Potential name changes on the horizon for Cobb Galleria, Performing Arts Centre

  =====  MDJ Script/ Top Stories for September 26th 

Publish Date:  September 26th 

   

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From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.  

  

Today is Friday, September 26th and Happy Birthday to Tommy Lasorda 

 

I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal 

1. Potential name changes on the horizon for Cobb Galleria, Performing Arts Centre
2. Kennesaw to increase sanitation rates
3. Health officials warn of measles in Georgia

 

Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on sodas 

 

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 Markets 4 

 

STORY 1: Potential name changes on the horizon for Cobb Galleria, Performing Arts Centre 

Big changes are coming to the Cobb Galleria Centre—and not just the $190 million renovation. A new name might be on the way, too. 

Charlie Beirne, the Galleria’s general manager, floated the idea of renaming it the “Cobb Convention Center” during a meeting Wednesday. “It’s simple, clear, and gives us national recognition,” he said. The authority’s board agreed, though Chair Jerry Nix admitted, “It’s not just a name change—there’s a lot of headache involved.” 

Meanwhile, the $145 million Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre is also eyeing a rebrand, with naming rights expiring in 2027. A new sponsor could bring fresh funds to keep the venue cutting-edge. 

Renovations for both facilities are well underway, with the Galleria’s upgrades—including a grand entrance, expanded meeting spaces, and a sleek new look—set to wrap by early 2027. It’s the end of an era for the Galleria Specialty Shops, but Beirne says the revamped space will better serve the community and attract larger events. 

As for the Performing Arts Centre, a marketing firm has been hired to find a new name sponsor.  

Both projects signal a fresh chapter for these iconic Cobb landmarks. 

STORY 2: Kennesaw to increase sanitation rates 

Starting Nov. 1, Kennesaw residents will see a 6% bump in their sanitation rates. That means the standard monthly service—one trash can, one recycle cart—goes from $32.50 to $34.50. Got an extra trash can? That’ll now run you $19.50 a month, and additional recycle carts are $6. 

The increase hits December bills, but if you’ve prepaid for the year, you’re safe until your service period ends. Auto-pay users? Better update your payment info to dodge late fees. 

The city says it’s been eating rising costs for four years—18% higher, to be exact. “This adjustment was overdue,” Councilman Antonio Jones said, noting it was finalized with the 2026 budget. 

Republic Services, the city’s contractor, will continue handling trash, recycling, and yard waste. 

STORY 3: Health officials warn of measles in Georgia 

 Georgia health officials are keeping a close eye on seven people who may have been exposed to measles after contact with infected individuals. 

On Tuesday, the state Department of Public Health confirmed three new cases, including one on Sept. 11. Two of the patients are unvaccinated, and the third? Their vaccination status is unclear. All three are isolating at home. 

So far, 268 close contacts have been identified, but only seven are under “active” monitoring. Officials stress vaccination is the best defense—kids should get their first dose between 12-15 months and a second by age 6. 

This year, Georgia has seen 10 measles cases, up from six last year. Nationwide, cases have been climbing since the pandemic disrupted routine vaccinations. 

Meanwhile, a CDC advisory panel recently stirred controversy by recommending standalone chickenpox vaccines for toddlers instead of the combined MMRV shot. The American Academy of Ped