 MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 3rd 

Publish Date:  December 3rd 

 

Commercial:  

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

  

Today is Wednesday, December 3rd and Happy Birthday to Andy Williams 

 

I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal 
Four Cobb schools earn STEAM/STEM certifications
Meet Michael McNeely, Mableton’s newest councilman
Gas prices dip following Thanksgiving, predicted to stay down through holidays

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:  Four Cobb schools earn STEAM/STEM certifications 

  Cobb Schools are buzzing with opportunities for students to dive into STEM and STEAM—science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. And now, four more schools have joined the ranks of those earning certifications in these fields. 

South Cobb Early Learning Center and Ford Elementary snagged STEAM certifications, while Betty Gray Middle and Walton High earned STEM honors. 

“It’s been a joyful, messy journey,” said Marilyn Thomas, director of South Cobb Early Learning Center. “Our kids, teachers, and families all came together—building, experimenting, creating art. It’s hands-on learning at its best.” 

With over 50 certified schools, Cobb’s commitment to innovation is clear. Just ask the students at Tritt Elementary, who recently celebrated Girl-Powered Robotics Day. 

STORY 2: Meet Michael McNeely, Mableton’s newest councilman 

Michael McNeely, newly elected to Mableton’s City Council, is all about service—clear, honest, and hands-on. “I’d rather over-communicate than leave people guessing,” he says. 

McNeely, who moved to Mableton in 2019, has a long history of giving back. From his days as an Eagle Scout to serving in the Army National Guard and working in public safety for over two decades, he’s built a life around helping others. “It’s in my blood,” he says. 

Now, as District 2’s councilman, he’s focused on smart redevelopment, public safety, and creating spaces that bring the community together. Think parks, sidewalks, and maybe even a new community center. 

“We’ve got work to do,” McNeely says, “but Mableton’s got the people and the heart to make it happen.” 

STORY 3: Gas prices dip following Thanksgiving, predicted to stay down through holidays 

 Georgia drivers are catching a break at the pump—finally. After the Thanksgiving travel rush, gas prices have dipped, with the state average sitting at $2.82 per gallon as of Monday, according to AAA. That’s about $42 to fill up a 15-gallon tank. 

Prices are 5 cents lower than last week but still 2 cents higher than last month. And if you’re in Cobb County? You’re paying a bit more—$2.89 per gallon. 

The priciest spots? Savannah ($2.88), Atlanta ($2.86), and Macon ($2.85). Meanwhile, Dalton drivers are smiling at $2.68. 

Nationally, gas has dropped to $3, the lowest since May 2021, thanks to low crude oil prices and sluggish demand. AAA predicts prices could stay low through the holidays. 

For EV drivers, no changes—public charging still averages 38 cents per kilowatt hour. 

Want to save? AAA suggests fuel rewards programs, paying cash (some stations charge more for credit), and driving smarter. 

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

 

We’ll be right back. 

 

Break: INGLES 3 

 

STORY 4:Cobb fraternal organization recognized as best in Georgia 

The Omicron Mu Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, better known as the Cobb County Alphas, just snagged a huge honor—Alumni Chapter of the Year—at the Alpha Georgia District Association Convention in Augusta. 

Why? Their leadership, community impact, and dedication to the fraternity’s mission stood out among 25 chapters across Georgia. “This award is a testament to the passion and hard work of every member,” said Chapter President Harold G. Dickerson. 

One standout initiative? The Youth to Men mentoring program, where 70 Cobb high schoolers meet bi-monthly to learn life skills and give back to the community. “We’re shaping greatness,” said Steven Boyd, Callis Foundation Chair. 

For more, visit CobbAlphas.org. 

STORY 5: AirTag leads police to Chick-fil-A theft suspect 

 Richard George Cintron, 47, of Dallas, is facing charges after allegedly swiping three Rubbermaid utility trash carts and an Apple AirTag—worth $1,545 total—from the Chick-fil-A on Barrett Parkway in Kennesaw. 

According to police, Cintron was caught on surveillance cameras, along with his personal vehicles, during the thefts on Sept. 14 and 28. The AirTag? It led officers straight to his home, where Paulding County deputies found the stolen items near his truck. 

Cintron was arrested Nov. 19 and charged with theft by taking over $1,500. He spent less than 12 hours in jail, released on Nov. 20 after posting a $5,000 bond. 

Break:  

STORY 6: Strand Theatre's Andy Gaines wins Governor’s Award 

   Gov. Brian Kemp and first lady Marty Kemp announced Monday that Andy Gaines, executive director of the Strand Theatre, is one of this year’s recipients of the Governor’s Awards for the Arts and Humanities. 

The awards, presented with Georgia Council for the Arts and Georgia Humanities, honor 10 individuals or organizations making a real difference in Georgia’s cultural landscape. 

“Georgia’s arts and entertainment scene has fueled our economy for decades,” Kemp said. “These honorees have left a lasting mark on their communities and our state.” 

Under Gaines’ leadership, the Strand generated $5.4 million in economic impact last year, supported 80+ jobs, and contributed $230,000 in government revenue. 

Recipients will receive a handmade mahogany sculpture by Fairburn artist Etienné Jackson. 

STORY 7: Mount Paran Christian School collects over 10,000 diapers for Bartow Family Resources 

 Mount Paran Christian School’s high school BETA Club and National Honor Society recently rallied their community for a cause that hits close to home—helping local parents in need. 

Through their annual Fall Diaper Drive, students encouraged families to donate diapers and wipes for Bartow Family Resources, a nonprofit in Cartersville that supports parents and babies. Flyers went up, announcements were made, and the response? Incredible. Over 10,640 diapers and 1,180 wipes poured in, stacking up at the school’s doors. 

Student NHS officers counted, sorted, and loaded the donations, ready for Bartow Family Resources to distribute essentials like diapers, formula, and clothing to families who need them most. 

We’ll have closing comments after this.  

Break: INGLES  3 

 

Signoff-   

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

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

Produced by the BG Podcast Network 

  

Show Sponsors: 
www.ingles-markets.com

&nbsp;MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 3rd&nbsp;
Publish Date:  December 3rd&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Commercial:&nbsp;&nbsp;
From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. &nbsp;
 &nbsp;
Today is Wednesday, December 3rd and Happy Birthday to Andy Williams&nbsp;
&nbsp;
I&rsquo;m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal&nbsp;
<ol>
<li>Four Cobb schools earn STEAM/STEM certifications</li>
<li>Meet Michael McNeely, Mableton&rsquo;s newest councilman</li>
<li>Gas prices dip following Thanksgiving, predicted to stay down through holidays</li>
</ol>
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: INGLES 3&nbsp;
STORY 1:&nbsp; <a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/news/education/four-cobb-schools-earn-steam-stem-certifications/article_d4e18fa8-2a1d-4f5a-a35a-898178b7b440.html">Four Cobb schools earn STEAM/STEM certifications</a>&nbsp;
&nbsp; Cobb Schools are buzzing with opportunities for students to dive into STEM and STEAM&mdash;science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. And now, four more schools have joined the ranks of those earning certifications in these fields.&nbsp;
South Cobb Early Learning Center and Ford Elementary snagged STEAM certifications, while Betty Gray Middle and Walton High earned STEM honors.&nbsp;
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s been a joyful, messy journey,&rdquo; said Marilyn Thomas, director of South Cobb Early Learning Center. &ldquo;Our kids, teachers, and families all came together&mdash;building, experimenting, creating art. It&rsquo;s hands-on learning at its best.&rdquo;&nbsp;
With over 50 certified schools, Cobb&rsquo;s commitment to innovation is clear. Just ask the students at Tritt Elementary, who recently celebrated Girl-Powered Robotics Day.&nbsp;
STORY 2: <a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/meet-michael-mcneely-mableton-s-newest-councilman/article_2d813569-5048-4b21-b63a-dadfa8742b2c.html">Meet Michael McNeely, Mableton&rsquo;s newest councilman</a>&nbsp;
Michael McNeely, newly elected to Mableton&rsquo;s City Council, is all about service&mdash;clear, honest, and hands-on. &ldquo;I&rsquo;d rather over-communicate than leave people guessing,&rdquo; he says.&nbsp;
McNeely, who moved to Mableton in 2019, has a long history of giving back. From his days as an Eagle Scout to serving in the Army National Guard and working in public safety for over two decades, he&rsquo;s built a life around helping others. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s in my blood,&rdquo; he says.&nbsp;
Now, as District 2&rsquo;s councilman, he&rsquo;s focused on smart redevelopment, public safety, and creating spaces that bring the community together. Think parks, sidewalks, and maybe even a new community center.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve got work to do,&rdquo; McNeely says, &ldquo;but Mableton&rsquo;s got the people and the heart to make it happen.&rdquo;&nbsp;
STORY 3: <a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/gas-prices-dip-following-thanksgiving-predicted-to-stay-down-through-holidays/article_dd94f9a5-ef8f-4e05-acda-f3f8c7c1eaaf.html">Gas prices dip following Thanksgiving, predicted to stay down through holidays</a>&nbsp;
 Georgia drivers are catching a break at the pump&mdash;finally. After the Thanksgiving travel rush, gas prices have dipped, with the state average sitting at $2.82 per gallon as of Monday, according to AAA. That&rsquo;s about $42 to fill up a 15-gallon tank.&nbsp;
Prices are 5 cents lower than last week but still 2 cents higher than last month. And if you&rsquo;re in Cobb County? You&rsquo;re paying a bit more&mdash;$2.89 per gallon.&nbsp;
The priciest spots? Savannah ($2.88), Atlanta ($2.86), and Macon ($2.85). Meanwhile, Dalton drivers are smiling at $2.68.&nbsp;
Nationally, gas has dropped to $3, the lowest since May 2021, thanks to low crude oil prices and sluggish demand. AAA predicts prices could stay low through the holidays.&nbsp;
For EV drivers, no changes&mdash;public charging still averages 38 cents per kilowatt hour.&nbsp;
Want to save? AAA suggests fuel rewards programs, paying cash (some stations charge more for credit), and driving smarter.&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 be right back.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Break: INGLES 3&nbsp;
&nbsp;
STORY 4: <a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/news/education/cobb-fraternal-organization-recognized-as-best-in-georgia/article_2f5a3a42-6044-4bbd-959d-cce781e1fed3.html">Cobb fraternal organization recognized as best in Georgia</a>&nbsp;
The Omicron Mu Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, better known as the Cobb County Alphas, just snagged a huge honor&mdash;Alumni Chapter of the Year&mdash;at the Alpha Georgia District Association Convention in Augusta.&nbsp;
Why? Their leadership, community impact, and dedication to the fraternity&rsquo;s mission stood out among 25 chapters across Georgia. &ldquo;This award is a testament to the passion and hard work of every member,&rdquo; said Chapter President Harold G. Dickerson.&nbsp;
One standout initiative? The Youth to Men mentoring program, where 70 Cobb high schoolers meet bi-monthly to learn life skills and give back to the community. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re shaping greatness,&rdquo; said Steven Boyd, Callis Foundation Chair.&nbsp;
For more, visit CobbAlphas.org.&nbsp;
STORY 5:&nbsp; <a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/news/police_fire/airtag-leads-police-to-chick-fil-a-theft-suspect/article_4bc9094d-69d2-449c-9426-852ee3de8fdb.html">AirTag leads police to Chick-fil-A theft suspect</a>&nbsp;
 Richard George Cintron, 47, of Dallas, is facing charges after allegedly swiping three Rubbermaid utility trash carts and an Apple AirTag&mdash;worth $1,545 total&mdash;from the Chick-fil-A on Barrett Parkway in Kennesaw.&nbsp;
According to police, Cintron was caught on surveillance cameras, along with his personal vehicles, during the thefts on Sept. 14 and 28. The AirTag? It led officers straight to his home, where Paulding County deputies found the stolen items near his truck.&nbsp;
Cintron was arrested Nov. 19 and charged with theft by taking over $1,500. He spent less than 12 hours in jail, released on Nov. 20 after posting a $5,000 bond.&nbsp;
Break:&nbsp;&nbsp;
STORY 6: <a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/news/local/strand-theatres-andy-gaines-wins-governor-s-award/article_c3ff15af-514b-4c32-a2fc-a41f3bad5abb.html">Strand Theatre's Andy Gaines wins Governor&rsquo;s Award</a>&nbsp;
   Gov. Brian Kemp and first lady Marty Kemp announced Monday that Andy Gaines, executive director of the Strand Theatre, is one of this year&rsquo;s recipients of the Governor&rsquo;s Awards for the Arts and Humanities.&nbsp;
The awards, presented with Georgia Council for the Arts and Georgia Humanities, honor 10 individuals or organizations making a real difference in Georgia&rsquo;s cultural landscape.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Georgia&rsquo;s arts and entertainment scene has fueled our economy for decades,&rdquo; Kemp said. &ldquo;These honorees have left a lasting mark on their communities and our state.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Under Gaines&rsquo; leadership, the Strand generated $5.4 million in economic impact last year, supported 80+ jobs, and contributed $230,000 in government revenue.&nbsp;
Recipients will receive a handmade mahogany sculpture by Fairburn artist Etienn&eacute; Jackson.&nbsp;
STORY 7: <a href="https://www.mdjonline.com/news/education/mount-paran-christian-school-collects-over-10-000-diapers-for-bartow-family-resources/article_b0b69daf-b9c0-4711-ba33-84ad42466f0b.html">Mount Paran Christian School collects over 10,000 diapers for Bartow Family Resources</a>&nbsp;
 Mount Paran Christian School&rsquo;s high school BETA Club and National Honor Society recently rallied their community for a cause that hits close to home&mdash;helping local parents in need.&nbsp;
Through their annual Fall Diaper Drive, students encouraged families to donate diapers and wipes for Bartow Family Resources, a nonprofit in Cartersville that supports parents and babies. Flyers went up, announcements were made, and the response? Incredible. Over 10,640 diapers and 1,180 wipes poured in, stacking up at the school&rsquo;s doors.&nbsp;
Student NHS officers counted, sorted, and loaded the donations, ready for Bartow Family Resources to distribute essentials like diapers, formula, and clothing to families who need them most.&nbsp;
We&rsquo;ll have closing comments after this.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Break: INGLES&nbsp; 3&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 www.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></li>
</ul>

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

Four Cobb schools earn STEAM/STEM certifications | Meet Michael McNeely, Mableton’s newest councilman | Gas prices dip following Thanksgiving, predicted to stay down through holidays

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