Cherokee Tribune-Ledger Podcast BG Podcast Network

CTL Script/ Top Stories of May 25th             

Publish Date: May 24th             

 

From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast 

 

Today is Saturday, May 25th and Happy 60th Birthday to actor Mike Meyers.

***05.25.24 – BIRTHDAY – MIKE MEYERS***

I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Credit Union of Georgia. 


Calhoun Man Gets 10 Years for Crash Killing Emerson Mayor and Wife
Holly Springs Rallies to Help Child Whose Family Died in Crash
Georgia National Cemetery in Canton Hosting Memorial Day Ceremony

 

We’ll have all this and more coming up on the Cherokee Tribune-Ledger Podcast, and if you’re looking for Community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe! 

 

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STORY 1: Calhoun Man Gets 10 Years for Crash Killing Emerson Mayor and Wife

William Bryan Abernathy, 52, from Calhoun, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison and 20 years probation after pleading guilty to charges related to a 2022 car crash that killed Emerson Mayor Albert Vito Pallone and his wife, Camilla. The crash, caused by Abernathy's intoxicated driving, involved four vehicles and seriously injured two others. Abernathy was driving at 76 mph in a 55 mph zone when he lost control, leading to the fatal collision. His blood alcohol level was significantly over the legal limit. In addition to prison time, Abernathy faces fines, community service, and mandatory substance abuse treatment.

STORY 2: Holly Springs Rallies to Help Child Whose Family Died in Crash

A car accident in Bartow County on May 19 claimed the lives of Holly Springs Police Department employee Erin Mason, her husband Dakarai, and their sons Brandon and Titus. The family was returning home from church when their van veered into oncoming traffic on Interstate 75, leading to a multi-vehicle collision. Their surviving son, Noah, is expected to recover fully. A GoFundMe page has been set up by Brittany Sanders to support Noah's future and cover medical expenses. The fundraiser has raised over $35,000 as of May 21. The Holly Springs Police Department and the community are mourning the loss and asking for prayers.

STORY 3: Georgia National Cemetery in Canton Hosting Memorial Day Ceremony

The Georgia National Cemetery in Canton will host a flag placement and Memorial Day ceremony on May 25. Flag placement begins at 9 a.m., followed by the ceremony at 10 a.m. Due to limited parking, additional parking is available at Sutallee Church, with shuttle buses running from 8 a.m. Volunteers will place flags on gravesites before the ceremony. Attendees should arrive before 9:30 a.m. The ceremony will feature wreath laying, speeches, a moment of silence, and the playing of "Taps," with Major General Richard D. Wilson as the keynote speaker. Traffic within the cemetery will be one way upon entry.

 

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STORY 4: Woodstock Receives $80,000 Grant for Housing Analysis

The city of Woodstock has secured $80,000 in grant funding from the Atlanta Regional Commission to conduct a study on housing needs. The Woodstock Housing Capacity and Gap Analysis Project aims to identify gaps between current housing density regulations and future population growth. The study will pinpoint potential sites for infill housing and promote income diversity to reduce long commutes for workers. Woodstock was selected as one of six recipients of funding through a competitive process facilitated by the Atlanta Regional Commission.

STORY 5: 89% Vote Yes on Woodstock Senior Tax Exemption Change

Woodstock voters have approved a five-year residency requirement for the city’s senior property tax exemption, with 89.28% voting in favor. The requirement will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2025, but qualifying seniors who receive the e

CTL Script/ Top Stories of May 21st          

Publish Date: May 21st     

 

From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast 

 

Today is Tuesday, May 21st and Happy 71st Birthday to actor Mr. T.

***05.21.24 – BIRTHDAY – MR. T***

I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Credit Union of Georgia. 


Man Charged with Holding Woman Hostage at Woodstock Apartment
Design Contract Approved for Pedestrian Bridge in Canton
Cherokee Schools Graduating Over 3,000 High School Seniors

 

Plus, Bruce Jenkins sits down with Leah McGrath to discuss microwave meals.

 

We’ll have all this and more coming up on the Cherokee Tribune-Ledger Podcast, and if you’re looking for Community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe! 

 

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STORY 1: Man Charged with Holding Woman Hostage at Woodstock Apartment

A man in Woodstock has been charged with holding a woman hostage following a standoff with authorities at a Woodstock apartment. Woodstock PD and Cherokee Sheriff’s Office responded to a call reporting a hostage situation. The Cherokee County Multi-Agency SWAT Team was deployed, and negotiation attempts were made. When the suspect refused to engage, SWAT officers entered the apartment. No injuries were reported during the incident. The suspect, William Scott Kirk II, 34, was arrested and charged with kidnapping, aggravated assault, and false imprisonment. He was booked into Cherokee County jail without bond. Woodstock Police Chief Robert Jones commended the swift and effective response of law enforcement in resolving the situation peacefully.

STORY 2: Design Contract Approved for Pedestrian Bridge in Canton

The Canton City Council has approved a design contract for the construction of a new pedestrian bridge in the Sunnyside community. The $810,800 contract with Practical Design Partners will facilitate the Canton Creek pedestrian bridge and sidewalk improvement project. The bridge will span Canton Creek parallel to the Marietta Road Bridge. The project aims to enhance pedestrian access to the Salvation Army and Family Dollar development on the west side of Marietta Road. Funding includes a $2.2 million grant from the Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget. Once design work is complete, construction bids will be solicited, with the project expected to take around a year to finalize designs, environmental tasks, surveys, and right-of-way plans. This initiative addresses a need identified during the Canton Transportation Master Plan development.

STORY 3: Cherokee Schools Graduating Over 3,000 High School Seniors

Approximately 3,100 graduating seniors from the Cherokee County School District will participate in graduation ceremonies at First Baptist Church of Woodstock. The ceremonies will be streamed live on the church's website for those unable to attend. The schedule includes ceremonies for i-Grad Virtual Academy, Etowah High School, Creekview High School, Cherokee High School, River Ridge High School, Woodstock High School, and Sequoyah High School. Expect increased traffic in the area starting May 22 due to graduation practices and heavier traffic before and after the ceremonies. Additionally, high school finals schedules and early release for middle and high school students on Friday, May 24, may affect traffic.

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STORY 4: Input Sought for Wildcat Sixes Road Project in Cherokee

More than 60 individuals gathered at Woodstock Library for an open house on May 16 to discuss the Wildcat Sixes Road Project, aimed at easing traffic congestion and fostering development in the I-575 and Sixes Road area. The joint initiative involving Cherokee County, Woodstock, Holly Springs, and the Cherokee Office of Economic Development began in 2023. Cristina Pas

 CTL Script/ Top Stories of May 18th             

Publish Date: May 17th             

 

From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast 

 

Today is Saturday, May 18th, and Happy 77th Birthday to MLB HOF Reggie Jackson.

***05.18.24 – BIRTHDAY – REGGIE JACKSON***

I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Credit Union of Georgia. 


Arrest Made After Gun Found in Car at Sequoyah High School Campus
Woodstock Man Gets 30 Years in Prison for Child Molestation
Cherokee County Students Place in State Career and Tech Contest

 

We’ll have all this and more coming up on the Cherokee Tribune-Ledger Podcast, and if you’re looking for Community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe! 

 

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STORY 1: Arrest Made After Gun Found in Car at Sequoyah High School Campus

A person was arrested at Sequoyah High School for having a gun in their car in the parking lot. The unauthorized visitor did not report to the front office and was found with the firearm during his removal from campus. Although there's no evidence of intent to use the gun, possessing firearms on school premises violates state law. The suspect, identified as a former Sequoyah student, wasn't named. Concurrently, first responders attended to a medical emergency on campus. Both incidents occurred outside buildings and didn't disrupt school activities. The Cherokee County School District underscores its commitment to safety and encourages reporting of concerns through its Vector Alert system.

STORY 2: Woodstock Man Gets 30 Years in Prison for Child Molestation

Romualdo De Pedraza, a Woodstock man, was sentenced to 30 years in prison followed by life probation for aggravated child molestation and cruelty to children. Following a four-day trial, a Cherokee County jury found him guilty. The charges arose from a Cherokee Sheriff’s Office investigation prompted by a child under 10 disclosing sexual assault allegations against De Pedraza. A family member's 911 call initiated the investigation. The child provided details during a forensic interview at the Anna Crawford Children’s Center. Prosecutors emphasized the importance of the interview in securing justice. District Attorney Susan Treadaway commended the center for providing a safe space for victims.

STORY 3: Cherokee County Students Place in State Career and Tech Contest

Two Cherokee County School District students achieved statewide recognition at Georgia’s Career and Technical Instruction Competition. Creekview High School's junior Charlie Holderness secured first place for his advertising campaign "Hypeman Holderness." Meanwhile, River Ridge High School's ninth-grader Aiden Maxwell clinched sixth place in the state for CPR skills. Their success highlights their skills in their respective Career Pathways, with Holderness mentored by Ed Walker and Ashley Jones in Marketing and Management, and Maxwell guided by Gabby Garza and Callie Davis in Healthcare Science.

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STORY 4: Cherokee County Students Named Winners of Local Essay Contest

Two elementary students from Cherokee County, Noah Davis from Hickory Flat Elementary School and Nevaeh Agnew from Oak Grove Elementary School STEAM Academy, emerged as winners in Delta Community Credit Union’s 2024 Youth Essay Contest. Each of the 21 winners, selected from third, fourth, and fifth graders across metro Atlanta, will receive a $100 Delta Community Youth Savings Account. Participants were tasked with envisioning the impact they would make at their school with unlimited funds. Winning essays proposed various ideas like increasing teacher salaries, offering after-school programs, providing healthier foods, and buying playground equipment for students with special needs. The c

CTL Script/ Top Stories of May 14th         

Publish Date: May 14th    

 

From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast 

 

Today is Tuesday, May 14th, and Happy 79th Birthday to director George Lucas.

***05.14.24 – BIRTHDAY – GEORGE LUCAS***

I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Credit Union of Georgia. 


Canton Man Convicted of Raping Child Will Spend 50 Years in Prison
New Mural Unveiled in the Sunnyside Community in Canton
State Tax Revenues Fall Again

 

Plus, Bruce Jenkins sits down with Leah McGrath to discuss diabetes.

 

We’ll have all this and more coming up on the Cherokee Tribune-Ledger Podcast, and if you’re looking for Community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe! 

 

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STORY 1: Canton Man Convicted of Raping Child Will Spend 50 Years in Prison

Juan Nazario Lopez, 53, from Canton, was sentenced to 50 years in prison followed by life on probation for raping a child, announced by the Cherokee County District Attorney’s Office. He was found guilty by a Cherokee County jury of rape, incest, aggravated child molestation, child molestation, and enticing a child for indecent purposes after a four-day trial. The investigation began on April 16, 2023, after a woman reported her niece's molestation by a family member. Assistant District Attorney Meaghan Frankish praised the victim's courage in disclosing the abuse to her aunt, emphasizing the importance of a safe environment for children to disclose such crimes. District Attorney Susan Treadaway commended the victim's courage and highlighted the mental health impact of the abuse.

STORY 2: New Mural Unveiled in the Sunnyside Community in Canton

The Sunnyside community in Canton unveiled its newest mural, located along Marietta Road, created by Graham Carraway of J. Graham Studios. The mural features the word "Sunnyside" surrounded by pink azaleas and a bird on the left side. It overlooks Harmon Park and was funded by hotel/motel taxes, costing $20,000. Carraway's concept was chosen by the Canton Cultural Arts Commission after a selection process involving Sunnyside residents. The mural reflects the community's desire for brightness and color, with azaleas symbolizing the region's flora. Carraway and fellow artist Gus Reynolds completed the mural, emphasizing its role in storytelling and enhancing public spaces.

STORY 3: State Tax Revenues Fall Again

Georgia's tax collections continued to decline, dropping by 5.4% in April compared to the previous year, according to the Department of Revenue. Over the first 10 months of fiscal 2024, net tax revenue decreased by 1.2%, but excluding fuel taxes, the decline was 4.6%. Individual income taxes fell by 8%, with refunds increasing by 31.4% and payments down by 11.5%. Net sales tax receipts also dropped by 3%. Corporate income tax collections remained nearly flat. With revenues down by $341.3 million for fiscal 2024, it's likely the state will end the year with decreased revenues. Gov. Brian Kemp cautioned about potential budget constraints for the upcoming fiscal year.

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STORY 4: Canton Residents Look at Downtown Master Plan

Canton residents were presented with proposed plans for the city's downtown area at a final open house. The plans include transportation changes like a roundabout and lane adjustments to accommodate more parking, sidewalks, and crosswalks. Delivery zones and a new traffic signal at the Waleska Street and Railroad Street intersection are also proposed. The plan incorporates public input gathered through meetings, emails, and phone calls. The City Council will review the plan this summer, with no set approval deadline.

STORY 5: Carr Joins Lawsuit Challenging Federal Clampdown on Power Plant Emissions

CTL Script/ Top Stories of May 11th             

Publish Date: May 10th             

 

From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast 

 

Today is Saturday, May 11th and Happy 35th Birthday to NFL QB Cam Newton.

***05.11.24 – BIRTHDAY – CAM NEWTON***

I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Credit Union of Georgia. 


Man Wanted in Cherokee and Forsyth Arrested After Two Years
Etowah Students Place in Statewide Architecture Competition
Cherokee High School Senior Earns Georgia Award of Excellence

 

We’ll have all this and more coming up on the Cherokee Tribune-Ledger Podcast, and if you’re looking for Community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe! 

 

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STORY 1: Man Wanted in Cherokee and Forsyth Arrested After Two Years

Vanus Nichols, 42, wanted for two years in Cherokee and Forsyth counties, was apprehended by the Forsyth County Warrant Unit in Dawsonville on April 11, with assistance from multiple agencies. He faced charges including possession of methamphetamine with intent to sell and had a felony probation warrant. In Cherokee County, he faced charges of criminal trespass, simple assault family violence, and property damage. Despite attempting to evade deputies, Nichols was arrested without injury. As of May 9, he remained in Forsyth County jail without bond.

STORY 2: Etowah Students Place in Statewide Architecture Competition

Two Etowah High School sophomores, Hannah Oduselu and Isaac Wood, secured honors in the 2024 Atlanta American Institute of Architects High School Design Competition. Both students are part of the school's Career Pathway for Architectural Drafting and Design program. Wood earned second place, and Oduselu received an honorable mention in the beginner category of the competition, which involved designing a butterfly conservatory for the Blue Heron Nature Preserve in Atlanta. Wood's design, featuring sculptural petals, was praised for its elegance, while Oduselu's butterfly wing entryway garnered specific acclaim. The competition, which received over 200 entries, is regarded as the most prestigious in the state for high school architecture students.

STORY 3: Cherokee High School Senior Earns Georgia Award of Excellence

Cherokee High School Senior Reid Glover received the Georgia Award of Excellence from the Georgia Department of Education, honoring graduating seniors who overcome special needs to achieve academic or extracurricular success. Glover, praised by teachers for his dedication to learning, excels in writing and visual art. He's participated in challenging art classes, including AP 2D Art, and is a member of several clubs, including the National Art Honor Society. Glover will attend Kennesaw State University in the fall to study digital animation, aspiring to a career in animation. His teachers commend his curiosity and desire to understand the world deeply. The Cherokee County school board and Superintendent Mary Elizabeth Davis will recognize Glover at an upcoming meeting.

We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.

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STORY 4: Cherokee Sheriff's Office Starting Drone ProgramThe Cherokee Sheriff’s Office is launching a new drone program after receiving approval from the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners. The program will include two drones purchased through Axon Air at a total cost of $325,330.52, spread over a six-year contract. These drones will aid in locating missing adults with dementia and children, as well as providing valuable aerial perspectives during emergency responses. The Axon Air system offers features like automated tracking, unlimited data storage, live streaming, and compatibility with various drones. Funding for the program will come from the CSO's annual operating budget, and the office already uses Ax

CTL Script/ Top Stories of May 7th         

Publish Date: May 7th    

 

From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast 

 

Today is Tuesday, May 7th, and Happy heavenly Birthday to NFL HOF Johnny Unitas.

***05.07.24 – BIRTHDAY – JOHNNY UNITAS***

I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Credit Union of Georgia.


Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Aggravated Stalking
Man Arrested After Elderly Cherokee County Woman Targeted in International Scam
Cherokee Schools Leaders Named Goshen Spirit Award Winners

 

Plus, Bruce Jenkins sits down with Leah McGrath to discuss the extensive list of ingredients found in foods.

 

We’ll have all this and more coming up on the Cherokee Tribune-Ledger Podcast, and if you’re looking for Community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!

 

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STORY 1: Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Aggravated Stalking

Christopher Mackey Kaufman, 39, was sentenced to 15 years in prison for aggravated stalking and violating a family violence order, marking his fifth conviction in eight years for harassing the same victim. Despite previous court orders, Kaufman continued to harass his ex-girlfriend, using contraband cell phones from prison. The sentencing judge imposed a 35-year term with 15 years to serve, emphasizing the severity of aggravated stalking and its impact on victims. Support for domestic violence victims is available through the Cherokee Family Violence Center.

STORY 2: Man Arrested After Elderly Cherokee County Woman Targeted in International Scam

Parth Patel, a 27-year-old resident of Ontario, Canada, has been apprehended in Cherokee County for his involvement in an international scam that defrauded an 80-year-old woman of nearly $300,000. The scheme, executed by fraudulently posing as Amazon representatives, enticed the victim into purchasing gift cards, wiring money, and buying gold. Accused of felony criminal attempt and felony conspiracy to commit a crime, Patel was identified as a lower-level participant in a larger network believed to operate out of India and the U.K. The arrest was the culmination of a cooperative investigation involving the Cherokee Sheriff's Office, FBI, and Homeland Security. In response to this incident, authorities have issued a public warning to remain vigilant against similar scams, emphasizing the importance of skepticism towards unsolicited calls, the risks of gift card payments, and the necessity of discussing scam awareness with vulnerable family members.

STORY 3: Cherokee Schools Leaders Named Goshen Spirit Award Winners

Tara Quinn-Schuldt and John Carter from Cherokee County School District were honored with the 2024 Goshen Spirit Award, acknowledging their significant contributions to supporting foster youth in Goshen Valley. Presented during Goshen Valley's spring luncheon, this award celebrates their selfless dedication and the positive impact of their efforts within the community. Both Quinn-Schuldt, a Student Support Specialist, and Carter, an Assistant Principal at Teasley Middle School, have played pivotal roles in providing homes and support services, showcasing their commitment to the welfare of children. Their achievements make a significant contribution to the well-being of Goshen Valley's youth.

 

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STORY 4: Public Input Set for May 16 for Sixes Area Plan

Cherokee County announces an open house on May 16th to seek public input on the Wildcat Sixes Road Project. This initiative targets alleviating traffic congestion and fostering high-quality commercial development around the I-575 and Sixes Road intersection. Following a comprehensive traffic study and planning by various agencies and Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc., the project is moving fo