Good morning, Marietta.

Georgia topped 5 million jobs in June with an all-time high of 5,001,100 workers and a 3.5 percent unemployment rate reported by the Labor Department.

State leaders credited the milestone to pro-business policies — some economists noted the strong numbers did not ease challenges for job seekers, especially new graduates.

A 4-3 party-line vote by the Cobb County School District board ended the broadcast and recording of public comments during school board meetings.

Superintendent Chris Ragsdale said the change—intended to reduce legal risks—will allow more private participation, though critics say it cuts public accountability.

Vision to Learn mobile clinics at Cobb libraries provided over 400 eye exams and delivered 304 pairs of glasses to students during summer break.

The program has partnered with Marietta City Schools since 2021 to help children see clearly before school begins.

Georgia now allows digital driver’s licenses for traffic stops as of July 1 but physical licenses remain needed for other official uses—law enforcement will only be required to verify digital IDs starting July 1, 2027.

The Georgia DOT announced that controlled blasting will begin Monday along I-285 southbound near Bolton Road, expected to delay traffic by up to 20 minutes between 10:30 a.m. and noon Monday through Thursday this summer—motorists should use navigation apps to find alternate routes.

Ritz is a 6-month-old male tri-color German shepherd at the Cobb County Animal Services Shelter in Marietta, weighing 36 lbs and available for adoption — pet visits are best scheduled by appointment — and potential adopters should call the shelter for more details.

Pandora is a two-year-old female calico domestic short hair cat available for adoption at Cobb County Animal Services in Marietta, weighing 7 lbs and currently in the shelter—visitors can schedule an appointment or walk in to meet her at 1060 Al Bishop Drive.

Back to School Cobb Talent Showcase

10 AM – 1 PM — Jim R. Miller Park & Event Center — Free entry — Show off your talents at this fun community event and shine bright before school begins.

Cobb County International Film Festival

10 AM – 9 PM — Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre — Check event website for details — Discover diverse independent films and engage with filmmakers at this annual celebration.

East Cobb-Marietta Rotary Club Meeting

7-8 a.m. — Rotary Club (East Cobb-Marietta) — Free entry — Network with local professionals over breakfast and share community insights.

Sara Hells and Olivia Barnes Live Performance

7-10 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — From $20.03 — Enjoy a night of music with independent artists from Georgia and beyond.

Comedy Show Featuring Tammy Pescatelli

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the brassy humor and sharp wit of a hard-working female comedian.