Podcast appearances and mentions of Brian Kemp

Watch The X22 Report On Video No videos found (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:17532056201798502,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-9437-3289"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="https://cdn2.decide.dev/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs");pt> Click On Picture To See Larger Picture The US Labor market was destroyed by Biden, Trump is reversing everything he has done. US housing market has more sellers than there are buyers, lower rates and 50 year mortgages will fix this. Gold,Silver and Bitcoin are on sale, the masses tend to panic during this period. Bessent breaks the [CB] independence narrative. The [DS] is losing every step of the way. The people are now longer with the D’s. They are now panicking over the midterms and they are messaging that they have plan to do something during this period. Schiff says the quiet part out loud. Trump is setting the stage for their plan for the insurrection. Trump has let the country know that we will find out who actually won the 2020 election. When it is revealed that Trump won, does he get another term?   Economy (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:18510697282300316,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-8599-9832"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="https://cdn2.decide.dev/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs"); https://twitter.com/GlobalMktObserv/status/2019218921950175742?s=20  since the Financial Crisis. The gap suggests workers are taking 2nd and 3rd jobs not by choice but out of necessity, as hours are cut and primary employment fails to provide sufficient income. The job market is WEAK. https://twitter.com/Barchart/status/2019252512013054316?s=20     Bessent Says the President Can Interfere With the Fed  Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told lawmakers on Wednesday that the president has the right to interfere with the decision-making of the Federal Reserve. Source: barrons.com  the president has the right to verbally and politically interfere with the Federal Reserve’s decision-making. He made this comment in response to questioning from Rep. Emanuel Cleaver (D-Mo.), saying, “It is his right…It is the right of everyone in here,” referring to members of Congress present at the hearing. Political/Rights  https://twitter.com/alexbruesewitz/status/2019226238720831674?s=20 whately https://twitter.com/PoliticalStacy/status/2019217700841726146?s=20 Human Trafficking Crackdown Nets More than 600 Suspects in Sex Trade Authorities in Los Angeles announced Tuesday the results of a statewide crackdown on human trafficking that resulted in the arrests of more than 600 suspects and the rescue of 170 victims, predominantly in the sex trade. The weeklong “Operation Reclaim and Rebuild” campaign was part of a yearly effort by the Los Angeles Regional Human Trafficking Task Force and 80 local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna laid out the exact numbers at a news conference, later posted on X. A total of 611 criminal arrests were made and 156 adults rescued as part of the operations, Luna told reporters. In addition, 14 children were rescued from sex trafficking. Officials said 71 suspected traffickers were arrested, and an additional 328 sex buyers were arrested. “This is a multibillion-dollar industry,” Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said. “It is nothing less than modern slavery.” According to the Los Angeles Times' reporting of the announcement: Source: breitbart.com Geopolitical Spain Amnesty: Gov't to Take Illegals' Word That They Don't Have Criminal Record The socialist Spanish government's amnesty scheme will allow illegal migrants to simply declare that they have no criminal record, rather than providing documentation from their native countries, sparking concern over criminals gaming the system. Last month, the left-wing coalition government of Socialist PM Pedro Sánchez agreed to allow upwards of half a million illegals seek amnesty and obtain residence permits to remain in Spain. While the scheme stipulates that amnesty will not apply to migrants with criminal records — other than the crime of entering Spain illegally — the regularisation decree published by the government this week revealed that Madrid will essentially be willing to take the word of illegal migrants about their past. Source: breitbart.com https://twitter.com/MarioBojic/status/2019341799148409099?s=20   this is just another step toward killing our freedoms. The EU is an open-air prison and Ursula von der Leyen is the warden. https://twitter.com/MarioNawfal/status/2019395593345393136?s=20   https://twitter.com/visegrad24/status/2019390275924230638?s=20   Kremlin to purchase Russian weapons. In the 2010s, Russia’s largest oil company, Rosneft, became a key lender to Venezuela in exchange for receiving stakes in the country's oil projects. According to Reuters, between 2006 and 2017, the Kremlin provided a total of $17 billion to the Venezuelan government and the state oil company PDVSA. https://twitter.com/visegrad24/status/2019331875572183318?s=20 https://twitter.com/GlobalDiss/status/2019133827453776172?s=20 https://twitter.com/PM_ViktorOrban/status/2019397051612647711?s=20  Brusselian censorship, Orwellian in nature.  3 US Warships Dispatched to Haiti as Part of Campaign Against Drug Traffickers   Three U.S. warships have been sent to Haiti as part of Operation Southern Spear, a military operation in the Caribbean to counter narcotics trafficking. “At the direction of [Secretary of War Pete Hegseth], the ships USS Stockdale, USCGC Stone, and USCGC Diligence have arrived in the Bay of Port-au-Prince as part of Operation Southern Spear,” the U.S. Embassy in Haiti posted on X on Feb. 3. The embassy said the presence of the warships reflects the United States' “unwavering commitment to Haiti's security, stability, and brighter future.” Source: theepochtimes.com https://twitter.com/TheSCIF/status/2018867826459562070?s=20   This is the beginning of the global operation to install these manipulative, backdoor implemented electronic voting machines worldwide to steal elections and install the candidate of their choice. This is the election fraud cartel and its inception. 866 Q !UW.yye1fxo ID: 2362f9 No.568863 Mar 6 2018 13:06:24 (EST) https://wikileaks.org/clinton-emails/emailid/629 So much is open source. So much left to be connected. Why are the children in Haiti in high demand? How are they smuggled out? ‘Adoption' process. Local ‘staging' ports friendly to CF? Track donations. Cross against location relative to Haiti. Think logically. The choice, to KNOW, will be yours. Q 1233 Q !xowAT4Z3VQ ID: 30e575 No.1133862 Apr 21 2018 14:40:05 (EST) Anonymous ID: 03b5fb No.1133796 Apr 21 2018 14:35:58 (EST) america-has-spoken.png >>1133772 THIS IS WHAT THE NEXT 6 YEARS IS ABOUT – THIS QUESTION >>1133796 They will lose black vote once Haiti revealed. Lost now (awakening). They keep them enslaved. What did Hussein do for the black community? vs POTUS? Q War/Peace Medical/False Flags https://twitter.com/EndWokeness/status/2019149006744490427?s=20 https://twitter.com/TheLastRefuge2/status/2019110609145459184?s=20     [DS] Agenda https://twitter.com/AGPamBondi/status/2019443234728989029?s=20   https://twitter.com/nicksortor/status/2019241676490051624?s=20 https://twitter.com/HillaryClinton/status/2019394858767798349?s=20   Control the narrative and turn defense into offense: In a private session, it’s all about dry facts, sworn statements, and transcripts that could be dissected later without my real-time spin. Publicly, it could be framed  as a partisan witch hunt, rally my base, and pivot to attacking the Republicans (like Comer) for hypocrisy or distractions. It’s theater—I’d get soundbites on TV, memes on social media, and maybe even sympathetic coverage from friendly outlets, diluting any real scrutiny.   Closed depositions often drag on for hours with nitpicky details, no time limits, and less grandstanding. In public, time is constrained, questions are performative, and I could filibuster or redirect more easily.  Anything of National Security cannot be discussed and Clinton could hide behind it.  https://twitter.com/CynicalPublius/status/2019169898799259770?s=20   out the part where the Democrats/Hamas initiated the violence. 3. Children are brought to “protests” as human shields. If a child is harmed as his/her parents are engaged in violence, such child is the focus of social media efforts. 4. Rank and file members (useful idiots) are actively encouraged to illegally engage with armed authorities. These are martyrdom operations, and to the extent martyrs are created out of useful idiots, that was always the unstated intent. (But nobody tells the useful idiots that.) 5. Illegal, violent operations are funded by US tax dollars, money laundered through multiple NGOs and non-profits. 6. Laws are irrelevant when they are inconvenient. Laws are ironclad rules when they are convenient. 7. Opponents are dehumanized such that any atrocity that is inflicted on them is justified. 8. A major goal is to sway public opinion on the international stage and create the story that the aggressors are actually the victims. 9. Neither Hamas nor the Democrats can meme effectively. 10. The ultimate goal of both Democrats and Hamas is to create elaborate deception operations as a path to absolute power. President Trump's Plan https://twitter.com/TonySeruga/status/2019235176363212952?s=20 https://twitter.com/RedLineReportt/status/2019175100386267570?s=20   to get TORCHED. For once, the IRS is being deployed FOR AMERICANS FIRST — not against working families. Follow the money. Audit everything. Prosecute whoever broke the law. Thank you, Sec. Bessent.   Do you firmly support Scott on this? A. Huge Yes B. No IF Yes, Give me a THUMBS-UP !! DHS Secretary Noem Identifies Another Leaker and Refers to DOJ for Prosecution  The good news is the process to identify the subversive agents inside the various offices of the administration continues to yield results.   there's a lot of them to identify and remove. Dept of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem shares another leaker has been identified and removed.  Additionally, she is referring their conduct to the Dept of Justice for criminal prosecution. [SOURCE]  The reason for that removal now seems to come to light with the release of letter former Agent Paul Brown sent to Elections Director Nadine Williams giving her a head's-up on the material the FBI was going to seize. FBI Agent Brown asks Ms Williams to voluntarily hand over the material, which has the result of giving Fulton County a heads-up about the specifics of the material the FBI were going to gather and review in their search warrant. Source: theconservativetreehouse.com https://twitter.com/disclosetv/status/2019203189221065004?s=20 Trump is now setting it all up, the people are going to demand he come into the cities and states when the insurrection is happening. optics are important 4360 May 30, 2020 6:11:47 PM EDT Q !!Hs1Jq13jV6 ID: 63d310 No. 9383164  INSURRECTION Act of 1807. [Determination that the various state and local authorities are not up to the task of responding to the growing unrest] Call the ball. Q  https://twitter.com/ElectionWiz/status/2019378085913653512?s=20   https://twitter.com/Rasmussen_Poll/status/2019394557428019374?s=20 https://twitter.com/StephenM/status/1755562105678266707?s=20 https://twitter.com/Breaking911/status/2019257661657633016?s=20   has to happen.” https://twitter.com/TheStormRedux/status/2019184398831100056?s=20 https://twitter.com/Patri0tContr0l/status/2019452836153581799?s=20   they need to figure out other ways to cheat now that their primary cheating techniques have been blocked. Oh, and Democrats are now threatening a government shutdown in order to prevent ICE from being at polling places. Could it be any more obvious what's going on here? They need illegals to vote or they're screwed. These people are in a full-blown panic over the Trump Administration securing our elections. Enjoy watching them squirm!   https://twitter.com/KanekoaTheGreat/status/2019236736203911681?s=20   Intelligence identified “extremely concerning cybersecurity and operational deployment practices that pose a significant risk to U.S. elections.” ODNI said some vulnerabilities in Puerto Rico's voting machines stemmed from the use of insecure cellular technology, along with software flaws that could allow hackers deep access into critical election systems. “Given ODNI’s broad statutory authority to coordinate, integrate, and analyze intelligence related to election security and our known work on understanding vulnerabilities to foreign and other malign interference, ODNI conducted an examination of electronic voting systems used in Puerto Rico's elections,” an ODNI spokesperson said. In April 2025, Gabbard told a Cabinet meeting that her office had obtained evidence showing U.S. electronic voting systems have long been vulnerable to hacking. “We have evidence of how these electronic voting systems have been vulnerable to hackers and vulnerable to exploitation to manipulate the results of the votes being cast,” she said, adding that this supports the push for nationwide paper ballots so voters can trust the integrity of U.S. elections. https://twitter.com/canncon/status/2019054407954956637?s=20  Bureau of Investigation Vic Reynolds told Senator Perdue, “I’m a team player. If the Governor doesn’t want to investigate, we’re not going to investigate.” “You said that although Mr. Reynolds had received evidence that he felt was compelling enough to open an investigation that he was not going to investigate because the governor had told him not to?” “That’s one of the things he said, yeah.” – Senator Perdue One month before the special grand jury testimony, Vic Reynolds was appointed a Superior Court Judge by……..Governor Brian Kemp. And Reynolds wasn’t the only person who ignored election fraud evidence or maladministration and got appointed to a Superior Court judgeship. He wasn’t even the second one. Reynolds was presented with video evidence, cell phone data, bank records, and testimony of a ballot harvester. Reynolds claimed that the GBI made “repeated requests” to True The Vote for their witness. True The Vote denies this saying that THEY actually reached out to GBI after their one and only meeting and were ignored. From TTV’s Catherine Engelbrecht: “After that meeting, we made repeated attempts to re-engage with the GBI and never received a response.” Why did Brian Kemp order GBI not to investigate an alleged crime, with evidence, that would ultimately lead to a UNPRECEDENTED RICO case against a former President and HIS party’s front-running candidate?? Read my story in the link below. https://twitter.com/amuse/status/2019409257137918096?s=20 https://twitter.com/TrumpWarRoom/status/2019211072755151237?s=20 https://twitter.com/TheStormRedux/status/2019416872727278048?s=20  about Russia interfering in the 2016 election, but now all of a sudden they want nothing to do with that. A solid point. Trump added, “So now they're saying Russia had nothing to do with it, because if I say Russia, it's perfectly fine. But you could add China and about 5 other countries to it.” Is Trump implying they believe there was foreign interference or is he just trolling the deep state? Time will tell. https://twitter.com/EricLDaugh/status/2019198733167260134?s=20 https://twitter.com/Patri0tContr0l/status/2019068648917217511?s=20     https://twitter.com/amuse/status/2019166626260627780?s=20 John Cornyn who are opposed to the bill by not allowing debate. https://twitter.com/nicksortor/status/2019131769665274030?s=20   Any Republican allowing our elections to be filled with fraud needs to be primaried. https://twitter.com/Lancegooden/status/2019126883192049803?s=20 https://twitter.com/EricLDaugh/status/2019414831074271739?s=20   (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:13499335648425062,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-7164-1323"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="//cdn2.customads.co/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs"); 

In the immediate aftermath of the fatal ICE shooting in Minneapolis, Senate Democrats are attempting to translate outrage into leverage. After a closed-door caucus, they emerged unified around a set of concrete demands tied to Homeland Security funding: tighter warrant requirements, bans on agents wearing masks, mandatory body cameras, visible identification, and a uniform code of conduct with independent investigations. These are not abstract reforms. They are specific guardrails aimed at slowing enforcement down and restoring a baseline of accountability.The politics here are brutal. Republicans are warning that reopening the funding package would stall it in the House, and they may be right. Any deal that ultimately passes will require Donald Trump's explicit blessing, otherwise it dies before it clears the lower chamber. At this point, a partial government shutdown looks likely no matter what. The real strategic question for Democrats is prioritization. If they are forced to choose, which reform matters most. Masks. Warrants. Body cameras. They can't win them all, and it's up to them to determine which one is worth a shutdown fight.Politics Politics Politics is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Georgia, the 2020 Election, and Reopening Old ScarsAs if immigration were not volatile enough, the FBI executed a court-authorized search warrant at election offices in Fulton County, Georgia, seeking records related to the 2020 presidential election. The bureau confirmed the investigation is ongoing but offered no details. County officials acknowledged the focus on 2020 materials and declined further comment.Anything touching the 2020 election is radioactive. Anything touching Georgia is worse. This reopens the deepest fault line inside the state Republican Party, the one that pits Donald Trump against Governor Brian Kemp and Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger. Trump tried and failed to destroy both men politically, and they emerged stronger for it. Whenever 2020 resurfaces, that fragile détente collapses. Even without knowing where this investigation leads, the act of reopening the file guarantees renewed tension inside Georgia politics and fresh oxygen for conspiracy narratives.The Fed Holds Steady Under Growing PressureThe Federal Reserve held interest rates steady at 3.5 to 3.75 percent, signaling confidence in economic growth and a stabilizing labor market after three rate cuts late last year. The language shift mattered. The Fed removed references to rising employment risks and emphasized that rates are now near neutral. Chair Jerome Powell stressed that future decisions will be data-driven, not political.That reassurance comes amid extraordinary pressure. The Justice Department is investigating matters related to the Fed, the Supreme Court is weighing a case on presidential authority over the institution, and Donald Trump is nearing a decision on who he will nominate to succeed Powell. Two Trump-appointed governors dissented, favoring a quarter-point cut. Through it all, Powell insisted the Fed's independence remains intact. Whether markets believe that as the political scrutiny intensifies is the question that now hangs over monetary policy.Chapters00:00:00 - Intro00:01:58 - Bill Scher on a Potential Gov Shutdown and Dem Primaries00:43:47 - Update00:44:18 - Democrat Demands for DHS00:46:17 - Fulton County FBI Investigation00:47:51 - Fed Rate Holds00:49:13 - Chris Cillizza on CBS News, Washington Post, and Modern Media01:41:01 - Wrap-up This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.politicspoliticspolitics.com/subscribe

What does golf teach us about winning elections? In this episode of Golf & Politics, we play nine holes at Split Rail Golf Club outside Fort Worth with Drew Ryan, founder of Campaign Sidekick, to break down what actually wins campaigns: discipline, ground game, calculated risk, and authenticity. As the Texas wind kicks up, Drew shares lessons from building Campaign Sidekick from scratch, working on high-profile races like Ron DeSantis (2018) and Brian Kemp, and why most candidates still misunderstand voter contact. We cover: Why the ground game still decides elections The biggest mistakes candidates are making right now How Trump reshaped the GOP — and what comes next Entrepreneurship, faith, and taking smart risks Advice for young people who want a career in politics Plus: clutch putts, tough lies, and a momentum-changing eagle. If you care about campaign strategy, conservative politics, entrepreneurship, or golf, this episode is for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Top Stories for January 27th Publish Date: January 27th PRE-ROLL: GCPS From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Tuesday, January 27th and Happy Birthday to Bobby Blue Band I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Gwinnett County Police to host local hiring event Winter storm knocks out power to thousands of Gwinnett homes Parkview grad Quincy Bryant turns NIL experience into financial lifeline for college athletes All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe! Break 1: KIA Mall Of Ga - Sugar Hill Ice Skating Rink Final STORY 1: Gwinnett County Police to host local hiring event Thinking about joining the Gwinnett County Police Department? Here’s your chance—they’re hosting a hiring event on Feb. 6 (3–8 p.m.) and Feb. 7 (8 a.m.–3 p.m.). First things first: submit an application before the event. Once you do, an investigator will call to schedule your appointment. No appointment? You can still show up, but expect a longer wait. And no, you don’t need to attend both days. The process isn’t quick—it can take hours—so plan ahead. Phase I includes orientation, a physical agility test, an interview, a psych exam, and a background check. If you qualify, you might walk away with a conditional job offer. What’s in it for you? A starting salary between $55,923 and $86,090, a 10% hiring bonus, annual raises, and education incentives (up to 6% for a degree). Night Watch officers even get a 5% shift differential. Requirements? Be 21 by academy graduation, have a high school diploma or GED, a valid driver’s license, and be eligible for P.O.S.T. certification. Ready to apply? Visit GwinnettPoliceJobs.com. STORY 2: Winter storm knocks out power to thousands of Gwinnett homes Winter Storm Fern wreaked havoc in Gwinnett County, leaving more than 10,000 residents without power as of Sunday afternoon. Georgia Power reported that, by 5:30 p.m., 9,741 of its customers in the county were in the dark. Peachtree Corners was hit hardest, with 3,120 outages, followed by Berkley Lake and Duluth (1,729), southwest Lawrenceville (1,797), and another 905 near State Route 316. Walton EMC wasn’t spared either—1,771 customers were without power by 5 p.m. The biggest cluster? Along Five Forks Trickum Road, where 767 homes were affected. Jackson EMC also reported 1,067 outages, with 892 concentrated in Lawrenceville. STORY 3: Parkview grad Quincy Bryant turns NIL experience into financial lifeline for college athletes College athletes are making serious money these days, thanks to NIL deals and revenue sharing. But here’s the thing—most of them don’t know what to do with it. Some have advisors, sure, but plenty don’t. Quincy Bryant, a former Parkview football star and Wake Forest standout, saw it all firsthand. Unlike many, he had a plan. While still in college, he invested his NIL earnings, bought a house, and rented it to teammates. Word spread, and soon, everyone was asking him for financial advice. That’s how Final Whistle Wealth was born. Alongside his former teammate Trent Nicholson, Bryant launched the company to help athletes manage their money and plan for life after sports. They started small—one-on-one sessions, then classes—and eventually built a full program with support from Wake Forest’s Startup Lab. Now, they’re developing an app to make budgeting and financial planning easier for athletes. For more, check out www.finalwhistlewealth.com. 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 2: Ingles Markets 7 STORY 4: Gwinnett County to host Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day on Feb. 7 Got old bug spray, paint cans, or that half-empty bottle of weed killer sitting in your garage? You’re not alone. The EPA calls this stuff “household hazardous waste”—basically, anything that can catch fire, explode, corrode, or poison. And no, you can’t just toss it in the trash or pour it down the drain (seriously, don’t). Georgia’s Environmental Protection Division warns that doing so can pollute groundwater, lakes, and streams. That’s where Gwinnett County’s Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day comes in. Since 2018, this biannual event has made it easier for residents to safely ditch their hazardous junk. The first event of 2026 is happening Saturday, Feb. 7, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds in Lawrenceville. Accepted items include spray pesticides, auto fluids, batteries, paint, propane cylinders, and even cooking oil. Not accepted? Ammunition, fireworks, electronics, or biohazard waste. Residents can bring up to five containers of waste for free. For details, visit www.GwinnettCB.org or call 770-822-5187. STORY 5: Gwinnett Grads Julian Ashby, Jared Ivey headed to Super Bowl LX Gwinnett County’s got a guaranteed Super Bowl champ this year, no matter what happens on February 8. Why? Two hometown rookies—Parkview’s Julian Ashby and North Gwinnett’s Jared Ivey—are heading to the big game. Ashby’s Patriots edged out the Broncos 10-7 in a snowy AFC Championship, while Ivey’s Seahawks outlasted the Rams 31-27 for the NFC title. Ashby, a 23-year-old long snapper, was flawless in the storm. Drafted in the seventh round by New England, he’s the first long snapper picked since 2021. Before that? Four solid years at Furman and a standout season at Vanderbilt. Ivey, meanwhile, fought his way onto Seattle’s roster as an undrafted free agent. The 6-foot-6 linebacker didn’t play in the NFC Championship but made his mark at Ole Miss with 125 tackles and 16 sacks after transferring from Georgia Tech. No matter who wins, Gwinnett’s streak of Super Bowl champs—now four years running—stays alive. We’ll be right back. Break 3: EAGLE THEATRE Gentleman’s Guide STORY 6: Dr. William Foege, leader in smallpox eradication, dies Dr. William Foege, the towering figure—literally and figuratively—behind the eradication of smallpox, has passed away at 89. He died Saturday in Atlanta, according to the Task Force for Global Health, which he co-founded. At 6-foot-7, Foege was hard to miss, but it was his brilliance and calm determination that truly set him apart. A former CDC director in the late ’70s and early ’80s, he spent his life battling infectious diseases and reshaping global health. His crowning achievement? Smallpox. In the 1960s, while working as a medical missionary in Nigeria, Foege pioneered the “ring containment” strategy—vaccinating only those in contact with infected individuals. It was a bold, resourceful move born out of necessity (there wasn’t enough vaccine to go around). And it worked. By 1980, the World Health Organization declared smallpox eradicated, saving hundreds of millions of lives. STORY 7: State House to operate minus one member after suspension from office The Georgia General Assembly is down yet another lawmaker this session—this time, it’s State Rep. Sharon Henderson, who’s been suspended after a federal indictment. Governor Brian Kemp signed the suspension Thursday, following a committee’s decision that Henderson’s charges “adversely affect” her ability to serve. She’s accused of two counts of theft of government funds and 10 counts of making false statements tied to federal unemployment benefits during the pandemic. Her case? It’s not moving fast—pretrial’s set for Feb. 19. Meanwhile, former Rep. Karen Bennett, resolved similar charges quickly, pleading guilty to fraudulently claiming $13,940 in pandemic relief. Kemp, required by the state constitution, appointed a review committee for Henderson’s case, including Attorney General Chris Carr, Rep. Jan Jones, and Sen. Harold Jones II. Their findings led to her suspension. With several legislative seats still vacant, Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger is scheduling special elections, including one for Bennett’s seat on March 10. We’ll have closing comments after this Break 4: GCPL PASSPORT Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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.gwinnettdailypost.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 www.kiamallofga.com Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill 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.

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for January 23rd Publish Date:  January 23rd    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, January 23rd and Happy Birthday to Earl Falconer I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal KSU students rally on campus to protest ICE, deportations and detentions National Weather Service: Potential ‘major winter storm’ incoming this weekend Cobb victim advocate appointed to State Parole Board Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 8 STORY 1: KSU students rally on campus to protest ICE, deportations and detentions  Hundreds of Kennesaw State students walked out of class Tuesday, joining a nationwide protest against ICE on the anniversary of Donald Trump’s second inauguration. The “Free America” walkout, organized by Students for Socialism at KSU, called for justice for those detained, deported, or killed by ICE—like Renee Nicole Good, who was fatally shot by an ICE agent in Minneapolis earlier this month. Students gathered on the campus green, holding signs and chanting, “Justice for Renee” and “The people united will never be defeated.” Some marched around the student center, megaphones in hand, their voices echoing across campus. Grace Blomberg, one of the organizers, said the walkout was about solidarity. “We have a responsibility to stand with our immigrant brothers and sisters and with students in Minneapolis who’ve been striking for days,” she said. Not everyone agreed. Andre Stafford, chair of the Cobb Young Republicans, called the protests “misinformed” and said, “At the end of the day, it’s about law and order.” STORY 2: National Weather Service: Potential ‘major winter storm’ incoming this weekend  Winter’s about to make its presence known in Georgia, and the National Weather Service is urging everyone to stay alert. A major winter storm is brewing, set to hit the eastern U.S. this weekend, but where it’ll hit hardest? Still up in the air. Meteorologist Sam Marlow explained the storm’s setup: Arctic air surging south meets warm, moisture-packed air from the Gulf and Pacific. Somewhere along a line from the Carolinas to Texas, they’ll collide—bringing snow, freezing rain, and chaos. For Cobb County, expect a messy mix. Rain and snow showers could start early Saturday, with temps hovering around 40. By nightfall, it’s all but guaranteed—precipitation, freezing rain, and lows dipping to 26. Sunday? More of the same, with highs near 36 and lows plummeting to 19. And once the storm’s gone? Bitter cold sticks around. The advice? Be ready. Stock up on groceries, cover outdoor pipes, and pack an emergency kit for your car. If roads get bad, stay put—it helps crews clear them faster. For those without a warm place to stay, MUST Ministries is opening its winter warming shelter Saturday through Feb. 3. Located at 1297 Bells Ferry Road in Marietta, the shelter offers hot meals, beds, and breakfast. Guests should arrive by 8 p.m., and transportation is available through county transit vouchers. Stay safe, Georgia. STORY 3: Cobb victim advocate appointed to State Parole Board  Kimberly McCoy, a veteran in victim advocacy from Cobb County, has been appointed to the Georgia State Board of Pardons and Paroles by Gov. Brian Kemp. She steps into the role left by Meg Heap, who departed in August to become U.S. attorney for Georgia’s Southern District. McCoy’s resume is stacked. She co-founded the Cobb Family Justice Center, served 25 years as director of the Cobb DA’s Victim Witness Unit, and holds degrees in criminal justice and public administration. But her new role hasn’t been without controversy. Attorneys for death row inmate Stacey Humphreys, convicted of killing two Cobb real estate agents, argued McCoy’s past work with victims’ families creates a conflict of interest in his clemency case. Though McCoy planned to abstain from voting, a judge ruled her involvement could still unfairly sway the outcome. Humphreys’ execution, originally set for Dec. 17, has been delayed until a full, impartial clemency hearing can take place. McCoy’s appointment marks a new chapter in her career, but it’s already proving to be a challenging one. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 8 STORY 4: Severe blood shortage: Give blood to Red Cross now  The American Red Cross is in desperate need of blood donors—like, now. Winter always strains the blood supply, but this year? It’s critical. Patients can’t afford delays in lifesaving care, so if you’re eligible, roll up your sleeve and help. As a thank-you, donors through Jan. 25 are entered to win a trip to Super Bowl LX in California. From Jan. 26 to Feb. 28, you’ll snag a $20 e-gift card. Local drives are happening all over Cobb County—Marietta, Kennesaw, Smyrna, and more. Check RedCrossBlood.org for dates and locations. And remember: your donation could literally save a life. STORY 5: F 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. I'm Keith Ippolito and that’s your MDJ Sports Minute. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 8 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal 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 mdjonline.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.

Top Stories for January 22nd Publish Date: January 22nd PRE-ROLL: Gwinnett County Public Schools From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Thursday, January 22nd and Happy birthday to Sam Cooke I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. A winter storm is coming, but its impact remains unclear Jeff Foxworthy to tape comedy special at Gwinnett's Gas South Theater Struggling Georgia timber industry could receive big tax break Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe! Break 1: Sugar Hill Ice Skating Rink STORY 1: A winter storm is coming, but its impact remains unclear Gwinnett County, keep your eyes on the skies this weekend—forecasters are still piecing together just how hard Georgia will get hit by the winter storm barreling across the East Coast. Here’s what we know: a storm is coming. The National Weather Service in Peachtree City confirmed Tuesday night that north Georgia is in its path. “Significant impacts from ice and snow are anticipated,” they said. But the details? Still fuzzy. How far south will it reach? How much snow, ice, or that dreaded wintry mix? Timing? All TBD. Earlier Tuesday, forecasters weren’t even sure if the storm would touch Georgia. By nightfall, they were calling for an 80% chance of winter weather in the north Georgia mountains, tapering to 50% in middle Georgia. FOX 5 meteorologist Jonathan Stacey explained it’s all about Arctic air slamming into Gulf moisture. North Georgia? Likely stuck on the messy line between snow and ice. And with the ground already frozen from days of cold, conditions could get ugly fast. STORY 2: Jeff Foxworthy to tape comedy special at Gwinnett's Gas South Theater Jeff Foxworthy—Grammy nominee, comedy legend, and Atlanta’s own—is coming home to tape a live comedy special, and it’s happening right here in Gwinnett. Two nights only: April 15 and 16 at Gas South Theater. These shows? They’re gonna be up close and personal, packed with brand-new material. Tickets? Artist pre-sale started Wednesday, Jan. 21 at 10 a.m. (use code “JEFF”). General sales kick off Friday, Jan. 23 at 10 a.m. at GasSouthDistrict.com. Foxworthy isn’t just the king of redneck jokes (though, let’s be honest, they’re iconic). His humor dives into family life, human quirks, and the everyday absurdities we all know too well—think Mark Twain, but with a Southern drawl. With the best-selling comedy album of all time, 26 books, and a spot in the Georgia Music Hall of Fame, he’s a comedy powerhouse. His latest special, The Good Old Days, is streaming now on Netflix, and his SiriusXM channel, Jeff and Larry’s Comedy Roundup, keeps the laughs rolling. STORY 3: Struggling Georgia timber industry could receive big tax break Georgia lawmakers are pushing to end sales taxes on timber—a lifeline for an industry that’s been hit hard by mill closures and devastating storms. House Majority Leader Chuck Efstration says the bipartisan effort is about protecting rural Georgia’s backbone. “Timber is a cornerstone of our state’s economy,” he said. “But between sawmill closures and Hurricane Helene’s destruction, timber farmers are struggling. This tax cut could help save livelihoods.” Georgia’s forestry industry, once the nation’s largest, has taken a beating. Hurricane Helene alone wiped out 1.5 million acres in 2024, costing $1.28 billion. Mill closures in Savannah, Riceboro, and Cedar Springs haven’t helped. The proposed tax cut would cost the state $18 million annually, but local governments would be reimbursed. Clint Mueller of the Association County Commissions of Georgia says counties reliant on timber need this industry to survive. If two-thirds of the legislature approves, voters will decide in November. Meanwhile, Gov. Brian Kemp’s budget proposal includes $14 million to boost timber tech in industries like auto manufacturing. 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 2: Kia Mall of Georgia - GCPL Passport STORY 4: Norcross man arrested after disturbance at Social Security Office Gwinnett County Police arrested a Norcross man last week after back-to-back disturbances at two different locations. It started on Jan. 14 at the Social Security office on Shackleford Road. Witnesses told police that 65-year-old Robert Burke was yelling, making threats, and hurling insults—right in front of kids, no less. Employees said this wasn’t his first outburst there. Someone even had video, which helped officers identify him. But by the time they arrived? Burke was gone. An arrest warrant for disorderly conduct was issued, and, well, it didn’t take long to find him. The very next day, Jan. 15, police were called to a Courtyard Marriott in Duluth for—you guessed it—another disturbance involving Burke. No one was hurt in either incident, but the investigation’s still ongoing. STORY 5: Millender's three-point play in final seconds lifts No. 21 Georgia past Missouri 74-72 Marcus “Smurf” Millender stole the show Tuesday night, dropping 18 points and sealing No. 21 Georgia’s 74-72 win over Missouri with a clutch three-point play in the final 5.5 seconds. Missouri thought they had it when Jacob Crews nailed a wild, off-balance three with 21 seconds left, putting them up 72-71. But Millender—just 5-foot-11 and coming off the bench, as always—drove hard to the rim, took the hit, and somehow got the layup to fall. Oh, and he sank the free throw too. Crews had one last shot at the buzzer, but his deep three clanged off. Georgia, who usually lights up the scoreboard (96 points per game!), struggled offensively, shooting just 36.9%. Jeremiah Wilkinson added 14 points, and Kannon Catchings chipped in 12. Up next: Georgia heads to Texas on Saturday, while Missouri hosts Oklahoma. 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. We’ll be right back. Break 3: EAGLE THEATRE And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads We’ll have closing comments after this Break 5: Ingles Markets Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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.gwinnettdailypost.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 www.kiamallofga.com Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill Team GCPS News Podcast, Current Events, Top Headlines, Breaking News, Podcast News, Trending, Local News, Daily, News, Podcast, Interviews See 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.

Georgia-based political & policy consultant Andrew Heaton joined for a thorough conversation on everything from campaign fundraising figures (and they say about campaign health), Democratic gubernatorial candidates starting to rough each other up a little and what to make of Brian Kemp throwing Democrats a bone with needs-based tuition funding.+Ron also looks ahead, discussing Senator Mark Kelly's growing national profile (and interest in the Presidency?) and what a potential 2028 Democratic option of candidates may look like. +When the conservative-leaning WSJ editorial board is chilly to the idea of a rapid elimination of Georgia's income tax, you know you've lost the plot (Burt). +Trump can't "pardon" one Georgia attorney out of potentially being disbarred after his foray into the US Capitol on January 6, 2021. The Georgia Supreme Court is making that recommendation. +Kudzu Vine co-host David McLaughlin joined Ron today, too, with what he knows of the two newest "Democratic" candidates to qualify for the special election to fill Marjorie Taylor Greene's vacated Congressional seat. Shawn Harris we know; who's Jim Davis and Jonathan Hobbs? Tune in to catch the Ron Show weekdays from 4-6pm Eastern time on Georgia NOW! Grab the app or listen online at heargeorgianow.com.#TheRonShow #HearGeorgiaNow #AndrewHeaton #GeorgiaPolitics #GASenate #GAGovernor #MarkKelly #StatePolitics #PoliticalAnalysis

LISTEN: On the Thursday, Jan. 22 edition: Gov. Brian Kemp has declared a state of emergency ahead of the coming winter weather; a financial advisor pleads guilty in Ponzi scheme; and officials have confirmed a baby has the first case of measles in Georgia in 2026. 

From Friday through Monday, the storm, dubbed Winter Storm Fern, is expected to impact millions of people across the U.S. in more than 30 states, including Georgia. To prepare, Gov. Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency for Georgia on Thursday morning. On today’s “Closer Look,” we speak with local officials about how they’re bracing the state for the storm. Also on today’s show, an official with the ACLU of Louisiana says agents with Immigration and Customs Enforcement endangered the life of a pregnant woman who was deported to Colombia while allegedly in medical distress. Nora Ahmed, the Legal Director at the ACLU of Louisiana, tells Host Rose Scott about 21-year-old Daniela Buitrago, who came to the U.S. in November 2025 with her family, to flee persecution in Colombia. However, she was just flown back to her home country from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, while reportedly experiencing severe pain.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for January 21st Publish Date:  January 21st Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, January 21st and Happy Birthday to Jack Nicklaus I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Students shine at the Marietta City Schools district spelling bee Atlanta mayor talks FIFA, housing, transit Dog gained 57 pounds after rescue; owner now charged with animal cruelty All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 7 STORY 1: Students shine at the Marietta City Schools district spelling bee Seventh-grader Ella Grace Beard from Marietta Middle School clinched the top spot at the Marietta City Schools spelling bee on Friday, sealing her victory with the word “allergenic.” The competition was intense—10 students, each a champion from their school, battled it out for 26 rounds. Now, Ella Grace is headed to the Georgia District 2 spelling bee in Cherokee County. Her dad, Jason Beard, couldn’t be prouder. “She’s been studying like crazy—she even got a dictionary for Christmas last year,” he shared. Superintendent Grant Rivera, who handed out trophies to Ella Grace and runner-up Sreenika Arcot, called the spelling bee one of the most stressful events of the year. Jeff Hubbard, president of the Cobb County Association of Educators, praised the event as a celebration of intelligence. Words like “archetype” and “tenement” challenged the spellers, but Ella Grace rose to the occasion. Now, she’s ready for the next round. STORY 2: Atlanta mayor talks FIFA, housing, transit Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens had a simple message at the Cobb Chamber luncheon: when Atlanta thrives, the whole region wins. Borrowing JFK’s famous line, “A rising tide lifts all boats,” Dickens made it clear that Atlanta’s success ripples far beyond city limits. Take the FIFA World Cup, for example. Starting in June, Atlanta will host eight matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, but the impact? It’ll stretch across the metro—Cobb County, Truist Park, Six Flags, Marietta Square. Through “Showcase Atlanta,” a leadership initiative chaired by Dickens, Arthur Blank, and UPS CEO Carol Tomé, the city plans to maximize the World Cup’s economic impact while spotlighting Atlanta’s culture and hospitality. And it’s not just about FIFA—Atlanta’s hosting the Super Bowl in 2028 and the NCAA Final Four in 2031. But Dickens didn’t shy away from challenges. With the metro population expected to grow by 1.8 million by 2050, he stressed the need for affordable housing and better transportation. “Teachers, first responders—they’re being priced out of the communities they serve. That’s a loss for all of us,” he said. And traffic? Atlanta’s infamous for it. Dickens wants to change that, starting with MARTA expansion into Cobb and Gwinnett. “We can’t keep doing this one-person-per-car thing forever,” he said. Dickens closed with a reminder: safety, health, opportunity—these aren’t partisan issues. “We all want thriving communities,” he said. “That’s something we can all agree on.” STORY 3: Dog gained 57 pounds after rescue; owner now charged with animal cruelty   Jordan Dean, 30, of Marietta, is facing an animal cruelty charge after what authorities describe as a heartbreaking case involving his Great Dane, Snoop. On Oct. 23, 2025, Dean reportedly brought Snoop to Cobb County Animal Services, claiming he’d found the dog as a stray near a Walgreens on Canton Road. But Snoop’s condition told a different story. Severely emaciated, his ribs and bones jutted out—no fat, barely any muscle. A cruelty exam scored Snoop at 1/9 on the body condition scale. He weighed just 50 pounds. After care, he reached 107 pounds with no medical issues causing the weight loss. Dean was arrested Jan. 5 and released the next day on a $10,000 bond. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 7 STORY 4: Where the sidewalk ends: Mableton mayor talks SPLOST goals Mableton Mayor Michael Owens has his sights set on two big priorities: public safety and economic growth. And with the upcoming vote on a 1% special sales tax (SPLOST), he sees a chance to make it happen. If approved, the 2028 SPLOST would bring $97.6 million to Mableton—its first time creating its own project list since becoming a city in 2022. For Owens, it’s a defining moment. Top of the list? Sidewalks. “It’s the one thing everyone’s asking for,” Owens said, pointing to gaps along Veterans Memorial Highway and Nickajack Road. Parks, neighborhoods, and even businesses are disconnected, making walking unsafe—or impossible. But sidewalks are just the start. Owens envisions SPLOST funds going toward civic spaces, recreation centers, and even office parks to attract businesses. “You drive down Veterans Memorial, and it’s all shopping centers—no office buildings, no tech parks. That has to change,” he said. For Owens, the November vote is more than a tax—it’s a chance for Mableton residents to shape their city’s future. STORY 5: Marietta Police paint vibrant interrogation room for child witnesses, victims   The Marietta Police Department has turned one of its interview rooms into something truly special—a space designed with kids in mind. Gone are the cold, blank walls. In their place? A vibrant, hand-painted mural that feels more like a storybook than a police station. It’s colorful, calming, and, most importantly, comforting—created to help children, especially those who’ve experienced trauma, feel a little less scared during tough conversations. Marietta High School art teachers Amanda Rudolph and Katherine Robinson, along with students from the National Art Honor Society, poured their hearts into this project. The department’s goal? To make sure every child feels protected and heard. Break: STORY 6: Mableton earns recognition as environmentally friendly city    Mableton just snagged some serious recognition for going green. Mayor Michael Owens and city council members accepted the Silver-level Green Communities certification from the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC). It’s a big deal—proof that the city’s making real moves to cut its environmental impact. How’d they do it? Think tree preservation ordinances, a community composting program, expanded recycling, and even switching to a 100% electric vehicle fleet. Practical stuff with long-term impact. The certification also boosts Mableton’s chances for state and federal grants, meaning more investment without raising taxes. The Green Communities program evaluates cities on their environmental performance, and Mableton’s efforts earned them a spot among metro Atlanta’s leaders. But the work doesn’t stop here—the certification lasts four years, and the city will need to keep proving its commitment to stay certified. STORY 7: Senate bill would hold down property tax increases that fund Georgia schools  Georgia lawmakers are back at it, debating how to handle property taxes—and this time, they’re eyeing a cap tied to inflation. A new bill from Senate Republicans would force all school systems to limit property tax hikes, even as rising home values push assessments higher. Here’s the twist: last year, 71% of Georgia’s school systems voted to reject a similar cap. Why? Because it slashes funding for education. If this bill passes, schools would lose the ability to tax property values that outpace inflation, leaving them scrambling to cover costs. Sen. Chuck Hufstetler, the bill’s sponsor, argues it’s about fairness. The bill would also impact city and county governments that opted out of last year’s cap. Lt. Gov. Burt Jones called it a priority, saying it’s about “putting more money back in Georgians’ pockets.” Meanwhile, other tax proposals are swirling at the Capitol—like eliminating income taxes or ending homestead property taxes altogether. Gov. Brian Kemp? He’s pushing for tax rebates and a slight income tax cut. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 7 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal 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.mdjonline.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.

Host Patricia Murphy devotes the episode to education policy as Georgia's legislative session gets underway. She speaks with Rep. Scott Hilton about expanding Georgia's cellphone ban from middle schools to high schools, the early results from existing restrictions, and why lawmakers say limiting screen time is improving student engagement and mental health. In the second segment, Patricia is joined by Rep. Stacey Evans to discuss Governor Brian Kemp's proposal to create Georgia's first need-based college scholarship program. Evans explains why the investment could be a game-changer for students priced out of higher education and how rare bipartisan momentum may shape education funding debates in the months ahead. Have a question or comment for the show? Call or text the 24-hour Politically Georgia Podcast Hotline at 770-810-5297. We'll play back your question and answer it during our next Monday Mailbag segment. You can also email your questions at PoliticallyGeorgia@ajc.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Top Stories for January 20th Publish Date: January 20th From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Tuesday, January 20th and Happy Birthday to Buzz Aldrin I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Stone Mountain Park preparing to host Lunar New Year Festival 'Be ready to belly laugh' — Aurora Theatre staging 'The Play That Goes Wrong' as part of 30th anniversary season Gwinnett Chamber welcomes new board members for 2026 All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe! Break 1: Kia Mall of Georgia - Sugar Hill Ice Skating Rink STORY 1: Stone Mountain Park preparing to host Lunar New Year Festival Stone Mountain Park is ringing in the Year of the Horse with its fourth annual Lunar New Year Festival, running weekends from Feb. 14 to March 1. And let me tell you, it’s not your average celebration. Think lighted floats, dragon and lion dances, live music, and a parade that’ll make you forget it’s February. Oh, and the food? Double the food trucks this year, all serving up Asian-inspired dishes you’ll want seconds of. The highlight? A jaw-dropping Lunar New Year Drone & Light Show. Picture hundreds of drones lighting up the sky, some even launching fireworks. Yes, fireworks. And the finale? A massive light show projected onto the mountain itself, complete with special effects and a fireworks extravaganza. Want to learn something new? Try calligraphy, paper art, or knot tying with instructors from the Chinese Cultural School of Atlanta. Or just soak in the vibes—ambassadors in traditional dress, a Lighted Reflection Walk-Way for wishes and prayers, and photo ops galore. It’s a celebration you don’t want to miss. Details at stonemountainpark.com. STORY 2: 'Be ready to belly laugh' — Aurora Theatre staging 'The Play That Goes Wrong' as part of 30th anniversary season Heidi McKerley is back at Aurora Theatre, this time directing the chaos-filled comedy The Play That Goes Wrong—a perfect fit for the theatre’s 30th anniversary season. McKerley, a Suzi Bass Award-winning veteran of Atlanta’s theatre scene, knows her way around a laugh, having previously directed Noises Off and The Italian American Reconciliation at Aurora. The play, a fan favorite first staged at Aurora three years ago, runs Jan. 22–Feb. 15. Written by Henry Lewis, Henry Shields, and Jonathan Sayer, it’s a farcical take on a local theatre troupe’s disastrous attempt to stage a murder mystery. What should audiences expect? “Nonstop belly laughs,” McKerley promised. “It’s high-energy, ridiculous, and exactly the kind of escape we all need right now.” STORY 3: Gwinnett Chamber welcomes new board members for 2026 The Gwinnett Chamber just welcomed 28 new faces to its 2026 Board of Directors, kicking things off with an orientation that dove into the Chamber’s mission, goals, and the big responsibilities ahead. The board isn’t just about strategy—it’s about reflecting the community. “We’re intentional about diversity—industries, cultures, perspectives,” said CEO Nick Masino. “This board champions business and connection.” New members include leaders from healthcare, real estate, banking, and more, like Vandana Aggarwal of Aggarwal Real Estate, Wendy Palmer of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, and Beto Tenorio of Norsan Group. It’s a powerhouse lineup ready to drive Gwinnett’s growth. 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 2: Ingles Markets STORY 4: Snellville reaches major milestone with opening of The Grove's Towne Center Market Like most teenagers, Kierra Mays couldn’t wait to leave her hometown of Snellville. After graduating from South Gwinnett High in 2015, she had big dreams—bigger than her small town, or so she thought. Even when she launched Keys Cakery, her bakery business, her sights were set on Atlanta. A food hall in the city? That was the goal. But life has a funny way of circling back. Instead of the bright lights of Atlanta, Mays found herself opening her first brick-and-mortar shop right in Snellville, as one of the first vendors at The Towne Center Market in The Grove downtown district. The market, anchored by Crooked Can Brewing, officially opened with a ribbon-cutting last week—a moment years in the making for Snellville leaders. Mayor Barbara Bender reflected on the city’s journey: “Snellville didn’t have a downtown. It got mowed over by highways. We needed a place for people to gather, to walk, to connect.” The Grove is that place. It’s not just a food hall—it’s a mix of apartments, a library, coworking spaces, restaurants, and even a splash pad. It’s a downtown built from scratch, designed to feel like it grew over time. For Mays, it’s more than just a business opportunity. “Snellville’s growing,” she said. “There’s a young crowd moving in, and this market is perfect for them. It’s not just a place to eat—it’s a place to hang out, to connect. It feels like home.” STORY 5: Senate bill would hold down property tax increases that fund Georgia schools Georgia homeowners might soon see their property tax hikes capped at the inflation rate—yes, even for school taxes. A new bill from Senate Republicans would force all school systems to limit tax increases tied to rising home values. Here’s the catch: most school districts—71% of them—voted last year to reject a similar cap. Why? Because it slashes funding for public education. If this bill passes, schools would lose the ability to tax property values that outpace inflation, leaving them scrambling to cover rising costs. Sen. Chuck Hufstetler, the bill’s sponsor, argues it’s about fairness. “People are seeing double-digit tax increases. We need to limit it to inflation—everyone has to live within their means.” The bill would also impact city and county governments that opted out of last year’s cap. Lt. Gov. Burt Jones called it a priority, saying it’s about “putting more money back in Georgians’ pockets.” Meanwhile, other tax proposals are swirling at the Capitol—like eliminating income taxes or ending homestead property taxes altogether. Gov. Brian Kemp? He’s pushing for tax rebates and a slight income tax cut. We’ll be right back. Break 3: EAGLE THEATRE STORY 6: Buford High School earns Gold distinction on 2025 AP School Honor Roll Buford High School just snagged a spot on the 2025 Advanced Placement School Honor Roll, earning the coveted Gold distinction from the College Board. Translation? They’re crushing it when it comes to preparing students for college and making rigorous coursework accessible to more kids. But wait—it gets better. Buford students also earned Platinum recognition in College Credit and College Optimization. And the stats? Impressive. Last spring, 691 students took 1,407 AP exams, with a jaw-dropping 90% scoring a 3 or higher. The school’s average score? 3.81—well above state and global averages. Oh, and here’s the kicker: the Buford Board of Education covers the cost of every AP exam. No barriers, just opportunity. STORY 7: Norcross' Maddi Yi to Play Soccer for the US Air Force Academy Norcross senior Maddi Yi is heading to the United States Air Force Academy to play college soccer—she made it official on Sunday. A standout midfielder, Yi’s been racking up all-region honors for the past two seasons while also playing club soccer with Concorde Fire Platinum. Oh, and did I mention she’s rocking a 4.3 GPA? Yeah, she’s the real deal. Balancing academics, high-level club soccer, and high school play isn’t easy, but Yi’s made it look effortless. Now, she’s taking her talent (and that work ethic) to the next level. The Air Force Academy just scored big. We’ll have closing comments after this Break 4: GCPL Passport Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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.gwinnettdailypost.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 www.kiamallofga.com Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill 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.

Greg Bluestein and Patricia Murphy break down Governor Brian Kemp's State of the State address, where he dipped deeper into Georgia's surplus while warning future leaders against draining the rainy day fund. They analyze the political message behind Kemp's final budget, including tax rebates, a surprise push for need-based scholarships, and why he pushed back on sweeping income tax elimination plans. Then, Greg and Patricia turn to the escalating money wars shaping Georgia's 2026 races. They examine Sen. Jon Ossoff's massive fundraising haul and the mysterious, multimillion-dollar anonymous ad campaign hammering Lt. Gov. Burt Jones. They explain why the source of the spending remains hidden, how it exploits gaps in disclosure laws, and why it has rattled candidates across the political spectrum. Have a question or comment for the show? Call or text the 24-hour Politically Georgia Podcast Hotline at 770-810-5297. We'll play back your question and answer it during our next Monday Mailbag segment. You can also email your questions at PoliticallyGeorgia@ajc.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the Jan. 20th edition: ICE has been making arrests in Georgia; Governor Brian Kemp is asking that SNAP funds cut by the federal government be restored; and Braves legend Andruw Jones looks to be on his way to the Hall of Fame

On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Ron takes a hard but hopeful look at the state of civil rights in America with Alicia Thomas Searcy, former Georgia state representative, CEO of Morgan Enterprises, and founder of the Center for Strong Public Schools.The conversation explores how Dr. King's vision holds up amid rising white nationalist rancor directly from The White House, attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and growing concerns about accountability in government. Alicia breaks down what DEI really means, why silence in the face of extremism is dangerous, and how economic pressures like affordability and healthcare are shaping today's political landscape.A well-written response to JD Vance's "hall pass" to white people was also worthy of a share today, from Columbus Dispatch op/ed writer Amelia Robinson, too. The hour also examines the fallout from Georgia's election interference case and what it could cost Fulton County taxpayers.The second half of the show, Ron reviews statements from today's MLK Day events at the new Ebenezer Baptist Church - from Governor Brian Kemp (virtually), along with Atlanta mayor Andre Dickens and the Reverend Senator Raphael Warnock. Tune in to catch the Ron Show weekdays from 4-6pm Eastern time on Georgia NOW! Grab the app or listen online at heargeorgianow.com.#TheRonShow #HearGeorgiaNow #AliciaThomasSearcy #MLKDay #CivilRights #DEI #GeorgiaPolitics #VotingRights #ProgressiveVoices

Top Stories for January 17th Publish Date: January 17th PRE-ROLL: Kia Mall of Georgia From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Saturday, January 17th and Happy Birthday to James Earle Jones I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia. Gwinnett commission accused of deliberately skipping GOP member for vice chair Kemp proposes money for Highway 316 projects, fighting homelessness GCPS receives grant from the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe! Break 1: EAGLE THEATRE STORY 1: Gwinnett commission accused of deliberately skipping GOP member for vice chair Drama is brewing in Gwinnett County politics, and it’s all about the vice chairman seat on the county commission. Republicans are accusing the Democratic majority of intentionally skipping over the board’s lone Republican, District 4 Commissioner Matthew Holtkamp, for the ceremonial role. For years, the vice chair position rotated among district commissioners—until it didn’t. Holtkamp, now in his fourth year, has never been chosen. Instead, the board voted 4-1 to name Democrat Ben Ku as vice chair, sparking claims of “partisan gamesmanship.” Holtkamp, for his part, kept it diplomatic: “I was disappointed but respect the process.” Others? Not so much. Republicans are calling it a blatant snub. Democrat Kirkland Carden didn’t mince words, saying Holtkamp’s “partisan antics” cost him the role. But Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson downplayed the drama, calling the vote a routine decision. And so, the debate rages on. STORY 2: Kemp proposes money for Highway 316 projects, fighting homelessness Gov. Brian Kemp has big plans for Georgia this year—think highways and homelessness. At the Georgia Chamber’s Eggs and Issues Breakfast, he laid out his priorities, and for Gwinnett residents, one stands out: $200 million to keep transforming State Route 316 into a limited-access highway. “Growth along 316 is incredible,” Kemp said. “We need a safe, efficient expressway.” Work’s already underway at Hi Hope Road, with more interchanges and overpasses coming. But that’s not all. Kemp’s also pushing $1.8 billion for permanent express lanes on I-75 in Henry County to ease its infamous traffic jams. And homelessness? He’s proposing $50 million for grants to fund shelters, outreach, and mental health services. Big moves, big money—Kemp’s aiming to leave a mark. STORY 3: GCPS receives grant from the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation Gwinnett County Public Schools just scored big—literally. Thanks to a $6.3 million grant from the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation (with help from Atlanta United, the Falcons, and PGA TOUR Superstore), middle and high school sports are getting a major boost. What’s the plan? For starters, GCPS will add field lighting at six athletic fields, meaning weekday soccer games—no more cramming everything into Saturdays. Better lighting also means safer, more flexible practices and games. The grant will also fund girls’ flag football at 14 middle schools by 2026 and help cover costs for boys’ and girls’ soccer programs, especially in underserved areas. The Blank Foundation, founded by Home Depot co-founder Arthur Blank, has donated over $1.5 billion to causes that unite and uplift communities. This grant? Just another example of that mission in action. 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 2: Ingles MarketsSTORY 4: Fox Theatre delivers chart-topping year The Fox Theatre had a banner year in 2025, racking up awards and accolades that cement its place as one of the most beloved venues in the country. From ticket sales to community impact, the recognition poured in. The biggest win? Being crowned IEBA’s 2025 Theatre of the Year—an honor that highlights excellence in programming, operations, and artist relations. “This reflects the strength of our team, the artists who grace our stage, and the audiences who keep showing up,” said CEO Allan Vella. The Fox also dominated year-end charts: No. 2 Highest Grossing Venue Worldwide (Billboard), No. 1 in ticket sales for its size (VenuesNow), and No. 6 globally for ticket sales (Pollstar). Locally, it snagged “Best of Atlanta” honors and a Reader’s Choice Award from the Atlanta Jewish Times. Even the leadership shined—Vella made Atlanta Magazine’s “Atlanta 100” and Billboard’s Touring Power Players list, while team members Rachel Bomeli and Faustina Brooks earned industry awards. The Fox isn’t just a theatre; it’s a cultural powerhouse. STORY 5: Johnson-Morgan named school board chair, Simmons is vice chair Gwinnett County’s school board is shuffling its leadership roles for 2026, but keeping familiar faces at the helm. Tarece Johnson-Morgan, last year’s vice chair, is stepping up as chairwoman, while Adrienne Simmons, who served as chair in 2025, will now take on the vice chair role. Both votes? Unanimous. Not everyone was thrilled, though. Board member Steve Knudsen voiced frustration that Steve Gasper or Rachel Stone weren’t considered for vice chair—but, notably, he didn’t nominate them during the vote. In other business, the board kept its attorney and legal organ the same, readopted policies, and adjusted a few meeting dates for the year. We’ll be right back. Break 3: GCPL Passport STORY 6: Georgia Democratic lawmakers try to rein in ICE Georgia Senate Democrats took aim at the Trump administration Tuesday, introducing a flurry of bills targeting immigration enforcement and military deployments. They didn’t hold back, calling Trump’s administration a “rogue regime” and demanding state Republicans step up. One flashpoint? ICE. After an officer fatally shot Renee Good in Minneapolis last week, Sen. Josh McLaurin accused ICE of escalating violence. “We’ve all seen the video,” he said. “This isn’t what they’re trained to do.” McLaurin’s bill would let citizens sue ICE for civil rights violations. Other proposals include requiring judicial warrants for enforcement at sensitive locations (like schools and hospitals), mandating badges and unmasking ICE officers, and limiting National Guard deployments without the governor’s approval. Sen. Kim Jackson didn’t mince words: “If Georgia State Patrol can show their faces, so can ICE. It’s cowardice.” But Republicans, like Majority Leader Jason Anavitarte, dismissed the effort, saying, “The state can’t regulate the federal government.” STORY 7: Georgia GOP senators target Raffensperger over voter registration lists Georgia Republicans are turning up the heat on Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, demanding he hand over the state’s unredacted voter registration list to the Trump administration. But Raffensperger? He’s not budging. State law, he says, protects private voter info—Social Security numbers, birthdates, driver’s licenses. Sharing that? Not happening. The DOJ, meanwhile, has been pushing all 50 states for voter lists, claiming it’s about accuracy. They even sued Georgia last month. The resolution, led by Lt. Gov. Burt Jones’ allies, accuses Raffensperger of “obstruction.” But it’s mostly symbolic—no legal teeth. Raffensperger’s office fired back, saying they’ve already complied as far as the law allows. “He won’t risk identity theft for millions of voters,” the statement read. The DOJ’s lawsuit heads to federal court in Macon soon. Stay tuned. We’ll have closing comments after this Break 4: Sugar Hill Ice Skating Rink Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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.gwinnettdailypost.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 www.kiamallofga.com Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill 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 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.

This is a continuation of last week's episode with my guest Alan Hardwick. Alan is a man whose life journey has taken him from youth ministry to elite law enforcement, from guiding teenagers searching for direction to protecting one of the most high-profile leaders in the state of Georgia. Alan served with the Georgia State Patrol and was part of Governor Brian Kemp's security detail — a role that demands constant vigilance, calm under pressure, and absolute trust. It's the kind of work where success means nothing happens, and failure is not an option. But long before the badge and the security protocols, Alan was a youth pastor, working with kids who needed guidance, stability, and someone who believed in them. And that chapter of his life didn't disappear when he put on the uniform — it shaped the way he led, protected, and served. Now retired from the State Patrol, Alan has entered yet another chapter, helping leaders understand that safety isn't about fear, it's about preparation, awareness, and responsibility. This conversation weaves together faith, service, leadership, and protection, with stories that are thoughtful, powerful, and occasionally surprising. It's about what it means to stand watch over others… and what that kind of responsibility does to a person over a lifetime. This is a story about purpose, pressure, and protecting what matters most. Todays Guest: Alan Hardwick Sponsors: Tim Broyles State Farm https://mydowntownagency.com/ Second Chance Boutique https://colinc.org/second-chance-boutique/ Lake Oconee Family Fitness & Fero Fit https://loffc.net/ https://www.facebook.com/ferofitoconee/

Georgia Recorder columnist Jay Bookman digs into troubling signals from Trump (now and 2021) with a dystopian nightmare: the President sending the "National Guard or ICE agents to Fulton County, DeKalb County and other blue-trending areas, claiming massive fraud, seizing voting machines and voiding the election."I mean he's only openly ask/telling reporters that "we shouldn't even have an election." Meanwhile, with Brad Raffensperger (and Gabriel Sterling) aiming for higher office, the Secretary of State's office will have no bosses, and Fulton County Commissioner Dana Barrett aims to be in charge. Dana joined the show to explain why she's running for that role and shares plans to protect election security, voter access, and provide transparency.Plus, Democratic congressional candidate Chris Harden (Georgia 11th) talks about his bid for a GOP-heavy lean district and why his poverty-to-law school-to-courtroom story makes him an ideal Democratic candidate for such a district.Ron also unpacks Governor Brian Kemp's State of the State address and the Democratic response, from tax cuts to education and infrastructure.Tune in to catch the Ron Show weekdays from 4-6pm Eastern time on Georgia NOW! Grab the app or listen online at heargeorgianow.com.#DanaBarrett #JayBookman #ChrisHarden #GeorgiaPolitics #ElectionIntegrity #VoterRights #GeorgiaElections #HearGeorgiaNow #TheRonShow

Host Greg Bluestein is joined by Patricia Murphy to break down the early tone of Georgia's legislative session, as lawmakers shift their focus toward affordability and major tax proposals instead of the culture-war battles that have dominated recent years. They examine Governor Brian Kemp's emerging agenda, including billions in transportation spending and a surprise push to address homelessness, and why Republicans say rising costs are now impossible to ignore. Patricia then shares her recorded interview with Senate Majority Leader Jason Anavitarte, who outlines his priorities for the session, including competing plans to cut income and property taxes. Anavitarte also addresses the unusually crowded field of lawmakers running for higher office, the race to replace Marjorie Taylor Greene, and why he believes the Senate can keep order during a high-stakes election year. Have a question or comment for the show? Call or text the 24-hour Politically Georgia Podcast Hotline at 770-810-5297. We'll play back your question and answer it during our next Monday Mailbag segment. You can also email your questions at PoliticallyGeorgia@ajc.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the Thursday January 15th edition of Georgia Today: A corrected report shows data centers don't create as many jobs as once thought; Governor Brian Kemp delivers his annual State of the State address; And Synovus Financial is no more. How will its hometown of Columbus Georgia be affected?

In his final State of the State address, Gov. Brian Kemp proposes several new ways of spending the state's surplus; East Point temporarily pulls the plug on any potential new data centers; and Delta employees to get profit-sharing bonus equal to about one month of pay. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

PLUS: Trump on Greenland, new racist/classist immigration policy, & Brian Kemp's "bold plan" that isn'tYesterday, Georgia Senate Democrats rolled out legislation aimed at restraining ICE operations, so Ron had a conversation with Democratic whip, State Senator Kim Jackson on accountability, fear in immigrant communities, and the moral stakes of enforcement tactics.Ron also speaks with Eric Taylor, city manager of Social Circle, about why his small town says it simply cannot support a massive ICE detention facility.Oh, and there's new racist/classist Trump visa processing ban, bu t honestly, "what took 'em so long?" is my first response. Like, who's not surprised this wasn't a "day one" thing for these white nationalists? Mango Madman really wants Greenland, too, and now Denmark's military is ramping up "exercises" on the territory. Great. We're going to war with Danish people. The episode expands to Governor Brian Kemp's "big reveal," which was - ho hum - more interstate lanes and not even a public-private rail concept like Air Canada and the Ontario government as working on. Sad.On to Savannah, where a local gun storage ordinance is being overridden by state lawmakers, and goes into a deep dive of newly released grand jury testimony revealing what top Georgia Republicans privately said about Trump's 2020 election claims.Oh, and back to ICE ... it's bad enough ICE is using Nazi and white nationalist symbolism to lure in that mindset, but get this: a liberal blogger with an easy-to-Google disdain for ICE applied to work for ICE without a background check and was offered a job by ICE. That's how thorough the vetting is for these masked goons getting $50,000 sign-on (taxpayer-funded) sign-on bonuses who wander the streets to rough up protestors and hunt down immigrants. Tune in to catch the Ron Show weekdays from 4-6pm Eastern time on Georgia NOW! Grab the app or listen online at heargeorgianow.com.#TheRonShow #HearGeorgiaNow #KimJackson #EricTaylor #GeorgiaPolitics #ICE #GunSafety #Trump #ElectionInterference

A new report from Georgia State University reveals more than 4,600 people, 1,635 children in DeKalb County are without stable housing—many living in extended-stay hotels and paying more than average rental costs. The release of the study comes as Governor Brian Kemp announced a $50 million initiative addressing homelessness in Georgia. For a special themed show focusing on homelessness in DeKalb County, “Closer Look” program host Rose Scott talked with co-leaders from Georgia State University’s Center on Health and Homelessness, who co-authored the study. Scott then talked with leaders of two local organizations working to address homelessness in DeKalb County. Guests included: Shannon Self-Brown, a distinguished university professor in the School of Public Health April Ballard, an assistant professor in the School of Public Health Greg White, the executive director of A Home for Everyone in DeKalb Andrea Brantley, the executive director of Family Promise of North Fulton/DeKalb Wanda Hunter, the program manager for Family Promise of North Fulton/DeKalb Lastly, civil rights activist Claudette Colvin has died. She died on Tuesday at the age of 86. At the age of 15, back on March 2, 1955, Colvin was arrested and charged for refusing to give up her seat on a segregated public bus to a white person, despite already being seated in the back of the bus, in the area designated for Black people. Ashley Roseboro of the Claudette Colvin Foundation talks more about Colvin’s life and legacy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Twenty-two people qualified to be on the ballot to serve out Marjory Taylor Green's term; Georgia Power says customers could see their monthly bills go down; and extra toll lanes are top-of-mind for Gov. Brian Kemp, who offered up his legislative priorities this morning at the annual "Eggs and Issues" breakfast. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Episode 405, Ken and Dave discuss the mess in Minnesota, a real reduction in Georgia's state income tax, 2026 legislative priorities, the Secret Service investigating Marjorie Taylor Greene, Trump's war on capitalism, and buying Greenland. Georgia Political Landscape Stacey Abrams Will Not Run for Governor Again Stacey Abrams announced she will not run for a third term as governor. The hosts said her decision is already fueling speculation about who she may support in future statewide races, with Jason Esteves and Keisha Lance Bottoms discussed as potential beneficiaries of her backing. The hosts described Abrams as politically "toxic" after two losses to Governor Brian Kemp. Senate and State Races: Ossoff Outlook The hosts predicted Senator Jon Ossoff will win reelection in November, citing what they described as a lack of strong Republican challengers. They mentioned Mike Collins and Derek Dooley as possible GOP names to watch. Georgia General Assembly Back for 40-Day Session The Georgia General Assembly is back for its constitutionally limited 40-day legislative session. The hosts suggested lawmakers may aim to finish early (potentially by mid-March) so legislators can shift into campaign mode ahead of the May primary. Tax Reform Proposals and Property Tax Debate A Senate committee proposal discussed by the hosts would eliminate state income tax on the first $50,000 for individuals and $100,000 for joint filers by 2027. House Speaker Jon Burns' priorities were described as improving literacy, strengthening the medical workforce, and reducing property tax burdens. The hosts debated whether Georgia can realistically reduce both income and property taxes at the same time. One idea raised by Pullin was freezing property assessments at the time of purchase. National Policy and Trump's "War on Capitalism" Institutional Housing Ban Proposal Trump proposed barring large institutional investors from buying single-family homes. The hosts agreed institutional ownership can be a problem in places like Atlanta, but argued the President lacks the constitutional authority for such a ban. They also warned a sudden forced divestment could destabilize the housing market. Defense Industry Restrictions: Dividends, Buybacks, and Executive Pay Trump also suggested banning defense contractors from issuing dividends or conducting stock buybacks until production speeds improve, and proposed capping executive pay at $5 million. The hosts viewed these ideas as federal overreach into private company operations. Renewed Discussion of Buying Greenland The hosts also discussed renewed conversation about the U.S. purchasing Greenland from Denmark for strategic military reasons. They said Marco Rubio is reportedly planning to discuss the issue with Danish officials. Law Enforcement and Legal Issues ICE Shooting in Minneapolis Renee Nicole Good was shot and killed by ICE agents after she allegedly drove her vehicle toward an agent while agents were attempting to detain her for obstructing their operations. The hosts debated whether deadly force was necessary and argued agents should avoid standing in front of moving vehicles to reduce the risk of escalations. Marjorie Taylor Greene (MTG) and Leak Allegations The hosts said Trump reportedly sent the Secret Service to investigate whether Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene leaked his dinner location to protesters. Greene denied the claim, but the hosts argued she is effectively "done" in politics following her resignation. Theodore Hamby Expected to Plead Guilty The suspended official Theodore Hamby is expected to enter a guilty plea this week. The hosts also remarked that his resignation letter appeared to be written with AI tools. "The Mule" of the Week The "Mule" title went to a former Hampton Inn in Lake View, Minnesota. According to the hosts, a franchisee or employee refused to house ICE agents despite Hilton having a government contract. Hilton reportedly pulled the location's accreditation, and the Hampton Inn signage was removed within 48 hours.  

Season 7 of the Georgia Politics Podcast kicks off with a comprehensive preview of the upcoming legislative session at the Georgia Capitol. State Rep. Scott Hilton joins the show for an in-depth conversation about what lawmakers will face under the Gold Dome in the weeks ahead. The discussion covers major budget priorities, tax policy debates and other issues expected to dominate the session. Hilton also weighs in on shifting party dynamics and the broader national political climate could shape decision-making at the state level. The episode takes a closer look at Gov. Brian Kemp's agenda and areas of potential bipartisan agreement. Hilton shares insight into the behind-the-scenes mechanics of the Legislature, what early signals to watch for as bills move — or stall — and how these decisions could affect communities across Georgia. Whether you follow Georgia politics closely or are looking for a clear roadmap of what's ahead, this season premiere sets the stage for the debates, personalities and power struggles that will define the year at the Capitol. Connect with Rep. Hilton HERE Connect with The Georgia Politics Podcast on Twitter @gapoliticspod Hans Appen on Twitter @hansappen Craig Kidd on Twitter @CraigKidd1 Proud member of the Appen Podcast Network. #gapol

My guest today is Alan Hardwick, a man whose life journey has taken him from youth ministry to elite law enforcement, from guiding teenagers searching for direction to protecting one of the most high-profile leaders in the state of Georgia. Alan served with the Georgia State Patrol and was part of Governor Brian Kemp's security detail — a role that demands constant vigilance, calm under pressure, and absolute trust. It's the kind of work where success means nothing happens, and failure is not an option. But long before the badge and the security protocols, Alan was a youth pastor, working with kids who needed guidance, stability, and someone who believed in them. And that chapter of his life didn't disappear when he put on the uniform — it shaped the way he led, protected, and served. Now retired from the State Patrol, Alan has entered yet another chapter, helping leaders understand that safety isn't about fear, it's about preparation, awareness, and responsibility. This conversation weaves together faith, service, leadership, and protection, with stories that are thoughtful, powerful, and occasionally surprising. It's about what it means to stand watch over others… and what that kind of responsibility does to a person over a lifetime. This is a story about purpose, pressure, and protecting what matters most. Todays Guest: Alan Hardwick Sponsors: Tim Broyles State Farm https://mydowntownagency.com/ Second Chance Boutique https://colinc.org/second-chance-boutique/ Lake Oconee Family Fitness & Fero Fit https://loffc.net/ https://www.facebook.com/ferofitoconee/

Hosts Greg Bluestein and Patricia Murphy kick off the new year by laying out the biggest questions that will shape Georgia politics in 2026. They examine whether Democrats can sustain recent momentum, how closely Republicans will continue to align with Donald Trump, and what early polling says about the governor's race. The hosts also dig into the crowded Senate contest, Governor Brian Kemp's final year in office and future ambitions, Marjorie Taylor Greene's next chapter, and the issues most likely to surprise lawmakers when the legislative session begins, including the growing backlash over data centers. Have a question or comment for the show? Call or text the 24-hour Politically Georgia Podcast Hotline at 770-810-5297. We'll play back your question and answer it during our next Monday Mailbag segment. You can also email your questions at PoliticallyGeorgia@ajc.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Greg Bluestein and Patricia Murphy look back at the questions they thought would define Georgia politics in 2025 and how events actually unfolded. They examine Donald Trump's renewed influence on the state, from federal policy shifts to actions at the Capitol, and the political fallout from the collapse of the Fulton County election interference case. The episode also looks ahead to 2026, including Governor Brian Kemp's decision not to run for U.S. Senate, the crowded Republican field that followed, and why Democrats see new opportunities heading into the next election cycle. Have a question or comment for the show? Call or text the 24-hour Politically Georgia Podcast Hotline at 770-810-5297. We'll play back your question and answer it during our next Monday Mailbag segment. You can also email your questions at PoliticallyGeorgia@ajc.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Top Stories for December 6th Publish Date: December 6th PRE-ROLL: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Saturday, December 6th and Happy Birthday to Peter Buck from REM I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia. Gwinnett Chamber Foundation honors small business leaders at inaugural Power of Impact Gala Lawmakers seek Lottery money for need-based college scholarships Applications for Jackson EMC Washington Youth Tour now open All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe! Break 1: Kia Mall of Georgia STORY 1: Gwinnett Chamber Foundation honors small business leaders at inaugural Power of Impact Gala The Gwinnett Chamber Foundation held its first-ever Power of Impact Gala on Dec. 3 at Bear’s Best Suwanee, bringing together over 130 business leaders to celebrate small business growth and mentorship. Award winners included Dr. William “Bill” Russell (Legacy Business Leader), Alicia Cole of Lillies Boutique (Certification Cohort Member), and Berthine Crèvecoeur West of Westbridge Solutions (Accelerator Cohort Member). The event also celebrated the 2025 Small Business Impact Institute graduates, seven of whom earned supply-chain certifications. STORY 2: Lawmakers seek Lottery money for need-based college scholarships Georgia’s public colleges hit record enrollment this fall, with over 382,000 students, but a bipartisan Senate committee says too many are still being left behind. The HOPE Scholarship, funded by the state lottery, has helped over 2 million students since 1993, but it’s merit-based—requiring a 3.0 GPA—and doesn’t account for financial need. For low-income students juggling work and school, losing HOPE often means dropping out entirely. The committee is pushing for a $126 million need-based aid program, funded by the lottery’s $1.7 billion reserves. But not everyone’s on board. Critics argue need-based aid feels like “social welfare,” despite warnings of a growing “brain drain” as students leave Georgia for better financial aid elsewhere. Gov. Brian Kemp praised HOPE’s legacy this week, but advocates say Georgia must do more to keep talented students in-state. STORY 3: Applications for Jackson EMC Washington Youth Tour now open Jackson EMC is now accepting applications for the 2026 Washington Youth Tour—a once-in-a-lifetime, all-expenses-paid trip to D.C. from June 12-19. Four lucky high school sophomores or juniors from the Jackson EMC service area will be selected for this leadership experience. Who’s eligible? Students with strong grades, a passion for community service, and an interest in building connections. You can apply online at jacksonemc.com/wyt or be nominated by a teacher or counselor. Applications close Jan. 31, 2026. Finalists will interview on Feb. 16 with a panel of leaders. The trip includes visits to monuments, Smithsonian museums, Arlington Cemetery, and even a chance to meet Georgia’s congressional delegation. 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 2: Ingles Markets - DTL HOLIDAY STORY 4: Walmart launches drone delivery service in Georgia — including Loganville No, drones won’t be squeezing down your chimney, but if you live near one of six Walmart Supercenters around Atlanta, they might just drop a package on your lawn in time for Christmas. Walmart, teaming up with Wing, announced Wednesday that drone deliveries are now a thing in metro Atlanta—just in time for last-minute shoppers. Need wrapping paper? Holiday meal ingredients? A stocking stuffer you forgot? These 12-pound drones, zipping along at 60 mph, can deliver in five minutes if you’re within six miles. For now, Georgia’s drone-enabled Walmarts are in Conyers, Dallas, Hiram, Loganville, McDonough, and Woodstock. And while this is Atlanta’s first legal drone delivery service, drones have already been making, uh, less festive deliveries—state officials recently flagged them as a growing problem for smuggling contraband into prisons. Still, for holiday procrastinators, this tech could be a game-changer. Fewer delivery trucks on the road? That’s a win for everyone. STORY 5: ‘TIS THE SEASON: Your 2025 Guide To Tree Lightings And Holiday Celebrations In And Around Gwinnett County The holidays are in full swing, and there’s no shortage of festive fun around Gwinnett County. Here’s a quick rundown: **Suwanee’s Jolly Holly Days** (Dec. 8–9): Two days of crafts, live music, a pet parade, and Santa’s grand arrival. **Lilburn Holiday Parade** (Dec. 9): Floats, bands, and Christmas characters galore. **Duluth’s Deck the Hall** (Dec. 9): Snow slides, crafts, and Santa pics. For more, check city websites! Break 3: GCPS HIRING STORY 6: Dr. Carla Price joins Northeast Georgia Physicians Group in Dacula For over 20 years, Dr. Carla Price has been a familiar face in northeast Georgia, caring for families and building relationships that last. Now, she’s bringing her expertise—and her heart—to Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Hamilton Mill. Her journey started on a farm in Fairmont, West Virginia, where she helped her grandfather care for sick cows. That early love of healing led her to West Virginia University for med school, then Savannah for residency, and eventually to Winder in 2002. Now, when she’s not at the clinic, you’ll find her on her 8-acre horse farm in Jefferson, raising chickens, riding horses, or tending to her bees. She’s also a beach lover, often escaping with her fiancé and three daughters. NGPG Hamilton Mill, located at 3575 Braselton Highway in Dacula, is open seven days a week. Call 770-848-5300 or visit ngpg.org/price to book an appointment. STORY 7: Rainbow Village marks 12th year as Subaru of Gwinnett's hometown charity Rainbow Village, a Duluth nonprofit helping families overcome homelessness, has once again been named Subaru of Gwinnett’s Hometown Charity for the 2025 Subaru Share the Love® Event. This marks 12 years of partnership, with donations from car sales and service appointments supporting Rainbow Village’s mission of “Help, Hope, Housing, and Healing.” For a nonprofit that relies on private funding for 90% of its budget, relationships like this are a lifeline. Last year’s event raised $51,475. This year? They’re aiming even higher. We’ll have closing comments after this Break 4: THE SUGAR HILL HOLIDAY Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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.gwinnettdailypost.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 www.kiamallofga.com 2025 Buford Holiday Festival & Parade All-In-One Flyer Holiday Celebration 2025 – City of Sugar Hill Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill 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.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 3rd Publish Date:  December 3rd Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, December 3rd and Happy Birthday to Andy Williams I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Four Cobb schools earn STEAM/STEM certifications Meet Michael McNeely, Mableton’s newest councilman Gas prices dip following Thanksgiving, predicted to stay down through holidays All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 3 STORY 1: Four Cobb schools earn STEAM/STEM certifications Cobb Schools are buzzing with opportunities for students to dive into STEM and STEAM—science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. And now, four more schools have joined the ranks of those earning certifications in these fields. South Cobb Early Learning Center and Ford Elementary snagged STEAM certifications, while Betty Gray Middle and Walton High earned STEM honors. “It’s been a joyful, messy journey,” said Marilyn Thomas, director of South Cobb Early Learning Center. “Our kids, teachers, and families all came together—building, experimenting, creating art. It’s hands-on learning at its best.” With over 50 certified schools, Cobb’s commitment to innovation is clear. Just ask the students at Tritt Elementary, who recently celebrated Girl-Powered Robotics Day. STORY 2: Meet Michael McNeely, Mableton’s newest councilman Michael McNeely, newly elected to Mableton’s City Council, is all about service—clear, honest, and hands-on. “I’d rather over-communicate than leave people guessing,” he says. McNeely, who moved to Mableton in 2019, has a long history of giving back. From his days as an Eagle Scout to serving in the Army National Guard and working in public safety for over two decades, he’s built a life around helping others. “It’s in my blood,” he says. Now, as District 2’s councilman, he’s focused on smart redevelopment, public safety, and creating spaces that bring the community together. Think parks, sidewalks, and maybe even a new community center. “We’ve got work to do,” McNeely says, “but Mableton’s got the people and the heart to make it happen.” STORY 3: Gas prices dip following Thanksgiving, predicted to stay down through holidays  Georgia drivers are catching a break at the pump—finally. After the Thanksgiving travel rush, gas prices have dipped, with the state average sitting at $2.82 per gallon as of Monday, according to AAA. That’s about $42 to fill up a 15-gallon tank. Prices are 5 cents lower than last week but still 2 cents higher than last month. And if you’re in Cobb County? You’re paying a bit more—$2.89 per gallon. The priciest spots? Savannah ($2.88), Atlanta ($2.86), and Macon ($2.85). Meanwhile, Dalton drivers are smiling at $2.68. Nationally, gas has dropped to $3, the lowest since May 2021, thanks to low crude oil prices and sluggish demand. AAA predicts prices could stay low through the holidays. For EV drivers, no changes—public charging still averages 38 cents per kilowatt hour. Want to save? AAA suggests fuel rewards programs, paying cash (some stations charge more for credit), and driving smarter. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 3 STORY 4: Cobb fraternal organization recognized as best in Georgia The Omicron Mu Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, better known as the Cobb County Alphas, just snagged a huge honor—Alumni Chapter of the Year—at the Alpha Georgia District Association Convention in Augusta. Why? Their leadership, community impact, and dedication to the fraternity’s mission stood out among 25 chapters across Georgia. “This award is a testament to the passion and hard work of every member,” said Chapter President Harold G. Dickerson. One standout initiative? The Youth to Men mentoring program, where 70 Cobb high schoolers meet bi-monthly to learn life skills and give back to the community. “We’re shaping greatness,” said Steven Boyd, Callis Foundation Chair. For more, visit CobbAlphas.org. STORY 5: AirTag leads police to Chick-fil-A theft suspect  Richard George Cintron, 47, of Dallas, is facing charges after allegedly swiping three Rubbermaid utility trash carts and an Apple AirTag—worth $1,545 total—from the Chick-fil-A on Barrett Parkway in Kennesaw. According to police, Cintron was caught on surveillance cameras, along with his personal vehicles, during the thefts on Sept. 14 and 28. The AirTag? It led officers straight to his home, where Paulding County deputies found the stolen items near his truck. Cintron was arrested Nov. 19 and charged with theft by taking over $1,500. He spent less than 12 hours in jail, released on Nov. 20 after posting a $5,000 bond. Break: STORY 6: Strand Theatre's Andy Gaines wins Governor’s Award    Gov. Brian Kemp and first lady Marty Kemp announced Monday that Andy Gaines, executive director of the Strand Theatre, is one of this year’s recipients of the Governor’s Awards for the Arts and Humanities. The awards, presented with Georgia Council for the Arts and Georgia Humanities, honor 10 individuals or organizations making a real difference in Georgia’s cultural landscape. “Georgia’s arts and entertainment scene has fueled our economy for decades,” Kemp said. “These honorees have left a lasting mark on their communities and our state.” Under Gaines’ leadership, the Strand generated $5.4 million in economic impact last year, supported 80+ jobs, and contributed $230,000 in government revenue. Recipients will receive a handmade mahogany sculpture by Fairburn artist Etienné Jackson. STORY 7: Mount Paran Christian School collects over 10,000 diapers for Bartow Family Resources  Mount Paran Christian School’s high school BETA Club and National Honor Society recently rallied their community for a cause that hits close to home—helping local parents in need. Through their annual Fall Diaper Drive, students encouraged families to donate diapers and wipes for Bartow Family Resources, a nonprofit in Cartersville that supports parents and babies. Flyers went up, announcements were made, and the response? Incredible. Over 10,640 diapers and 1,180 wipes poured in, stacking up at the school’s doors. Student NHS officers counted, sorted, and loaded the donations, ready for Bartow Family Resources to distribute essentials like diapers, formula, and clothing to families who need them most. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 3 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal 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.mdjonline.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.

There's no two ways about it — Marjorie Taylor Greene's resignation came as a shock. She's leaving Congress at the start of the year, which means Republicans will immediately lose a vote they absolutely cannot spare. Governor Brian Kemp now has to call a special election, and even if he moves at the fastest pace legally possible, Georgia's replacement likely won't arrive until April or May. At that point we're deep into a cycle where dozens of House Republicans are juggling competitive reelection campaigns, statewide ambitions or both. Losing a seat now isn't a problem; losing a seat during the most politically fragile stretch of the year is a crisis.The fascinating part is how we got here. Greene was once one of Trump's fiercest and most loyal defenders, a political brawler who generated attention, small-dollar fundraising and cable hits. Her real institutional power, however, came from her alliance with Kevin McCarthy. When McCarthy fell, Greene's entire support structure collapsed with him. She wasn't able to transfer that leverage to Speaker Mike Johnson. In fact, her attempt to oust Johnson failed so publicly that it effectively isolated her. Add to that the now-infamous Tony Fabrizio polling memo — sent from the inside of Trumpworld directly to Greene herself — telling her she couldn't win statewide, and suddenly the relationship that once powered her rise curdled into animosity. Once Trump's giving you mean nicknames on a Truth Social post, it's pretty clear your days inside the tent are over.Politics Politics Politics is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.In the past few weeks, Greene has been everywhere—Real Time, The View, CNN—adopting a noticeably softer tone about political adversaries, including Nancy Pelosi. None of that happens by accident. And while no one close to her has confirmed anything, I can't shake the sense that she's plotting a pivot toward statewide office. The national rebrand won't work; she's too defined. But in a state like Georgia, where the Republican base still views her as a heroine and suburban women remain the barrier to statewide wins, maybe she sees a narrow path for a remade persona. Insiders I've spoken with don't think it's likely — but nobody dismisses it out of hand. After all, Georgia politics has delivered plenty of stranger twists than Marjorie Taylor Greene trying to run as a kinder, gentler insurgent.A Bad Week for DOJ: Sloppy Cases, Angry Allies and a Political CostWhile Greene was calculating her next chapter, the Trump administration's Department of Justice was stumbling through one of its most humiliating stretches since the start of the second term. Two high-profile cases—one targeting James Comey and another targeting New York Attorney General Letitia James—fell apart in spectacular fashion. The Comey case wasn't dismissed on a technicality; it was thrown out because the Department of Justice may not have even properly secured a grand jury indictment. Not good. And because of how the dismissal occurred, the case cannot be refiled. Comey is permanently in the clear. The Letitia James case was dismissed for different reasons, and that one can theoretically return — but in practice, it's now damaged and politically radioactive.Look. These cases were clearly pushed at the direction of Donald Trump himself. He said the quiet part out loud on Truth Social, publicly urging prosecutions of Comey, James and Adam Schiff before deleting the message. Trump wanted consequences for people he sees as political enemies. But wanting something and executing it competently are two very different things. And what happened here wasn't just sloppy — it undercut the credibility of his claim to be the only person who can “clean up the system.” If you're promising a more efficient, more disciplined government, you cannot afford your Justice Department to mishandle prosecutions this badly.This is also where the political costs begin to show. Punchbowl reported this week that Greene's resignation has other Republicans eyeing the exits. I've heard similar grumbling from people close to MAGA-aligned lawmakers: they feel neglected by the White House, shut out of decision-making, and deprived of the small wins that normally help hold a caucus together. On issues like Venezuela, they simply want explanations — and aren't getting them. Add the DOJ fiasco on top, and you have a governing coalition that increasingly feels taken for granted. The math is brutal: Republicans are two retirements away from losing the House majority outright. No one thinks a mass exodus is imminent, but the fact that the scenario has become a topic of conversation tells you how fragile the coalition is.The bottom line: if the Trump administration wants to restore confidence — inside the party and beyond — it can't afford more weeks like this. Competence matters. And right now, the DOJ is delivering the exact opposite.Chapters00:00:00 - Intro00:02:10 - Marjorie Taylor Greene00:11:02 - Rush Hour 4 (seriously)00:11:44 - DOJ's Bad Day00:16:38 - Are the Republicans in Trouble?00:19:39 - 2028 Picks with Gloria Young01:03:30 - Wrap-up This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.politicspoliticspolitics.com/subscribe

Host Patricia Murphy talks with Rivian founder and CEO RJ Scaringe about the company's long-awaited Georgia plant, the clean-manufacturing standards Rivian says will protect local communities, and why Scaringe believes the state is positioned to become a national leader in next-generation vehicle technology. He also discusses working with Governor Brian Kemp, the future of EV incentives, and Rivian's long-term commitment to Georgia. Then Politically Georgia's Candidate Forum series concludes with Attorney General Chris Carr, who makes his case for governor. Carr talks about Georgia's economic momentum, his focus on affordability, public safety, and property taxes, and why he believes the next governor must be prepared to confront federal dysfunction while keeping the state competitive and safe. Have a question or comment for the show? Call or text the 24-hour Politically Georgia Podcast Hotline at 770-810-5297. We'll play back your question and answer it during our next Monday Mailbag segment. You can also email your questions at PoliticallyGeorgia@ajc.com. Listen and subscribe to our podcast for free at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hosts Greg Bluestein, Patricia Murphy, and Tia Mitchell tackle listener questions in a new Mailbag Monday edition of Politically Georgia. They explain why members of Congress continue to receive pay during the federal shutdown and dig into Governor Brian Kemp's decision not to use state funds to replace frozen SNAP benefits. The hosts also discuss the growing backlash over the shutdown's impact on Georgia families, the latest twists in the First Liberty Ponzi scheme investigation, and why most of the state's congressional delegation is staying unusually quiet during the standoff in Washington. Have a question or comment for the show? Call or text the 24-hour Politically Georgia Podcast Hotline at 770-810-5297. We'll play back your question and answer it during our next Monday Mailbag segment. You can also email your questions at PoliticallyGeorgia@ajc.com. Listen and subscribe to our podcast for free at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Top Stories for November 1st Publish Date: November 1st From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Saturday, November 1st and Happy Birthday to Lyle Lovett I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia. More than 300 apartments OKed near Gas South District Peachtree Corners to hold dedication ceremony for historic Jones Bridge marker Atlanta area schools win $85,000 in great band challenge All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe! Break 1: KIA Mall of Georgia STORY 1: More than 300 apartments OKed near Gas South District Big changes are coming near the Gas South District—more than 300 new apartments, to be exact. Last week, Gwinnett County commissioners gave Hanover Company the green light to build a 306-unit complex at 1855 Satellite Boulevard, right across from Cross Pointe Church. The site? It’s currently home to two aging office buildings, one of which will be torn down to make room. The new apartments will include four five-story buildings, with 190 one-bedroom units and 116 two-bedrooms. Plans also feature a pool, fire pits, outdoor gathering spaces, and even resort-style patios. Access will be from Satellite Boulevard and the Kroger shopping center nearby. Brick and fiber cement exteriors, plus detached garages and carports, round out the design. Change is definitely on the horizon. STORY 2: Peachtree Corners to hold dedication ceremony for historic Jones Bridge marker Peachtree Corners is honoring a piece of its past with a new historical marker dedicated to the original Jones Bridge—the inspiration behind the city’s iconic pedestrian bridge. In partnership with PTC Arts, a nonprofit focused on bringing the community together through the arts, the city will unveil the marker on Friday, Nov. 7, at 11 a.m., right at the pedestrian bridge by Town Center. The original Jones Bridge, built in 1904, was more than just steel and wood—it was a lifeline, connecting farmers, merchants, and travelers across the Chattahoochee River. But time wasn’t kind. By the Great Depression, it was falling apart, and in 1945, most of the structure was dismantled and sold off under shady circumstances. The final piece collapsed into the river in 2018, ending its story—or so we thought. The pedestrian bridge, opened in 2020, keeps that legacy alive with its design, and now, the marker will ensure future generations know the history. Funded by PTC Arts, it tells the story of connection, resilience, and a bridge that once brought two counties together. The public’s welcome to join the ceremony. Details? Check out peachtreecornersga.gov. STORY 3: Atlanta area schools win $85,000 in great band challenge Ten Atlanta-area high school bands just walked away with a total of $85,000 in prizes, thanks to the fifth annual Great Atlanta Band Challenge. Sponsored by 1-800TruckWreck and Witherite Law Group, alongside Hot 107.9 and Majic 107.5/97.5, the competition celebrated the grit and talent of student musicians. South Gwinnett High snagged first place—and $20,000. Griffin High and Douglas County High followed, earning $15,000 each. The other seven finalists? They didn’t leave empty-handed, each taking home $5,000. Winners were announced on Oct. 24 with pep rally check presentations, complete with Hot 107.9’s Partyboi Deuce hyping up the crowd. This challenge, now in its fifth year, has become a lifeline for local music programs, helping fund instruments, uniforms, and more. 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 2: Ingles Markets STORY 4: Carr joins other attorneys general in call for crackdown on intoxicating hemp products Georgia lawmakers are weighing tighter rules on intoxicating hemp products, but Attorney General Chris Carr? He’s going bigger—joining 38 other Attorney General’s in calling for a federal crackdown to pull these products off shelves entirely. Here’s the issue: gas stations and convenience stores are selling gummies, vapes, and drinks made from hemp that can get you just as high as marijuana. Why? A loophole in the 2018 federal law that legalized industrial hemp. Carr and his peers say bad actors are exploiting this “inadvertent ambiguity” to flood the market with unregulated, high-THC products. Carr’s office sounded the alarm Wednesday, citing a rise in kids accidentally ingesting these substances. But not everyone’s on board. Christopher Lackner, CEO of the Hemp Beverage Alliance, called the Attorney Generals’ letter “concerning.” He agrees dangerous, kid-targeted products need to go but argues that banning all intoxicating hemp products could crush a thriving industry. Meanwhile, Georgia lawmakers are trying to balance public safety with supporting the state’s growing hemp industry. It’s a messy debate. STORY 5: Housing Matters: Data says few housing options for Gwinnett’s poorest Skyrocketing housing costs are pushing Gwinnett residents into impossible situations—cramped hotels, couch-surfing, even homelessness. A new report from Builders Patch Housing Count shows just how bad it is: for every 100 renters in Gwinnett’s lowest income bracket (earning less than 30% of the area’s median income, or about $89,000), there are only 9 affordable units. Nine. And it doesn’t get much better as incomes rise—12 units for very-low income renters, 5 for low-income, and just 1 for middle-income families. The county needs 100,000 affordable units to close the gap. Meanwhile, rents are down 13% this year, but still average $1,900 for a two-bedroom. Median home prices? $412,000. STORY 6: Political shutdown fight over food stamps comes to Georgia The federal shutdown is about to hit hard. Starting today, over a million Georgians, many of them kids, could lose access to food stamps. No federal funding, no groceries. Governor Brian Kemp? He’s not budging. Despite $14 billion in state reserves, he’s refused to step in, calling it a “Schumer shutdown” and blaming Democrats in Congress. Meanwhile, families are bracing for empty plates. Food pantries like Feeding GA Families are already overwhelmed, with demand up 50%. Thanksgiving? It’s looking grim. And the blame game? It’s in full swing. Republicans point fingers at Democrats for blocking a funding resolution, while Democrats say Republicans are holding SNAP hostage over tax credits. STORY 7: Gwinnett SWAT team captures Marietta murder suspect A man accused of killing his stepfather in a Marietta apartment shooting is now in custody after a SWAT team arrested him in Gwinnett County. Pharron Carlos Banks, 26, had been on the run since Monday night, when police say he shot and killed 58-year-old Michael Jackson during a domestic dispute at the Briggs at Power Park apartments on Franklin Gateway. Officers arrived to find Jackson with multiple gunshot wounds. He was rushed to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital but didn’t make it. Banks had already fled. His car turned up in Atlanta near the university center, but Banks wasn’t with it. By Wednesday, Marietta police tracked him to a home in Gwinnett. After securing a warrant, Gwinnett’s SWAT team moved in, ordering Banks to surrender. He came out just after 5 p.m. and was taken into custody without incident. We’ll have closing comments after this Break 4: Ingles Markets Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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.gwinnettdailypost.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 www.kiamallofga.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.

The city of Atlanta and other partners are trying to fill in the gap that will be left by residents using SNAP losing the benefit. Meantime, Georgia says it will not help some of the 1.4 million people living here that receive SNAP with Governor Brian Kemp saying the state will not bail out the federal government. Plus, Georgia Head Start programs will shutter as the federal government remains shutdown. Also the election for two seats on the utility regulatory board has become a high-profile race with both parties pouring in cash. And how one Atlanta-based artist is using video games to translate the emotions of isolation fueled by the immigration experience. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GDP Script/ Top Stories for October 30th Publish Date: October 30th PRE-ROLL: From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Thursday, October 30th and Happy birthday to Henry Winkler I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Walgreens and InCommunity partner to offer free vaccination clinics in Norcross A state representative steps down, creating another vacancy in the General Assembly Gwinnett senator to Kemp: Declare SNAP benefits emergency Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on carrots All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe! Break 1: Ingles Markets 9 STORY 1: Walgreens and InCommunity partner to offer free vaccination clinics in Norcross Walgreens and InCommunity are hosting free vaccination clinics around the metro area, including one this Friday in Norcross. No insurance? No problem. Everyone’s welcome—individuals, families, whoever needs it. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., head to the Gwinnett Academic Assist Program Training Center at 1600 Oakbrook Drive. Flu shots, COVID boosters, RSV, shingles, pneumonia—you name it, they’ve got it. Licensed Walgreens pharmacists will be there to handle it all. And yes, it’s completely free. If you’ve got Medicaid or insurance, they’ll process it, but it’s not required. Walk-ins are fine, or register online through Walgreens. Don’t miss it! STORY 2: A state representative steps down, creating another vacancy in the General Assembly  Another Georgia lawmaker is stepping down, adding to the growing list of vacancies in the state legislature. Rep. Marcus Wiedower announced Tuesday he’s resigning after six years in the House. Why? His job at Hillpointe, a real estate development firm, is booming—13 states now, up from one when he started. “It’s bittersweet,” he said, explaining the travel demands would pull him away from the Capitol. Wiedower chaired the House Appropriations Subcommittee on General Government. A special election will be held to fill his seat in District 121, along with three others left vacant by resignations and, tragically, a death. Politics never slows down. STORY 3: Gwinnett senator to Kemp: Declare SNAP benefits emergency   State Sen. Nabilah Islam Parkes, is urging Gov. Brian Kemp to step in and help Georgia families who are about to lose their SNAP benefits because of the federal government shutdown. The shutdown, which started Oct. 1, has left Congress at a standstill, and now the USDA says SNAP benefits won’t be issued after Nov. 1. For 1.4 million Georgians—kids, seniors, working families—that’s a crisis. “Food isn’t optional. We have a moral duty to act.” She said. She’s asking Kemp to declare a state of emergency and use Georgia’s $14.6 billion surplus to provide aid, pointing to similar actions in Virginia and Louisiana. Meanwhile, the blame game rages on. But for families relying on SNAP? The politics don’t matter. They just need food. 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 2: 07.14.22 KIA MOG STORY 4: GDOT: Expect congestion near Netherworld on Halloween  If you’re heading to Netherworld this Halloween, brace yourself—it’s not just the haunted house that’ll be packed. The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) is warning drivers to expect traffic nightmares around metro Atlanta’s Halloween hotspots, especially Friday and Saturday. Netherworld, Six Flags, Stone Mountain Park, The Battery, and even Little 5 Points? All on the list of places where traffic’s gonna crawl. GDOT says the worst congestion will hit Friday from noon to 8 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 6 p.m. And don’t forget the neighborhoods. Trick-or-treaters will be out, so slow down, stay alert, and for the love of candy, don’t drive distracted—or worse, drunk. STORY 5: Helping Kids Shine: Former Athletes Bring KidStrong to Gwinnett to Boost Youth Confidence When Jordan and Shaun Wade moved to Atlanta, they were just looking for something—anything—that could help their 3-year-old son, Shiloh, come out of his shell. Confidence, they thought, was the key. Jordan, a former Team USA track star, and Shaun, an Ohio State football standout now with the Chicago Bears, tried a few programs. Nothing clicked. Then they found KidStrong in Alpharetta. KidStrong, a science-based program for kids (walking to age 11), focuses on emotional, mental, and physical growth. With over 160 locations nationwide, it’s helping 65,000 kids a week. And now, thanks to the Wades, it’s coming to Gwinnett County—Snellville in 2026, Lawrenceville in 2027. Though new to business, Jordan’s no stranger to leadership. A former captain of South Carolina’s track team, she’s ready to bring that same energy to KidStrong. For more info, visit kidstrong.com or email Jordan at jordan.wade@kidstrong.com. Break 3: And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on carrots Break 4: We’ll have closing comments after this Break 5: Ingles Markets 9 Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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.gwinnettdailypost.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 www.kiamallofga.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10/30/2025 PODCAST Episode #3079 GUESTS:  Bus Tour Day 4! Winsome Sears, Mark Peake, Morgan Griffith, Julio Gonzales, Bob Wood  + YOUR CALLS! at 1-888-480-JOHN (5646) and GETTR Live! @jfradioshow #GodzillaOfTruth #TruckingTheTruth

Governor Brian Kemp is pointing the finger back at Democrats after calling on him to help backfill funding for programs affected by the federal government shutdown; The former mayor of the city of Stonecrest has been indicted for lying about his criminal history so he could register to vote and qualify to run for office again; Immigration can be an isolating experience, but one Atlanta-based artist is using video games to translate the emotions. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hosts Greg Bluestein and Patricia Murphy break down the latest AJC–University of Georgia poll that shows where Georgia voters stand heading into 2026. Democrats rank the economy and standing up to Donald Trump as their top issues, while Republicans focus on immigration and public safety. The hosts also discuss why Governor Brian Kemp continues to draw support from some Democrats and what that says about his political staying power. In the second half, they explain why state lawmakers are holding off on redrawing congressional maps and how a pending Supreme Court decision could change the rules for redistricting across the South. Have a question or comment for the show? Call or text the 24-hour Politically Georgia Podcast Hotline at 770-810-5297. We'll play back your question and answer it during our next Monday Mailbag segment. You can also email your questions at PoliticallyGeorgia@ajc.com. Listen and subscribe to our podcast for free at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

First, a good chuckle from The Lincoln Project: The Epstein Memorial Ballroom. Brilliant!------President Donald Trump challenging Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to take the same cognitive test given to patients under physicians' scrutiny for dementia or Alzheimer's Disease isn't the "own" he thinks it is, but it begs the question: why's a guy who's had two MRIs in six months and showing clear signs of decline still in office when it was his party that had massive(ly overblown?) concerns about a similar (was it?) scenario just a year ago? ------Steve Bannon's confident there'll be a third Trump presidency (wouldn't Trump need to be alive and in good mental health?) in 2029, but polling indicates that Americans are remembering why they soured on a Trump presidency the first time. Trump's hemorrhaging Hispanic American support (this should surprise no one), but he's also under water with Georgia voters. New Atlanta Journal Constitution polling shows about one in five Republicans agree the nation is on the "wrong track." Overall, GOP support for Trump remains stubbornly strong, but not as strong as disdain for him from outside the GOP. His clout in 2026 races? Not that big a deal, according to likely GOP voters, but then neither is the endorsement of Governor Brian Kemp. ------Are CNN staffers right to be concerned their boss is gently nudging his network to lighten up on coverage of the East Wing demolition? Hmm; why, after his visit to The White House would he be doing that? Also, is it that Americans can actually visualize Trump destroying our nation's institutions and it's a bad look?------Frequent show guest, Jay Bookman with the Georgia Recorder, has weighed in on the 2026 Democratic field for Georgia's governor's race, boiling it down to a likely generational rumble between the 72-year old Mike Thurmond and 42-year old Jason Esteves. His reasons for discounting the early polling leader (Keisha Lance Bottoms) aren't new to consider on this show, but noteworthy, still. Also noteworthy, he didn't even mention Rep. Ruwa Romman, who's galvanizing energy with a small army of campaign volunteers and already door-knocking and doing interviews aplenty to grow awareness of her and her progressive bona fides.On with me to discuss his time with Rep. Romman is Atlanta Voice editor-in-chief Donnell Suggs.------Then, state Senator Nikki Merritt joined me to discuss her bold idea: asking Governor Brian Kemp to call for a special general assembly session to tap into the state's $14.6 billion in reserve funds to keep SNAP benefits going for the state's 1.3 million recipients. She and other members of the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus held a press conference Monday to validate their rationale, and there's plenty of merit in it.------This one's wild: a Cobb County school board member (it's vice chair!) is fielding calls for his resignation after he and a business of his has been named in a $250,000 civil lawsuit. On with me to discuss this story, Cobb County Courier's Rebecca Gaunt.

A critic of the committee in charge of setting Georgia's power rates is arrested for allegedly stealing trade secrets, Governor Brian Kemp visits South Korea on economic business, and victims of violent crimes in Georgia band together to figure out how to access resourcesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's Mailbag Monday on Politically Georgia. Hosts Greg Bluestein and Tia Mitchell tackle listener questions about what happens next in the Fani Willis election case, how Georgia's new U.S. treasurer could mint a “Trump coin,” and whether Governor Brian Kemp's political future depends on Derek Dooley's Senate campaign. They also weigh in on Kamala Harris' 2028 ambitions, ICE recruiting ads on Atlanta TV, and what Buddy Carter is saying about seniors and health care. Have a question or comment for the show? Call or text the 24-hour Politically Georgia Podcast Hotline at 770-810-5297. We'll play back your question and answer it during our next Monday Mailbag segment. You can also email your questions at PoliticallyGeorgia@ajc.com. Listen and subscribe to our podcast for free at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today's Political Breakfast: Republican candidates are beefing-up their war chests in hopes the money will talk enough to help unseat Democratic U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff next year. Ossoff's campaign reports he has 21 million in the bank. Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican strategist Brian Robinson discuss the numbers that are rolling in from his GOP opponents with host Lisa Rayam. Political outsider Derek Dooley announced Monday that he's raised nearly 2 million in his first stretch of the race. He's also got the endorsement of Governor Brian Kemp. Another GOP opponent, Congressman Mike Collins, went head-to-head with Dooley and said he's also raised $1.9 million, and that he is transferring another million from his congressional account. The final candidate, Congressman Buddy Carter, has not yet posted. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hosts Greg Bluestein and Tia Mitchell take listener questions on everything from Atlanta's most competitive city council race to whether Democrats need more rural voices on the ballot. They also dig into new records showing Governor Brian Kemp was blindsided by the Hyundai immigration raid, and they answer concerns about Donald Trump deploying troops to U.S. cities — and whether Atlanta could be next. Have a question or comment for the show? Call or text the 24-hour Politically Georgia Podcast Hotline at 770-810-5297. We'll play back your question and answer it during our next Monday Mailbag segment. You can also email your questions at PoliticallyGeorgia@ajc.com. Listen and subscribe to our podcast for free at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

GDP Script/ Top Stories for October 2nd Publish Date: October 2nd PRE-ROLL: From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Thursday, October 2nd and Happy birthday to Sting I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Piedmont Eastside hosting second annual Rock the Ribbon event Spooky Spirits 5K set for Oct. 18 in Suwanee Comedian Bert Kreischer coming to Gwinnett's Gas South Arena Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on cereals All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe! Break 1: Ingles Markets 7 STORY 1: Piedmont Eastside hosting second annual Rock the Ribbon event For the second year, Piedmont Eastside Medical Center is inviting the community to “Rock the Ribbon,” a special event focused on breast cancer awareness. Set for Oct. 23, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., the event will take place in the Breast and Diagnostic Center lobby (Medical Plaza 1, 1700 Tree Lane, Suite 100, Snellville). It’s all part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The lineup includes breast cancer survivor and advocate Silvia Garcia as the keynote speaker, along with diagnostic radiologist Dr. M. Aho sharing insights on early detection. Snellville Mayor Barbara Bender will kick things off, and at 12:45, Garcia will lead a caregiver support workshop in Suite 230. STORY 2: Spooky Spirits 5K set for Oct. 18 in Suwanee Dust off your sneakers, grab your costume, and maybe—just maybe—prepare for a cocktail or two, because the Spooky Spirits 5K is haunting Suwanee’s Town Center Park on Oct. 18. This isn’t your average 5K. Think costumes, cocktails, and a whole lot of fun, brought to you by the folks behind the Beer Chaser 5K and sponsored by Southeast Cold. Whether you’re chasing a PR or just strolling with your cocktail-loving crew, this event’s got something for everyone. Here’s the twist: runners can choose to stop at five Spirit Stations along the scenic Suwanee Creek Greenway for 3-ounce cocktail samples—or power through nonstop. Either way, there’s a full cocktail waiting at the finish line (for the 21+ crowd, of course). Costumes? Absolutely. Prizes for Best Female, Male, and Group Costumes will keep the Halloween vibes alive. Plus, every runner gets a long-sleeve T-shirt, medal, and souvenir glass—because bragging rights are a must. Don’t miss out—secure your spot at SpookySpirits5K.com. STORY 3: Comedian Bert Kreischer coming to Gwinnett's Gas South Arena  Bert Kreischer’s bringing his wild, shirtless comedy to Gwinnett this January—because, of course, he is. The “Permission to Party” tour just added a stop at Gas South Arena on Jan. 31, 2026, and if you’ve ever seen Bert, you know it’s going to be equal parts chaos and hilarity. Tickets? They’re up for grabs starting Friday, Oct. 3, at 10 a.m. (set a reminder, seriously). Head to bertbertbert.com to snag yours—because nothing says “start the year right” like laughing until your face hurts. 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 2: 07.14.22 KIA MOG STORY 4: GGC professor: Start your holiday budgeting now  The holidays sneak up on you, don’t they? Before you know it, you’re knee-deep in wrapping paper and wondering how your credit card bill got so high. Americans, on average, drop $1,200 on holiday gifts each year, according to the National Retail Federation. But Georgia Gwinnett College business professor Dr. Cathy McCrary says a little planning now can save you a lot of stress—and money—later. Her advice? Start simple: Make a list of who you’re buying for. Jot down gift ideas and ballpark prices. Set a savings goal and stick to it. McCrary also suggests breaking your savings into manageable chunks—like setting aside a bit from each paycheck—and even opening a separate account to keep things organized. STORY 5: Tourism sets new record in Georgia Georgia was buzzing last year—tourists, business travelers, you name it. A record 174.2 million visitors poured into the state in 2024, spending a jaw-dropping $45.2 billion. That’s 4% more than the year before, according to Gov. Brian Kemp. Kemp, speaking at a tourism conference in Savannah, credited Georgia’s charm: its mountains, beaches, and everything in between. Business travel was booming too, with 17 million domestic visitors dropping $4.6 billion on conventions and meetings. Tourism, the state’s second-largest economic driver, even saved households $1,285 in taxes, thanks to $5.1 billion in government revenue. We’ll be right back. Break 3: LILBURN DAZE And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on cereals Break 4: We’ll have closing comments after this Break 5: CITY OF SUGAR HILL Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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.gwinnettdailypost.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 www.kiamallofga.com Lilburn Daze Sugar Hill See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for October 1st Publish Date:  October 1st Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, October 1st and Happy Birthday to I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal KSU biology student gets hands-on experience in Guatemala clinic Macabre Victorian Funeral Experience returns to Root House Museum Graduation rates increase across state, including Cobb, Marietta All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: INGLES 5 STORY 1: KSU biology student gets hands-on experience in Guatemala clinic  Like a lot of college students, Kennesaw State junior David Roque spent his summer in the tropics. But beaches and ziplining? Not exactly. Instead, he was back in his hometown of Poptun, Guatemala, working at his dad’s medical clinic—his second summer doing so. David wore a lot of hats: checking in patients, translating, assisting with surgeries. Poptun, tucked in Guatemala’s northern Peten region, is remote—thick forests, few medical facilities. Patients travel miles for care, and David’s bilingual skills made him indispensable. Between shifts, he even managed to take a cell biology course remotely. Medicine runs in his blood. His grandfather was a doctor in Cuba, his dad runs the clinic, his mom’s a nurse, and his sister’s about to graduate med school. At KSU, David’s passion for medicine expanded into research. Through the First-Year Scholars program, he joined a project on radiation therapy for cancer patients, earning two publications in his first year. David’s work has taken him to conferences at Georgia Tech, the State Capitol, and even Pennsylvania. He’s now drafting a proposal for his own cancer research project, blending his love for medicine and discovery. STORY 2: Macabre Victorian Funeral Experience returns to Root House Museum  This October, the William Root House takes a step back in time—into the somber world of a Victorian-era funeral. In 1856, Hannah and William Root shared their home with family, including Hannah’s father, Leonard Simpson, who passed away on Oct. 11 of that year. To honor his memory, the house is now staged as it would’ve been after his death: curtains drawn, black crepe draped over furniture, and mourning ribbons everywhere. Visitors can explore artifacts like 19th-century embalming tools, mourning jewelry made from human hair (yes, really), and other eerie relics of Victorian death customs. Daytime tours are included with regular admission. For those craving something darker, two after-hours events are on the calendar. Midnight Wake (Oct. 11, 11 p.m.–midnight): A candlelit VIP tour dives into embalming practices of the 1800s, ending with a haunting recital of a death poem written by Leonard Simpson himself. Tickets are $50, limited to 13 guests, and for ages 12+. Victorian Funeral Flashlight Tours (Oct. 25, 5–9 p.m.): Wander the house at your own pace, flashlight in hand, through dimly lit rooms. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door. Details at RootHouseMuseum.com/Funeral. STORY 3: Graduation rates increase across state, including Cobb, Marietta  Graduation rates are climbing, and 2025 was a record-breaking year for Marietta, Cobb, and Georgia as a whole. Marietta High hit 92.2%, its highest since Georgia adopted the adjusted cohort method in 2011. Cobb County wasn’t far behind, with an 89.2% rate—its best ever. Statewide, Georgia’s seniors reached 87.2%, another all-time high. Cobb’s Superintendent Chris Ragsdale credited a decade of steady growth, with schools like South Cobb making huge leaps (up 9.5 points to 87.9%). Meanwhile, Marietta Superintendent Dr. Grant Rivera praised the “shared commitment” of teachers, families, and students. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 5 STORY 4: UPDATE: Ted’s Montana Grill to fill 'Goldstein Gap' on Marietta Square  After years of sitting empty, the infamous “Goldstein Gap” on Marietta Square is finally getting a new tenant—a Ted’s Montana Grill. The Marietta Historic Board of Review gave the project a unanimous thumbs-up, approving plans for a single-story restaurant designed to blend seamlessly with the Square’s historic charm. The lot at 77 North Park Square, owned by former Councilman Philip Goldstein’s family, has been vacant since 2010, when the Cuthbertson building was demolished. Past proposals, including a brewery and a five-story building, fizzled out. The new 4,311-square-foot building will feature a brick façade, mahogany trim, and a design that mimics a two-story structure to match its neighbors. Ted’s Montana Grill, founded by Ted Turner, will bring its signature American and Western-style menu to the space—finally filling a long-standing gap in the Square’s landscape. STORY 5: Multiple businesses close after east Cobb shopping center fire A fire at the Village East Cobb shopping center has left nearly every business there shuttered, at least for now. Bookmiser, the beloved indie bookstore, is among the hardest hit. Co-owner Annell Gerson said the shop is closed “until further notice” after smoke and soot from Sunday’s early morning fire damaged much of their inventory. The fire started in the back room of Owl Repair, a phone repair shop next door, likely from a lithium-ion battery, though the cause is still under investigation. Firefighters contained the flames, but smoke spread through the building’s shared attic, leaving damage in every business. Chop Stix China Bistro owner Lyn Lin said they’ll be closed “at least a week” to deep clean and toss all food. Bookmiser is working to salvage what they can, but in the meantime, customers can shop online at bookmiser.net. Break: STORY 6: Kemp denies Cobb Election Board's request to amend special election date   Gov. Brian Kemp has denied a request from the Cobb Board of Elections to move the special election for former state Sen. Jason Esteves’ seat to Nov. 4, sticking with the original date of Nov. 18. Esteves, who resigned Sept. 10 to run for governor, left his District 35 seat—covering parts of Cobb and Fulton—vacant. The elections board argued Nov. 4, already a statewide Election Day, would save money and reduce voter confusion. But Kemp disagreed. “Convenience isn’t the priority,” Kemp wrote, emphasizing the need for voters and candidates to have more time. Local leaders, however, aren’t thrilled. Cobb Democratic Chair Essence Johnson called the decision “fiscally irresponsible,” while GOP Chair Mary Clarice Hathaway said it could lead to low turnout. Early voting starts Oct. 27, with registration closing Oct. 20. If a runoff is needed, it’ll happen Dec. 16—just in time for the holiday chaos. STORY 7: Autumn happenings Cobb County’s got fall covered—pumpkins, paint, parades, and just the right amount of spooky. Here’s a taste of what’s happening: Oct. 10, 6–7:30 p.m.: Paint Your Own Pumpkin Candy Dish at Sewell Mill Library. $28 gets you paint, glaze, and a kiln-fired masterpiece. Register online or call 770-509-4989. Oct. 14, 3–5 p.m.: Pumpkin Painting at Gritters Library. Bring your own pumpkin. All ages welcome (kids under 8 need an adult). Oct. 14, 4:30–5:30 p.m.: Pumpkin Drop Challenge at Switzer Library. Ages 8–12. Think egg drop, but with pumpkins. Oct. 17–18, 6:30–9 p.m.: Trick or Treatment Spooky Tour at R.L. Sutton Water Reclamation Facility. Creepy, educational, and after dark. Registration opens Oct. 1. Oct. 25, 5–10 p.m.: Free Fall Festival of Fun at Jim R. Miller Park. Oct. 25–31: Haunted House at Jim R. Miller Park. $5 admission. Pre-registration required. For even more fall fun, visit cobbcounty.gov. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 5 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal 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.mdjonline.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.

Friday, September 1st, 2023In the Hot Notes: the first Proud Boys' sentences come in at HALF the recommended time by sentencing guidelines; Representative Jamie Raskin asks Rep Comer to subpoena Jared Kushner after failed attempts to retrieve documents regarding his $2B Saudi payout; several filings are made in Fulton County about the speedy trial considerations and removal of Meadows' case to federal court; the jury in 1/6 fugitive Brandon Fellows' case reaches a guilty verdict after submitting a note asking whether the defendant has their personal information; the Biden Administration seeks to close the gun show loophole; conservatives draw up a plan to dismantle to government if Trump wins; Governor Brian Kemp denounces the removal of Fani Willis from office; plus Allison and Dana read your Good News.Our Guest:Prof. Anthony Michael Kreishttps://twitter.com/AnthonyMKreishttps://law.gsu.edu/profile/anthony-kreisFrom the Good Newshttps://www.axios.com/2023/08/31/nebraska-volleyball-attendance-world-record-womensporthttps://www.dailybeanspod.com/patrons-sponsoring-patrons  Our Donation LinksNational Security Counselors - DonateMSW Media, Blue Wave California Victory Fund | ActBlueWhistleblowerAid.org/beansFederal workers - feel free to email AG at fedoath@pm.me and let me know what you're going to do, or just vent. I'm always here to listen. Find Upcoming Actions 50501 Movement, No Kings.org, Indivisible.orgDr. Allison Gill - Substack, BlueSky , TikTok, IG, TwitterDana Goldberg - BlueSky, Twitter, IG, facebook, danagoldberg.comCheck out more from MSW Media - Shows - MSW Media, Cleanup On Aisle 45 pod, The Breakdown | SubstackShare your Good News or Good TroubleMSW Good News and Good TroubleHave some good news; a confession; or a correction to share?Good News & Confessions - The Daily Beanshttps://www.dailybeanspod.com/confessional/ Listener Survey:http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=BffJOlI7qQcF&ver=shortFollow the Podcast on Apple:The Daily Beans on Apple PodcastsWant to support the show and get it ad-free and early?The Daily Beans | SupercastThe Daily Beans & Mueller, She Wrote | PatreonThe Daily Beans | Apple Podcasts