===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for November 14th
Publish Date: November 14th
Commercial:
From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.
Today is Friday, November 14th and Happy Birthday to Alec John Such
I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal
Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on pesticides
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: MATCH MAGIC GIVEATHON
STORY 1: GHC has highest enrollment growth among state colleges
Georgia Highlands College is on a roll. Over the past three years, enrollment has jumped 23%, now nearing 6,000 students—a record-breaking pace that’s earned GHC top honors from the USG Board of Regents for the fastest growth among state colleges.
“This growth shows how deeply connected we are to the communities we serve,” said President Mike Hobbs. “As Northwest Georgia grows, we’re here to prepare graduates for meaningful careers and help businesses thrive.”
Statewide, the University System of Georgia hit an all-time high this fall with 382,142 students, driven by a surge in in-state enrollment. Ready to join? Apply by January at apply.highlands.edu.
STORY 2: Cobb Sheriff’s Lt. Col. Dewayne Morris laid to rest after lifetime of public service
Dewayne Morris, a man who lived and breathed public service, was laid to rest Tuesday after passing on Nov. 7 at the age of 63.
A lieutenant colonel with the Cobb Sheriff’s Office and a retired sergeant from Cobb County Police, Morris dedicated his life to law enforcement. From his early days at Powder Springs PD to his decades with Cobb Police—where he earned two Meritorious Service medals—he was known for his leadership, grit, and heart.
But Dewayne wasn’t just a cop. He loved fast cars, Diet Mountain Dew, Little Debbies, and cheering for the Braves and Hawks. He never met a stranger. A true hero.
STORY 3: Cobb’s proposed stormwater fee receives mild criticism
Cobb County’s proposed $4.75 monthly stormwater fee is back on the table, but this time, the backlash is quieter—at least for now. Last year, the idea sparked packed meetings and fiery opposition. This week? A handful of speakers, mostly supportive or cautiously critical.
The fee would nearly double the stormwater budget, funding overdue repairs, new equipment, and even regional detention projects. Homeowners would pay $4.75 a month, while businesses, churches, and schools would be charged based on impervious surfaces.
Critics still call it a “tax,” and some HOAs argue they’re being double-billed. A final vote is set for Nov. 20.
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We’ll be right back.
Break: STRAND THEATRE
STORY 4: Peer-led mental health center coming to Marietta’s First Presbyterian
A new drop-in mental health center is set to open at First Presbyterian Church near Marietta Square, offering something rare: a space for connection, not just treatment.
Run by NAMI Cobb, the center will focus on peer-led therapy—think group activities, coffee chats, and one-on-one support with trained specialists who’ve been there. “It’s about community,” said Neill Blake, NAMI Cobb’s programs director. “Sometimes, just coffee and conversation can be life-changing.”
Opening early next year, the free center will feature art therapy, games, meditation, and more. For those battling isolation, it’s a lifeline. “Loneliness makes everything worse,” Blake added. “This could save lives.”
STORY 5: OUT AND ABOUT: 5 things to do this weekend in Cobb County — Nov. 14 - 16
Atlanta Opera: ‘La Traviata’
This weekend’s your last chance to catch Verdi’s La Traviata at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Performances are Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 3:30 p.m. It’s sung in Italian (don’t worry, there are subtitles) and runs about 2.5 hours. Tickets start at $35—grab yours at atlantaopera.org.
World of Illumination: Candy Rush
Six Flags White Water in Marietta transforms into a glowing wonderland starting Friday! The World of Illumination’s Candy Rush drive-thru features gingerbread villages, sugar plum fairies, and more. Open select nights through Jan. 4, 6–10 p.m. Tickets: $39–$49. Details at their website.
‘Sanders Family Christmas’ at The Strand
The Strand Theatre’s Sanders Family Christmas continues this weekend. Expect music, laughs, and a little inspiration with Pastor Oglethorpe and the Sanders Family. Shows: Friday/Saturday at 3 & 8 p.m., Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets: $41–$54.
Big Shanty Bazaar
Step into the Renaissance this Saturday at Kennesaw’s Art Station! From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., enjoy artisans, live music, axe throwing, archery, and even pony rides. Free admission, plus early visitors snag commemorative gifts.
NFC Fight Night at The Battery
Ready for some action? Live MMA fights hit The Battery Atlanta this Friday. Doors open at 6 p.m., fights start at 7. Check the Battery’s website for details.
And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on pesticides
We’ll have closing comments after this.
Break: Ingles Markets 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
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