Whataburger opens first Acworth location

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for July 23rd

Publish Date:  July 23rd

  

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

 

Today is Wednesday, July 23rd and Happy Birthday to Slash

 

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

1. Whataburger opens first Acworth location
2. Smyrna ice cream business issues recall for listeria contamination
3. Mableton approves EV fleet purchases

 

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 5

STORY 1:  Whataburger opens first Acworth location

Whataburger opened its first Acworth location on Cobb Parkway Northwest, marking the 20th Georgia location and fourth in Cobb County. Mayor Tommy Allegood welcomed the franchise during a ribbon-cutting ceremony, celebrating its investment in the community. Known for fresh, customizable burgers and popular items like the Patty Melt and breakfast taquitos, Whataburger aims to stand out with quality ingredients. The grand opening treated the first 100 customers to free food and swag. Regional leaders announced plans for further expansion in Georgia, including a Marietta location, as the brand approaches its 75th anniversary in 2025.

 

STORY 2: Smyrna ice cream business issues recall for listeria contamination

Smyrna-based Paleteria La Providencia has voluntarily recalled three popsicle flavors—Coconut, Cookies and Cream, and Coffee—due to potential listeria contamination. The affected products, with date codes of 6/17/25 and 6/11/25, were sold via mobile carts and Atlanta-area stores. Listeria can cause severe illness, particularly in vulnerable groups, and may lead to miscarriages in pregnant women. While no illnesses have been reported, consumers experiencing symptoms are urged to contact the Georgia Department of Public Health. Authorities are working to trace the distribution of the contaminated products.

 

STORY 3: Mableton approves EV fleet purchases

The Mableton City Council approved the purchase of 11 all-electric Ford vehicles, including 10 Lightning Trucks and 1 Mach E, for up to $470,425 from fiscal 2026 capital funds. The vehicles will address staff shortages and support city departments like code enforcement. Special Projects Manager Xavier Ross highlighted the phased purchase approach and potential grant opportunities tied to the EV investment. Mayor Michael Owens praised Wade Ford for offering discounted prices below market and state contract rates. Additionally, the council approved a rezoning request for TKHC Ministries to build a church and held a public hearing on issuing city alcohol licenses, with no action taken.

 

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Break: INGLES 5

 

STORY 4: Cobb eyes funding for microtransit pilot in Acworth, Kennesaw

 

The Cobb County Board of Commissioners is considering expanding its successful CobbLinc Go microtransit program to Acworth and Kennesaw, targeting areas like Kennesaw State University and Town Center. The $6.4 million pilot would be funded primarily through state grants, with a local match to boost competitiveness. The service, modeled after the south Cobb pilot, offers flexible, curb-to-curb rides for $2.50. While some commissioners support the program for its potential to reduce congestion and serve nontraditional students, others question its necessity given existing transit options. The board will vote on applying for grant funding, with final approval pending project selection.

 

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