• The Community Podcast for Rockdale, Newton and Morgan Counties

  • By: BG Podcast Network
  • Podcast

The Community Podcast for Rockdale, Newton and Morgan Counties

By: BG Podcast Network
  • Summary

  • Bringing you the top stories from the Morgan County Citizen and the Rockdale Newton Citizen
    2024 BG Podcast Network
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Episodes
  • Report Criticizes Georgia's Limited Medicaid Expansion
    Nov 3 2024
    GA News Podcast – East Metro for Sunday, 10/31– Published Friday 11/3   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, November 3rd and Happy birthday to Larry Holmes ***11.03.24 - BIRTHDAY – LARRY HOLMES*** I’m Peyton Spurlock and here is your top stories Georgia is talking about, presented by Drake Realty  Report Criticizes Georgia's Limited Medicaid Expansion Georgia Expands Digital Driver's License and ID Program. What We Know Harris fends off 'garbage' fallout, Trump pushes 'cheating' claims 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!  Commercial: DRAKE (Drake Realty (Geoff) Story 1: Report Criticizes Georgia's Limited Medicaid Expansion Georgia's limited Medicaid expansion, Georgia Pathways, has enrolled only 4,231 people, far below the projected 25,000, due to complex enrollment processes and strict eligibility criteria. The program requires enrollees to complete 80 hours of work or other activities monthly, a unique requirement among states. Many face challenges with paperwork and fluctuating work hours affecting eligibility. A $10.7 million ad campaign was launched to raise awareness, but its impact is unclear. The Georgia Budget and Policy Institute suggests simplifying enrollment and expanding Medicaid coverage, though state leaders oppose full expansion due to cost concerns. Story 2: Georgia Expands Digital Driver's License and ID Program. What We Know The Georgia Department of Driver Services has expanded its Digital Driver's License and ID Program to include Samsung Wallet, allowing Samsung Galaxy users a secure and convenient way to manage their IDs. This integration enhances security and convenience, though currently, it's only valid at select TSA PreCheck checkpoints, like those at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The digital ID is voluntary, free, and doesn't replace the physical ID, which is still required for law enforcement. Users can add their ID to Samsung Wallet through a simple process involving scanning their ID and a face scan for verification. More details are available on the DDS and Samsung websites. Story 3: Harris fends off 'garbage' fallout, Trump pushes 'cheating' claims In the final week of US election campaigning, Kamala Harris distanced herself from President Biden's controversial remarks about Trump supporters, emphasizing unity and respect for all voters. Harris campaigned in key battleground states, focusing on a positive vision for America's future and contrasting her leadership style with Trump's. Meanwhile, Trump, campaigning in North Carolina and Wisconsin, continued to claim election fraud and criticized Biden and Harris, framing them as out of touch with Americans. Both candidates are rallying support in a tense political climate, with Trump hinting at rejecting the election results if he loses. We’ll be right back  Break: WHEELER FUNERAL HOME (08.08.24 WHEELER OBITS_FINAL) Story 4: Peach Bowl and College Football Playoff Foundation Team Up For Makeover At Baggett Elementary Baggett Elementary School in Lawrenceville received a $50,000 donation from the College Football Playoff Foundation, Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, and School Specialty to revamp its STEM lab. The funds were used to create a vibrant, interactive learning space with new furniture and decorations. The updated lab was unveiled at a ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 16. This initiative is part of a broader mission by Peach Bowl, Inc. to support education, focusing on Title 1 schools needing renovation. Alongside Baggett, Lilburn Middle and Magill Elementary also benefited from similar grants, enhancing their media centers. Story 5: Young Americans Christian Football Program On the Rise Young Americans Christian School's football team is experiencing a resurgence as the 2024 season ends, boasting a 7-1 record and leading Region 1-AA in the Georgia Association of Private and Parochial Schools' new nine-man football format. Under Coach Josh Hailey, the team has grown to 26 players, a significant increase from previous years. Despite challenges like weather and a local fire, the team has thrived, led by standout players like seniors Jayden Sigur and Caleb Blunt. With a strong freshman class, Hailey aims to build a lasting program, eyeing a regional win and home-field playoff advantage. We’ll be right back.  Break: 10.07.24 SHERIFF SCANDRETT_FINAL- Ingles Markets (Laura Lynn Products) 3 Story 6: 'Jesse's Gift' Coming to Amazon Prime Video Thanksgiving Day "Jesse's Gift," directed by Ken Merritt, debuts on Amazon Prime Video this Thanksgiving. Filmed in Cherokee County, the movie follows a singer-songwriter's ...
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    10 mins
  • Woman Charged with DUI On Consecutive Days
    Oct 31 2024
    EAST METRO Top Stories for October 31st Publish Date: October 31st    Commercial: 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, October 31st and Happy birthday to John Candy ***10.31.24 - BIRTHDAY – JOHN CANDY*** I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Drake Realty 1. Woman Charged with DUI On Consecutive Days 2. Ribbon-cutting held for innovative, inclusive community 3. Over Half Of Morgan County Voters Have Cast Ballots In The Nov. 5 Election Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on Picky toddlers 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 (Drake Realty (Geoff) STORY 1: Woman Charged With DUI On Consecutive Days Kristi Stinnett, a Rutledge woman, was arrested for DUI on two consecutive days. On October 21, Madison Police stopped her after she allegedly crossed a fog line and hit a curb. Officer Eaton reported a strong alcohol odor and found an open Fireball whiskey bottle in her car. Stinnett refused breath and blood tests and was charged with DUI, open container, and lane violation. The next day, she was stopped by a Morgan County deputy for erratic driving. She again refused sobriety tests and was charged with DUI and lane violation after showing signs of intoxication. STORY 2: Ribbon-cutting held for innovative, inclusive community The Soaring Heights community in Conyers has opened, providing affordable housing for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), first responders, and teachers. The facility includes three apartment buildings and a community center, aiming to create a supportive and inclusive environment. The project, praised for its community spirit, has been in development since 2017. It serves as a recruitment tool for essential workers and offers a safe, inclusive space for the IDD population. The initiative is seen as a model for similar communities nationwide, emphasizing quality housing and community integration. STORY 3: Over Half Of Morgan County Voters Have Cast Ballots In The Nov. 5 Election   Morgan County is experiencing record early voting turnout, with about 50.5% of active voters having cast their ballots for the November 5 Presidential Election. As of October 28, 7,740 early votes have been recorded, and 70% of absentee ballots have been returned and accepted. Early voting began on October 15, with nearly 1,000 votes on the first day and 3,801 by the end of the first week. The county is also voting for a new sheriff and other statewide races. Statewide, over 2.9 million Georgians have voted early, representing 40% of active voters. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.    We’ll be right back  Break: WHEELER FUNERAL HOME (08.08.24 WHEELER OBITS_FINAL)   STORY 4: Regional Career Fair draws more than 500 job-seekers The Regional Career Fair in Covington attracted over 500 job-seekers, connecting them with more than 30 employers from various industries, including Takeda, General Mills, and the Newton County School System. Held at Newton High School, the event catered to individuals seeking both entry-level and advanced career opportunities. Job-seekers prioritized positions offering good benefits and full-time hours. The Takeda booth was particularly popular, with attendees like Patrice Cunningham and Britanny Brannon expressing interest in lab-related roles and positions with good pay and variety. STORY 5: Cotton Gin Festival Draws Thousands To Downtown Bostwick The annual Cotton Gin Festival in Downtown Bostwick drew thousands to celebrate the town's agricultural heritage, particularly cotton production. The event featured a parade with local leaders, tractors, and the 92-year-old Cotton Queen, Wynelle Callaway Ruark. Attendees enjoyed vendors, food stands, and entertainment. The festival began with a prayer and the national anthem, performed by Ann Ballard and her grandson. Morgan County Sheriff Robert Markley, set to retire, led the parade, joined by sheriff candidates Tyler Hooks and Derrick Reid. Proceeds support the historic Susie Agnes Hotel and city improvements. We’ll be back in a moment  Break: Render Apartments (07.11.24 RENDER APARTMENTS_REV_FINAL) - Ingles Markets (Ingles Table Magazine) 2 And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on picky toddlers ***LEAH INTERVIEW*** We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: Morgan Medical (10.15.24 MORGAN MEDICAL CENTER 2_FINAL) Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Community Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger ...
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    14 mins
  • Ossoff Bill Targets 'Hidden' Foster Care Placements
    Oct 27 2024
    GA News Podcast – East Metro for Sunday, 10/27– Published Friday 10/24 PRE-ROLL: Scandrett Sheriff (10.07.24 SHERIFF SCANDRETT_FINAL) 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, October 27th and Happy birthday to Scott Weiland ***10.27.24 – BIRTHDAY – SCOTT WEILAND*** I’m Peyton Spurlock and here is your top stories Georgia is talking about, presented by Drake Realty 1. Ossoff Bill Targets 'Hidden' Foster Care Placements 2. Trump stumps in Middle Georgia 3. KSU Students Compete in Elevator Pitch Challenge 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! Commercial: DRAKE (Drake Realty (Geoff) Story 1: Ossoff Bill Targets 'Hidden' Foster Care Placements U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff introduced a bipartisan bill to enhance federal oversight of state foster care systems, following a Senate subcommittee investigation into child abuse and neglect in Georgia's foster care. The bill, co-sponsored by Sen. John Cornyn, addresses "hidden" foster care placements, where children are informally placed with caregivers, often relatives, without court oversight. These placements aren't included in official foster care statistics. The legislation mandates states to report such cases to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which must then report to Congress. The aim is to better protect foster children from abuse and trafficking. Story 2: Trump stumps in Middle Georgia Former President Donald Trump held a town hall in Zebulon, Georgia, focusing on religious themes and moderated by Lt. Gov. Burt Jones. Trump emphasized the importance of the upcoming election, pledging to tackle illegal immigration and reduce inflation through energy independence. He highlighted his past achievements in Israel and criticized ongoing legal challenges against him. Trump praised Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp for his hurricane response efforts. The event is part of Trump's campaign efforts in Georgia, a key battleground state, with Vice President Kamala Harris also campaigning there alongside Barack Obama and Bruce Springsteen. Story 3: KSU Students Compete in Elevator Pitch Challenge Emily Shelton, a Marketing and Professional Sales major at Kennesaw State University, won the 3rd Annual TK Elevator KSU Elevator Pitch Competition. She impressed judges with her innovative pitch, earning first place. The competition involved 24 KSU students presenting their personal brands to a panel of judges from the TKE sales team while riding Atlanta's fastest elevator to the 26th floor of TKE's Innovation and Qualification Center in the Cumberland area. We’ll be right back Break: WHEELER FUNERAL HOME (08.08.24 WHEELER OBITS_FINAL) Story 4: Georgia Early Voters Continue Setting Records Over 1.8 million Georgians voted early in the first week, with numbers expected to surpass 2 million by midday Wednesday, marking over 26% of the electorate. Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger highlighted Georgia's clean voter list, noting a citizenship audit found only 20 non-citizens among 8.2 million registered voters, whose registrations were canceled. Additionally, 156 suspected non-citizens were referred for investigation. Raffensperger praised Georgia's participation in the Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC) for maintaining accurate voter rolls. Gabriel Sterling dismissed claims of vote-flipping by Dominion machines, affirming no evidence supports such theories. Early voting continues through November 1. Story 5: Emory Seeks Rome, Calhoun Residents For PFAS Exposure Study Emory University researchers are recruiting Rome and Calhoun residents for a study on PFAS chemical exposure. They aim to enroll 200 participants, collecting blood samples from those who've lived in the area for at least three years. PFAS, known as "forever chemicals," persist in the environment and human body, with past contamination from carpet companies affecting local rivers. Rome has since improved water filtration. The study will compare local PFAS blood levels to national averages and explore exposure sources, including water, cookware, and packaging. Results will guide potential further research or interventions based on community interest and findings. We’ll be right back. Break: Render Apartments (07.11.24 RENDER APARTMENTS_REV_FINAL) – Ingles Markets (Cereal Options) 1 Story 6: Georgia Tech's Michael Isenhour Toy Drive Still Honors Shiloh Grad Georgia Tech's Student-Athlete Advisory Board is launching the 24th annual Michael Isenhour Toy Drive in November, honoring its founder, Michael Isenhour, who started the drive in 2001 to help families affected by 9/11. Toy donations will be collected at Georgia Tech's basketball and football ...
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    12 mins

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