Cherokee Tribune-Ledger Podcast

Chick-fil-A, we need to talk. In this Small Town Soapbox, Darien passionately pleads for the return of a Southern classic—Chick-fil-A’s coleslaw. From heartfelt nostalgia to a hilarious proposal for a ‘SLAW Week,’ Darien takes listeners on a journey through his love for food, fast service, and the side dish that got away. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! www.1011thepulse.com The Porch with Darien and Asa ios App Android AppSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Looking for your next North Georgia adventure? In this episode of Saturdays with Sandra, Colleen, our community queen, shares her top picks for historical sites to visit in the region. From the Dahlonega Gold Museum to the Chief Vann House, discover fascinating landmarks perfect for day trips or weekend getaways. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with UsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when a séance goes hilariously wrong? In this episode of Saturdays with Sandra, Natasha Charles, director of Blythe Spirit at the Gilmer Arts Theater, shares the magic behind this witty, mystical comedy. From ghostly hijinks to the joys of directing, Natasha gives us a behind-the-scenes look at this Noel Coward classic. Don’t miss the laughs, the drama, and the incredible cast bringing this farcical tale to life! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us Get Tickets Here Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:05 Natasha Charles on Blythe Spirit01:30 The Story and Mystical Comedy Elements02:33 Natasha’s Journey to Directing04:54 Reflections on the Cast and Production06:30 Showtimes and Ticket InformationSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Step up to the plate! In this episode of Saturdays with Sandra, Jacob Dye, Assistant Athletic Director for Marketing and Fan Experience at KSU, takes us behind the scenes of the brand-new Mickey Dunn Stadium. From state-of-the-art amenities to upgraded concessions, discover how this reimagined ballpark is transforming the fan experience. Plus, get the scoop on upcoming games, parking tips, and the 2026 Conference USA Baseball Championship Saturdays with Sandra Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us KSU Athletics Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:05 Jacob Dye on Mickey Dunn Stadium01:30 Stadium Features and Fan Amenities02:21 Parking and Game Day Tips03:45 Upcoming Events: 2026 Conference USA Championship04:50 Closing Thoughts and Ticket InformationSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lights, camera, action! Dive into the world of independent filmmaking with Allison Holmes, events director for the Blue Ridge Film Festival. We explore the festival’s mission to spotlight local and international talent, including student filmmakers from Fannin County High School. Discover how this community-driven event is making big-screen dreams accessible to all. Don’t miss the behind-the-scenes stories and tips for submitting your own script! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us Blueridge Film FestivalSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Would you hop the fence into the mean man’s yard? Darien draws a powerful parallel between childhood lessons and the importance of respecting boundaries while traveling abroad. In this Small Town Soapbox, Darien shares wisdom on staying safe, being aware, and making smart choices—whether at home or in unfamiliar territory. Tune in for a thought-provoking take on travel, culture, and caution. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! www.1011thepulse.com The Porch with Darien and Asa ios App Android App Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Childhood Memories01:05 The Mean Man’s Yard: A Lesson in Boundaries02:21 Travel Safety and Cultural Awareness03:45 Wisdom from Proverbs: Avoiding Strife04:24 Final Thoughts: Strength in RestraintSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ready to hit the trails? Join Sandra Parrish and Colleen, the community queen, as they explore the best hiking spots in North Georgia. From the stunning Amicalola Falls to the historic Pickens Mill trail, they share tips, trail highlights, and even a handy app to keep you on track. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Sandra’s Love for Hiking01:05 Colleen’s Top Hiking Trail Picks02:26 Exploring Carter’s Lake and Pickens Mill03:45 Fort Mountain State Park and Scenic Views04:52 Hiking Tips and the AllTrails AppSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

President Trump returns to Georgia, and the political stage is buzzing! Join Sandra Parrish and AJC political reporter Greg Bluestein as they break down Trump’s visit to Rome, his economic updates, and key endorsements. From tariffs to special elections, get the inside scoop on how this visit is shaping Georgia’s political landscape. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us Greg's X Account Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Sandra’s Welcome01:05 Trump’s Return to Georgia: Key Highlights02:27 Tariffs and Their Impact on Georgia Industries03:45 Trump’s Endorsements: Clay Fuller and Bert Jones04:44 Senate Race Updates and Final ThoughtsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Big names, small town charm! Join Sandra Parrish as she chats with Brian Bogue, director of Victory Christian Center, about their upcoming concert featuring Leanna Crawford, Riley Clemens, and Madison Watkins. Discover how this small-town venue attracts top Christian artists, offers affordable family entertainment, and serves the community with more than just music. From pickleball to summer camps, there’s something for everyone at Victory Christian Center! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us The Sisterhood Tour is coming to Ellijay! Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Sandra’s Welcome01:05 Upcoming Concert Details with Brian Bogue02:19 How Victory Christian Center Attracts Big Artists03:45 Community Programs Beyond Concerts04:33 Ticket Info and Final ThoughtsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Step into the world of bluegrass gospel and Southern Appalachian culture with Heath Burnett, director of Smoke on the Mountain. In this episode, Heath shares his family’s rich musical heritage, the heartfelt stories behind their performances, and how his roots inspired him to bring this beloved musical to life. From snake-handling churches to the evolution of Baptist music, this conversation is packed with humor, history, and heart. Don’t miss this behind-the-scenes look at a show that’s as entertaining as it is meaningful. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us Smoke on the Mountain Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Sandra’s Excitement for the Show01:05 Heath Burnett’s Family Connection to Bluegrass Gospel02:30 The Story Behind Smoke on the Mountain04:58 The Welch Family’s Musical Legacy07:25 Music from the Welch Family Albums11:15 Sacred Harp Singing and Appalachian Traditions13:43 How Heath’s Roots Shaped His Directing Journey16:11 Instruments and Interactive Fun in the Show18:45 Show Details and Invitation to the AudienceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Valentine’s Day memory gone hilariously wrong sets the tone for this feel‑good episode. Sandra Parrish chats with community favorite Colleen, who shares both her sweetest and funniest Valentine moments before diving into practical winter gardening tips. From starting seedlings on a sunny windowsill to pruning trees, prepping outdoor beds, and planning cold‑weather and warm‑weather crops, Colleen explains how to get a head start on spring planting — even without a greenhouse. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us Chapters00:00 Introduction and Banter00:36 Valentine’s Day Memories and Stories01:20 Starting Seedlings Indoors02:00 Cold‑Weather and Warm‑Weather Crops02:34 Pruning Trees and Outdoor Prep03:10 Gardening Help and Local Resources04:20 What Colleen Is Growing NextSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Downtown Blue Ridge is about to turn electric. Sandra Parrish talks with Troy Shirbroun of the Blue Ridge Business Association about the 15th annual Fire & Ice Chili and Craft Beer Festival — the biggest one yet. From a record 24 chili competitors to 36 ice sculptures, live carving demos, craft beer, live music, and Valentine’s Day fun, Troy shares why this hometown celebration draws thousands every year. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us Fire & Ice Chili Cook Off & Craft Beer Festival Chapters00:00 Introduction and Banter00:32 What Makes Fire & Ice Special01:15 Chili Competition and Tasting Details01:58 Ice Sculptures and Live Carvings02:23 Craft Beer, Music, and Vendors03:40 Valentine’s Day Activities04:20 Event Schedule and Final DetailsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new scholarship could quietly change thousands of Georgia students’ futures. Sandra Parrish talks with former Governor and current University System Chancellor Sonny Perdue about the DREAM Scholarship, a needs‑based program designed to keep students from dropping out due to financial strain. Perdue explains how even a few hundred dollars can determine whether a student earns a degree — and why Georgia is finally addressing the gap left by HOPE. They also break down the program’s expansion, eligibility, funding challenges, and why work‑study requirements ensure students stay invested. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us Chapters00:00 Introduction and Banter00:38 What the DREAM Scholarship Is02:15 Why Students Drop Out Over Small Costs03:40 Funding, Expansion, and Legislative Hurdles04:35 Eligibility, FAFSA, and Work Requirements05:55 Grant Amounts and Institutional Decisions06:50 Closing Thoughts and Final RemarksSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shocking twists are reshaping Georgia politics in real time. Sandra Parrish sits down with AJC political reporter Greg Bluestein to break down the dueling tax plans at the Capitol, the growing divide between House and Senate leaders, and how the 2026 and 2027 elections could determine Georgia’s long-term fiscal future. Greg also unpacks Rick Jackson’s surprise entrance into the governor’s race, why it caught even insiders off guard, and how it could upend the Republican field. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us Greg's X Account Chapters00:00 Introduction and Banter00:42 Dueling Income and Property Tax Plans02:25 Governor Kemp’s Measured Tax Approach03:40 How the 2026–2027 Elections Shape Policy04:49 Rick Jackson’s Surprise Entry06:10 Impact on the Republican Field07:20 Final Thoughts and Session PreviewSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Speeding is an epidemic, and it’s costing lives every single day. In today's Small Town Soapbox, Darien dives into the shocking statistics of traffic fatalities in Georgia and the overlooked dangers of speeding. From rural roads to major highways, Darien shares his no-nonsense take on how small towns can tackle this issue, honor law enforcement, and save lives. It’s a heartfelt, unfiltered look at a problem that hits close to home. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! www.1011thepulse.com The Porch with Darien and Asa ios App Android AppSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why does bad news grab our attention more than good? In this 'Small Town Soapbox,' Darien reflects on the media’s obsession with negativity and how it shapes our mood. Sharing personal anecdotes and heartfelt insights, Darien challenges us to focus on the small acts of kindness that often go unnoticed. From a kid holding a door to a stranger helping on the roadside, this is a call to celebrate the good in our everyday lives. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! www.1011thepulse.com The Porch with Darien and Asa ios App Android AppSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Could Georgia really eliminate property taxes? In this episode of 'Saturdays with Sandra,' Sandra Parrish sits down with Representative Rick Jasperse to discuss a groundbreaking bill that could revolutionize homeownership in Georgia. They explore the challenges, potential solutions, and the impact on cities, counties, and schools. Plus, hear from KSU’s Cale McDaniel on his journey from Pickens County to leading KSU’s track and field program, and get a sneak peek at the Valentine’s Day play 'Love Letters' at the Blue Ridge Community Theater. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Banter01:15 Representative Rick Jaspers on Eliminating Property Taxes04:47 Challenges and Solutions for Cities and Schools07:13 Transitioning to a Consumption Tax10:31 Cale McDaniel’s Journey from Pickens to KSU14:00 KSU’s Track and Field Success18:43 Valentine’s Day Play 'Love Letters' Preview23:25 Planning Your Next Vacation with ColleenSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From the Gold Dome to home plate, this episode covers what’s shaping North Georgia right now. As Georgia’s legislative session heats up, AJC’s Greg Bluestein breaks down the governor’s agenda, data center debates, and campaign clashes already unfolding. Plus, celebrate local wins and culture with Georgia Highlands baseball’s championship momentum, a behind‑the‑scenes look at Oklahoma! at Blue Ridge Community Theatre, and must‑try restaurant picks from the Community Queen. It’s politics, sports, arts, and local flavor—all in one packed edition of Saturdays with Sandra. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us Chapters00:00 Introduction and Week’s Overview02:05 Legislative Session Update with Greg Bluestein09:40 Governor’s Agenda and Data Center Debate16:55 Campaign Politics and Election Landscape23:40 Georgia Highlands Baseball Season Preview31:20 Oklahoma! at Blue Ridge Community Theatre41:05 Sunny D Youth Theatre Program53:10 Community Queen’s Favorite North Georgia RestaurantsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ice storms don’t just change the forecast—they change everything. In this winter weather special of Saturdays with Sandra, experts from emergency management, GDOT, and Georgia EMC break down what North Georgians need to know before snow and ice hit. From long-term power outages and unsafe roads to shelter plans and generator safety, Sandra Parrish brings essential, real-world guidance straight from those on the front lines. Plus, insights on road conditions, power restoration, and how to protect your family when staying home is the safest option. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! Saturdays with Sandra www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android App Advertise with Us Chapters00:00 Introduction and Winter Weather Overview03:12 Emergency Management and Storm Preparedness09:45 Power Outages, Shelters, and Generator Safety16:30 Ice, Road Conditions, and GDOT Warnings24:10 Utility Crews, EMC Preparation, and Restoration33:20 Community Tips, Safety Reminders, and Staying HomeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wondered how a broken past can lead to a life of faith and over 40 gospel hits? In this heartfelt episode, Gerald Crabb shares his journey from struggles with alcoholism to becoming a celebrated songwriter and minister. Discover the stories behind iconic songs like 'Please Forgive Me' and 'Through the Fire,' his family’s musical legacy, and the power of redemption through faith. Gerald’s testimony is a moving reminder of how God uses brokenness to create beauty. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! www.1011thepulse.com The Porch with Darien and Asa ios App Android App geraldcrabbministries.com Facebook: Gerald Crabb Music Youtube: Gerald Crabb Sound Cloud: Gerald Crabb Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Banter00:31 Gerald Crabb’s Musical Background and Success01:06 Ministry and Revival02:10 Jason Crabb’s Career and Achievements03:11 Gerald Crabb’s Testimony and Redemption05:01 The Story Behind "Please Forgive Me"07:45 Writing "Please Forgive Me" at a Ski Retreat10:31 Jason Crabb’s Influence and Ministry15:14 Overcoming Limitations Through God’s Grace17:55 The Story Behind "Through the Fire"21:06 Revival at Su Talley Baptist Church26:22 Advice to Young MusiciansSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Did you know most images of Jesus don’t match what He really looked like? In this heartfelt episode of 'Small Town Soapbox,' Darien dives into the misconceptions of appearance—both our own and the Savior’s. Reflecting on personal struggles and cultural traditions, Darren explores how Jesus’ humble, working-class life reminds us of His love and sacrifice. This episode challenges us to let go of picture-perfect ideals and embrace the truth of love, grace, and authenticity. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram or download our app to stay connected! www.1011thepulse.com The Porch with Darien and Asa ios App Android AppSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Same feed. Stronger voice.Faith, country, and gospel meet the passion of North Georgia sports. 101.1 The Pulse unites with 93.7 & 98.1 The Sports Pig to bring trusted voices, meaningful stories, and real conversations into one place. Inspiring. Informative. Unapologetic. www.1011thepulse.com ios App Android AppSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of January 23rd Publish Date: January 23rd   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, January 23rd and Happy Birthday to Earl Falconer I’m Chris Culwell and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Former Cherokee County Probate Court judge retires New Kilwin's store opens at The Mill on Etowah in Canton Cherokee County school board member won’t seek reelection Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads 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!  Commercial: INGLES 2 STORY 1: Former Cherokee County Probate Court judge retires After 50 years in the legal world, Kipling “Kip” McVay has officially retired, closing the book on a career that spanned everything from title research to serving as Cherokee County’s probate judge. Her last day? December 4, 2025, when Governor Brian Kemp accepted her resignation. McVay’s career began in 1973, digging into title research at Sen. Sam Nunn’s old law firm. From there, she wore countless hats: prosecutor, trial attorney, ethics commission director, private practice owner, and eventually, Cherokee County’s first female probate judge. Oh, and she also became the first woman to conduct a jury trial in the county. Her time as probate judge (1997–2008) was transformative. She modernized the office, introduced mediation to resolve family disputes, and even handpicked her successor, Keith Wood, who’s still serving today. After stepping down as probate judge, McVay wasn’t done. She served as a senior judge for Georgia’s Probate Courts, taking on cases across the state—sometimes for years at a time. One particularly messy case involved an estate with no will, feuding heirs, and years of unresolved disputes. Now retired, McVay has traded courtrooms for family time and volunteering at Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville, where she moved in 2020. “It’s been a good run,” she said, “but I’m enjoying this new chapter.” STORY 2: New Kilwin's store opens at The Mill on Etowah in Canton Canton just got a little sweeter—Kilwin’s is now open at The Mill on Etowah, serving up chocolate, fudge, and over 30 flavors of ice cream. The shop, which opened Dec. 18, sits next to Rock N Roll Sushi and shares a building with Campania. Franchisee Mona Rathore, who also owns the downtown Woodstock location, said Canton was the perfect spot. “We wanted to create a family-friendly space where people could enjoy our sweets. The Mill felt like the heart of the community—it just made sense.” Kilwin’s menu is a sugar lover’s dream: hand-dipped caramel apples (made fresh in-store), creamy fudge, specialty chocolates, and, of course, their famous ice cream. So far, the response has been incredible. “We love seeing families stop by after dinner,” Rathore said. “Even though we’re a franchise, we feel like a local business. We live, shop, and eat here—it’s home.” Kilwin’s Canton is open daily from noon to 8 p.m., with extended hours coming this summer. Online ordering and delivery through DoorDash and Uber Eats are on the way, too. STORY 3: Cherokee County school board member won’t seek reelection  Cherokee County School Board Member Susan Padgett-Harrison is calling it a career. After decades in education and public service, she’s announced she’ll retire at the end of the year and won’t seek another term. Padgett-Harrison’s career spans 29 years as a teacher, principal, and district leader before joining the board in 2023. During her tenure, CCSD’s state “report card” score hit a record 87, and the district climbed from 21st to 8th in state rankings. She’s proud of the progress: lower debt, expanded career programs, and rising AP scores. Three other board seats (Districts 3, 4, and 5) are also up for grabs this year, with elections set for May 19 and Nov. 3. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 3 STORY 4: Creekview wins back-to-back duals state titles Creekview did it again—back-to-back Class AAAAA duals state champs. And this one? It was a nail-biter. The Grizzlies edged out South Effingham 36-35 in the final, capping off a perfect 4-0 run at Legacy Arena in Douglasville. Wins over Habersham Central, Villa Rica, and Dunwoody set the stage, but the finale? That was something else. Down 35-6 with five matches left, Creekview pulled off the unthinkable: five straight pins. Aaron Campbell, Pierce Marsh, Weston Wilkie, Logan Pritchett, and Costen Wright stepped up, with Wright sealing the deal at 175 pounds. Even a loss at 132 pounds by Bo Richardson turned out to be crucial, saving a team point that made the difference. South Effingham was no pushover—they’d dominated all tournament long, just like Creekview. But the Grizzlies weren’t about to let this one slip. With the traditional tournament still ahead, Creekview’s not done yet. BRAVES: Carlos Beltrán and Andruw Jones are headed to Cooperstown, two center fielders who dominated their eras with a mix of power, speed, and jaw-dropping defense. Born just a day apart in April 1977, they’ll now share the stage at the Hall of Fame induction on July 26. Beltrán, in his fourth year on the ballot, finally crossed the 75% threshold, earning 84.2% of the vote. Jones, in his ninth year, got 78.4%. Both had to climb uphill—Beltrán’s path clouded by the Astros’ sign-stealing scandal, Jones’ by a slow start in Hall voting (just 7.3% in 2018). Beltrán, a nine-time All-Star, hit .279 with 435 homers and 1,587 RBIs over 20 seasons. He was a postseason monster, batting .307 with 16 homers in 65 playoff games. “The Mets are a big part of my identity,” he said, though his career spanned stints with Kansas City, Houston, St. Louis, and others. Jones, meanwhile, was a defensive wizard, winning 10 Gold Gloves and smashing 434 homers. He’s now the sixth Braves legend from their 1990s dynasty to make the Hall, joining Maddux, Glavine, Smoltz, Chipper, and McGriff. STORY 5: Winter storm watch issued for Cherokee County this weekend  Brace yourselves, north Georgia—winter’s about to get messy. The National Weather Service says a storm is rolling in this weekend, and Cherokee County is under a winter storm watch from 1 a.m. Saturday to 10 a.m. Monday. South of Cherokee? No watch, but don’t get too comfortable. Here’s the deal: expect freezing rain, sleet, and maybe some snow. Saturday starts with rain, but by nightfall, temps drop to 27, and things get icy—literally. Sunday? More freezing rain, highs around 34, and a low of 17. Power outages? Likely. Roads? Treacherous. If you must travel, pack a winter kit—blankets, water, flashlight, the works. And don’t forget to protect your pets, plants, and pipes. Need shelter? MUST Ministries’ warming center on Bells Ferry Road opens Saturday, serving dinner at 5 p.m. Stay safe, stay warm, and keep an eye on updates. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: INGLES 4   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of January 16th Publish Date: January 16th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, January 16th and Happy Birthday to Albert Pujols I’m Chris Culwell and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Woodstock elected officials sworn in to serve new terms Kemp to build roads, bridges during final year as Georgia governor Canton man charged in Christmas shopping center fire Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on raw milk 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!  Commercial: INGLES 1 STORY 1: Woodstock elected officials sworn in to serve new terms Woodstock kicked off the week with a swearing-in ceremony on Monday, welcoming back familiar faces and appointing new ones to key boards. Municipal Court Judge Robert Tidwell swore in Mayor Michael Caldwell and Council Members Warren Johnson (Ward 1), Colin Ake (Ward 3), and Brian Wolfe (Ward 5)—all re-elected in November. Caldwell also administered oaths to Lisa Morton, Spencer Nix, and Melissa Madigan for the Downtown Development Authority, and Rob Hogan, Ali Najafi, and Chase Roth for the Planning Commission. “Public trust is no small thing,” Caldwell said. “Congratulations to everyone stepping up to serve.” The council also made appointments to the Ethics Board and Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. STORY 2: Kemp to build roads, bridges during final year as Georgia governor Gov. Brian Kemp isn’t coasting through his final year in office. Nope, he’s dropping over $2 billion into highway upgrades south and east of Atlanta—part of a $6 billion infrastructure push during his tenure. Speaking at the Georgia Chamber’s Eggs and Issues event Wednesday, Kemp credited “conservative budgeting” for making it all possible. “While some politicians just talk about affordability,” he said, “we’re actually doing something.” Big-ticket items? $1.8 billion for express lanes on I-75 in Henry County, $200 million to overhaul Georgia 316, and $250 million for local road grants. Oh, and $50 million to tackle homelessness ahead of the World Cup. Meanwhile, Lt. Gov. Burt Jones and House Speaker Jon Burns are laser-focused on taxes—property, income, you name it. Burns even floated eliminating homestead property taxes statewide. It’s a busy year for Georgia politics, to say the least. STORY 3: Canton man charged in Christmas shopping center fire  A Canton teenager is facing serious charges after allegedly setting fire to a vacant shopping center on Christmas Day. Firefighters were called to the Canton Village shopping center on Marietta Road around 3:15 p.m., finding smoke pouring from the roof and flames inside. Crews worked quickly—hoses out, building searched—but thankfully, no one was inside, and no injuries were reported. After an investigation involving fire officials, Canton Police, and the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office, 19-year-old Blake Louis Bishop was arrested Tuesday. He’s charged with first-degree arson, second-degree criminal damage, and loitering. The city-owned shopping center, set for demolition, required 30 firefighters and hours to fully extinguish the blaze. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 2 STORY 4: Morales breaks record, Gold returns for New Years Kickoff meet At the New Year’s Kickoff swim meet, held Jan. 9-11 at UGA’s Ramsey Center, Mila Morales of Chattahoochee Gold shattered a 19-year-old club record in the girls’ 8U 50-yard freestyle. Her time? A blazing 30.95 seconds, dethroning Lauren Case’s long-standing mark. The meet wasn’t scored—more of a post-holiday tune-up—but Chattahoochee Gold swimmers still made waves. Ava Gana stole the show with five wins, including the 12U 400 IM (4:56.31) and 200 backstroke (2:20.22). Meanwhile, Ella Malave snagged gold in the 13+ 100 breaststroke (1:05.96), and Bryston Burks dropped six seconds to win the 12U 200 breaststroke (2:48.08). Plenty of top-10 finishes, too—this team’s on fire. FALCONS: The Atlanta Falcons officially introduced Matt Ryan as their new president of football on Tuesday, and honestly, it feels like a full-circle moment. At the press conference in Flowery Branch, Ryan—who spent 14 seasons as the face of the franchise—spoke about his “unfinished business” with the team. “Since I was drafted, my mission’s been the same: help this organization win championships. We came close, had some success, but I believe we’ll get there,” he said. After retiring and working as a CBS Sports analyst, Ryan said he wasn’t looking for a new job—unless it was with the Falcons. Now, he’ll report directly to owner Arthur Blank, focusing on hiring a head coach and GM who share a unified vision. STORY 5: Georgia GOP senators target Raffensperger over voter registration lists  A group of Georgia Republican senators is pressuring Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger to hand over the state’s unredacted voter registration list to the Trump administration—a move Raffensperger flatly opposes. His reasoning? State law. Sharing private voter details like Social Security numbers, birthdates, and driver’s license info is a no-go, he says. The DOJ, meanwhile, has been requesting voter lists from all 50 states, claiming it’s about ensuring accuracy. They even sued Georgia last month over the issue. The Senate resolution, led by Lt. Gov. Burt Jones’ allies, is mostly symbolic. But it accuses Raffensperger of “obstruction” for only providing a public version of the list. Raffensperger’s office fired back, saying he’s already complied as far as state law allows. “He won’t break the law or risk voters’ private information,” his office said. The DOJ’s lawsuit heads to federal court in Macon later this month. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on raw milk Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: INGLES 3   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of January 9th Publish Date: January 9th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, January 9th and Happy Birthday to Jimmy Page I’m Chris Culwell and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Fincher wins runoff for Cherokee County’s state House seat Farm Bureau seeks entries for High School Art Contest Georgia Republicans move to scrap state income tax by 2032 despite concerns Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats 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!  Commercial: INGLES 10 STORY 1: Fincher wins runoff for Cherokee County’s state House seat Republican Bill Fincher is poised to take the Georgia House District 23 seat, according to unofficial results. With all precincts reporting by 8:57 p.m. Tuesday, Fincher secured 71.38% of the vote—4,345 ballots—against Democrat Scott Sanders, who pulled in 1,742 votes. Fincher, a retired assistant DA and RV park owner, thanked supporters on Facebook: “To everyone who voted, knocked doors, prayed, or just believed—thank you. I’m humbled and ready to get to work.” Sanders, meanwhile, called his campaign a success, saying, “We hit every goal and laid the groundwork for 2026. No more uncontested elections.” The seat, left vacant after Rep. Mandi Ballinger’s passing, saw six candidates in the Dec. 9 special election. Fincher and Sanders advanced to the runoff. Turnout was low—just 13.75%—with most votes cast on Election Day. Results will be certified Friday after the elections board reviews one provisional ballot. STORY 2: Farm Bureau seeks entries for High School Art Contest Hey, high school artists—this one’s for you! The 2026 Georgia Farm Bureau High School Art Contest is here, and there’s cash on the line. The state winner gets $250, and 10 district winners snag $100 each. Not bad, right? It’s open to all 9th–12th graders (public, private, or homeschool). The rules? Create your masterpiece on 8.5 x 11-inch white paper using black, white, and gray. Use whatever works—charcoal, graphite, pen, chalk, mixed media, you name it. Just one entry per person, though. Deadline? Feb. 6. Drop your entry at the Cherokee County Farm Bureau office. Questions? Call 770-479-1481. Let’s see what you’ve got! STORY 3: Georgia Republicans move to scrap state income tax by 2032 despite concerns  Cutting state income taxes sounds great, right? But here’s the catch: how do you replace billions in lost revenue without gutting schools, health care, or public safety—or jacking up other taxes? That’s the question Georgia Republicans are wrestling with as they push to eliminate the state’s personal income tax by 2032. Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, eyeing the governor’s mansion in 2026, is leading the charge, with State Sen. Blake Tillery backing him up. Their plan? Start by exempting the first $50,000 of income for singles ($100,000 for couples) in 2027. Sounds nice, but it’d cost the state $3.8 billion in year one alone. Tillery says they’ll cover it with surplus funds and borrowing for infrastructure, but critics—Democrats and even some Republicans—aren’t sold. For now, the debate rages on. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 1 STORY 4: Prep Roundup: Hamby, Bass have record-setting nights Creekview’s Kailyn Hamby had a night to remember, shattering both the single-game and all-time scoring records as the Grizzlies rolled past Sprayberry, 62-35. Hamby dropped 33 points, grabbed six boards, and helped Creekview climb to 13-1 overall and 4-0 in Region 6AAAAA. They’re now neck-and-neck with River Ridge for the top spot. Next up? A Friday showdown at Pope. Meanwhile, River Ridge stayed unbeaten in region play, edging Pope 70-60 behind Finley Parker’s 28 points and Makayla Roberson’s 25. Elsewhere, North Paulding handled Etowah 56-46, and Sequoyah crushed Woodstock 78-50 with a dominant third-quarter run. Cherokee also outlasted Wheeler, 41-34. PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Will Rajecki. If you’ve followed Cherokee County football these past few years, you know the name. It’s only fitting he caps off his high school career as the 2025 Cherokee County Offensive Player of the Year. Records? He smashed them. Flashy stats? Oh, plenty. Rajecki was the heart of Sequoyah’s offense, leading the Chiefs to their first region title since 2003 and back-to-back state quarterfinals for the first time ever. The numbers are wild: 4,049 career rushing yards (a school record), 66 all-purpose touchdowns, and a jaw-dropping seven-touchdown game against Sprayberry that landed him third in state history. This season alone, he racked up 1,974 rushing yards, 30 touchdowns, and helped Sequoyah to a 35-14 record over his four varsity years. Now? He’s weighing offers from Arkansas, Oregon State, and Georgia after decommitting from Memphis. Wherever he lands, one thing’s clear: Rajecki’s story is just getting started. STORY 5: Cagle names appointee to Cherokee County T-SPLOST committee  Cherokee County just named the first three members of its new T-SPLOST Citizens Review Committee, a group tasked with keeping an eye on how the county spends its transportation sales tax dollars. On Tuesday, Commissioner Will Cagle appointed Jack Norton, a Canton resident, Marine Corps vet, and small business owner with a background in transportation. Norton joins Ashley Holcomb, appointed by Chairman Harry Johnston, and Tom Teague, chosen by Commissioner Benny Carter. Two spots are still open, but Johnston isn’t worried. The 1% T-SPLOST, approved by voters in November, kicks off April 1 and is expected to bring in $445 million over six years. The committee’s job? Make sure the funds are spent responsibly and projects stay on track. They’ll review reports, offer recommendations, and keep the public informed—but they can’t change the project list. Meetings will be open to the public, with the 2026 schedule set at the first session. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: INGLES 2   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of January 2nd Publish Date: January 2nd   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, January 2nd and Happy Birthday to Cuba Gooding Jr. I’m Chris Culwell and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cherokee County’s Development Service Center going cashless Cherokee County musician Kurt Lee Wheeler performs in movie MLK Day Unity Breakfast returning to Canton after hiatus Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads 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!  Commercial: INGLES 9 STORY 1: Cherokee County’s Development Service Center going cashless The Cherokee County Development Service Center is now cashless—no more bills or coins at the counter. If you’re handling business licenses, building permits, alcohol licenses, or even motorized cart registrations, you’ll need to pay with a card, check, money order, or online. The office, located on the ground floor of the county’s admin building in Canton, says this change will speed things up and make transactions more secure. So, plan ahead—no cash, no exceptions. Got questions? Call 770-721-7810 or email dsc@cherokeecountyga.gov. And hey, for more details, check out their website. STORY 2: Cherokee County musician Kurt Lee Wheeler performs in movie Kurt Lee Wheeler’s had plenty to smile about this holiday season. By day, he’s teaching at Creekland Middle School in Canton—a job he loves. But outside the classroom? He’s been busy releasing a new album and making his movie debut. After hearing his music, producer and actress Roberta Sparta invited Wheeler to perform in The Secret Life of a Good Wife, a Lifetime movie that premiered Thanksgiving Day. In a scene shot in Acworth, Wheeler and his band played during an outdoor gathering. Wheeler’s new album, Lathemtown, features some of the best bluegrass talent around, including Aaron Ramsey and Jake Stargel. A Cherokee County favorite, Wheeler’s also known for writing the county’s official song and performing at countless local events. With retirement from teaching on the horizon this May, Wheeler’s looking forward to traveling, spending time with his new grandchild, and, of course, making more music. STORY 3: MLK Day Unity Breakfast returning to Canton after hiatus  The MLK Day Unity Breakfast is making its long-awaited return to Canton on Jan. 19 after a six-year break. This free event kicks off at 8 a.m. with breakfast at the Cherokee County Conference Center (1130 Bluffs Parkway), followed by a program at 9 a.m. honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy of equality, justice, and service. The keynote speaker? Canton native and weather-climate expert Dr. James Marshall Shepherd, a Cherokee High valedictorian who’s advised NASA, Congress, and even the White House. The program will also feature local leaders, a community choir, creative dance, and the CFCC Unity Award Presentation. For more info or to donate, visit cfergusoncc.org. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 10 STORY 4: Johns Creek holds off Cherokee Cherokee had its shot—literally—but couldn’t quite close the deal, falling 69-63 to Johns Creek in Monday’s Lemon Street Classic at Marietta High. Down two with 33 seconds left, Polk Corben’s steal and layup gave Cherokee life. Then Johns Creek missed two free throws, leaving the door wide open. But Braylon Luster’s potential game-tying shot? Off the mark. Forced to foul, Cherokee watched the Gladiators ice it with four free throws. Tatum Holmes led the Gladiators with 25 points, while Kaysan Brock added 13. For Cherokee, Sean Williams and Braylon Luster each dropped 21, with Luster sparking a furious fourth-quarter rally. Trailing 58-46 after three, Cherokee clawed back with a 10-2 run, cutting the lead to one. But Brock’s clutch three-pointer with 1:33 left sealed the Gladiators’ win. It was a back-and-forth battle early. Cherokee’s hot start from deep gave them a 9-2 lead, but Johns Creek answered with a 12-4 run, fueled by three triples. By halftime, the Gladiators clung to a 30-28 edge. In the end, Cherokee’s fight wasn’t enough. FALCONS: The Falcons’ season, a rollercoaster of confusion and chaos, somehow got even weirder Monday night. Already eliminated from playoff contention weeks ago, Atlanta (7-9) pulled off a dramatic 27-24 win over the Rams, their third straight victory in a season that’s been equal parts frustrating and baffling. Zane Gonzalez nailed a 51-yard field goal with 21 seconds left, capping a game where Atlanta blew a 21-point lead but still managed to hang on. It’s been that kind of year—beating Super Bowl contenders like Buffalo and L.A., but losing to teams like the Jets and Panthers. Go figure. Bijan Robinson was unstoppable, racking up 195 rushing yards, two touchdowns, and a highlight-reel 93-yard run that left jaws on the floor. But let’s not sugarcoat it—this season’s been a mess. Special teams? A disaster, with yet another blocked field goal returned for a touchdown. The Cousins signing? A head-scratcher. And yet, somehow, the Falcons are ending the year on a high note, showing flashes of the potential fans expected back in August. For now, though, they’ll be watching the playoffs from the couch—again. I’m Keith Ippolito and this is your tribune ledger sports minute. STORY 5: New laws will address professional services, homeowner protections, car owners and politicians  While most laws from this year’s legislative session kicked in back in July, a few big ones kicked off on New Year’s Day. They tackle everything from dentist shortages to car tags, with a little campaign finance reform thrown in for good measure. Take House Bill 148, for example. Rep. John Carson, a CPA from Cobb, is trying to fix Georgia’s accountant shortage. His bill updates a 30-year-old licensing system, making it easier to become a CPA and letting out-of-state firms work here without opening an office. Then there’s House Bill 567, aimed at solving the dentist drought. Rep. Katie Dempsey’s bill allows licensed dentists to practice online—yes, teledentistry is now a thing—and ensures dental plans cover it. Homeowners get a win, too. Senate Bill 35 doubles the notice period for nonrenewal of certain insurance policies to 60 days. And Senate Bill 112 makes HVAC warranties transferable to new buyers and bans those annoying “register your product or lose your warranty” rules. Campaign finance? Senate Bill 199 tightens the rules, requiring PACs to keep detailed bank records and file disclosures with the State Ethics Commission. Oh, and candidates can’t be investigated within 60 days of an election. And for the patriotic crowd, there’s Senate Bill 291. It introduces a new license plate with the American flag and “America First” slogan. Proceeds go to the state’s general fund. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: INGLES 1   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of December 26th Publish Date: December 26th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, December 26th and Happy Birthday to Lars Ulrich I’m Chris Culwell and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cherokee High School student places in statewide art contest Salleigh Grubbs appointed to State Election Board Georgia DOT suspends lane closures for the holidays Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on holiday 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!  Commercial: INGLES 8 STORY 1: Cherokee High School student places in statewide art contest Cherokee High senior Grace Dai just snagged second place in the Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites Art Contest, and her piece, “The Fall of the House of Chief Vann,” is heading to the Georgia State Capitol for the 2026 legislative session. Pretty cool, right? Dai’s no stranger to recognition—she’s been in the Governor’s Honors Program for Visual Arts, featured in the Atlanta High School Art Exhibit, and, oh yeah, she’s also a National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist. Her art teacher, Morgan Clifton, must be beaming. Grace? She’s clearly on a roll, and it doesn’t look like she’s slowing down anytime soon. STORY 2: Salleigh Grubbs appointed to State Election Board Salleigh Grubbs, former Cobb GOP Chair, is stepping into a new role on the State Election Board. Lt. Gov. Burt Jones appointed her to fill the seat left by Rick Jeffares, who stepped down last week. It’s a “recess appointment,” Grubbs explained, and she’s diving in right away. “I’m honored, humbled—really, all of it,” she said. “Fair elections have been my focus for years, and I’m ready to get to work.” A Marietta native, Grubbs led the Cobb GOP until earlier this year and now serves as the Georgia GOP’s first vice chair. “This is about transparency,” she added. STORY 3: Georgia DOT suspends lane closures for the holidays  With the holidays here, the Georgia DOT is giving drivers a little gift: no lane closures on interstates, major routes, or roads near shopping hotspots. From Dec. 23 at 6 a.m. to Dec. 28 at 10 p.m., and again from Dec. 31 at 5 a.m. to Jan. 2 at 5 a.m., you’ll get a break from the cones. But don’t get too comfy—crews might still be working nearby, and emergencies? Yeah, those closures can still happen. Stay sharp, watch for signs, and check the 511GA app for updates. Safe travels, y’all. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 9 STORY 4: High-Scoring Georgia Men's Basketball Continues Non-Conference Roll With SEC play looming, Georgia’s men’s basketball team has plenty to feel good about. Monday night, they steamrolled West Georgia 103-74, improving to 11-1 and keeping their spotless 35-0 home non-conference record under coach Mike White intact. Blue Cain and Jeremiah Wilkinson were on fire, combining for 39 points. Cain dropped 20 on 9-of-13 shooting, adding four assists and three steals. “They told me about the 100-point record after the game,” Cain said. “It’s cool, but we’re just focused on playing the right way.” Somto Cyril? A beast. Fifteen points, 15 boards, four blocks. SEC, here they come. FALCONS: Bijan Robinson was electric, C.J. Henderson clutch, and the Falcons? They held on—barely. Atlanta edged Arizona 26-19 on Sunday, thanks to Henderson’s diving interception with 90 seconds left, slamming the door on the Cardinals’ final drive. Robinson? Unreal. 171 total yards, a touchdown grab, and a spot in Falcons history—just the third player to hit 2,000 scrimmage yards in a season. Not bad company: Jamal Anderson, William Andrews. Arizona? Another heartbreak. Seven straight losses, 12 of their last 13. Brissett’s 203 yards weren’t enough, and a wild Michael Wilson TD catch wasn’t either. Atlanta’s still alive. Barely. I’m Keith Ippolito and this is your tribune ledger sports minute. STORY 5: Incoming Mayor Dennis Nelson shares goals for Ball Ground  Dennis Nelson has big plans for Ball Ground. The incoming mayor, set to be sworn in Jan. 15, wants to turn Ball Ground Highway into a bustling commercial corridor and add a new park—maybe even the city’s first dog park. “Right now, it’s just an empty stretch,” he said. “People want to stay local, not drive miles for dinner or shopping.” Nelson’s also focused on the truck bypass project, aiming to keep heavy traffic out of downtown. “Everyone’s tired of the trucks,” he said. A Ball Ground resident since 2018, Nelson’s roots run deep—his great-great-grandfather helped settle the nearby city of Nelson. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on holiday foods Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: INGLES 10   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of December 19th Publish Date: December 19th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, December 19th and Happy Birthday to Al Kaline I’m Chris Culwell and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Sawnee EMC announces a balanced rate approach for 2026 Northside Hospital Cherokee named one of the best in U.S. for maternity care School board honors retiring Chief of Staff Mike McGowan Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats As well as Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre 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!  Here is Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre Commercial: THE STRAND STORY 1: Sawnee EMC announces a balanced rate approach for 2026 Sawnee EMC has some good news for its members heading into 2026—most will see their monthly bills drop slightly in January compared to December. It’s not a huge change, but hey, every little bit helps, right? Here’s the deal: the Board of Directors voted to lower the Wholesale Power Cost Adjustment (WPCA) by $4.72 per month for accounts using 1,500 kWh. At the same time, they approved small increases to base charges—about $2 to $3 per month. The net result? A $2 monthly savings for most members using 1,500 kWh. For those using less energy, the savings will be smaller, but still there. Sawnee says it’s committed to keeping rates affordable and only making changes when absolutely necessary. Serving over 203,000 accounts across seven counties in north Georgia, they also offer energy-saving tips, rebates, and incentives to help members cut costs. Questions? Call 770-887-2363 or visit www.sawnee.coop. STORY 2: Northside Hospital Cherokee named one of the best in U.S. for maternity care Northside Hospital Cherokee just snagged a big honor—it’s been named one of the nation’s top hospitals for maternity care by U.S. News & World Report. The “High Performing” rating puts it in the top 10% for uncomplicated pregnancies, making it one of only seven hospitals in Georgia to earn the distinction. Last year, nearly 3,000 babies were born at the Canton hospital, which also holds a Level III maternal care verification. Christina Roberts, director of women’s services, called the recognition a testament to their “high-quality, compassionate care.” Oh, and it’s not just maternity—Northside Cherokee also excels in 15 other areas, from cancer surgeries to heart failure care. STORY 3: School board honors retiring Chief of Staff Mike McGowan  After nearly 30 years with the Cherokee County School District, Mike McGowan is hanging up his hat—and the farewell was as heartfelt as you’d expect for someone who’s been a cornerstone of the district. At his final school board meeting last week, McGowan, CCSD’s first-ever chief of staff, was showered with gratitude, stories, and a few tears. Here is Superintendent Mary Elizabeth Davis and several school board members thanking McGowan for his service to CCSD. VO CLIPS From “hall monitor” to “everybody’s best friend,” McGowan’s legacy is clear: he made things better—for students, staff, and the entire community. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: Ingles Markets 8 STORY 4: Names approved for new Cherokee High School athletic facilities Tommy Baker Field isn’t going anywhere—at least in name. Cherokee County’s school board made it official on Dec. 11: the new Cherokee High School’s football field will still be called Tommy Baker Field, while the stadium itself gets a fresh name, Warrior Stadium. For Cherokee’s athletic director Jeremy Adams, keeping the name alive wasn’t up for debate. The original Tommy Baker Field, home to the Warriors for 70 seasons, was named in 1958 after Tommy Baker, a student who passed away tragically in 1957. His legacy? Still strong. BRAVES: Ha-Seong Kim is staying put in Atlanta—at least for another year. The 30-year-old shortstop signed a one-year, $20 million deal with the Braves on Monday, locking him in as the team’s starter for 2026. Not bad, considering he turned down a $16 million option just last month and walked away with an extra $4 million. Kim joined the Braves late last season, claimed off waivers from Tampa Bay on Sept. 1. He made an immediate impact, hitting .309 with a .372 OBP, three homers, and 12 RBIs in his first 19 games. Sure, he cooled off at the end—1-for-19 in the last five games—but the Braves clearly see his potential. Kim’s journey hasn’t been without bumps. Injuries sidelined him for much of 2025 with the Rays, where he hit just .214 in 24 games. But let’s not forget—this guy won a Gold Glove with the Padres in 2023 and has 84 career stolen bases. The Braves are betting on a bounce-back. And if Kim can channel his San Diego form, he could be a 3-4 WAR player. High hopes, but hey, the talent’s there. I’m Keith Ippolito and this is your tribune ledger sports minute. STORY 5: Tanner Place in Canton will soon welcome its first residents  Come January 1, the first families will finally move into Tanner Place, a long-awaited affordable housing community in Canton. The ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday wasn’t just about opening doors—it was about honoring a legacy. Pat Tanner, the neighborhood’s namesake and a former Canton City Council member, stood alongside her 98-year-old mother, Ozella Tanner, as she cut the ribbon. “This is humbling,” Tanner said, her voice full of emotion. “We knew this city needed safe, decent housing, and today, we’ve made that happen.” Tanner Place replaces 39 old units with 70 new ones, funded through state tax credits, HUD vouchers, and local contributions. Mayor Bill Grant called it “money well spent,” noting it’s the first new public housing in Canton in over 50 years. CHA Director Jacquelyn Loberg said 18 units are ready now, with more to follow in January. This project is just the beginning—next up, the redevelopment of Oakside Drive. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: VILLA RICA WONDERLAND TRAIN   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of December 12th Publish Date: December 12th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, December 12th and Happy Birthday to Frank Sinatra I’m Chris Culwell and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Canton Lions Club donates $6K to 'Shop with a Cop' program New taco fusion restaurant opens in Woodstock’s Towne Lake Road closure planned for Cherokee Avenue in Nelson Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk As well as Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre 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!  Here is Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre Commercial: THE STRAND STORY 1: Canton Lions Club donates $6K to 'Shop with a Cop' program The Canton Lions Club stepped up in a big way Tuesday, donating $6,000 to the Canton Police Department’s “Shop with a Cop” program—a holiday tradition that brings smiles to kids and families in need across Cherokee County. Lions Club members Shawn Tolan and Marty Taylor handed over the check, and they weren’t alone in their generosity. The Laurel Canyon Optimist Club chipped in another $1,500 to help make this year’s event even bigger. “This program is everything,” said Canton Police Chief Marty Ferrell. “It’s about connection, joy, and showing kids we’re here for them. We couldn’t do it without these amazing partners.” STORY 2: New taco fusion restaurant opens in Woodstock’s Towne Lake There’s a new taco spot in Towne Lake, and it’s not your typical taco joint. Towne Lake Taco Co., owned by Rick and Julie VanBuren, is throwing a grand opening party this Thursday through Saturday, complete with deals, giveaways, and a special-edition taco. “We’re not a Mexican restaurant,” Rick said. “We’re a fusion spot—tacos are just our canvas to play with flavors.” And play they do. This weekend’s exclusive? A steak au poivre taco with sirloin, greens, and a peppercorn sauce spiked with Grandaddy Mimm’s sorghum rum. Deals include free tacos, $45 taco flights, and $8 sangrias. Oh, and brownie chimichangas for dessert. STORY 3: Road closure planned for Cherokee Avenue in Nelson  Heads up, Nelson residents—storm drainpipe work is coming to Cherokee Avenue, and it’s going to mean a road closure. From Dec. 15 to Dec. 19, the stretch between 61 and 98 Cherokee Avenue will be shut down. Here’s the deal: if you’re at 61, you’ll need to head west to get in or out. If you’re at 98, it’s east for you. Signs will go up at Dogwood Pass and Hillside Lane to mark the closure. Be careful around the crews and equipment, and please follow the work zone signs—it’s for everyone’s safety. Questions? Call 678-493-6077. Thanks for your patience! We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: Ingles Markets 7 STORY 4: Chattahoochee Gold grabs top three finish at senior state championships  The Chattahoochee Gold Swim Club made waves at the Georgia Senior State Championships in Athens last weekend, with both the boys and girls teams landing top-three finishes. The boys snagged second place with 587.5 points, just behind Swim Atlanta (622) and ahead of Dynamo (505). Asher Cooper was the standout, racking up 90 points with wins in the 200 backstroke (1:47.77) and 200 butterfly (1:51.11). Parker Hebert and Jack Lynch also delivered big, with Hebert taking second in the 500 freestyle (4:33.09). On the girls’ side, they finished third overall, led by Ashlyn Loftin’s 55 points and Ariana Lutz’s two first-place swims, including the 500 freestyle (4:58.75). BRAVES: The Atlanta Braves just inked a deal with free-agent outfielder Mike Yastrzemski—yep, Carl Yastrzemski’s grandson—for two years and $23 million, with an option for a third. Yaz (the younger) has had an up-and-down career. He burst onto the scene in 2019, hitting .272 with 21 homers as a rookie, and even snagged some MVP votes in 2020 when he batted .297 during the shortened season. But since 2021? He hasn’t quite found that same spark, hitting .233 with 17 homers last year between the Giants and Royals. At 35, he’s likely looking at left field or a fourth-outfielder role—Acuña’s got right field locked down. I’m Keith Ippolito and this is your tribune ledger sports minute. STORY 5: Cherokee Chick-fil-As donate $155K for local charities  The Operators and Marketing Directors of Cherokee County’s six Chick-fil-A and Truett’s Grill locations handed over a jaw-dropping $155,000 check to the Cherokee County Educational Foundation (CCEF)—all thanks to the 12th Annual Cherokee County Chick-fil-A 5K. This year’s event? Bigger than ever, with over 2,700 runners and walkers showing up. It wasn’t just a race—it was a full-on celebration. Think Chick-fil-A biscuits, a petting zoo, balloon animals, face painting, live dance performances, and giveaways galore. Oh, and nonprofits got free booth space to connect with the community. The best part? That $155,000 will support CCEF and Cherokee County Special Olympics. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: VILLA RICA WONDERLAND TRAIN   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of December 5th Publish Date: December 5th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, December 5th and Happy Birthday to Walt Disney I’m Chris Culwell and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal New Jersey Mike’s Subs location opening in Hickory Flat FBI warns about rise in charity and disaster-relief fraud as holiday season ramps up Walmart launches drone delivery service in Woodstock Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on carrots 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!  Commercial: Ingles Markets 5 STORY 1: New Jersey Mike’s Subs location opening in Hickory Flat Jersey Mike’s Subs opened its doors at 6764 Hickory Road in the Hickory Flat community this Wednesday. From Dec. 3 to 7, the new location will support Every Link Matters, a nonprofit helping kids with KBG Syndrome. Got one of their special fundraising coupons? Donate at least $3, and you’ll snag a regular sub in return. No coupon, no deal—so keep an eye out for those flyers. “We’re so excited to join the Woodstock community,” said franchise owner Diego Rangel. “Giving back is who we are. Partnering with Every Link Matters lets us make a real difference—one sub at a time.” Hungry? You can order in-store, online, or through the Jersey Mike’s app. Delivery and curbside pickup are also options. The shop will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more info, visit jerseymikes.com or call 470-523-8055. Looking for a job? Email nico@rangelcompanies.com. STORY 2: FBI warns about rise in charity and disaster-relief fraud as holiday season ramps up The holidays are here, and so are the scammers—because, of course, they are. The FBI is warning folks to watch out for charity and disaster-relief fraud, which always seems to spike after major disasters or crises. These scammers? They’re sneaky. They’ll pose as legit charities, relief workers, or even government agencies, using emails, fake websites, crowdfunding pages, or social media to tug at your heartstrings—and your wallet. Sometimes they’ll even offer cleanup services, demand payment upfront, and then vanish. The FBI’s advice? Double-check charities before donating, skip sketchy links, and stick to secure payments (no gift cards or wire transfers). Stay sharp out there. STORY 3: Walmart launches drone delivery service in Woodstock  Residents near the Woodstock Walmart on Highway 92 can now have small packages delivered by drone—yes, drones. Walmart and Wing, the drone company behind the service, kicked things off Wednesday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and the first official delivery. Woodstock is one of six metro Atlanta cities chosen for the launch, alongside Conyers, Dallas, Hiram, Loganville, and McDonough. The drones, fully electric and weighing about 11 pounds, can carry up to two pounds of goods and fly six miles one way. They operate quietly at low altitudes, dropping packages to designated spots like driveways or backyards. Here is what Senator John Albers had to say about these new delivery drones. JOHN ALBERS CUT To see if you’re eligible, visit wing.com/atlanta. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: Ingles Markets 6 STORY 4: Wolverines perfect through five games Woodstock basketball is on fire. Under third-year coach Eric Blair, the Wolverines are off to a perfect 5-0 start—already their best in nearly a decade. They crushed Roswell 58-34 before Thanksgiving, thanks to sophomore phenom Jahmar Maurice dropping 21 points. The team’s averaging 70.4 points per game, a huge leap from last year’s 57.7. They’ve blown out opponents like Blessed Trinity (by 30!) and edged out a nail-biter against Chapel Hill. With region play kicking off today against Creekview, the Wolverines are eyeing a championship. They swept the Grizzlies last year, and a win this week would be a big step toward that goal. For now, though, this team is rolling—and it’s hard not to get excited about what’s ahead. GA BULLDOGS: Georgia lost five-star quarterback Jared Curtis to Vanderbilt just before National Signing Day, dropping their recruiting class to No. 6. Despite the hit, the Bulldogs signed 30 players, including one five-star, defensive lineman Valdin Sone, and 22 four-stars. Key signees include local standout Craig Dandridge Jr., three top tight ends like Kaiden Prothro, and Colquitt County running back Jae Lamar. Defense was a focus, with edge rushers Pierre Dean and Khamari Brooks, plus safeties Jordan Smith and Zech Fort. Gwinnett County contributed five players, including Carter Luckie, continuing his family’s Georgia legacy. Coach Kirby Smart’s class remains strong despite the late shakeup. I’m Keith Ippolito and this is your Tribune Sports Minute. STORY 5: Cherokee County to form T-SPLOST citizen committee Cherokee County is forming a five-member citizen committee to keep an eye on how the county spends the $445 million expected from the new T-SPLOST, which kicks off April 1 and runs for six years. The Board of Commissioners approved the plan on Dec. 2, and each commissioner will appoint one member to the group. Their job? Make sure the county sticks to the approved project list and spends the money responsibly. They can give advice and updates but can’t change the project list. The committee, unpaid and open to the public, will hold its first meeting in early 2026. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on carrots Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 7   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of November 28th Publish Date: November 28th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, November 28th and Happy Birthday to Dave Righetti I’m Chris Culwell and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Holiday lights on display in metro Atlanta ‘Elf The Musical’ coming to Fox Theatre for the Christmas season Thanksgiving travel rush kicks off, more expected to drive than fly Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on soy and oat milk 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!  Commercial: STRAND THEATRE STORY 1: Holiday lights on display in metro Atlanta The holidays are here, and metro Atlanta is lighting up—literally. Whether you’re cruising through a drive-thru wonderland or strolling under glowing canopies, there’s magic everywhere. Candy Rush at Six Flags (Marietta): A mile of lights, candy canes, and a gingerbread village. Sweet tooth? Satisfied. Nov. 14–Jan. 4. $39.99 per car. Fantasy in Lights at Callaway Gardens: Seven miles, 10 million lights, and Santa. Forbes loves it, and so will you. Nov. 14–Jan. 4. Tickets start at $24.99. Lanier Islands’ Magical Nights of Lights: Six miles of twinkling displays. Pure nostalgia. Nov. 15–Jan. 4. From $25. WildWoods: AGLOW at Fernbank: Glowing gardens, luminous dandelions, and interactive magic. Nov. 14–Feb. 28. From $16.95. Go make some memories! STORY 2: ‘Elf The Musical’ coming to Fox Theatre for the Christmas season Buddy the Elf is in town, and he’s bringing the holiday cheer! “Elf The Musical” is hitting the Fox Theatre stage Dec. 16-21, but Buddy’s not waiting till then to spread some Christmas magic. Catch him around Atlanta this weekend: Friday night at The Blind Elf Parlour Bar (5:30-7:30 p.m.), or Saturday at the Children’s Museum (10 a.m.-noon), the Georgia Festival of Trees (2-4 p.m.), and Atlantic Station’s Light the Station event (4-7:30 p.m.). So, grab your syrup and get ready—it’s gonna be festive! STORY 3: Thanksgiving travel rush kicks off, more expected to drive than fly  Thanksgiving travel chaos? AAA predicts 2.3 million Georgians will hit the road this holiday, joining 73 million Americans nationwide who’d rather drive than fly. GDOT’s trying to help, pausing roadwork through Sunday, but drivers? Slow down. Early sunsets are causing more accidents. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: Ingles Markets 4 STORY 4: Chiefs host Roswell, eye historic playoff win In a season where breaking records feels almost routine, Sequoyah is gearing up for its second straight trip to the quarterfinals—fourth in program history—chasing a first-ever spot in the Class AAAAA semis. Thirty-six years of history, and this senior-heavy squad is rewriting it all. Last week’s 48-28 win over Newnan? Another milestone. The Chiefs (11-1) smashed their single-season scoring record, with running back Will Rajecki breaking the career rushing mark and longtime coach James Teter becoming Cherokee County’s all-time wins leader. But now, it’s Roswell (11-1). “They’re explosive,” Teter said. “We’ve got to slow them down—long drives, limit possessions. Make them uncomfortable.” Roswell’s offense is terrifying: 44.5 points per game, led by dual-threat QB Trey Smith (2,451 passing yards, 1,026 rushing) and running back Nick Peal (1,256 yards, 19 TDs). They’ve hit 50-plus points six times this season. But Sequoyah’s offense isn’t backing down. With 505 points this year, it’s the best in program history. Rajecki (1,792 yards, 19 TDs), QB Kolby Martin, and receiver Brooks Darling have been unstoppable, backed by a veteran line. “This senior group is special,” Teter said. “They’ve grown together, and it shows. They’re comfortable, confident, and ready.” Friday night, it’s all on the line. STORY 5: More than 4 million expected to pass through Atlanta airport during Thanksgiving season Thanksgiving travel is in full swing, and Hartsfield-Jackson is bracing for over 4 million passengers. “It’s like our Super Bowl,” said General Manager Ricky Smith, half-joking but clearly ready for the chaos. The busiest day? Dec. 1, with 375,000 travelers expected—though that’s slightly down from last year, thanks to folks opting for road trips during the recent government shutdown. Still, the airport’s pulling out all the stops: new info totems, real-time TSA wait times, and extra security (some visible, some not). Smith’s advice? Arrive early, stay patient, and if something feels off, speak up. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on soy and oat milk Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 4   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com Strand Marietta – Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of November 21st Publish Date: November 21st   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, November 21st and Happy Birthday to Stan The Man Musial I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Greater Church giving away free turkeys and groceries Sunday Woodstock joins Cherokee Regional Land Bank Authority Lawmakers consider paring tax credits and exemptions to offset income tax cuts Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on rice 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!  Commercial: STRAND THEATRE STORY 1: Greater Church giving away free turkeys and groceries Sunday Greater Church is spreading some holiday cheer this Sunday with a giveaway of 300 turkeys and grocery bags. The event, part of their annual Friendsgiving, kicks off after the 11:15 a.m. service at 5744 Bells Ferry Road. While attending the service isn’t required, it guarantees you’ll snag a turkey and groceries—one per family, first come, first served. No ID needed, just show up and register onsite for food bank records. Supplies are limited, so don’t wait too long! Greater Church also runs a food pantry on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. For details, visit www.greater.church/FRIENDSGIVING. STORY 2: Woodstock joins Cherokee Regional Land Bank Authority Woodstock has officially joined the Cherokee Regional Land Bank Authority, following a unanimous vote by the city council on Nov. 17. A land bank, for those unfamiliar, is a tool to redevelop abandoned or blighted properties—no eminent domain involved. It can accept property donations, acquire land, and work with nonprofits or private groups to create affordable housing or boost economic development. Cherokee County and Canton formed the authority in August, and now Woodstock is on board. Holly Springs is still considering joining, with a decision expected next month. The land bank’s board includes representatives from each member jurisdiction, plus appointees from the Cherokee Office of Economic Development and at-large members. Woodstock will appoint its representative in December. Board meetings will be public, and jurisdictions will get advance notice of any property acquisitions. STORY 3: Lawmakers consider paring tax credits and exemptions to offset income tax cuts Georgia lawmakers are seriously talking about ditching the state income tax—$16 billion worth of revenue—and replacing it by slashing $30 billion in tax credits and exemptions. Bold move, right? “It’s not if, it’s when,” said Sen. Blake Tillery, who’s leading the charge. “This is about staying competitive.” Supporters like economist Arthur Laffer called income taxes “growth killers” and praised states like Tennessee for ditching them. But critics, like Sen. Nan Orrock, warned that sales taxes—often the fallback—hit low-income folks and retirees hardest. The debate? Far from over. Stay tuned. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: Ingles Markets 3 STORY 4: Warriors withstand late rally, knock off Knights  Even with a few key players sidelined, Cherokee stayed unbeaten Tuesday night, grinding out a 65-46 win over River Ridge. But don’t let the final score fool you—this one got tight late. Cherokee (2-0), missing standout forward Sean Hamilton, saw a 20-point fourth-quarter lead shrink to 10 with just over two minutes left. But the Warriors clamped down defensively, holding River Ridge to one basket the rest of the way. “We started strong, but we’ve got to play a full game,” said Cherokee coach Joe Veihman. “We got sloppy in the second half—missed chances, gave them open looks. Still, we’re learning.” River Ridge (1-1), led by new coach LeRonnice Davis, showed fight despite the loss. “The little things killed us—rebounds, free throws, turnovers,” Davis said. “But we battled. These games will make us better.” Braylon Luster poured in 30 points for Cherokee, while Brandon Flint led River Ridge with 27, including six threes. Next up: Cherokee heads to Creekview and River Ridge visits Etowah. STORY 5: 2 sentenced for 3-hour Cherokee County armed SWAT standoff Two men are headed to prison after pleading guilty to charges stemming from a tense, hours-long armed standoff with law enforcement in Ball Ground back in 2021. Jeffrey Leighton Danner, 35, of Alabama, pleaded guilty but mentally ill to multiple charges, including aggravated assault on officers. He was sentenced to 50 years, with 20 behind bars. Kaleb Hunter Kirkland, 27, also from Alabama, pleaded guilty earlier this year and received the same sentence—though he’ll serve 25 years in confinement. It all started on Feb. 28, 2021, when police spotted a vehicle tied to violent crimes in Alabama. A chase ensued, ending in the woods. Shots were fired at officers (thankfully, no injuries), and SWAT was called in. Kirkland, armed with a rifle, was shot after ignoring commands, while Danner was arrested without incident. “These sentences hold them fully accountable,” said District Attorney Susan Treadaway, praising law enforcement’s bravery. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on rice Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 3   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com Strand Marietta – Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of November 14th Publish Date: November 14th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, November 14th and Happy Birthday to Alec John Such I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Canton hears from residents on proposed 28-home neighborhood Retired Cherokee County firefighter dies after cancer battle Wellstar opens new GI clinic at Cherokee Health Park Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on pesticides 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!  Commercial: STRAND THEATRE STORY 1: Canton hears from residents on proposed 28-home neighborhood The Canton City Council is set to vote Dec. 4 on a proposal to build a 28-home subdivision on Fate Conn Road, but not without some serious pushback from locals. At a Nov. 6 public hearing, residents raised concerns about traffic, flooding, and the loss of greenspace. Earl Darby didn’t hold back: “We’ve had fatalities on that road... we don’t need more cars until there’s a plan to fix it.” Others echoed worries about stormwater runoff and privacy buffers. The developer, Legacy Design and Development, says they’ll address runoff with a stormwater system, but specifics? Still TBD. STORY 2: Retired Cherokee County firefighter dies after cancer battle Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services is grieving the loss of retired Lt. Dave Burnaugh, who passed away after a relentless fight with cancer. Burnaugh, who retired in September, was diagnosed in 2022 with a Stage 3 brain tumor and a Stage 1 kidney tumor. Despite the odds, he returned to duty last summer after 10 months, greeted by a hero’s welcome from his CCFES family and beyond. Known for his faith, humility, and unwavering dedication, Burnaugh mentored countless firefighters during his nearly two decades of service. His legacy? It’s one of compassion, leadership, and love. STORY 3: Wellstar opens new GI clinic at Cherokee Health Park Last week, Wellstar Health System and the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce celebrated a big milestone at Cherokee Health Park—the addition of gastroenterology services. The ribbon-cutting for the new GI Suite took place Nov. 5, though the clinic has been seeing patients since September, with procedures starting in October. “This expansion is all about bringing expert care closer to home,” said Christine Beam, Wellstar’s executive director of health parks. The GI team includes Drs. Inder Tandon, Margaret Morrison, and Nidah Khakoo, offering care for everything from liver issues to digestive disorders. Cherokee Health Park just keeps growing—one-stop care, right in Holly Springs. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: Ingles Markets 2 STORY 5: Woodstock hosting two recycling events on Saturday  Woodstock is hosting not one, but two recycling events this Saturday, Nov. 15, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Woodstock City Church (150 Ridgewalk Parkway). It’s a chance to declutter and do some good for the planet—win-win, right? The “’Tis the Season to Be Green!” event is open to everyone and will take electronics, cardboard, batteries, eyeglasses, and more. Plus, free paper shredding (up to 10 boxes). They’re also collecting gently used items for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Meanwhile, Woodstock residents can drop off hazardous waste—paint, chemicals, Styrofoam—at a separate area. Registration required at LiveThrive.org/Woodstock. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on pesticides Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: STRAND THEATRE   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com Strand Marietta – Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of November 7th Publish Date: November 7th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, November 7th and Happy Birthday to Jim Kaat I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cherokee County voters approve sales tax for transportation Paloma brings Mexican flavors to Woodstock’s Adair Park Here's who signed up to run for Georgia House District 23 Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk 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!  Commercial: Ingles Markets 1 STORY 1: Cherokee County voters approve sales tax for transportation Cherokee County voters just gave the green light to a 1% sales tax for transportation—T-SPLOST—set to pump $445 million into local roads over six years. The measure passed with 60.4% of the vote, according to unofficial results. That’s 25,132 “yes” votes to 16,479 “no.” Here's Cherokee County Commission Chair Harry Johnston talking about the results: VO Starting April 2026, the tax will fund road widening, bridge replacements, traffic signal upgrades—you name it. The tax bumps Cherokee’s sales tax to 7%, but here’s the kicker: about a third of that revenue comes from non-residents. STORY 2: Paloma brings Mexican flavors to Woodstock’s Adair Park “Everything here—everything—is made from scratch,” says Jason Sheetz, co-owner of Paloma Tequila & Tacos, Woodstock’s newest spot for Mexican food. Open since October in Adair Park, the restaurant even makes its chips and salsa fresh daily. The menu? Familiar favorites like tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas, but with a twist. Almost everything is gluten-free, and Executive Chef Rebeca Delgado brings her own creative flair to dishes like carne asada burritos and tacos de carne asada. Drinks are just as thoughtful. The Paloma Cantarito, served in a ceramic cup, and the jalapeño-pineapple margarita are crowd-pleasers—no premixes, just fresh juices. Paloma is open for dinner now, with lunch service starting Thanksgiving week. And yes, parking is free. STORY 3: Here's who signed up to run for Georgia House District 23 Six candidates are vying for the Georgia House District 23 seat, left vacant after the passing of longtime Representative Mandi Ballinger, who served the Cherokee County area for over a decade before losing her battle with cancer last month. The special election is set for Dec. 9, with five Republicans and one Democrat in the mix: Ann Gazell, a retired educator; Bill Fincher, a former assistant DA; Brice Futch, a firefighter; Raj Sagoo, a consultant; Scott Sanders, an engineer (and the lone Democrat); and William Ware, a retired microbiologist. Early voting starts Nov. 17, and if no one wins outright, a runoff will follow on Jan. 6. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: Ingles Markets 1 STORY 4: Cobb/Cherokee State Football Playoff Schedule Here is the upcoming state football playoff schedule. Class AAAAAA – Nov. 14 Paulding County (4-6) heads to North Cobb (7-3) Hillgrove (8-2) takes on North Paulding (8-2) Marietta (5-5) faces Harrison (9-1) Walton (5-5) battles undefeated McEachern (10-0) Class AAAAA – Nov. 14 Lee County (7-3) visits Sprayberry (9-1) Creekview (5-5) travels to Houston County (9-1) Woodstock (6-4) meets Thomas County Central (10-0) Coffee (4-6) challenges Sequoyah (9-1) Class AAAA – Nov. 14 Hampton (7-3) at Kell (8-2) Class A-AAA Private Nov. 14: NCC (4-6) vs. King’s Ridge (7-3); MPC (5-5) at Holy Innocents (7-3) Nov. 21: Darlington/Aquinas winner heads to Whitefield (8-2) STORY 5: Woodstock Midday Optimist Club donates $500 and food to CCHVP  The Woodstock Midday Optimist Club stepped up in a big way, handing over a $500 check and a pile of food donations—worth another $500—to the Cherokee County Homeless Veterans Program. CCHVP recently launched a food pantry aimed at helping active-duty military in Cherokee County who’ve lost their SNAP benefits. It’s a lifeline for those who need it. The pantry, located at the Thomas M. Brady American Legion Post 45 (160 McClure St., Canton), is open Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 1   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of October 31st Publish Date: October 31st   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, October 31st and Happy Birthday to John Candy I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cherokee County food pantries preparing for SNAP freeze Walmart drone delivery service coming to Woodstock Pigtails & Crewcuts announces new Woodstock salon owner Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on carrots 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!  Commercial: Ingles Markets 10 STORY 1: Cherokee County food pantries preparing for SNAP freeze With the federal government shutdown, SNAP benefits—food stamps—are set to stop this Saturday, leaving over 1.4 million Georgians scrambling. Food pantries in Cherokee County are bracing for the surge. MUST Ministries is already feeling the strain. They’re ramping up efforts with mobile pantries, fresh food distributions, and toy shop registrations already spiking. Donations? Desperately needed. Encompass Ministries is rolling out weekly food boxes and bread tables, while Never Alone Food Pantry is building emergency kits and asking for canned meats, diapers, and financial help. Veterans? American Legion Post 45 is opening a pantry for active-duty families, offering free non-perishables. The need is overwhelming, but these organizations are stepping up. Want to help? Visit their websites or donate directly. Every bit counts. STORY 2: Walmart drone delivery service coming to Woodstock Big news for Woodstock: the Walmart on Highway 92 is gearing up to launch drone deliveries—yes, drones. The city announced it’s approved permits for Wing, in partnership with Walmart, to start flying orders straight to customers’ homes. When? No exact date yet, but first, the store needs a “nest” built—a hub for 18 drones to charge, launch, and land. Mayor Michael Caldwell called it a step into the future, saying Woodstock is all about innovation (with safety in mind, of course). So, how does it work? Through the Wing app, you’ll pick your delivery spot—driveway, backyard, wherever—and confirm it’s clear. The drones, fully electric and FAA-regulated, can carry up to 2.5 pounds and fly six miles one way. Groceries, household goods, even over-the-counter meds? All fair game. Alcohol and prescriptions? Not so much. Wing’s already had success in other states like Texas, and now Woodstock’s joining the club. Stay tuned—your next Walmart order might just land in your yard. STORY 3: Pigtails & Crewcuts announces new Woodstock salon owner Pigtails & Crewcuts, the beloved kids’ hair salon, is changing hands in Woodstock and Roswell. Kelly Talal, a local mom and owner of the Marietta West Cobb location, is taking over. For Kelly and her husband, this isn’t just business—it’s personal. “As a parent, I know how stressful haircuts can be,” she said. “But Pigtails & Crewcuts? It turns chaos into fun. The themed chairs, the kind stylists—it’s magic for kids.” With a background in advertising and a knack for building community, Kelly’s ready to lead. Her husband handles the numbers; she handles the heart. The salons, with their bright colors, vehicle chairs, and even birthday party rooms, will keep running as usual—maybe even expand hours down the road. For updates, check out their Facebook page or website. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: Ingles Markets 10 STORY 4: Cherokee County Football Power Rankings - Week 12  The Cherokee County football power rankings are in, and as Week 12 approaches, there’s plenty to talk about—big wins, tough losses, and everything in between. No. 1 — Sequoyah (8-1, 5-1) The Chiefs? Absolute beasts. Last Friday, they obliterated Pope 70-13, breaking their own scoring record again. QB Kolby Martin was nearly perfect—seven passes, five touchdowns, 169 yards. Oh, and Will Rajecki? Just casually racking up 100+ yards on seven carries. They’re tied for first in Region 6AAAAA and face Creekview next. Buckle up. No. 2 — Creekview (5-4, 5-1) The Grizzlies are rolling. They edged out River Ridge 21-14 last week, locking in a playoff spot. Their only region loss? A nail-biter against Sprayberry. With a bruising run game and a stingy defense, they’re ready for their showdown with Sequoyah. No. 3 — Woodstock (6-3, 4-2) The Wolverines bounced back strong, shutting out Riverwood 23-0 after a tough loss to Sequoyah. Trace Washington was unstoppable—136 yards on 17 carries. Coach Dan Devine has this team playoff-bound for the second year in a row. No. 4 — River Ridge (6-3, 3-3) The Knights are struggling. Two straight losses, and QB Hunter Lockerman’s absence is glaring. The defense, led by Wyatt McCarty and Matthew Burdette, is solid, but the offense needs a spark. They’ll try to end on a high note against Lassiter. No. 5 — Etowah (3-7, 1-5) The Eagles’ season is over, but there’s hope. QB Zeke Douglass and WR Walker Hughes were a dynamic duo, and most of their key players will return in 2026. No. 6 — Cherokee (1-9, 0-6) A rough year for the Warriors, but there’s promise. Freshman QB Zack Parker and lineman Nation Farmer are bright spots. With new facilities coming in 2026, they’re looking to rebuild. STORY 5: Turn lane coming to Lakeside Drive at Holly Springs Parkway  Changes are on the way for the intersection of Lakeside Drive and Holly Springs Parkway, right where new apartments and townhomes are going up. On Oct. 21, Cherokee County commissioners gave the green light for Calco Engineering to start designing improvements for the intersection. The project, tied to a 2021 rezoning deal with Quintus Development, includes a right-turn lane from Lakeside onto Holly Springs Parkway. As part of that deal, the developer chipped in $200,000 toward the lane’s construction. Now, with $42,000 approved for design work, plans are moving forward. A conceptual design will be reviewed before detailed plans are finalized. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on carrots Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 10   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of October 24th Publish Date: October 24th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, October 24th and Happy Birthday to Kevin Kline I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cherokee County approves contract to build two fire stations Jordan Road to be closed Nov. 7-10 for railroad crossing work Ball Ground investigating complaint about email from council member Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on sweet tooths 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!  Commercial: Ingles Markets 9 STORY 1: Cherokee County approves contract to build two fire stations Cherokee County’s getting two brand-new fire stations, and it’s about time. On Oct. 21, the Board of Commissioners gave the green light to a $17 million deal with Spratlin Construction to replace Fire Station 5 on East Cherokee Drive and Fire Station 29 on Cumming Highway. The current setups? Let’s just say they’re overdue for an upgrade. Station 5, built for volunteers back in the day, now crams six full-time firefighters into a shared bunk room. Over at Station 29, firefighters are working out of a temporary manufactured home. The new stations will have proper bunks, fitness areas, and space for equipment—finally. Construction kicks off summer 2026. STORY 2: Jordan Road to be closed Nov. 7-10 for railroad crossing work Heads up, drivers: Jordan Road will be closed at the railroad crossing near Highway 372 from Nov. 7-10, according to Cherokee County officials. The closure is just south of Nelson, so plan ahead. Detours? Yep, they’ve got you covered. Northbound traffic on Jordan Road should take Old Nelson Road, then Old Canton Road, Commerce Lane, and finally reconnect with Highway 372. Southbound? Stick to Highway 372, turn onto Commerce Lane, then Old Canton Road, and loop back via Old Nelson Road. It’s a bit of a maze, but temporary. Questions? Call Cherokee County Public Works at 770-345-5842. STORY 3: Ball Ground investigating complaint about email from council member The city of Ball Ground is looking into a complaint about an email sent by Councilmember Annette Homiller to a city employee—an email that’s stirred up quite a bit of controversy. On Sept. 24, Homiller, whose husband Dan is running for mayor against fellow Councilmember Dennis Nelson, emailed the employee from her personal account. In it, she asked who he was supporting in the mayoral race and brought up a past real estate deal, even suggesting there might be financial motives behind his support for Nelson. “I can’t think of any other reason why you would support Dennis over Dan,” she wrote, adding a postscript: “Dan does not know that I sent this.” The employee has since filed a “hostile work environment” complaint, and the city is investigating. Homiller admitted to sending the email, calling it a “poorly written” mistake based on misinformation. “It was a bad idea from the start, and I deeply regret it,” she said, adding that she’s apologized to the mayor, her colleagues, and others involved. Her husband, Dan, defended her, saying, “She made a mistake—who hasn’t hit send on an email they wish they could take back?” Meanwhile, Nelson’s campaign confirmed the complaint in an Oct. 9 Facebook post, calling for a full investigation to protect city employees from political pressure. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: COBB FALL FESTIVAL STORY 4: Woodstock council considers regulations for e-bikes  Woodstock might soon pump the brakes on e-bikes—or at least figure out where and how they can be ridden. At an Oct. 20 work session, Community Development Director Melissa Sigmund asked the City Council and Mayor Michael Caldwell to weigh in on regulating e-bikes, which combine pedaling with battery-powered motors. Complaints? Oh, there’ve been plenty. Here is what Mayor Michael Caldwell had to say about the e-bikes. MAYOR VO Sigmund explained the three e-bike tiers: Tiers 1 and 2 max out at 20 mph and are treated like regular bikes. Tier 3? They can hit 28 mph without pedaling, and that’s where things get tricky. Councilman David Potts said he’s seen modified e-bikes going even faster. Here is what Councilman David Potts had to say on this issue. COUNCILMAN VO Sigmund floated ideas: allowing kids under 12 to ride on sidewalks, banning Tier 3 e-bikes from trails, and requiring all bikes to yield to pedestrians. Education and signage would be key, she added. No decisions yet, but the council plans to revisit the issue soon. STORY 5: Cherokee County Football Power Rankings - Week 11  The Cherokee County football power rankings are in, and as Week 11 kicks off, there’s plenty to unpack. Sequoyah (7-1, 4-1)The Chiefs are rolling. Two straight wins since their only loss (to River Ridge), and now they face a winless Pope team. Let’s be real—another W feels inevitable. But the real showdown? The finale against Creekview, with the region title likely on the line. River Ridge (6-2, 3-2)The Knights have a huge test this week against Creekview. A win could shake up the playoff race, but QB Hunter Lockerman’s health is a question mark. Can Camden Cox carry the load? Creekview (4-4, 4-1)Don’t let the record fool you—this team’s dangerous. Backup QB Landon Barnes was flawless in their blowout of Pope. But with River Ridge and Sequoyah up next, the Grizzlies have a brutal road ahead. Woodstock (5-3, 3-2)The Wolverines are clinging to playoff hopes. A win at Riverwood this week is crucial before their finale against Sprayberry. Coach Dan Devine knows what’s at stake: “It’s all on the line.” Cherokee (1-8, 0-5)The Warriors showed fight against North Cobb, led by Brandon Hamilton’s 138 yards and two TDs. They’ll look to close out their season—and say goodbye to Tommy Baker Field—with a win over Marietta. Etowah (3-6, 1-4)It’s been a tough stretch for the Eagles, but they’ve already surpassed last year’s win total. A victory at North Cobb in their finale would be a solid step forward under new coach Brett Vavra. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on sweet tooths Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 9   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of October 17th Publish Date: October 17th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, October 17th and Happy Birthday to Alan Jackson I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Woodstock's Dupree Road Trail to be completed in December Traffic stop in Canton for speeding results in weapon and drug charges Publix shopping center coming to Woodstock in 2026 Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on grass fed beef 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!  Commercial: Ingles Markets 8 STORY 1: Woodstock's Dupree Road Trail to be completed in December Woodstock is finally moving forward with the Dupree Road Trail, a project that’s about way more than just sidewalks. Construction is set to wrap up by Dec. 17, adding 1,500 feet of new trail and sidewalk to connect Market Street to the east side of the I-575 bridge. The $397,655 project, funded partly by a Community Development Block Grant, will make a real difference for residents in low- to moderate-income neighborhoods—folks who rely on walking to get to work, school, or even the grocery store. STORY 2: Traffic stop in Canton for speeding results in weapon and drug charges A Florida man’s road trip to Kentucky took a sharp detour in Canton—straight to jail. Around 12:15 p.m. on Oct. 11, a Canton officer spotted a 2001 Toyota Camry speeding and weaving on I-575. The driver, Angel Alexis Acevedo, pulled into an abandoned gas station after the officer attempted a stop. The officer smelled marijuana, spotted a bong, and a search revealed a pound of weed, THC products, a Glock clone with a 33-round magazine, and more. Acevedo now faces multiple felony drug and weapons charges. STORY 3: Publix shopping center coming to Woodstock in 2026 Construction has kicked off on the new Woodstock Mill District, a shopping center anchored by a Publix, right in the heart of downtown Woodstock. The project, led by Atlanta-based developer Connolly, is taking shape along Towne Lake Parkway, near the Mill Street and Lyndee Lane roundabout. It’s big—118,000 square feet of retail, including a 46,791-square-foot Publix and six standalone buildings for shops, restaurants, and services. Think patios, dining spots, and plenty of space to wander. Connolly, who bought the site in late September, is blending this with the existing Towne Lake Plaza, which they’ll renovate. Completion? Phased through 2026. It’s a game-changer for Woodstock. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: COBB FALL FESTIVAL STORY 4: Woodstock council adopts new rules for parking deck  Woodstock’s cracking down on parking deck new rules—and they’re not messing around. Violators could face fines up to $1,000 or even 60 days in jail. The updated ordinance, approved Oct. 13, bans everything from camping and loitering to blasting music or doing donuts in the parking deck. Got a drone, ATV, or unregistered car? Don’t even think about leaving it there. Oh, and if your car’s in a restricted zone for more than 24 hours? Towed. At your expense. The rules are in effect now, and enforcement isn’t just on Woodstock PD—state and county officers are in on it too. STORY 5: Cherokee County Football Power Rankings - Week 10  The Cherokee County football power rankings are heating up as we head into Week 10. No. 1 - Sequoyah (7-1, 4-1) The Chiefs are back on top after a gritty 31-24 win over Woodstock. Will Rajecki? Absolute beast—171 yards, three touchdowns, and a statement game. They’re tied for first in Region 6AAAAA but hold the tiebreaker over Sprayberry. With a bye this week, they’ll rest up for Creekview, which could decide the region title. No. 2 - River Ridge (6-2, 3-2) Tough week for the Knights. A 28-10 loss to Sprayberry stung, but losing QB Hunter Lockerman to injury? Brutal. Andrew Rowe stepped in, but the offense struggled. The bye couldn’t come at a better time—they need to regroup and heal. No. 3 - Creekview (4-4, 4-1) The Grizzlies bounced back in style, crushing Pope 42-14. Backup QB Landon Barnes was flawless—7-for-7, 111 yards, three TDs. With River Ridge and Sequoyah up next, they’ll need that same energy to stay in the playoff hunt. No. 4 - Woodstock (5-3, 3-2) The Wolverines fought hard against Sequoyah, clawing back from a 21-3 hole, but fell short. QB Graham Burmeister and WR Rylan Hubbard were electric, connecting for two scores. With Riverwood and Sprayberry left, they need at least one win to stay alive in the playoff race. No. 5 - Etowah (3-5, 1-3) The Eagles’ playoff hopes took a hit with a loss to Wheeler. Kingston Caesar and Zeke Douglass had flashes of brilliance, but turnovers killed momentum. With Walton and North Cobb looming, it’s a tough road ahead for this young squad. No. 6 - Cherokee (1-7, 0-4) It’s been a rough season for the Warriors, but Brandon Hamilton continues to shine—105 yards last week, pushing his season total to 1,117. With North Cobb and Marietta left, they’re fighting to avoid their worst record since 2017. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on grass fed beef Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 8   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of October 10th Publish Date: October 10th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, October 10th and Happy Birthday to Van Halen I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Work to start this month on Canton Creek pedestrian bridge Cherokee County leaders OK $5M contract for CATS building Cherokee County adopts $438 million budget for 2026 Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on budgeting 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!  Commercial: Ingles Markets 7 STORY 1: Work to start this month on Canton Creek pedestrian bridge Big changes are coming to the Sunnyside community this month, starting with a new pedestrian bridge over Canton Creek. The city says the project will make the area safer for its many walkers and cyclists—something that’s been a long time coming. Thanks to a $2.2 million grant from the Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget, funded by the American Rescue Plan, Canton can finally kick off improvements in this busy corridor along Hickory Flat Highway and Marietta Road. The new bridge? A 160-foot weathering steel beauty, built just for pedestrians. No cars, no chaos—just a safe, scenic crossing. Meanwhile, the old bridge will stay open for vehicles until a replacement is built. Construction starts soon, and the city’s already acquired nearby properties to make way for the upgrades. Sunnyside’s future? Looking bright. STORY 2: Cherokee County leaders OK $5M contract for CATS building Cherokee County is moving forward with a long-awaited upgrade for its transit system. On Oct. 7, commissioners approved a $5.1 million contract with Place Services, Inc. to build the new Cherokee Area Transit Service (CATS) headquarters at Univeter and Pinecrest roads. The new facility? It’s a big deal—offices, dispatch, a driver training room, parking for 50 buses, and even a propane fueling station. The current space is bursting at the seams, so this project is designed to handle CATS’ needs for the next 20 years. Construction starts soon and should wrap up in about a year. Most of the funding—80%—comes from a Federal Transit Administration grant, with the rest covered by local SPLOST funds. This is phase two of the project. Phase one, which included site prep and stormwater work, wrapped up in September. STORY 3: Cherokee County adopts $438 million budget for 2026 Cherokee County just locked in its 2026 budget—$438.6 million. Sounds massive, right? But according to Chairman Harry Johnston, it’s as lean as it gets. Here is Cherokee County Commission Chair Harry Johnston on the budget. CHAIRMAN HARRY JOHNSTON CLIP. The only big addition? A $1.4 million incentive program for sheriff’s deputies to reward education and certifications—an effort to keep them long-term. Public safety eats up over half the general fund, with $73.6 million going to the sheriff’s office alone. Other highlights? $59.3 million for fire services, $9.8 million for parks, and $2.9 million for senior services. SPLOST funds will cover big projects like courthouse expansion, road improvements, and even an airport runway extension. And here’s the kicker: no tax hikes. For the full 511-page breakdown, check out cherokeecountyga.gov. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 7 STORY 4: Canton council to vote on contract to build new park  Canton’s South Canton Park is one step closer to reality, with city leaders set to vote on a construction contract Oct. 16. The bids are in—eight of them, ranging from $7.6 million to over $12 million—and, as Mayor Bill Grant put it, “It’s state of the art... and not cheap.” The park, planned for 2939 Marietta Highway (near Dairy Queen), will be packed with features: two playgrounds (one for little ones, one for bigger kids), dog parks with splash pads, a boardwalk, walking trails, a small amphitheater, and even a “listen and chill lawn.” Food trucks? Yep, there’s space for those too. The city snagged a $2.2 million state grant to help fund the project, with the rest coming from SPLOST and impact fees. Residents weighed in on the design last spring, and while the original concept included a zipline, that’s been scrapped. Once the contract’s signed, the city will finalize the timeline. Stay tuned—this park’s going to be a game-changer. STORY 5: Cherokee County Football Power Rankings - Week 9  The Cherokee County football power rankings are heating up as we head into Week 9. Here’s where things stand: River Ridge (6-1, 3-1)The Knights came off their bye week swinging, shutting out Riverwood 35-0. Camden Cox? A beast—102 rushing yards and a TD on just 11 carries. Add in turnovers from Sam Vincent (INT) and Harris Deriso (forced fumble), and this team looks sharp. They host Sprayberry this week in what could be a region-deciding showdown. Sequoyah (6-1, 3-1)No Rajecki? No problem. The Chiefs crushed Lassiter 32-0, with QB Kolby Martin throwing for 259 yards and 3 TDs. Brooks Darling and Jack Ripley stepped up big. They face Woodstock next, a team they’ve beaten four straight times. Woodstock (5-2, 3-1)The Wolverines barely escaped Pope, winning 20-14 behind QB Graham Burmeister, who’s been lights out all season (1,420 yards, 15 TDs). They’ll need him at his best against Sequoyah this week. Creekview (3-4, 3-1)Don’t sleep on the Grizzlies. They nearly upset Sprayberry in OT last week and have clawed their way back after an 0-3 start. With Pope up next, they’re poised to stay in the playoff hunt. Etowah (3-4, 1-2)The Eagles fell to North Paulding but showed flashes, especially QB Zeke Douglass (91 rushing yards) and WR Walker Hughes (118 receiving yards). They’ll look to rebound against Wheeler. Cherokee (1-6, 0-3)It’s been a tough season for the Warriors, but Brandon Hamilton continues to shine, rushing past 1,000 yards on the year. With Walton and North Cobb looming, the road ahead doesn’t get any easier. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on budgeting Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 7   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of October 3rd Publish Date: October 3rd   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, October 3rd and Happy Birthday to Stevie Ray Vaughn I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cherokee County school unveils Johnston Akers playground Motorcyclist killed in crash at Woodstock parking deck Charity bike ride coming to Cherokee County Saturday Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on cereals 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!  Commercial: Ingles Markets 6 STORY 1: Cherokee County school unveils Johnston Akers playground   At Johnston Elementary, the kids finally have something new to cheer about: the “Johnston Akers” playground. But it’s more than just slides and monkey bars—it’s a heartfelt tribute to Laura Akers, the school’s beloved former principal who passed away in May. Akers believed recess was sacred. “It’s where kids learn to be kind, to share, to just be kids,” said Assistant Principal Amy Walker. Now, thanks to $145,000 in donations, her spirit will echo in every joyful shout and game of tag. STORY 2: Motorcyclist killed in crash at Woodstock parking deck   A 19-year-old lost his life Tuesday night in a motorcycle crash at the City Center East Parking Deck in downtown Woodstock. When officers arrived, his friends were already trying to help, but despite their efforts—and those of emergency responders—he didn’t make it. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Woodstock police believe speed played a role and are investigating. The sixth floor of the parking deck is now closed while the investigation continues. Woodstock Fire and Cherokee County emergency crews also responded to the tragic scene. STORY 3: Charity bike ride coming to Cherokee County Saturday Heads up, Cherokee County drivers—Saturday’s going to be a bit slower on the roads. The Van Purser Foundation’s All For One 100 charity bike ride is rolling through, and about 100 cyclists will be pedaling their way across parts of the county. Expect delays from around 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., especially near Hickory Flat, Avery, Macedonia, and Free Home. The sheriff’s office is asking drivers to take it easy and stay alert. It’s all for a good cause, though, so maybe give the riders a wave—or a little extra space. Curious about the foundation? Check out vanpurserfoundation.org. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: TRUCK A PALOOZA STORY 4: Café Flōralia opening in Woodstock's The Circuit this fall  Café Flōralia, a cozy, locally owned coffee spot from south Canton, is gearing up to open at The Circuit Woodstock this fall. If you’re a coffee lover—or just someone who craves a warm, welcoming vibe—you’re in for a treat. Known for its artisan-roasted beans and a menu that’s as thoughtful as it is delicious, Café Flōralia isn’t just about coffee. It’s about connection. The new location will serve students, entrepreneurs, and locals alike, offering everything from curbside pickup to natural energy drinks. STORY 5: Campaign for Georgia lieutenant governor gets another GOP contender  The race for Georgia’s lieutenant governor is heating up, with six state lawmakers now in the mix. The latest? Sen. Greg Dolezal, a Republican from Cumming, who’s leaning hard into his conservative credentials. Dolezal’s campaign ad, complete with sirens blaring, paints a dire picture: “The radical left is threatening public safety,” he warns. He’s touting his work on the Riley Gaines Act, which bans transgender athletes born male from competing on women’s teams, and promises to crack down on rioters, illegal immigration, and “soft on crime” prosecutors. But he’s not alone. Heavyweights like Sens. John F. Kennedy, Steve Gooch, and Blake Tillery are also vying for the spot, alongside Rep. David Clark, and Democrat Sen. Josh McLaurin, who’s made it clear he wants nothing to do with Trump. It’s shaping up to be a wild primary, with candidates scrambling for Trump’s endorsement—though Dolezal’s already taken a swipe at rivals for their “political opportunism” when it comes to the former president. Buckle up, Georgia.  And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on cereals Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 6   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of September 26th Publish Date: September 26th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, September 26th and Happy Birthday to Tommy Lasorda I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal New round of community grants for literacy open with reading by Super Bowl champ Will Cagle wins vacant Cherokee County commissioner seat Dickerson wins runoff for open Georgia Senate seat Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on sodas 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!  Commercial: Ingles Markets 5 STORY 1: New round of community grants for literacy open with reading by Super Bowl champ   The Georgia Reads program is back, offering $20,000 grants to boost literacy across the state. And who better to kick things off than Super Bowl champ-turned-literacy advocate Malcolm Mitchell? On Monday, Mitchell read to 400 fourth graders at the College Football Hall of Fame, sharing his book The Magician’s Hat—and a little inspiration. He’s on a mission, attending 75 reading events a year. Mitchell’s foundation, Share the Magic, has been changing lives since 2016. The program, backed by the Georgia Council on Literacy, comes as state test scores show room for improvement—only 43% of fifth graders scored proficient in English last year. Lawmakers are investing millions in teacher training and student screenings, hoping to turn things around. Communities like Dalton and Augusta are already using past grants to teach parents about literacy. Applications for this year’s grants are open now—details on the Georgia Reads website. STORY 2: Will Cagle wins vacant Cherokee County commissioner seat   Republican Will Cagle is poised to take the Cherokee County District 1 Commissioner seat, with unofficial results showing a decisive win. By 9:37 p.m. Tuesday, Cagle had secured 75.19% of the vote—8,887 ballots—while Democrat Charles Ravenscraft trailed with 24.81% (2,932 votes). Cagle thanked voters for their turnout, even during Fall Break. Ravenscraft, gracious in defeat, congratulated Cagle. Cagle’s win follows a runoff after no candidate cleared 50% in August. Results await certification. STORY 3: Dickerson wins runoff for open Georgia Senate seat Republican Jason Dickerson is set to become Georgia’s next state senator for District 21, according to unofficial results. By 9:55 p.m. Tuesday, Dickerson, an investment manager from Canton, had secured 61.47% of the vote (19,061 ballots), defeating Democrat Debra Shigley, an attorney from Milton, who garnered 11,950 votes. At his Canton watch party, Dickerson shared that representatives of Donald Trump had called to congratulate him. Shigley, conceding Tuesday night, and thanked her supporters. The seat was vacated earlier this year when Brandon Beach was appointed U.S. treasurer. Results await certification. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: Ingles Markets 5 STORY 4: Three sentenced for trafficking meth in Cherokee County  Three people are heading to prison after pleading guilty to meth trafficking and other charges, the Cherokee County DA’s office announced. Justin Carl Benson, 29, of Canton, got 10 years without parole for meth possession with intent to distribute and giving false info to police. Heather Sparrow Bird, 49, also of Canton, was sentenced to 15 years (parole possible) for trafficking meth, plus charges involving oxycodone, clonazepam, alprazolam, and marijuana. Terry Raymond Spriggs, 53, received 20 years without parole for meth trafficking and theft charges. The case began in July 2023 with a 911 call about suspicious activity on Lower Scott Mill Road. Deputies found a stolen truck, drugs scattered throughout a home, and even a stolen Harley in the yard. STORY 5: Canton looks to bond to fund fire station renovations  Canton’s Fire Station 16 is finally getting the overhaul it desperately needs. On Sept. 18, the city council gave the green light to move forward with a revenue bond to fund the $8 million renovation. Here’s the deal: firefighters have been living in a mobile unit inside one of the bays since 2017—yes, 2017—because the building’s in such rough shape. The new plan? Permanent housing for firefighters, more space for services, and a design that honors the station’s century-old legacy. The bond, expected to close in November, will cover $5.8 million, with impact fees paying off the debt. Construction starts in 2026. Finally. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on sodas Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 5   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of September 19th Publish Date: September 19th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, September 19th and Happy Birthday to Duke Snider I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Health department bringing drive-thru flu shots to Woodstock Holly Springs postpones vote on city hall to October Cherokee County seeks state lawmakers’ support in lawsuit Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on sweet tooth 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!  Commercial: Ingles Markets 4 STORY 1: Health department bringing drive-thru flu shots to Woodstock   The Cherokee County Health Department is bringing back its Drive-Thru Flu Shot Clinic on Oct. 7, and honestly, what’s better than getting your flu shot without leaving your car? From 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Woodstock Health Center (7545 North Main St., Suite 100), residents 18 and older can roll up, roll down their window, and roll out vaccinated. Got insurance? Most plans cover it. If not, it’s $25 for the regular shot or $65 for the high-dose version (for those 65+). Bonus: It’s not just about flu season—it’s also a practice run for emergency preparedness. Stay healthy, stay ready. STORY 2: Holly Springs postpones vote on city hall to October   Holly Springs leaders are gearing up for a big decision in October—whether to greenlight a $21.7 million contract to build the city’s new town hall. At the Sept. 15 meeting, Mayor Ryan Shirley asked the council to hit pause on the vote, giving the city time to update the Town Center Project’s master budget. The delay? Necessary, Shirley said, to account for rising costs—think a basement addition, market volatility, and a more intricate design than originally planned. The council will revisit the contract on Oct. 6, with Gilbane Building Company lined up for construction. The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. STORY 3: Cherokee County seeks state lawmakers’ support in lawsuit  Cherokee County is turning up the heat in its fight with Holly Springs over a controversial annexation. On Sept. 16, the county commissioners unanimously passed a resolution asking state lawmakers to back their lawsuit against the city and to help fix what they see as flaws in the state’s land dispute process. Commissioner Richard Weatherby didn’t hold back, calling Holly Springs’ annexation of 301 Lower Union Hill Road “in conflict” with the General Assembly’s directives. Chairman Harry Johnston added that some legislators have offered to help, though what that looks like is still unclear. The lawsuit stems from Holly Springs’ August approval of a 20-acre mixed-use development in Hickory Flat—despite vocal opposition from residents. The county claims the city ignored annexation laws and overstepped agreed-upon growth boundaries (though those boundaries were more of a “handshake deal” than a legal agreement). For now, the court has paused the annexation while the lawsuit plays out. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: TRUCK A PALOOZA STORY 4: Man sentenced to prison for arson at Woodstock nail salon  A Gwinnett County man who admitted to setting fire to a Woodstock nail salon will spend three years in prison and faces deportation afterward, according to the Cherokee County District Attorney’s Office. Cang Thanh Luu, 48, pleaded guilty to arson and criminal damage charges for the January 2021 fire at Nick’s Nails on Highway 92. Surveillance footage showed Luu buying gloves, carrying a gas can into the salon, and leaving just as the fire alarm blared. Investigators found multiple fire origins, burn patterns, and a gas can nozzle at the scene. Judge Jennifer Davis sentenced Luu to five years—three in prison, two on probation—and ordered him to pay $382,589 in restitution. Authorities suspect the fire was financially motivated, tied to the salon’s owner. STORY 5: Georgia elections chief running for governor  Brad Raffensperger is eyeing the governor’s mansion, following the same path Brian Kemp took from Georgia secretary of state to the state’s top office. Raffensperger officially jumped into the Republican primary Wednesday, leaning on a platform of jobs, lower taxes, immigration crackdowns, and the usual GOP staples—guns, God, and a hard stance against “woke” culture. But here’s the twist: Raffensperger is still battling the shadow of 2020. His refusal to back Trump’s election fraud claims earned him Trump’s ire—and now he’s up against Trump-endorsed Lt. Gov. Burt Jones. The GOP primary is shaping up to be a showdown, with Trump’s influence looming large. Meanwhile, Democrats are fielding a crowded lineup, including Keisha Lance Bottoms, Michael Thurmond, and even former Republican Geoff Duncan, who’s now running as a Democrat on an anti-Trump platform. Raffensperger, a businessman-turned-politician, says he’s ready to build on Kemp’s legacy—taking on the left, “woke” corporations, and criminal immigrants, while pushing for tax reform and school safety. But can he win over a party still dominated by Trump’s base? That’s the million-dollar question. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on sweet tooth Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 4   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of September 12th Publish Date: September 12th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, September 12th and Happy Birthday to Jesse Owens I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Judge upholds key provision of Georgia elections overhaul Rootstock in downtown Woodstock is closing its doors Democratic candidate for governor leaving state Senate post Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on fast food 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!  Commercial: Ingles Markets 3 STORY 1: Judge upholds key provision of Georgia elections overhaul   A federal judge upheld part of Georgia’s hotly debated 2022 election law, specifically the restrictions on third-party groups distributing absentee ballot applications. In a 50-page ruling, U.S. District Judge J.P. Boulee said the state had a “compelling interest” in reducing voter confusion and boosting confidence in elections. The law, passed in 2021 after Joe Biden flipped Georgia blue in 2020, also limits drop boxes, requires ID for absentee voting, and bans giving food or water to voters in line. Voting rights groups aren’t backing down, calling the decision a blow to free speech. STORY 2: Rootstock in downtown Woodstock is closing its doors   Rootstock, a downtown Woodstock favorite for eight years, is closing its doors on Sept. 28. The tapas and wine spot, known for its rooftop bar and live music, announced the bittersweet news on Facebook, thanking the community for its support. “It’s with heavy hearts and deep gratitude that we say goodbye,” wrote owners Sean and Anna Daily. The building, recently sold, will soon house Rreal Tacos, a Mexican restaurant set to open in March, bringing new flavors—and over 100 local jobs—to Woodstock. STORY 3: Democratic candidate for governor leaving state Senate post  Georgia Democrats are down a state senator. Jason Esteves, announced Wednesday he’s stepping away from the Senate to focus fully on his run for governor in next year’s Democratic primary. He’ll face tough competition: former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and ex-Labor Commissioner Michael Thurmond, both big names in the party. During his three years in the Senate, Esteves pushed for affordable housing, better schools, and healthcare access. His campaign highlights include tax breaks for Atlanta seniors and helping block the Buckhead City movement. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: Ingles Markets 3 STORY 4: Cherokee Sheriff’s Office asking for help finding missing teen  The Cherokee Sheriff’s Office is asking for help finding 15-year-old Gladys Bautista, who hasn’t been seen since Tuesday morning, Sept. 9. She was last spotted getting on the bus to Creekview High School. Gladys is 5’5”, weighs about 140 pounds, and is listed as a missing person in the GCIC/NCIC system. If you’ve seen her or know anything—anything at all—please call CSO detectives at 770-929-0239, your local law enforcement, or 911. Her family and the community are counting on every set of eyes to help bring her home. STORY 5: Interim U.S. Attorney named official appointee  Theodore S. Hertzberg is officially Georgia’s new U.S. attorney for the Northern District, appointed Monday by federal judges. Hertzberg had been filling the role on an interim basis since May, after U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi tapped him to step in. He took over from Richard Moultrie Jr., who briefly held the position after Ryan Buchanan resigned when Trump’s second term began. With nearly a decade as an assistant U.S. attorney, Hertzberg’s prosecuted everything from gang leaders to gun traffickers. A New York native, he’s an Amherst and NYU Law grad who once clerked in Alabama. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on fast food Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 3   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of September 5th Publish Date: September 5th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, September 5th and Happy Birthday to Freddie Mercury I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Transportation SPLOST will be on the ballot in Cherokee County Holly Springs breaks ground on Town Center amphitheater Waleska to hold special election next year for council seat Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on apples 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!  Commercial: Ingles Markets 2 STORY 1: Transportation SPLOST will be on the ballot in Cherokee County  Cherokee County voters will decide in November whether to approve a 1% sales tax—T-SPLOST—to fund road improvements. If passed, it could generate $445 million over six years, with funds split between the county and its cities. The projects? Everything from road widening and resurfacing to new sidewalks, multi-use trails, and roundabouts. Think smoother commutes, safer intersections, and maybe even a pedestrian plaza in Woodstock. The vote happens Nov. 4. STORY 2: Holly Springs breaks ground on Town Center amphitheater  Shovels hit the dirt Wednesday as Holly Springs broke ground on its long-awaited amphitheater, a centerpiece for the growing Town Center. Set near the railroad tracks, the amphitheater will host concerts, festivals, and community events—like the Holly Springs Harmonies summer series. Construction is expected to wrap up in nine months. The $2.3 million project is part of a larger vision: restaurants, shops, homes, and more. STORY 3: Waleska to hold special election next year for council seat A special election is on the horizon after no one stepped up to run for a city council seat set to expire Dec. 31. Councilman Logan Patrick, who’s not seeking re-election, is moving outside city limits. With no candidates qualifying for his seat, the city will hold a special election sometime after Jan. 1, according to City Clerk Kim Kirsch. Meanwhile, council members Kristi Bosch and Michael Green will return, running unopposed. Patrick’s final council meeting is Dec. 15, wrapping up 12 years in the community he’s called home. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: COBB MAKE A WISH STORY 4: Former CDC leaders worry about the agency’s direction, impact on public health  Former CDC leaders gathered at the Georgia Capitol Tuesday, invited by Democratic lawmakers, to voice concerns about the agency’s future and its impact on public health. The meeting came days after President Trump fired CDC Director Susan Monarez, just a month into her role. Her dismissal followed Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s controversial shake-up of the vaccine advisory committee, raising questions about long-standing immunization policies. Dr. Debra Houry, who resigned after Monarez’s firing, warned of growing vaccine skepticism. The event also highlighted public mistrust. Atlanta resident Melinda Hicks confronted Houry and Jernigan, blaming a friend’s death on the COVID-19 vaccine. Democrats urged Gov. Brian Kemp to back the CDC, but he declined to comment. STORY 5: Cherokee County considering $438 million 2026 budget  Cherokee County is hashing out a $438 million budget for the next fiscal year, and they want to hear from you. A public hearing is set for Sept. 16, with a final vote planned for Oct. 7. The proposed budget is $20.5 million higher than last year’s, with big chunks going to public safety ($176.5 million for the sheriff’s office, fire, and EMS), parks, transportation, and judicial services. Employees are set for a 3% cost-of-living raise, though healthcare contributions will rise 10% starting Jan. 1. SPLOST funds will cover projects like road improvements near Macedonia Elementary and expanding the airport runway. Want details? The full 511-page budget is online. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on apples Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 2   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of August 29th Publish Date: August 29th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, August 29th and Happy Birthday to Richard Attenborough I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Early voting hours announced for Cherokee's September runoffs Woodstock voters to decide on senior exemption expansion Action Church pastor announces new home in Cherokee County Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on picky toddlers 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!  Commercial: Ingles Markets 1 STORY 1: Early voting hours announced for Cherokee's September runoffs  Cherokee County voters, heads up—early voting for the Sept. 23 runoffs kicks off soon, and here’s the deal: it’s one week only, with a Saturday option thrown in. The runoffs? Georgia Senate District 21 and Cherokee County Board of Commissioners District 1. Early voting runs Sept. 13 (8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.) and Sept. 15–19 (8:30 a.m.–7 p.m.) at two spots: Elections Office, 193 Lamar Haley Parkway, Canton LB “The Buzz” Ahrens Rec Center, 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton (absentee drop box here). On Sept. 23, vote at your precinct, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. Need details? Check cherokeegavotes.com. STORY 2: Woodstock voters to decide on senior exemption expansion  Woodstock voters have a big decision coming this November. On the ballot? A proposed amendment to the city’s senior homestead exemption that would extend benefits to surviving spouses if the original recipient passes away. The City Council approved the referendum on Aug. 25, following a state law (House Bill 807) signed by Gov. Brian Kemp in May. If passed, surviving spouses wouldn’t need to meet the five-year residency rule to qualify. Also on the Nov. 4 ballot: the mayor’s seat and three city council positions. Early voting runs Oct. 14-31. Questions? Head to cherokeegavotes.com for all the details. STORY 3: Action Church pastor announces new home in Cherokee County Action Church is on the move—literally. Pastor Gary Lamb announced the church’s new (temporary) home will be RockSolid Brewing in downtown Ball Ground. Starting Oct. 5, Sunday services will run from 10 a.m. to noon in the brewery’s space. The church, known for its “not your typical church” vibe, is leaving Canton Village, which is set for demolition. Lamb called Ball Ground a “vibrant, growing town” and said the brewery’s community-focused mission aligns perfectly with Action Church’s. For now, Lamb says they’re in no rush to find a permanent home. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: HISTORY CHEROKEE STORY 4: Cagle and Ravenscraft head to runoff for Cherokee commissioner The race for Cherokee County’s District 1 commissioner seat is down to two: Republican Will Cagle and Democrat Charles Ravenscraft. With no candidate hitting the 50% mark in Tuesday’s election, a runoff is set for Sept. 23. Cagle led with 28.35% (2,574 votes), followed by Ravenscraft at 21.89% (1,987 votes). Trailing were Republicans Rick Whiteside, Justin Page, Jonathan Browning, and Robert Ridley. Cagle thanked his fellow Republicans for “strong, honorable campaigns” and urged conservatives to show up again. Ravenscraft, meanwhile, said he’s “honored” by the support and ready to serve. Early voting starts Sept. 13. STORY 5: Race for open Georgia Senate seat headed to runoff The Georgia Senate District 21 race just got real. Out of seven candidates, it’s now down to two: Democrat Debra Shigley and Republican Jason Dickerson. Shigley led the pack with 39.51% of the vote (8,438 votes), while Dickerson barely edged out former Cherokee Commissioner Steve West for the second spot—just 65 votes separated them. Dickerson finished with 17.36% (3,707 votes), and West trailed at 17.05% (3,642 votes). Runoff’s set for Sept. 23. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on picky toddlers Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 1   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of August 22nd Publish Date: August 22nd   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, August 22nd and Happy Birthday to Norman Scharzkoff I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Holly Springs denies developer's request to build townhomes Cherokee County Commissioner Corey Ragsdale hosting town hall Cherokee County suing Holly Springs over Hickory Flat annexation Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on budgeting 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!  Commercial: Ingles Markets 10 STORY 1: Holly Springs denies developer's request to build townhomes Holly Springs leaders have shut down a developer’s plan to build 43 townhomes near Holly Springs Parkway. On Aug. 18, the city council voted unanimously against EBC Pinecrest, LLC’s request to rezone 5.45 acres on Pine Crest Road for the project. Why? Safety concerns—mainly the lack of proper sidewalks. The developer offered $5,000 toward sidewalk improvements, but the city estimated the cost at $96,000—or $204,000 with drainage upgrades. The rest of the council agreed. Request denied. STORY 2: Cherokee County Commissioner Corey Ragsdale hosting town hall  Cherokee County District 4 Commissioner Corey Ragsdale is hosting a town hall on Aug. 27, and if you’ve got questions, this might be your chance to get answers. The meeting runs from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the Oak Grove Community Room (100 Ridgemill Ave., near Acworth). Ragsdale plans to cover big topics like upcoming capital projects—Woodworth Park, for one—and transportation updates affecting District 4, which includes parts of southwest Cherokee, Woodstock, and Towne Lake. Atlanta Gas Light reps will also be there to talk about the Wade Green Phase II Pressure Improvement Project. Got questions? Stick around for the Q&A. STORY 3: Cherokee County suing Holly Springs over Hickory Flat annexation Holly Springs just approved a controversial annexation for a mixed-use development in Hickory Flat, and Cherokee County isn’t happy about it—so much so, they’re suing to overturn the decision. On Aug. 18, the city council greenlit Garrard Development’s plan to annex 20 acres near Lower Union Hill Road and East Cherokee Drive. The project includes 89 homes and nearly 58,000 square feet of commercial space. But here’s the kicker: the land sits outside the growth boundary agreed upon by the city and county. County leaders called it a breach of trust—“a gentleman’s handshake,” as one commissioner put it. Now, it’s heading to court. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: HISTORY CHEROKEE STORY 4: Cherokee County and GDOT celebrate start to bridge replacement After 30 years of waiting, work is finally starting on a new bridge for Bells Ferry Road over Little River. Yes, 30 years. The current bridge? It’ll stay open while crews build the new one, which is set to include minor road improvements and even a pedestrian culvert for safer crossings. Construction kicks off Aug. 25, with completion expected by fall 2027. The $24.4 million project, funded by federal and state dollars, has been delayed, redesigned, and renegotiated since the 1990s. STORY 5: Cherokee County approves agreement to create land bank Cherokee County is setting up a land bank—finally. The Cherokee Regional Land Bank, a partnership between the county and Canton (so far), aims to breathe new life into abandoned or blighted properties. Think affordable housing, economic development, and maybe even a little hope for neglected spaces. The county approved the agreement on Aug. 19, following Canton’s green light earlier this month. Holly Springs and Woodstock? They’re still deciding. Board appointments will roll out over the next 90 days. Change is coming—slowly, but surely. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on budgeting Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 10   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of August 15th Publish Date: August 15th Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast Today is Friday, August 15th and Happy Birthday to Joe Jonas I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Canton approves contract for creation of Cherokee land bank University System of Georgia packs huge economic punch Cherokee County schools show Milestones improvements Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on Food Apps 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! Commercial: COBB INT. FESTIVAL STORY 1: Canton approves contract for creation of Cherokee land bank The Cherokee Regional Land Bank is inching closer to reality. On Aug. 7, Canton’s City Council gave the green light to an intergovernmental contract to create the land bank. Now, it’s up to the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners, along with the councils in Holly Springs and Woodstock, to decide. No dates yet, but they’ll weigh in soon. So, what’s a land bank? Think of it as a way to breathe life into abandoned or blighted properties—turning eyesores into opportunities. The idea’s been in the works since late 2022, with Canton and Cherokee County leading the charge. If approved, a board of directors will oversee the land bank, with members appointed by the county, cities, and the Cherokee Office of Economic Development. They’ll work unpaid, but their mission? Big: housing, economic development, and revitalizing neglected spaces. Canton Mayor Bill Grant called it a “tool” to tackle housing and economic goals. And while the land bank won’t have eminent domain powers, it could still be a game-changer for the region. Bartow County already has one—maybe Cherokee’s next. STORY 2: University System of Georgia packs huge economic punch Georgia’s public colleges and universities are making waves—big ones. In fiscal 2024, the University System of Georgia (USG) pumped $23.1 billion into the state’s economy. That’s a 5.4% jump from last year. Here’s the breakdown: $15.2 billion came from direct spending—students, staff, and the 26 institutions themselves. The other $7.9 billion? That’s the ripple effect, money flowing into local businesses and communities. And for students? The payoff is huge. A bachelor’s degree from a USG school means, on average, $1.4 million more in lifetime earnings. Master’s grads? $1.7 million. Doctorates? Nearly $2.5 million. USG schools also created jobs—lots of them. About 32% were on campus, but the majority—68%—were off campus, fueling local economies. The studies, led by Jeff Humphreys of UGA’s Selig Center, show just how much these institutions matter—to students, to communities, to the entire state. STORY 3: Cherokee County schools show Milestones improvements The Cherokee County School District is celebrating some solid wins on the Georgia Milestones, with scores improving in most areas compared to last year and outperforming state averages for the 10th year running. Biggest gains? Math, science, and reading saw notable jumps, with highlights like an impressive 7.7% increase in eighth-grade science and a 7.4% boost in Algebra I. But it wasn’t all perfect—third-grade scores dipped slightly, and English Language Arts saw declines in a few grades, especially fifth (-8.3%). School Board Chair Janet Read Welch called the results “proof we’re on the right track,” crediting students, teachers, and parents for the progress. Superintendent Mary Elizabeth Davis echoed the optimism. The board will dive deeper into the data at its Aug. 21 meeting, with school-by-school results to follow online. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info. We’ll be right back. Break: HISTORY CHEROKEE STORY 4: Woodstock OKs construction contracts for two fire stations Woodstock is gearing up for two new fire stations, both set to open in 2026. On Aug. 11, the city council approved contracts with Spratlin Construction to build Fire Station 28 on Ridgewalk Parkway and another on Long Drive—both 11,000 square feet. Why now? Rising call volumes. But when the contractor offered savings for building two at once, the city jumped. The move saves $606,000 and avoids hiring extra firefighters, thanks to a clever staffing plan. Station 28 will cost $7.4 million, Long Drive $6.8 million. Both are major investments in public safety, with funding from SPLOST and impact fees. Currently, Woodstock has two fire stations: Station 10, built in 1996, and Station 14, the department’s 2001-built headquarters. The new additions will dramatically improve coverage and response times for the growing city. STORY 5: Cherokee County teacher wins award from Georgia PTA A big shoutout to Mill Creek Middle School’s Ann-Margaret Somers, who just snagged the Georgia PTA’s Birney Butler Outstanding Educator award for middle schools. Pretty amazing, right? This isn’t her first rodeo with recognition. Somers, an eighth-grade science teacher, has racked up honors like Georgia Science Teachers Association’s Middle School Teacher of the Year (2022-23) and Georgia STEM Scholar in 2022—an award only about two dozen teachers statewide receive. Oh, and in 2020? She was one of just 26 teachers nationwide named a Teacher Fellow by the Northrop Grumman Foundation and National Science Teaching Association. Somers joined CCSD in 2015, and clearly, she’s been crushing it ever since. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on Food Apps Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this. COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 9 SIGN OFF – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: ingles-markets.com https://www.cobbcounty.gov/parks/special-events/cobb-international-festival https://historycherokee.org/ #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversationsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of August 8th Publish Date: August 8th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, August 8th and Happy Birthday to Roger Federer I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Federal loan to help finance Georgia 400 toll lanes Mass shooting wounds five soldiers at Fort Stewart Developer looking to build industrial park near Ball Ground Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on peaches 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!  Commercial: COBB INT. FESTIVAL STORY 1: Federal loan to help finance Georgia 400 toll lanes Georgia 400’s getting a major upgrade, and the federal government just handed over a massive $3.89 billion loan to make it happen. It’s the biggest loan ever awarded under the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA), and it’s all going toward adding toll lanes in Fulton and Forsyth counties. The project, a $4.6 billion public-private partnership, will add two toll lanes in each direction along a 16-mile stretch—from the North Springs MARTA station to just north of McFarland Parkway. Expected to open in 2031, the lanes could save drivers 15 minutes per trip and cut crashes by 8%. Gov. Brian Kemp called it a win for Georgia’s transportation network, while Javier Gutierrez, CEO of SR400 Peach Partners, said the loan is a “game-changer.” Oh, and there’s a transit twist: $75 million will go toward bus rapid transit improvements along the corridor. Optional tolls, faster commutes, and a nod to public transit—progress, right? STORY 2: Mass shooting wounds five soldiers at Fort Stewart  Chaos broke out Wednesday morning at Fort Stewart, southwest of Savannah, when five soldiers were shot in the 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team area. The alleged shooter, Sgt. Quornelius Radford, 28, was apprehended by 11:35 a.m., thanks to nearby soldiers who tackled and subdued him before law enforcement arrived. Radford, who used a personal handgun, has no combat history but does have a recent DUI on his record. The victims, initially treated on-site, were later transported to Winn Army Community Hospital. Two were sent to Savannah’s Memorial Health for advanced care. All are stable and expected to recover, according to Brig. Gen. John Lubas. Gov. Brian Kemp and Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock expressed their prayers and support for the victims and the Fort Stewart community. The base went into lockdown within minutes, though it was lifted an hour later, except for the combat team complex. Investigators are still piecing together how Radford got the gun onto the base—and why he did it. STORY 3: Developer looking to build industrial park near Ball Ground Cherokee County leaders are gearing up for a public hearing in September to decide whether a developer can build 10 office and industrial buildings near Ball Ground. The Board of Commissioners voted unanimously on Aug. 5 to schedule the hearing for 6 p.m. on Sept. 16 at the Cherokee County Conference Center in Canton. The developer, Ball Ground Business Park, LLC, wants to rezone 69 acres on East Cherokee Drive from residential and office use to light industrial. The plan? Ten buildings, 325,000 square feet total, with 330 parking spaces. The developer insists the light industrial zoning won’t bring noise or odors, but the Planning Commission has already recommended denying the request. Commission Chairman Harry Johnston, however, isn’t sold on the denial. “It’s across from the landfill—the largest east of the Mississippi—and next to a wastewater plant. Industrial use seems logical,” he said, pushing for the additional hearing. Access to the site would include driveways on East Cherokee Drive and Cokers Chapel Road, with deceleration lanes planned to manage traffic. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: HISTORY CHEROKEE STORY 4: Cherokee County leaders vote to hold property tax rates steady The Board of Commissioners voted Tuesday to keep property tax rates steady for 2025, holding the maintenance and operations (M&O) millage rate at 5.153 mills. Fire services will stay at 2.888 mills, and the parks bond rate drops slightly to 0.26 mills, for a total of 8.301 mills. Even with no rate increase, rising property values mean the county will collect more tax revenue. For a $500,000 homestead property, that’s about $35.88 more than the rollback rate. Residents voiced concerns about budget cuts, especially to the sheriff’s office, during public hearings. “Don’t tax us into foreclosure,” one resident pleaded. Cherokee still boasts one of the lowest millage rates in metro Atlanta, with the parks bond expected to be paid off by 2029. STORY 5: Woodstock officials celebrate the groundbreaking for Little River Park Woodstock finally broke ground Tuesday on the long-anticipated Little River Park—a project that’s been years in the making. Spanning 110 acres, it’ll be the city’s largest park once finished, complete with a scenic trail hugging Little River, a lake for fishing and kayaking, and plenty more. The land, tucked along Trickum Road, was purchased back in 2017. Fast forward to 2023: 87% of voters said “yes” to a parks bond, giving the city the funds to speed things up. In June, the council approved an $8 million contract to get construction rolling. If all goes as planned, the park opens in late 2026. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on peaches Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 8   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com Etowah Mill #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of August 1st Publish Date: August 1st Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast Today is Friday, August 1st and Happy Birthday to Coolio I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Commissioners threaten lawsuit to stop Hickory Flat annexation Cherokee High welcomes Class of 2029 students at open house Roswell Street Baptist takes step toward merging with Woodstock church Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on GLP-1 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! Commercial: Ingles Markets 7 STORY 1: Commissioners threaten lawsuit to stop Hickory Flat annexation Tensions are running high between Cherokee County and the city of Holly Springs over a proposed annexation in Hickory Flat. The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners has made it clear: if Holly Springs approves the annexation on Aug. 18, they’re ready to take legal action. The dispute centers on a 20-acre property at Lower Union Hill Road and East Cherokee Drive. Developer Garrard Development, Inc. wants to annex the land into Holly Springs and rezone it for a mix of single-family homes and commercial space. Originally, the plan included 92 townhomes, but those were scrapped after pushback. Residents aren’t thrilled. Over 600 locals have signed a petition opposing the project, citing concerns about traffic, density, and infrastructure strain. County officials argue the annexation violates a 2022 growth boundary agreement meant to guide city-county planning. The Holly Springs Planning Commission narrowly recommended approval, but with conditions—like no drive-thrus and a required privacy fence. Still, the county has flagged procedural issues, including errors in the application and a flawed traffic study. For now, all eyes are on the Holly Springs City Council. Will they approve the annexation or back down? Time will tell. STORY 2: Cherokee High welcomes Class of 2029 students at open house Wednesday was a big day at Cherokee High School. Hundreds of wide-eyed freshmen wandered the halls, clutching schedules and trying to figure out where the heck their classes were. It’s a rite of passage, sure—but this year, it felt different. This is the last group of students to start at the current campus before the school moves to its shiny new location next year. Cherokee High, the oldest high school in the county, has been a fixture on Marietta Highway since 1956. History teacher Erin Forman, a Cherokee alum herself, called it “bittersweet.” Principal Andy Hall, who also happens to be a dad to a freshman this year, said the day was full of smiles—and maybe a few nerves. With 705 freshmen joining the school’s 2,800+ students, Cherokee remains the largest high school in the district. And while the future of the current campus is still up in the air, Assistant Superintendent Rodney Larrotta said a team is working on it. For now, though, the focus is on celebrating the school’s history—and making this final year on the old campus one to remember. STORY 3: Roswell Street Baptist takes step toward merging with Woodstock church Roswell Street Baptist Church, once a thriving hub of faith in Marietta, has voted to merge with First Baptist Church of Woodstock, according to longtime member Joanne Thurston. The decision wasn’t exactly a shock—membership has been shrinking for years, and the church has struggled to find a permanent pastor since 2022. At its peak, Roswell Street was a powerhouse, with 9,200 members in 2014. Now? Weekly attendance hovers around 400. The pandemic didn’t help, but the decline started long before. The church’s 11-acre campus, once bustling, has seen better days. Parts of it have been demolished, and much of the space sits unused. Dan Moran, the transitional pastor, called the merger a partnership, not a takeover. For members like Elizabeth Rhodes, who’s been with the church for over 50 years, the choice is bittersweet. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info. Break: HISTORY CHEROKEE STORY 4: Norfolk Southern, Union Pacific merger to create nation's first transcontinental railroad Big news in the world of railroads: Union Pacific and Atlanta-based Norfolk Southern are merging to create the first-ever transcontinental railroad in the U.S. Yep, coast-to-coast. The deal, worth a jaw-dropping $250 billion, still needs federal approval, but if it goes through, it’ll connect 50,000 miles of track across 43 states and link 100 ports. Norfolk Southern’s Mark George echoed the excitement, calling it a “historic moment” for two railroads with deep roots in America’s economy. The combined company will be based in Omaha, but Atlanta isn’t losing its shine—it’ll remain a hub for tech, operations, and innovation. The merger could close by early 2027, pending regulatory approval. STORY 5: Georgia elections agency initiates voter roll scrub, audits PSC runoff count Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger is kicking off a four-year process to clean up voter rolls, which could mean nearly 250,000 inactive voters get removed. Here’s the deal: 218,951 voters who haven’t participated since 2019 will get notices. If they don’t respond or vote in the 2026 or 2028 general elections, they’ll be removed by 2029. Meanwhile, Raffensperger is doubling down on election integrity. A hand count of ballots in the recent Democratic PSC runoff confirmed Peter Hubbard’s win, with just a two-vote difference from the machine count—well within the margin of human error. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on GLP-1 Foods Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this. COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 7 SIGN OFF – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: ingles-markets.com Etowah Mill #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversationsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of July 25th Publish Date: July 25th Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast Today is Friday, July 25th and Happy Birthday to Walter Peyton I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Kelvin King running for secretary of state Woodstock wants your opinion on its transportation plan Cherokee acquiring right-of-way for Highway 140 improvements Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on 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! Commercial: Ingles Markets 6 STORY 1: Kelvin King running for secretary of state Atlanta businessman and Air Force veteran Kelvin King has announced his candidacy for Georgia secretary of state. King, who previously ran for the U.S. Senate, aims to bring "new leadership" by supporting hybrid voting with hand-counted ballots, cleaning up voter rolls, and overhauling business licensing systems. He joins State Rep. Tim Fleming in the Republican race. Incumbent Brad Raffensperger, who gained attention for rejecting Donald Trump’s 2020 election claims, has not announced if he will seek a third term, as he reportedly considers runs for governor or Senate. STORY 2: Woodstock wants your opinion on its transportation plan Woodstock will host an open house on July 28 from 6 to 6:45 p.m. at the Chambers at City Center to gather feedback on its updated 2025 Comprehensive Transportation Plan. The plan includes 41 active or planned projects and 74 conceptual ones, focusing on roadways, sidewalks, crosswalks, parking, and traffic flow improvements. Key projects include the Brownlee Road Connection and Haney Road Extension II. Residents, businesses, and visitors are encouraged to attend or provide input online at woodstockga.gov/transportation. STORY 3: Cherokee acquiring right-of-way for Highway 140 improvements Cherokee County is acquiring right-of-way for improvements at Highway 140 and Univeter Road. The project includes dual left-turn lanes and road widening, with 80% funding from GDOT. The county transferred easements from an old fire station property, which won’t be affected by construction. Federal funding of $1.19 million, with a $297,431 county match, supports the design phase. Final plans are expected by May 2026, with construction starting in fall 2026 and completion by summer 2028. This project is part of efforts to improve Highway 140 until it’s widened to four lanes. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info. Break: HISTORY CHEROKEE STORY 4: Canton, Woodstock and Holly Springs supporting Milton in lawsuit appeal The Georgia Supreme Court is reviewing Milton’s appeal of a $35 million wrongful death lawsuit related to a 2016 crash where Joshua Chang died after hitting a planter on city property. Canton, Woodstock, and Holly Springs have joined other cities in an amicus brief supporting Milton, arguing the ruling contradicts sovereign immunity precedents. The planter, in place since 1992, was deemed 93% responsible for the crash. The Supreme Court will address whether the planter’s placement constitutes a municipal defect and if immunity applies. Cities fear the ruling could impact right-of-way management statewide. STORY 5: Woodstock City Council to consider 34-home subdivision Woodstock leaders are reviewing a proposal by Park Place Developers to build 34 single-family homes on 11 acres along Putnam Ford Drive. The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners approved expanding the city’s growth boundary to include the site, which features a 172-foot telecommunications tower. The developer seeks annexation, rezoning, and variances, including reduced tower setbacks. The subdivision would connect to Summit at Towne Lake and include one- and two-story homes with 10% rental limits and 27% open space. The Woodstock Planning Commission will review the plan on Aug. 7, with the City Council set to decide on Aug. 25. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on diabetes Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this. COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 6 SIGN OFF – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: ingles-markets.com Etowah Mill #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversationsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of July 18th Publish Date: July 18th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, July 18th and Happy Birthday to John Glen I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Canton to close Brown Park temporarily for tree removal Fossil fuels to remain in Georgia Power energy-supply mix Cherokee Chamber CEO appointed to board for statewide association Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on picky toddlers 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!  Commercial: Ingles Markets 5 STORY 1: Canton to close Brown Park temporarily for tree removal Canton will remove a declining scarlet oak tree in Brown Park after an arborist confirmed it poses safety risks due to decay and dieback. Located near a children’s play area, the tree cannot be saved through trimming or treatment. Two other large trees will remain for shade. Brown Park will close for the removal from July 20 to July 24, weather permitting. STORY 2: Fossil fuels to remain in Georgia Power energy-supply mix Georgia’s Public Service Commission approved Georgia Power’s 2025 Integrated Resource Plan, allowing continued coal and gas use alongside expanded renewable energy projects. The plan addresses a projected need for 8,500 megawatts of additional capacity by 2030, driven by growing demand from data centers. Critics argue the plan relies on uncertain projections, neglects energy conservation commitments, and will raise rates while harming the environment. Although base rates are frozen for three years, costs from storm damage and increased capacity may still impact customers. Environmental groups warn of long-term financial and ecological consequences. STORY 3: Cherokee Chamber CEO appointed to board for statewide association Pam Carnes, President and CEO of the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce, has been appointed to the Board of Directors for the Georgia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (GACCE) for a one-year term. With over 34 years of involvement in GACCE, including serving as chair in 2005-2006, Carnes credits the organization for significantly shaping her career. The 2025-2026 GACCE Board officially began its term on July 1. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    Break: HISTORY CHEROKEE STORY 4: Another challenger rises for state school superintendent Georgia State School Superintendent Richard Woods, seeking a fourth term, now faces a third challenger in the 2024 Republican primary. Fred “Bubba” Longgrear, superintendent of Candler County Schools, joins the race alongside Randell E. Trammel, CEO of the Center for Civic Engagement, and Nelva M. Lee, a Locust Grove entrepreneur. Longgrear, the only current public school employee in the race, highlights his 11 years as a superintendent and focuses on safe learning environments, literacy, and career development. Woods has led the state superintendent’s office since 2015. STORY 5: Clean-energy advocate Hubbard poised to win PSC Democratic runoff Clean-energy advocate Peter Hubbard is leading the Democratic runoff for Georgia's Public Service Commission (PSC) District 3 seat, with 58.1% of the vote against former Atlanta City Councilwoman Keisha Sean Waites. If his lead holds, Hubbard will face incumbent Republican Fitz Johnson in November. Hubbard, an advocate for reducing fossil fuel use, aims to address energy costs and environmental health. Waites, a former state representative and councilwoman, has a background in federal government roles. This marks Johnson's first election since his 2021 appointment. The PSC elections, delayed by a lawsuit over voting rights, will also feature a District 2 race between Republican Tim Echols and Democrat Alicia Johnson. Commercial: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on picky toddlers We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 5   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com Etowah Mill #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CTL Script/ Top Stories of July 11th Publish Date: July 11th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, July 11th and Happy Birthday to President John Quincy Adams I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Marine Corps League Detachment hosting 10th anniversary commemoration Woodstock couple runs Peachtree after losing 143 pounds Cherokee elections board conducts two risk limiting audits Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on seed oils 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!  Commercial: MILL ON ETOWAH REV GENERIC_FINAL STORY 1: Marine Corps League Detachment hosting 10th anniversary commemoration The LCpl Squire “Skip” Wells Marine Corps League Detachment 647 will host a commemorative service on July 16 at 10:30 a.m. at Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, marking the 10th anniversary of LCpl Squire “Skip” Wells’ death in the 2015 Chattanooga terrorist attack. The ceremony will honor Wells and four other fallen servicemen. Open to the public, the event reflects the Marine Corps League’s dedication to remembrance and support for Marines, veterans, and their families. For details, contact Senior Vice Commandant Getzie Lamar at 770-810-5598 or mcldet647@gmail.com. STORY 2: Woodstock couple runs Peachtree after losing 143 pounds Woodstock couple Chris and Nicole Russell celebrated a major milestone by completing the Peachtree Road Race after losing a combined 143 pounds. Their health journey began in 2024, inspired by Chris’s recovery from a COVID-19 coma and Nicole’s struggle to fit into her wedding dress. With guidance from Northside Hospital and Beltline Health, they focused on daily nutrition and exercise goals. The race marked an emotional victory, with Chris reflecting on small wins like improved mobility and Nicole feeling a weight lifted. Their next goals include the Publix Marathon in 2026 and competing in HYROX. STORY 3: Cherokee elections board conducts two risk limiting audits The Cherokee County Board of Elections conducted two risk-limiting audits for the June 17 Public Service Commission Special Election. A pre-certification audit on June 20 reviewed 446 ballots from five Election Day precincts, matching machine counts 100%. A state-required audit on June 26 examined ballots from advance voting, Election Day at R.M. Moore, and provisionals, also confirming 100% accuracy. No party monitors or public observers attended either audit. For more details, visit cherokeegavotes.com. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    Break: HISTORY CHEROKEE STORY 4: Cherokee County School District honors transportation employees The Cherokee County School District honored its top school bus drivers at the fourth annual Transportation Employee of the Year Awards. Wanda Fowler, a 17-year veteran serving the Creekview Innovation Zone, was named the overall winner for her dedication to student safety and teamwork. Zone winners included drivers from Cherokee North, Cherokee South, Etowah, River Ridge, Sequoyah, Woodstock, and Special Education. Winners, selected by peers and administrators, were celebrated at a back-to-school event with gift cards, banners, and gift bags sponsored by local businesses. The program highlights the vital role of transportation staff in the district. STORY 5: Cherokee County Health Department hosting back-to-school health clinics The Cherokee County Health Department will host Back-to-School Health Clinics in July and August at the Canton and Woodstock Health Centers. Screenings for hearing, dental, vision, and BMI/nutrition are $60, with immunizations available for $21.90 each for uninsured or underinsured children. Accepted insurances include Medicaid, PeachCare, and major providers. Clinics at Woodstock Health Center (7545 Main St.) are on July 22, 29, and Aug. 5, while Canton Health Center (1219 Univeter Rd.) clinics are on July 24, 31, and Aug. 12, all from 1-6 p.m. Appointments are also available on weekdays. Commercial: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on seed oils We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: Ingles Markets 4   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com Etowah Mill historycherokee.org/ #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.