Lawmakers consider paring tax credits and exemptions to offset income tax cuts | As Cobb school board approves new buses, Ragsdale pushes back on criticism | Cobb’s new Renaissance Fair becomes instant hit with festival-goers
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MDJ Script/ Top Stories for November 19th
Publish Date: November 19th
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From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.
Today is Wednesday, November 19th and Happy Birthday to Meg Ryan
I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal
- Lawmakers consider paring tax credits and exemptions to offset income tax cuts
- As Cobb school board approves new buses, Ragsdale pushes back on criticism
- Cobb’s new Renaissance Fair becomes instant hit with festival-goers
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 9
STORY 1: Lawmakers consider paring tax credits and exemptions to offset income tax cuts
Georgia lawmakers are seriously talking about ditching the state income tax—$16 billion worth of revenue—and replacing it by slashing $30 billion in tax credits and exemptions.
“It’s not if, it’s when,” said Sen. Blake Tillery, who’s leading the charge. He called it a move for “competitiveness.”
Supporters like economist Arthur Laffer praised states like Tennessee for thriving without income taxes, calling it “really cool” not to file returns. But critics, like Sen. Nan Orrock, warned it could hit low-income families and retirees hardest, especially if sales taxes rise.
The debate? Far from over.
STORY 2: As Cobb school board approves new buses, Ragsdale pushes back on criticism
Tensions ran high Thursday as Cobb Superintendent Chris Ragsdale defended the district’s transportation department amid ongoing criticism of bus safety and maintenance.
“There are no unsafe buses on the roads. Period. Zero,” Ragsdale said, calling claims to the contrary “untrue and unacceptable.”
The school board approved $4.97 million for 30 new buses, but public commenters weren’t buying the reassurances. Mechanics like Eric Carroll, a 14-year employee, pushed back hard. “We’re not liars,” he said, visibly emotional. “We need help.”
Meanwhile, Ragsdale dismissed the concerns as fearmongering, sparking outrage from workers who say they’re overworked, understaffed, and unheard. The investigation? Still ongoing.
STORY 3: Cobb’s new Renaissance Fair becomes instant hit with festival-goers
The 16th century came alive Saturday at Cobb’s first-ever Big Shanty Bazaar, and honestly? It was a hit.
By the time the gates opened at The Big Shanty Art Station, over 100 people were already lined up, many decked out in Renaissance garb or fantasy costumes—dragons, wizards, you name it. “It’s way more than I expected,” said organizer Roxanne Thompson. “I was hoping for maybe a thousand all day, but this? Wow.”
The festival had it all: axe throwing, pony rides, blacksmith demos, and an artisan market selling everything from D&D dice to handmade cloaks. The vibes? Impeccable.
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We’ll be right back.
Break: STRAND THEATRE
STORY 4: Cobb NAACP holds annual awards gala
The Cobb NAACP’s 46th annual Oscar Freeman Freedom Fund Awards Gala brought together community leaders, elected officials, and trailblazers Saturday night for an evening of celebration, reflection, and a little dancing.
The event featured a reception, silent auction, dinner, and awards ceremony. Civil rights pioneer Deane Bonner, a cornerstone of the Cobb NAACP, was front and center—dancing, speaking, and inspiring.
Honorees included Rev. Joe Evans, named Religious Leader of the Year, and countless others who’ve shaped the community. “It’s about honoring the past while building the future,” said organizer Jeriene Bonner-Willis.
STORY 5: Cobb reallocates $2.96M for food distribution, South Cobb Public Health Center
Cobb commissioners just gave the green light to reallocate nearly $3 million in unspent federal COVID relief funds, aiming to boost food distribution programs and help fund the long-awaited South Cobb Public Health Center.
Of the $2.96 million, $206,000 will go to local nonprofits like MUST Ministries and Sweetwater Mission, which have been struggling to meet surging demand for food assistance. “This will help families get through the holidays,” said Chair Lisa Cupid.
The remaining $2.75 million, saved from a bridge project, will go toward the health center, a critical project for South Cobb residents that’s been years in the making.
Break:
STORY 6: “Stuff the Turkey” donation event collects 1,000 items for locals in need
The Goddard School of Vinings recently held its “Stuff the Turkey” drive, and wow, did the community show up. Located on Log Cabin Drive, the school collected over 1,000 items—canned goods, diapers, hygiene products, you name it.
All donations went to 7 Bridges to Recovery, a local nonprofit helping women, kids, and those facing homelessness in Atlanta.
“It’s incredible to see what we can do together,” a school representative said.
Want to learn more about their efforts (or maybe help out next time)? Check out their website. Small acts, big impact—every bit counts.
STORY 7: Fielding Lewis DAR Chapter builds and donates Chad’s Bracket Wagons
The Fielding Lewis Chapter of the DAR recently rolled up their sleeves for the D building nine bright red Chad’s Bracket wagons—specialized hospital wagons designed to make life a little easier (and safer) for kids in hospitals.
This wasn’t just any project. Volunteers worked alongside Roger Leggett, the founder of Chad’s Bracket, whose mission began after a heartbreaking loss: his son Chad, an EMT, passed away at 24. Inspired by Chad’s compassion, Leggett created these wagons, which now bring comfort to kids nationwide.
“These wagons may seem simple, but they’re life-changing,” said Chapter Regent Melissa Tanner.
We’ll have closing comments after this.
Break: INGLES 9
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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