s been a problem for years, especially for folks working at nearby businesses. Now, the county&rsquo;s greenlit a plan for a new pedestrian bridge alongside the old one, connecting sidewalks on both sides.&nbsp;
And Mableton Park? Bollards are coming to stop cars from driving onto the grounds&mdash;because, yes, that&rsquo;s been happening.&nbsp;
STORY 2:&nbsp; <a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/gateway-marietta-cid-seeks-public-input-on-12-projects/article_b5c1710e-4774-44f6-874f-07f5b27d358b.html">Gateway Marietta CID seeks public input on 12 projects</a>&nbsp;
 The Gateway Marietta CID wants your thoughts&mdash;yes, yours&mdash;on 12 infrastructure projects they&rsquo;re planning. These aren&rsquo;t just random ideas; they&rsquo;re focused on Franklin Gateway, South Marietta Parkway, and Delk Road.&nbsp;
What&rsquo;s on the table? Everything from streetscapes and trails to bridge replacements and new road connections. Some projects, like the Rottenwood Creek Trail extension ($20 million!) and Franklin Gateway bridge rebuild, are already in motion. Others, like adding Gateway signage or narrowing roads for multiuse trails, are still in the &ldquo;what do you think?&rdquo; phase.&nbsp;
Your input will help shape what gets prioritized. Got opinions? Take the survey before the master plan wraps next year. Visit <a href="http://engage.publiccoordinate.com/en/project/gateway-marietta-cid-project-prioritization">engage.publiccoordinate.com/en/project/gateway-marietta-cid-project-prioritization</a>.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
STORY 3: <a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/news/lifestyle/the-georgia-ballet-presents-the-nutcracker/article_9796ce47-8a0a-4f65-9447-3f4a1a8db6f3.html">The Georgia Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker</a>&nbsp;
 The Georgia Ballet&rsquo;s The Nutcracker is back, running Dec. 18&ndash;23 at the Jennie T. Anderson Theatre, and it&rsquo;s bringing all the holiday magic you&rsquo;d expect&mdash;plus a little extra sparkle this year.&nbsp;
Here&rsquo;s the twist: they&rsquo;ve teamed up with Hamp &amp; Harry&rsquo;s, a Marietta Square favorite, to add some festive flair. Think Nutcracker-themed cocktails (yes, there&rsquo;s wine and beer too) in the lobby before the show and during intermission.&nbsp;
The ballet itself? Pure enchantment. Tchaikovsky&rsquo;s iconic score, Clara&rsquo;s midnight adventure, snowflakes, sweets, and Daet Rodriguez&rsquo;s choreography. There&rsquo;s even a Sensory-Friendly performance on Dec. 18&mdash;perfect for kids or anyone needing a gentler experience.&nbsp;
Tickets start at $23. Don&rsquo;t wait.&nbsp;
We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info. &nbsp;
We&rsquo;ll be right back.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Break: Villa Rica Wonderland Train&nbsp;
STORY 4: <a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/news/education/north-cobb-christian-student-wins-statewide-essay-contest/article_6c8a0a55-a251-442d-8f1b-72fbfbaebd32.html">North Cobb Christian student wins statewide essay contest</a>&nbsp;
 North Cobb Christian seventh-grader Samille Shy just snagged first place in Georgia for her essay, &ldquo;What Is Patriotism to Me?&rdquo;&mdash;a big win in the VFW&rsquo;s Patriot&rsquo;s Pen contest, which had over 120,000 entries nationwide.&nbsp;
Samille&rsquo;s take on patriotism? It&rsquo;s about giving back. She wrote about volunteering at a food pantry, helping out at The Humane Society, singing with her school chorus on Veterans Day, and being part of the Sea Cadet Corps.&nbsp;
The Georgia VFW loved it, awarding her top honors. Next stop? The regional competition. Not bad for a middle schooler, huh?&nbsp;
STORY 5: <a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/cobb_football_friday/mceachern-rolls-into-state-championship-game/article_a57ff28c-6e8d-4b38-9d8a-c557dd1439af.html">McEachern rolls into state championship game</a>&nbsp;
 Every time McEachern scores, the announcer calls out the updated score. And when the opponent has zero? Oh, the crowd lives for it. They stretch it out&mdash;&ldquo;zerooooooo&rdquo;&mdash;like it&rsquo;s a victory chant.&nbsp;
They&rsquo;ve had plenty of practice. Over the last two seasons, McEachern&rsquo;s flag football team has gone 51-2, allowing just 2.9 points per game with 35 shutouts. Monday was no different. The Indians blanked Lithia Springs 19-0, then crushed North Forsyth 33-0 to punch their ticket to the state championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.&nbsp;
Now, McEachern heads to the championship, chasing back-to-back titles.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/cobb_football_friday/georgia-tech-byu-set-for-pop-tarts-bowl-in-orlando/article_8a5be14f-4575-4e94-969a-eb897556e281.html">GEORGIA TECH:</a> No. 22 Georgia Tech is heading to the Pop-Tarts Bowl to take on No. 12 BYU on Saturday, Dec. 27, at Camping World Stadium in Orlando. Kickoff&rsquo;s at 3:30 p.m., and you can catch it live on ABC.&nbsp;
This marks Tech&rsquo;s third straight bowl trip&mdash;something they haven&rsquo;t pulled off since 2012-14&mdash;and their 48th all-time, which ranks 14th in college football history. With a 9-3 record, it&rsquo;s their best regular season since 2014.&nbsp;
BYU (11-2) comes in hot, despite two losses to Texas Tech. It&rsquo;s a ranked-vs.-ranked showdown, Tech&rsquo;s first since the 2014 Orange Bowl. History&rsquo;s on their side&mdash;they&rsquo;re 2-0 in this bowl.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
I'm Keith Ippolito and that&rsquo;s your MDJ Sports Minute.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
We&rsquo;ll have closing comments after this.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Break: INGLES 6&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Signoff-  &nbsp;
Thanks again for hanging out with us on today&rsquo;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&nbsp;
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.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/">Produced by the BG Podcast Network</a>&nbsp;
&nbsp;&nbsp;
Show Sponsors:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.ingles-markets.com/">www.ingles-markets.com</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Pedestrian safety improvements coming to south Cobb | Gateway Marietta CID seeks public input on 12 projects | The Georgia Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker

McEachern Makes National Noise—Who’s Next?

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