MDJ Script/ Top Stories for May 9th
Publish Date: May 9th
Commercial:
From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.
Today is Friday, May 9th and Happy Birthday to Billy Joel
I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal
Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on medication
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: TIDWELL TREES
STORY 1: Planning Commission Punts on West Cobb Senior Subdivision
A proposed 120-home, age-restricted subdivision in west Cobb has been delayed another month after the Cobb County Planning Commission voted to hold off on a recommendation. The Revive Land Group plans to build ranch-style homes for residents 55+ on a 53.8-acre site near McEachern High School, featuring amenities like a pool, pickleball courts, and walking trails. While developers argue the project addresses the growing senior housing demand, neighbors raised concerns about traffic, environmental impact, and community value. A traffic study is underway, and the commission will revisit the proposal in June after further discussions with residents.
STORY 2: Cobb Grand Jury Adds Charges in Child Sex Abuse Case Against Marietta Couple
A Cobb grand jury has indicted Brian Deshawn Phillips, 47, and Elizabeth Anne Cooley, 24, on additional charges of child molestation and cruelty, bringing their total charges to 41. The pair allegedly molested an underage girl over two years at a Canton Road hotel and face accusations of other assaults across Cobb County. Arrested in January 2024, they’ve been held without bond. Phillips, previously convicted of child fondling in Florida, is also charged with burglary and assault. Cooley is accused of assisting in one act. Their charges include rape, trafficking, and aggravated child molestation.
STORY 3: Proposed West Cobb Cell Tower on hold amid Neighbor Concerns
Plans for a Verizon Wireless cell tower in a west Cobb neighborhood are delayed after residents voiced concerns about property value impacts. The Cobb County Planning Commission voted to hold the proposal until June, allowing Free Bird Communications LLC, the builder, to address community concerns. The 189-foot tower, near Lewis Elementary School, aims to improve cell coverage and emergency communication. Residents fear property devaluation and safety risks, while Free Bird argues the tower is necessary and designed to minimize impact. The commission emphasized the importance of community engagement before moving forward.
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Break: Ingles Markets 4
STORY 4: Phones Away, but No Pouches: Marietta High to Test New Device Policy
Marietta Superintendent Grant Rivera plans a "middle ground" approach to limiting personal device use at Marietta High School without using Yondr pouches. Following feedback from staff, students, and parents, a pilot program will test alternative strategies to restrict cellphones, smartwatches, and personal laptops during instructional time. While 91% of teachers support stricter policies, some parents and students raised safety concerns. The board emphasized balancing teacher support with community input. The pilot will run through fall 2025, with results evaluated to determine next steps. Rivera aims to implement a plan by August 1 that minimizes classroom distractions while respecting all stakeholders.
STORY 5: Seven Cobb Students Win National Merit Scholarships
Seven Cobb County students have been awarded the prestigious 2025 National Merit $2,500 Scholarship, among 2,500 winners nationwide. Selected from over 15,000 finalists, these students demonstrated exceptional academic achievements, test scores, and community involvement. Winners include Aiden Ekanayake (Campbell High), Vipul Bansal (Walton High), Elizabeth George (Lassiter High), Mara Hanlon (Campbell High), Elizabeth Jones (Pope High), Riley Rice (Walton High), and Ryan Tan (Walton High), pursuing fields like engineering, medicine, and ecology. The scholarships can be used at any accredited U.S. college or university.
Break: TOP TECH MECHANICAL
And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on medication
We’ll have closing comments after this.
Break: TIDWELL TREES
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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