MDJ Script/ Top Stories for September 24th
Publish Date: September 24th
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From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.
Today is Wednesday, September 24th and Happy Birthday to Jim Henson
I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal
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: Mableton chemical plant applies for air quality permit for new process area
A Mableton chemical plant, Compass Chemical International, wants to expand. They’ve filed for an air quality permit with Georgia’s Environmental Protection Division to add a new process area at their Buckner Road site. The plan? To produce a proprietary lubricant additive—an alkyl phosphite blend (with or without dispersants, if you’re into the details).
Mayor Michael Owens struck a balance: “We welcome businesses that invest in Mableton, but safety and clean air come first.”
Councilwoman Patricia Auch added, “Permits like this are routine. If they meet the standards, it’s not necessarily harmful.”
The permit’s under review. Public comments? Due by Oct. 17.
STORY 2: Cobb to consider extending student housing moratorium
The Cobb County Board of Commissioners is gearing up to vote on extending a moratorium on student housing applications—again. If approved, it’ll be another 180 days of “pause” on new developments, pushing the freeze into spring 2026.
This isn’t the first time. The ban started in October 2024, got extended in March, and now, here we are. Why? Kennesaw State’s booming enrollment has outpaced housing, and zoning battles have made things messy.
Chair Lisa Cupid recently admitted students are struggling.
Commissioner Keli Gambrill? Not a fan. “KSU needs to handle this,” she said bluntly.
STORY 3: Man arrested for shooting at victim’s car in Mableton payment dispute
Cesar Alexis Velazquez, 23, from Douglasville, is facing some serious charges after a heated argument over a cell phone repair turned dangerous.
On Aug. 21, around 11:30 p.m., Velazquez allegedly fired two shots at a red 2011 Kia Optima outside a home on Joseph Club Drive in Mableton. The victim, who owns a phone repair business, had run back inside for safety. The dispute? Velazquez refused to pay for fixing a water-damaged phone but still left with it—gun in hand, according to police.
He’s now charged with aggravated assault and theft of services. Arrested Sept. 9, he’s being held without bond.
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We’ll be right back.
Break: INGLES 3
STORY 4: KSU student named Newman Civic Fellow
Kennesaw State senior Deja Boney has a knack for making a difference—and now, she’s a 2025 Newman Civic Fellow. It’s a big deal, a national recognition for students who lead with heart and hustle in their communities.
Deja, an information systems major with an IT minor, has been everywhere—organizing cleanups, mentoring through Black Women Empowered, and tackling poverty with Circles Cobb. “It’s humbling,” she said, “to know the work I’m doing is seen beyond campus.”
Her journey started with an OwlsServe Day, and now she’s a three-term KSU Service Fellow. Next stop? Chicago in October, connecting with other changemakers.
STORY 5: Tickets for An Evening with David Sedaris on sale Oct. 17
Mark your calendars: David Sedaris—yes, the David Sedaris—is coming to Atlanta for one night only. The bestselling author and NPR favorite will take the stage at 7:30 p.m. on May 19 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center (2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway).
Fresh off the release of A Carnival of Snackery and Pretty Ugly, Sedaris will share new stories, sharp observations, and probably a few laugh-out-loud moments. There’s also a Q&A and book signing.
Tickets drop Oct. 17 at 10 a.m. Don’t wait. This one’s gonna sell out fast.
Break:
STORY 6: Pageant highlights opening night of North Georgia State Fair
Glitter, gowns, and big smiles lit up the stage at the Miss North Georgia State Fair Pageant, kicking off opening night at Jim Miller Park. Over 40 young ladies, from toddlers to college students, took their turn in the spotlight, each sparkling in their favorite dresses.
Six winners were crowned, earning tiaras, banners, flowers, and fair passes—and the chance to serve as community ambassadors, riding in parades throughout the year.
The big title, Miss NGSF, went to 19-year-old Lilli Bennett of Calhoun, a UGA freshman who’ll use her $1,000 scholarship toward school. The fair runs through Sept. 28—don’t miss it!
STORY 7: Life U. men's rugby unveils new locker rooms
Life University’s men’s rugby team had more than one reason to celebrate after their win over Army—they finally got to step into their brand-new locker rooms.
On Saturday, the school cut the ribbon on the $75,000 renovation, a much-needed upgrade after 45 years. New floors, fresh lockers, and a space to prep for games—it’s a total transformation, funded by alumni donations and team fundraisers.
But it’s more than just a facelift. Outside the locker room, a plaque honors past players who’ve passed away. Current players now touch it before every game—a quiet, powerful tribute.
The locker room even features nameplates of alumni donors, a reminder of the legacy each player carries when they pull on that jersey.
Founders Bobby Gise and Jim Hovey, now in their 70s, watched with pride as the team walked out with a new sense of confidence.
Bright yellow and green, the space is ready for game day—and for the next generation of Running Eagles.
We’ll have closing comments after this.
Break: TRUCK A PALOOZA
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
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