MDJ Script/ Top Stories for May 23rd Tuesday
Publish Date: May 22 Monday
Henssler :15, Bed Music fires
From the Henssler Financial Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast
Today is Tuesday May the 23rd and happy 312st birthday to Aaron Donald
***Donald highlight***
I’m Dan Radcliffe and here are the top stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Credit Union of Georgia
Plus, we hear from Karen Woodrich of the Natural Resources Conservation Service about the purpose and partnership of the agency’s conservation programs
of the USDA will have thoughts on that same topic.
All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.
Commercial : CU of GA
STORY 1 Tax
In Cobb County, some homeowners were surprised by higher property tax assessments recently received in the mail. The county's Board of Tax Assessors sent out assessment notices to the majority of homeowners, with three out of four seeing an increase in their home's assessed value. This means higher property taxes for many residents. One homeowner, Eileen Johnson, saw her assessed value increase by 51% since last year. The county's property digest, which calculates the total taxable value, is expected to grow by more than the projected 13%. The booming real estate market and low housing inventory contribute to the rising property values. Homeowners have 45 days to appeal the assessment if they disagree. The tax assessor's office provides assistance and encourages residents to verify their home's data and compare recent sales in their neighborhood. The actual tax bills will be sent out in August.
Story 2: GOP
The Cobb Republican Party is searching for a new location for its headquarters. Since 2010, the party has been based in a strip mall across from Roswell Street Baptist Church. The church sold the property to an investment group, and when the GOP attempted to renew its lease, the landlord declined, as a neighboring Vespa dealer wanted to expand into their space. The landlord offered an alternative building, but the rent was double the current amount. Party Chair Salleigh Grubbs stated that they would find another place within their budget. They are exploring options in Marietta to ensure convenience for attendees of GOP events. While they could hold meetings in various locations like the Democrats do, they prefer a permanent and spacious meeting space. The monthly breakfast will continue at the current headquarters until June 3rd, featuring notable speakers.
Story 3: L. Judge
Democrat Laura Judge has launched her campaign for the Cobb County school board, announcing her candidacy at Tin Lizzy's Cantina in east Cobb. As a mother of two children attending Cobb schools and an active volunteer with Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America, Judge aims to address community concerns regarding financial decisions, literacy, school safety, and discipline issues. Incumbent David Banks, in the Post 5 seat for 15 years, is undecided about running for a fifth term due to health considerations. Judge is involved with Watching the Funds - Cobb and serves as the education chair in Democratic Cobb Commissioner Jerica Richardson's "Community Cabinet" . Republican candidate John Cristadoro has also announced his bid for Banks' seat. The primary is tentatively scheduled for May 21, 2024, followed by the general election on November 5, 2024…..we’ll be right back
Break: ESOG– Dayco
STORY 4: Smyrna
Mayor Derek Norton inaugurated a new garden event space at the historic Reed House in Smyrna, Georgia. The $300,000 project transformed the undeveloped land into a beautiful venue with a walking trail, gazebo, rock benches, various flowers, trees, and a large green lawn for gatherings. The Reed House, built in 1910 by architect Leila Ross Wilburn, was purchased by the city in 2015 and underwent extensive renovations. The city plans to use the Reed House similar to the Taylor-Brawner House for rentals, receptions, weddings, and classes. The director of Parks and Recreation, Richard Garland, expressed excitement for the community to utilize the space for outdoor events, and Councilman Tim Gould praised the project as a remarkable addition.
STORY 5: Cobb Schools
The Cobb school board has approved several personnel changes, including the appointment of a new chief of staff and chief school leadership officer for Superintendent Chris Ragsdale. Sherri Hill, the current chief school leadership officer, will take over as chief of staff effective July 1, replacing Kevin Daniel, who is retiring. Dr. Jasmine Kullar, an assistant superintendent for CCSD middle schools, will assume the role of chief school leadership officer. Salaries for these positions are currently under legal review. The board also approved appointments for various assistant superintendent and principal positions within the district…..Back after this
Break Drake – JRM
Story 8: Library
The 12th Annual Booked for the Evening Gala, organized by the Cobb Library Foundation, will take place on June 9 at the Atlanta Country Club in Marietta. The event will feature renowned author Patti Callahan Henry, known for her bestselling novels including "The Secret Book of Flora Lea." The honorary chair for the gala is Gary Miller, the CEO and president of Greystone Power. Patti Callahan Henry has received prestigious awards such as The Christy Award Book of the Year and the Harper Lee Distinguished Writer of the Year. She is also involved in the online web show and podcast Friends and Fiction.
Story 9: Softball
The Georgia Bulldogs had a dominant performance in the regional final against Virginia Tech, winning 12-3 and securing their spot in the NCAA Super Regional. Head coach Tony Baldwin expressed confidence in his team's ability to compete and be successful in the next round. Georgia will face No. 3 seed Florida State in Tallahassee. The Seminoles advanced with a perfect game by senior Kathryn Sandercock. The Super Regional series will begin on May 25, with Game 1 scheduled on ESPN2. Georgia started strong against Virginia Tech, with early runs and back-to-back home runs. Pitcher Shelby Walters and the Bulldogs' defense kept the Hokies off the scoreboard. Georgia continued to extend their lead with another home run from Sydney Chambley.
.…back in a moment
Commercial: Ingles 1
And Now Karen Woodrich of the Natural Resources Conservation Service describes the purpose and partnership within one of the agency’s conservation programs.
(Please run a low music bed under this)
***Woodrich***
We’ll have closing thoughts in a moment
Henssler 60
Signoff- use same bed as open
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