MDJ Script/ Top Stories for Jan 5th
Publish Date: Jan 4th
Commercial: Henssler :15
From the Henssler Financial Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.
Today is Friday, January 5th and Happy heavenly Birthday to NFL coach Sam Wyche.
***1.05.24 – BIRTHDAY – SAM WYCHE***
I’m Dan Radcliffe and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Engineered Solutions of Georgia.
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: UPDATE: Man Dead From Gunshot Wounds, Suspect at Large
Marietta Police have identified Kenneth Cunningham II, 40, as the man killed in a shooting at the Harlow apartments. The shooting occurred at around 10:30 a.m., and the police have released a description of a single suspect—a slender male, approximately six feet tall. The suspect was observed fleeing the area after the shooting. Responding officers utilized K-9s and technology to gather evidence and identify the suspect. Investigators believe the incident was not a random act of violence, and there are no indications that the public is at risk. Police encourage individuals with information to contact 911 or CrimeStoppers Greater Atlanta at 404-577-TIPS.
STORY 2: Cobb Teachers Will See Bonuses this Month
The Cobb Board of Education unanimously approved staff bonuses, recommended by Superintendent Chris Ragsdale. The bonuses will be partially funded by the state, with Governor Brian Kemp's announced pay increase for certain educators. The district is providing additional cash to all non-temporary employees, with amounts varying based on their work hours. Employees working more than half-time will receive a $1,000 bonus, while those working less than half-time will get $500. The bonuses will be reflected in bi-weekly paychecks on Jan. 19 for some and Jan. 24 for monthly pay. The move aims to offer extra support to district employees.
STORY 3: North Cobb Seniors Take Polar Plunge to Help Friend 'Strike Out' Cancer
North Cobb High School senior Kendall Vincent, diagnosed with B-cell lymphoma, has received overwhelming support from his four best friends, known as the "Fab Five." When Vincent lost his hair due to chemotherapy, his friends shaved their heads in solidarity. To raise funds for Vincent's treatment, they organized the "Strikeout Cancer Plunge," where they jumped into a freezing pool. The effort, led by Mitchell Addison's mother, aims to help Vincent, whose father is also battling cancer. The community and social media have played a crucial role in raising awareness and support for the Vincent family. Contributions can be made to @Susan-Addison-2144 on Venmo with the memo "Strikeout Cancer."
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We’ll be right back.
Break: ESOG – DRAKE
STORY 4: Scamihorn Elected Cobb School Board Chair
The Cobb County Board of Education elected Randy Scamihorn as chair and David Banks as vice chair for 2024. Scamihorn, who has served three previous terms as chair, expressed the importance of continuing to build on the excellence of Cobb Schools and ensuring the safety of students, staff, and faculty. Banks, who cited hearing and eyesight concerns, prioritized lowering taxes for constituents. The board, predominantly Republican, has seen the chair position shift within the GOP for over a decade, with the last Democratic chair serving in 2011.
STORY 5: Following Debate Cobb School Board Sets 2024 Schedule
The Cobb County Board of Education approved its 2024 meeting schedule with one meeting per month, following a 6-0 vote by members, with one Republican voting "present." Democratic member Becky Sayler proposed an amendment to add six additional meetings, emphasizing the need for more time to review agenda items before voting. The amendment was defeated in a 4-3 vote along party lines. Another successful amendment, proposed by Leroy Tre’ Hutchins, recommended scheduling a board retreat to build relationships and discuss norms. The retreat date is yet to be confirmed. The debate highlighted differences over meeting frequency and transparency practices.
We’ll be back in a moment.
Break: INGLES 10
STORY 6: Marietta Postal Worker Alleged to Have Stolen Amid Flood of Complaints
Multiple Cobb County residents, including Kennesaw resident Ralph Fowler, have reported incidents of stolen and altered checks sent through the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). Fowler's checks, sent to pay bills, were washed, with one changing from $30 to $3,000. The Marietta Post Office manager confirmed the internal issue, revealing that an employee involved no longer works there. Many other residents have reported similar thefts of thousands of dollars. The USPS Office of the Inspector General is investigating the matter. Thirteen Georgia members of Congress have written to U.S. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy about widespread USPS issues, including mail theft.
STORY 7: Gas Prices in Cobb Drop 16 Cents On Average in Last Month
Gas prices in Cobb County have decreased by an average of 16 cents in the last month, according to data from the American Automobile Association (AAA). The average cost of unleaded gas in Cobb County is $3.01, down from $3.17 in December, while the state and national averages are $2.98 and $3.09, respectively. The drop in prices is attributed to lower oil prices, and AAA suggests that prices could continue to decrease. However, motorists are advised to be cautious, as seasonal factors may impact future prices during winter. In December, gas prices spiked after the expiration of Georgia Governor Brian Kemp's executive order suspending the state's gas tax.
Break: Henssler :60
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 Gwinnett Daily Post, the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties, or the Paulding County News Podcast. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at MDJonline.com.
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