The Community Podcast for Rockdale, Newton and Morgan Counties BG Podcast Network

GA News Podcast – East Metro for Sunday, 6/9 – Published Friday 6/7

 

 

From the Ingles Studio, Welcome to your Georgia News Podcast. This podcast features stories compiled from the publications of Times Journal Inc. 

 

Today is Sunday, June 9th and Happy 62nd Birthday to actor Michael J. Fox.

***06.09.24 – BIRTHDAY – MICHAEL J. FOX***

I’m Keith Ippolito and here is your top stories Georgia is talking about, presented by Drake Realty 

 


AAA says 100 Deadliest Days for Teen Drivers Has Begun
Georgia appellate court sets October hearing in Trump's bid to disqualify DA Willis
Atlanta Braves Launch Wanted in Texas All Star Campaign

 

We’ll have these stories and more, coming up on your Georgia News Podcast and If you want community, local, and statewide news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe! 

 

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Story 1: AAA: 100 Deadliest Days for Teen Drivers Has Begun

The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day, known as the “100 Deadliest Days for Teen Drivers,” sees a rise in fatal crashes involving teenage drivers. Risk factors include distracted driving, driving with teen passengers, speeding, and not wearing seatbelts. AAA urges parents to model safe driving behavior and discuss safe driving habits with their teens. Professional training courses, like those provided by AAA, can supplement parental instruction. AAA offers an online driving course and identifies quality driving schools through its Approved Driving School Network.

Story 2: Georgia appellate court sets October hearing in Trump's bid to disqualify DA Willis

The Georgia Court of Appeals has scheduled former President Donald Trump's appeal of a lower court ruling in the Georgia election interference case for October. This appeal concerns Trump's attempt to remove Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis from prosecuting the case due to her prior relationship with an attorney involved. The trial is unlikely to take place before the Nov. 5 election. Trump faces charges related to the 2020 presidential election, the Jan. 6 Capitol attack, and federal charges for retaining classified documents. He was also convicted in New York City on 34 felonies related to falsifying business records.

Story 3: Atlanta Braves Launch Wanted in Texas All Star Campaign

Voting for the 2024 MLB All-Star Game is underway, with the Atlanta Braves launching a creative campaign called #VoteBraves, embracing a Western theme for this year's event in Arlington, Texas. Each Braves player on the ballot has a Western-themed nickname, and the team is encouraging fans to vote at Braves.com/vote. Phase one of voting runs until June 27, where fans select players for each position. The top vote-getters will advance to phase two from June 30 to July 3. Final rosters will be revealed on July 7. The Braves are also offering giveaways and activations around Truist Park to engage fans in the voting process.

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Story 4: Sparks Fly in Vote Over Rivian Road Ownership

During a Morgan County Commissioners meeting, Commissioner Blake McCormack strongly opposed an agreement granting ownership of a frontage road for the Rivian project, citing concerns over leveraging it for better terms in the revenue-sharing agreement. Despite McCormack's objections, the agreement passed 2-1. County Attorney Christian Henry dismissed McCormack's approach, leading to a confrontation. Public comments criticized Henry and another commissioner, suggesting they favored the JDA over residents. While the agreement passed, McCormack vowed to continue fighting for renegotiation.

Story 5: Carr asking feds to allow cellphone jamming in prisons

Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr is urging the FCC to permit the use of cellphone jamming devices in state prisons and local jails to address the issue of contraband cellphones. Carr highlighted the FCC's prohibition on jammers and emphasized the growing threat posed by inmates using contrab

EAST METRO Top Stories for June 6th        

Publish Date: June 6th           

   

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From the Ingles Studio, Welcome to The Community Podcast. This Podcast brings you the top stories from the Rockdale-Newton Citizen and the Morgan Citizen.  

Today is Thursday, June 6th and Happy 79th birthday to Olympian Tommy Smith.

***06.06.24 – BIRTHDAY – TOMMY SMITH***

I’m Keith Ippolito and here are your top stories presented by Drake Realty


AAA says 100 Deadliest Days for Teen Drivers Has Begun
Sparks Fly in Vote Over Rivian Road Ownership
Georgia appellate court sets October hearing in Trump's bid to disqualify DA Willis

Plus, Bruce Jenkins’ conversation with Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on strawberries.

 

These stories and more are coming up in today’s edition of the Community Podcast for Rockdale, Newton, and Morgan Counties! Please like, follow, and subscribe.

BREAK: DRAKE 

STORY 1: AAA: 100 Deadliest Days for Teen Drivers Has Begun

The "100 Deadliest Days for Teen Drivers," from Memorial Day to Labor Day, see a spike in fatal crashes involving teens. AAA highlights increased risks due to inexperience and behaviors like speeding, distracted driving, and not wearing seat belts. Nearly half of teen driver-related deaths occur during this period, with 707 fatalities in 2022 alone. AAA advises parents to model safe driving, supervise practice, and teach defensive driving. They recommend creating a parent-teen driving agreement and considering professional training courses. AAA offers a 25-hour online driving course and resources through its Approved Driving School Network.

STORY 2: Sparks Fly in Vote Over Rivian Road Ownership

Morgan County Commissioner Blake McCormack opposed an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with the Joint Development Authority (JDA) of Jasper, Morgan, Newton, and Walton counties, concerning a frontage road for the delayed $5 billion Rivian project. Despite his objections, the IGA passed with a 2-1 vote. McCormack argued the road should be used as leverage to renegotiate a revenue-sharing agreement for Stanton Springs North, where Morgan County holds a 14.25% stake. Commissioner Ben Riden, while doubtful of Rivian’s arrival, supported the IGA, emphasizing it relieved the county of maintenance costs. Tensions rose during the meeting, leading to heated exchanges between McCormack and County Attorney Christian Henry. McCormack pledged to continue pursuing a renegotiation.

STORY 3: Georgia appellate court sets October hearing in Trump's bid to disqualify DA Willis

The Georgia Court of Appeals will not hear former President Donald Trump’s appeal regarding the Georgia election interference case until October. This delay ensures the trial won't occur until after the November 5 election. Trump is appealing Fulton County DA Fani Willis' involvement due to her past romantic relationship with Nathan Wade, who was leading the prosecution. Despite this, Willis remains on the case after Wade stepped down. Trump, indicted along with 18 others for conspiring to overturn Georgia's 2020 election results, also faces federal charges related to the January 6 Capitol attack and retaining classified documents. Recently, he was convicted in New York for falsifying business records, with sentencing set for July 11.

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STORY 4: Georgia Safari Conservation Park Launches with a Soft Opening

The Georgia Safari Conservation Park (GSCP) officially opened on June 1 after a decade of planning, welcoming 208 visitors to its luxury accommodations and wildlife tours. The 530-acre park near Madison features over 60 species, including giraffes, white rhinos, and zebras. GSCP offers various tours, from a $39 guided safari to a $2,500 VIP experience. Overnight stays start at $590 per night, with t

GA News Podcast – East Metro for Sunday, 6/2 – Published Friday 5/31

 

 

From the Ingles Studio, Welcome to your Georgia News Podcast. This podcast features stories compiled from the publications of Times Journal Inc. 

 

Today is Sunday, June 2nd, and Happy 51st Birthday to actor Wayne Brady.

***06.02.24 – BIRTHDAY – WAYNE BRADY***

I’m Keith Ippolito and here is your top stories Georgia is talking about, presented by Drake Realty 

 


CDC Warns Again of Salmonella Tied to Backyard Poultry
Feds putting up $75M for semiconductor chips plant in Georgia
Over 3,000 Veterans Served by Highland Rivers in Past Decade

 

We’ll have these stories and more, coming up on your Georgia News Podcast and If you want community, local, and statewide news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe! 

 

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Story 1: CDC Warns Again of Salmonella Tied to Backyard Poultry

The CDC warns of salmonella outbreaks linked to backyard chickens, affecting over 100 people across 29 states, with 33 hospitalizations but no deaths. Children under 5 are most affected. Salmonella can spread through contact with poultry or their environment. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, typically appearing 6 hours to 6 days after exposure. While most recover within a week, severe cases may require medical attention. The CDC advises frequent handwashing, avoiding kissing or snuggling chickens, and supervising children around them. Additionally, handle eggs carefully, discarding cracked ones and avoiding washing them to prevent germ contamination.

Story 2: Feds putting up $75M for semiconductor chips plant in Georgia

The Biden administration is allocating up to $75 million towards a semiconductor manufacturing plant in Covington, built by Absolics, a subsidiary of South Korea's SK Group. The project, commenced in 2022, is expected to generate over 1,200 jobs. The federal grant stems from the CHIPS and Science Act, aiming to boost American manufacturing. U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff underscores the significance of bolstering the domestic semiconductor industry for national security, considering its pervasive role in modern technology and military applications. SK Group already operates a significant presence in Georgia, with an electric vehicle battery plant in Commerce and another under construction in Cartersville. The Covington plant will focus on producing glass substrates, crucial for enhancing chip performance.

Story 3: Over 3,000 Veterans Served by Highland Rivers in Past Decade

Over the past decade, Highland Rivers Behavioral Health has served more than 3,300 veterans, as revealed in their latest report, "Services to Veterans, 2013-2023." The report details key findings, including the provision of over 91,000 individual services valued at $6.25 million. Highland Rivers has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to veterans' behavioral health needs, offering a wide array of services such as mental health, crisis intervention, substance use treatment, and support groups. Nearly half of the veterans received state-contracted services, highlighting accessibility to care. The agency has also received grants to enhance suicide prevention efforts and plans to open a new drop-in veteran support center. The comprehensive report underscores Highland Rivers' dedication to prioritizing veterans' well-being and accessibility to care.

We’ll be right back.

 

Break:  WHEELER

Story 4: U.S. House Passes Prison Oversight Bill

The US House of Representatives has passed legislation, sponsored by Rep. Lucy McBath, to establish oversight of the federal prison system, moving it to the Senate. The bill mandates comprehensive inspections of all federal correctional facilities by the Justice Department's Inspector General and requires the bureau to respond with corrective action plans. Additionally, it creates an independent ombudsman to investigate issues concerning incarcerated individuals and staff, providing avenues

EAST METRO Top Stories for May 30th       

Publish Date: May 30th          

   

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From the Ingles Studio, Welcome to The Community Podcast. This Podcast brings you the top stories from the Rockdale-Newton Citizen and the Morgan Citizen.  

Today is Thursday, May 30th, and Happy heavenly birthday to NFL HOF Gayle Sayers.

***05.30.24 – BIRTHDAY – GAYLE SAYERS***

I’m KEITH IPPOLITO and here are your top stories presented by Drake Realty


Madison Unveils $22.7 Million Budget for Next Fiscal Year
Newton High Class of 2024 Makes History
Intergovernmental Agreement Over Rivian Road Remains in Limbo.

Plus, Bruce Jenkins’ conversation with Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on frozen meals.

 

These stories and more are coming up in today’s edition of the Community Podcast for Rockdale, Newton, and Morgan Counties! Please like, follow, and subscribe.

BREAK: DRAKE 

STORY 1: Madison Unveils $22.7 Million Budget For Next Fiscal Year

The City of Madison has proposed a Fiscal Year 2025 budget totaling $22.7 million, including a $6.2 million General Fund. This reflects a $275,000 decrease in spending from the current budget, attributed to efficiency measures. City Manager John Klimm highlighted continued savings through consolidation, privatization, and operational audits. The budget includes priorities like enhancing the police and planning departments, planning a new fire department, and launching an economic development program. To boost revenues, water and sewer fees will increase. Infrastructure projects include the Bostwick Gas Project, a stormwater initiative, and the 2025 Roads Program.

STORY 2: Newton High Class of 2024 Makes History

On May 22, over 640 graduates of Newton County High School's Class of 2024 celebrated their accomplishments at Sharp Stadium. Principal Dr. Shannon Buff highlighted their historical achievements, being the largest class in 20 years and securing $73.2 million in scholarships. Salutatorian Huda Asker urged peers to cherish their unique journeys, while Valedictorian Tre’von Davis emphasized their limitless potential. Jabez Jenkins received the Atlanta Journal-Constitution Cup for excellence. Superintendent Dr. Duke Bradley III encouraged graduates to embrace opportunities and persist through challenges.

STORY 3: Intergovernmental Agreement Over Rivian Road Remains in Limbo.

A time-sensitive Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) regarding a frontage road for Rivian is in limbo after County Commissioner Blake McCormack asked the Morgan County Board of Commissioners (BOC) to table the contract following a public argument with County Attorney Christian Henry on May 21. The IGA, between Morgan County and the Joint Development Authority (JDA), would transfer ownership and maintenance of the road to the JDA. McCormack expressed concern over rushing the decision and suggested using the IGA to renegotiate revenue-sharing terms. The BOC will revisit the IGA on June 4.

We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  

  

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Break: WHEELER FUNERAL HOME

STORY 4: Eastside Class of 2024 Celebrated for Excellence

During the commencement exercises on May 23 at Sharp Stadium, it was announced that 250 Eastside High School graduates are headed to 58 colleges and universities, 99 will enter the workforce or a training program, and 18 will join the military. The 27th graduating class has received over $19.3 million in academic and athletic scholarships. Principal Jeff Cher praised the graduates for their leadership, continuing Eastside's legacy of excellence. Salutatorian Jordan Nealy highlighted the enduring friendships formed at Eastside, while Valedictorian Emma Oftedal spoke about the exciting future awaiting the graduates.

STORY 5: MCSO Patrol Vehicles Damaged While Aiding Motorist On Interstate

Two Morgan County Sheriff’s Office deputies' patrol vehicles were

GA News Podcast – East Metro for Sunday, 5/26 – Published Friday 5/24

 

From the Ingles Studio, Welcome to your Georgia News Podcast. This podcast features stories compiled from the publications of Times Journal Inc. 

 

Today is Sunday, May 19th, and Happy 75th Birthday to singer Stevie Nicks.

***05.26.24 – BIRTHDAY – STEVIE NICKS***

I’m Keith Ippolito and here is your top stories Georgia is talking about, presented by Drake Realty 

 


KSU Community Mourns Slain Student
Biden challenges Morehouse grads to fight for democracy
Port of Brunswick sets record for auto volumes

 

We’ll have these stories and more, coming up on your Georgia News Podcast and If you want community, local, and statewide news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe! 

 

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Story 1: KSU Community Mourns Slain Student

Nicki Davis-Cosby, an English and African American literature lecturer at Kennesaw State University (KSU), believes Alasia Franklin, who was fatally shot on campus, might have been one of her students. Davis-Cosby expressed grief at a makeshift memorial for Franklin, emphasizing the need for supporting students and ensuring their safety. The suspect, identified as Samuel Harris, was arrested by the Cobb County Police Department. The shooting, which occurred following a dispute, prompted a campus lockdown and raised concerns about safety among students like Deon Brown. KSU is providing counseling resources for affected students, with on-campus offices available for appointments and support.

Story 2: Biden challenges Morehouse grads to fight for democracy

President Biden delivered a commencement address at Morehouse College, urging graduates to fight for freedom and democracy against divisive forces. He defended his administration's policies on Israel's war in Gaza, calling for a ceasefire and a two-state solution. Biden praised the Class of 2024 for navigating the pandemic and highlighted his administration's accomplishments benefiting Black Americans. He criticized Republicans for attacking diversity and erasing Black history. Senator Tim Scott criticized Biden's record, claiming Trump's presidency had stronger economic growth. Despite the mostly positive reception, one graduate protested by turning away from the president with a raised fist. Biden received an honorary doctorate at the end of his speech.

Story 3: Port of Brunswick sets record for auto volumes

The Port of Brunswick achieved a record handling of 80,600 Roll-on/Roll-off cargo units in April, up by over 44% from the previous year. Factors contributing to this growth included diversions from the Port of Baltimore due to a cargo ship incident, strong Asian imports, increased vehicle exports, and expanded capacity for customers. About 9,000 import vehicles and 1,000 units of heavy equipment were diverted to Brunswick from Baltimore. Heavy machinery exports also rose significantly. The impact of diverted cargo is expected to decrease in June as Baltimore restores service. Meanwhile, the Port of Savannah saw a rise in containerized cargo, with 441,000 TEUs moved in April, marking the third busiest April on record. Import and export loads increased compared to the previous year.

We’ll be right back

 

Break:  WHEELER

Story 4: STATE CHAMPIONS: Etowah Takes Down Pope for Second Title

Etowah clinched the Class AAAAAA state baseball championship, redeeming their loss in the 2022 finals. They defeated Pope with scores of 15-0 and 6-4, securing their second state title. Coach Greg Robinson praised the team's chemistry and resilience. Matthew Sharman and Caleb Hughes delivered stellar pitching performances throughout the playoffs. The offense, led by Bryce Adams and Trevor Condon, provided crucial run support. Despite a late-game comeback by Pope in the second match, Etowah sealed the victory. For the seniors, it was a fulfilling end to their high school careers, and for Robinson, it marked his third state title as a coach.

EAST METRO Top Stories for May 23rd      

Publish Date: May 23rd         

   

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From the Ingles Studio, Welcome to The Community Podcast. This Podcast brings you the top stories from the Rockdale-Newton Citizen and the Morgan Citizen.  

Today is Thursday, May 23rd and Happy 65th birthday to Drew Carey.

***05.23.24 – BIRTHDAY – DREW CAREY***

I’m Keith Ippolito and here are your top stories presented by Drake Realty


Madison becomes a stop on Georgia's new 'Trail of Legacy & Lore'
Levett elected to new term as Rockdale sheriff
MCHS Seniors Collect Thousands in Scholarships

Plus, Bruce Jenkins’ conversation with Leah McGrath on vitamin C.

 

These stories and more are coming up in today’s edition of the Community Podcast for Rockdale, Newton, and Morgan Counties! Please like, follow, and subscribe.

BREAK: DRAKE 

STORY 1: Madison becomes a stop on Georgia's new 'Trail of Legacy & Lore'

The Madison Morgan County Convention & Visitors Bureau, alongside six other central Georgia organizations, launched Georgia's Trail of Legacy & Lore, a 90-mile self-guided tourism trail. This trail highlights cultural arts, architecture, and heritage across Madison, Athens, Oconee County, Eatonton, Milledgeville, Gray-Old Clinton, and Macon, featuring attractions from early indigenous communities to the 1970s-80s music scenes. Madison's notable sites include Heritage Hall, Rogers House/Rose Cottage, Madison-Morgan Cultural Center, Morgan County African-American Museum, Steffen Thomas Museum of Art, and Hard Labor Creek State Park. More information is available at LegacyLoreGA.org.

STORY 2: Levett elected to new term as Rockdale sheriff

Rockdale County Sheriff Eric J. Levett won the primary election with 60% of the vote, securing his third term without a runoff. Levett received 7,391 votes, defeating Corey Hambrick (4,453) and Ronald Muckle (573). Board of Commissioners Chairman Oz Nesbitt Sr. will face Janice Van Ness in a June 18 runoff, as neither candidate secured a majority. The Post 1 seat on the Board of Commissioners will also go to a runoff between incumbent Sherri Washington and Tuwanya Smith. Incumbent Democrat Janice Morris won the clerk of courts race with 78% of the vote. Maureen Elizabeth Wood will fill the Superior Court judgeship, defeating Clarence Cuthpert Jr. The Post 1 Board of Education seat will be decided in a runoff, while incumbents for Posts 3, 4, and 5 won their races.

STORY 3: MCHS Seniors Collect Thousands In Scholarships

Morgan County High School honored its top seniors at the Honors and Awards Night on May 17, marking the start of graduation week. Principal Miki Edwards noted the significance of the event, with graduation set for May 24. Scholarships, diploma seals, and dual enrollment achievements were highlighted. Over 30 scholarships were awarded, including notable ones like Sabrina Booker’s $32,000 Sunshine Award to Florida State University, Avril Brown’s $46,000 Green and Gold Scholarship to UAB, and Lamyai Scott’s $80,000 Howard University Achievers Scholarship. Local scholarships included memorial awards like the Gene Higginbotham Memorial Scholarship. Graduation will be at 8 p.m. on May 24 at the high school football stadium.

We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  

  

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Break: WHEELER FUNERAL HOME

STORY 4: Biden challenges Morehouse grads to fight for democracy

President Joe Biden addressed over 400 graduates at Morehouse College, urging them to champion freedom and democracy against divisive forces. He acknowledged the challenges they will face as future leaders and voiced support for peaceful protests while defending his administration's policies on the Israel-Gaza conflict. Biden praised the resilience of the Class of 2024, highlighting their ability to navigate the pandemic and confront issues of racial injustice. He emphasized the im