Podcasts about Local news

Top Stories for January 8th Publish Date: January 8th From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Thursday, January 8th and Happy birthday to Elvis Presley I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Suwanee breathing new life into popular pocket park Gwinnett's 2026 budget will be even smaller than previously thought Ex-legislator accused of lying to get pandemic unemployment money Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats 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: Suwanee breathing new life into popular pocket park Main Street Park, a Suwanee staple since 1998, is getting a much-needed glow-up. Nearly $846,000 worth of renovations are kicking off this week, and honestly? It’s about time. The basketball court—loved, worn, and always in use—is staying, but it’s getting a fresh surface, new hoops, and extra seating. Assistant City Manager Denise Brinson put it simply: “It’s well-loved, so we couldn’t take it away.” The old pavilion? Gone. In its place, a modern design with tables and seating—more hangout, less performance space. They’re also adding greenspace, walking paths, and a few parking spots. “It’s like PlayTown Suwanee,” Brinson said. “Sometimes, you just have to start over.” STORY 2: Gwinnett's 2026 budget will be even smaller than previously thought Gwinnett County’s 2026 budget just got even smaller than expected—$84 million smaller, to be exact. On Tuesday, commissioners approved a $2.58 billion budget, trimming more than the $66 million reduction they floated back in November. And yet, they still managed to squeeze in a 4% pay bump for county employees. How? “Efficiencies,” they say. “This budget reflects our commitment to delivering top-notch services while staying fiscally responsible,” Financial Services Director Russell Royal explained. The budget funds big-ticket projects like a new police HQ, fire station relocations, and $44 million for road repaving. But officials warn: some savings were one-time deals. Next year? Could be trickier. STORY 3: Ex-legislator accused of lying to get pandemic unemployment money Former state Rep. Karen Bennett, who resigned last week, is now facing federal charges for allegedly lying to collect nearly $14,000 in unemployment benefits during the pandemic. Prosecutors claim she falsely said she couldn’t work for her therapy business, Metro Therapy Providers, due to COVID-19 restrictions. The catch? They say she only had an administrative role, working from her home office the entire time. Bennett, from Stone Mountain, allegedly received $13,940 in Pandemic Unemployment Assistance funds, despite also earning $905 a week from a church—something she reportedly didn’t disclose. She’s pleaded not guilty, calling her resignation a “retirement.” 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: Several Gwinnettians make influential, notable Georgians lists The new year always brings fresh lists, and Georgia Trend’s 2026 lineup of “Most Influential” and “Notable Georgians” is out—and, as usual, Gwinnett’s well-represented. On the “100 Most Influential Georgians” list? Big names like Gwinnett County Commission Chair Nicole Love Hendrickson, Gwinnett Chamber CEO Nick Masino, and Latin American Association CEO Santiago Marquez. But the “Notable Georgians” list? That’s where Gwinnett really shines. Peachtree Corners Mayor Mike Mason made the cut, along with Michael “Sully” Sullivan, David Hult, Clyde Tuggle, and Mason Ailstock, who’s leading the massive Rowen project. Even beyond Gwinnett, leaders like GDOT Commissioner Russell McMurry and Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger—both with ties to the area—made waves. STORY 5: Buford Grad Ashton Daniels Commits to Florida State Buford’s own Ashton Daniels is on the move again. After a season at Auburn, the 6'2", 219-pound quarterback announced Tuesday he’s heading to Florida State. Big news for the Seminoles. Daniels started three of Auburn’s last four games in 2025, putting up solid numbers: 797 passing yards, three touchdowns, plus 280 rushing yards and two scores. His best? A monster game against Vandy—353 yards, two TDs. Oh, and he balled out against Bama, too: 259 passing yards, 108 rushing. Before Auburn, he spent three seasons at Stanford, racking up nearly 6,200 total yards. And let’s not forget—he led Buford to three state titles in high school. FALCONS: Kirk Cousins and the Falcons just shook up his contract—again. According to reports, they’ve reworked the final two years of his four-year, $180 million deal, giving Atlanta some breathing room with the salary cap. But here’s the kicker: by March 13, 2026, they’ll have to decide if Cousins sticks around. Why? A $67.9 million guarantee for 2027 kicks in that day. And let’s be real—at 38, with a no-trade clause, Cousins isn’t exactly a hot commodity. The new deal slashes his 2026 base salary from $35 million to $2.1 million, shifting that cash to 2027. Still, he’s got a $10 million roster bonus locked in for next year. Atlanta signed Cousins in 2024 with $100 million guaranteed, then drafted Michael Penix Jr. at No. 8. But when Penix tore his ACL, Cousins stepped in, starting seven games. His numbers? Solid-ish: 1,721 yards, 10 TDs, five picks. Not bad for a guy nearing 40. We’ll be right back. Break 3: EAGLE THEATRE And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats 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.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for January 7th Publish Date:  January 7th Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, January 7th and Happy Birthday to Kenny Loggins I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Interstate lane closure advisory for the I-285/I-20 West Interchange Project Infants, toddlers learn, play together in Saturday story time Kennesaw Catholic school sees financial awards, growth in third year of operation 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: Interstate lane closure advisory for the I-285/I-20 West Interchange Project Heads up, drivers: weather permitting, GDOT contractors will be closing lanes around the I-285/I-20 West Interchange for a major reconstruction project. Expect delays, detours, and, let’s be honest, some frustration. The project? It’s a big one—widening ramps, adding collector-distributor lanes, and improving traffic flow. But first, the closures: I-285 Northbound: Cascade to Bolton, nightly Jan. 5–9, with single-lane closures starting at 9 p.m. and double-lane closures at 11 p.m. I-285 Southbound: Donald Lee Hollowell to MLK Jr. Drive, same dates and times, with alternating lane closures. I-20 Westbound: Anderson Ave. to Riverside Parkway, nightly closures from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. I-20 Eastbound: Riverside Parkway to I-285, alternating lane closures nightly. Flagging operations and pacing will also hit local roads like Collier Drive and Delmar Lane. Check 511ga.org or the Georgia 511 app for real-time updates. And please—slow down, stay alert, and watch for workers. STORY 2: Infants, toddlers learn, play together in Saturday story time  Saturday morning at the Lewis A. Ray Library was pure chaos—the good kind. Ten little ones, from wobbly toddlers to wide-eyed infants, gathered on a colorful mat in the children’s section, ready for story time. Their parents? Mostly trying to keep up. Jess Fulcher, the library’s assistant senior librarian of youth services, led the charge. There were songs (“Wheels on the Bus,” of course), dancing, and two books about big feelings: Mad, Mad Bear and Leo Wakes Up Grumpy. The kids shook maracas, froze mid-dance, and popped bubbles from a machine that sent hundreds floating through the air. “It’s amazing,” Fulcher said, smiling. “I’ve been seeing some of these kids for over a year now. Watching them grow, connect, and learn—it’s the best part of my job.” The library, located at 4500 Oakdale Road, hosts family story time every other Saturday. For details, visit cobbcounty.gov/location/lewis-ray-library. STORY 3: Kennesaw Catholic school sees financial awards, growth in third year of operation  The 2025-26 school year has been a big one for Kennesaw’s Chesterton Academy of Atlanta. Just three years in, this small Catholic high school is growing steadily—and racking up some impressive wins along the way. Founded in 2023, the school is part of the global Chesterton Schools Network, which aims to provide affordable, classical Catholic education. Tuition? $9,185 per year. This year, the network snagged the prestigious $1 million Yass Prize for education innovation, while the Kennesaw campus received a $3,000 grant from the Catholic Foundation of North Georgia to upgrade its art room and cafeteria. From just 10 students in its first year to over 30 now, Chesterton Academy is carving out a special place in Georgia’s Catholic education landscape. For more, visit chestertonatl.org. 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 lawmakers react to U.S. strike on Venezuela Cobb County lawmakers are weighing in on the U.S. military’s strike in Venezuela, which ended with the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. The operation, ordered by President Trump, has sparked a firestorm of reactions—both praise and sharp criticism. U.S. Rep. Barry Loudermilk, R-Cassville, called the move “decisive and courageous,” hailing it as the end of a “tyrannical regime” and a chance for a brighter future for Venezuela. But not everyone’s cheering. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Rome, slammed the strike, questioning its consistency with Trump’s stance on Ukraine and accusing the administration of prioritizing foreign conflicts over domestic issues. “Why is it okay when we do it?” she asked on X. Rep. Lucy McBath, D-Marietta, echoed concerns, demanding clarity on the strike’s legality and its potential to destabilize Venezuela further. Sen. Raphael Warnock, D-Georgia, went even further, calling it a “broken promise” from a president more focused on foreign oil than Americans’ struggles. Locally, the Cobb Democratic Party condemned the strike as “unlawful,” while Cobb GOP President Mary Clarice Hathaway defended Trump’s decision, saying, “Sometimes hard decisions are necessary.” STORY 5: Cobb Police arrest suspect in New Year’s Day homicide   A New Year’s Day stabbing at the Millwood Apartment Complex in Marietta left one man dead and another behind bars. Cobb County Police say they responded to a call around 8:30 a.m. on Jan. 1 at 300 Pat Mell Road, near Austell Road. When officers arrived, they found 47-year-old Jerry Sampson Jr. with a stab wound. He was rushed to the hospital but didn’t make it. The suspect, 50-year-old Zuberi A. Douglas, was arrested the next day at the same apartment complex where the incident happened. He’s now facing charges, including felony murder. The investigation is ongoing. Got info? Call 770-499-3945. Break: STORY 6: Mac’s Chophouse scores 64 on health inspection, owners say violations are being corrected     Mac’s Chophouse, a Marietta Square favorite, hit a rough patch, scoring a 64 on its health inspection—an unsatisfactory “U” grade. Ouch. Co-owners Randy McCray and Chef Mike Fuller didn’t shy away from the news. “This score doesn’t reflect who we are,” they said, calling most violations “administrative” rather than food safety issues. The inspection cited nine problems, from improper handwashing to black buildup in ice machines. A half-eaten burger on a prep table? Not a great look. McCray admitted, “We fell behind during a busy season.” They’ve since cleaned house—literally—and are prepping for a re-inspection by Jan. 9. STORY 7: Wheeler falls in title game of Hoophall West  Darius Wabbington was unstoppable. He dropped 23 points, grabbed nine boards, and led Sunnyslope to a nail-biting 61-59 win over Wheeler in the Hoophall West Nike Tournament of Champions final on Saturday. Wheeler (11-3), ranked No. 5 by MaxPreps, had a solid run—beating Salesian (CA) and No. 6 Millennium (AZ)—but three games in three days and 1,800 miles of travel caught up with them. Still, they fought. Down 47-45 heading into the fourth, they clawed back to lead 53-51. But Sunnyslope? Ice cold at the line. They hit all 15 free throws, including six clutch ones from Colorado signee Rider Portela, who finished with 14 points. The game was chaos—nine ties, 16 lead changes, and no lead bigger than five. Wheeler’s Amare James (16 points) and Colben Landrew (20 points, six assists) kept it close, but Wabbington’s second-half threes and Sunnyslope’s composure sealed it. Tough loss, but what a game. 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.

Top Stories for January 6th Publish Date: January 6th From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Tuesday, January 6th and Happy Birthday to Malcolm Young I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Lawrenceville's new downtown hotel rising ahead of schedule Lawrenceville resident kicks off new year by winning $1 million in the Georgia Lottery The Latest: US strikes Venezuela, captures Maduro and his wife 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: Lawrenceville's new downtown hotel rising ahead of schedule Lawrenceville’s dream of a downtown hotel has been a slow burn—years of planning, delays, and setbacks. But now? It’s finally happening, and faster than anyone expected. The Lawrence Hilton Tapestry, a boutique hotel nestled between the Lawrenceville Lawn and Arts Center, is set to open mid-2026. Or maybe even earlier. “We’re ahead of schedule and under budget,” said City Manager Chuck Warbington. Brickwork is already going up, and the weather’s been a surprising ally—minimal rain, no freezing temps. The hotel will feature 120 rooms, meeting spaces, a chef-driven restaurant (Bellfire), and a bar (Old Nick’s). Plus, 200 new parking spots in the city-owned deck below. This project’s been a decade in the making, delayed by COVID and financing hurdles. But now, Lawrenceville’s vision of a walkable, thriving downtown is finally within reach. STORY 2: Lawrenceville resident kicks off new year by winning $1 million in the Georgia Lottery Three Georgians are starting 2026 a whole lot richer—millionaires, in fact. Among them? A lucky winner from Lawrenceville, along with two others from College Park and Grovetown. Their $1 million prizes came from the Georgia Lottery’s second-chance Georgia Millionaire drawing, announced right as the clock struck midnight on New Year’s. Talk about a way to ring in the new year. The Georgia Millionaire scratcher offers $10,000 instant prizes and a shot at the big one through second-chance entries. STORY 3: The Latest: US strikes Venezuela, captures Maduro and his wife The United States launched a military operation early Saturday, capturing Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, in a move that’s already shaking the world. By morning, he was aboard a U.S. warship, blindfolded and bound for New York to face drug trafficking charges. President Trump, speaking on Fox News, called the operation “genius” and confirmed the U.S. would oversee Venezuela’s next steps. “We’ll be involved very much,” he said. The fallout was immediate. Venezuela’s U.N. ambassador condemned the strike as a “colonial war,” while China and Russia slammed the U.S. for violating international law. Meanwhile, in South Florida, Venezuelan exiles celebrated, waving flags and chanting “Liberty!” Maduro’s capture marks a dramatic escalation in U.S.-Venezuela tensions. Trump dismissed criticism over bypassing Congress, calling his opponents “weak” and insisting the operation was necessary. “The tyrant is gone,” said Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau. 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: ART BEAT: Beat those January blues with exciting Gwinnett arts events Feeling the post-holiday slump? The decorations are packed away, the parties are over, and—ugh—football season’s almost done. So now what? Here’s an idea: throw on that big coat, brave the chill, and dive into Gwinnett’s arts scene. Plays, concerts, art classes—there’s plenty to shake off the winter blahs. On Jan. 11, the Gwinnett Symphony Orchestra and Youth Orchestra team up for a concert at Discovery Theatre in Lawrenceville. Mozart, Strauss, and even Anderson’s quirky “The Typewriter” are on the program. Tickets? Head to www.tix.com. Prefer visual art? The Hudgens Center in Duluth has three exhibits running through January, including “Sketching with Buck,” a stunning collection of hand-drawn architectural sketches from around the world. Or maybe you’re itching to create? The Suwanee Arts Center offers classes like “Watercolor Landscapes” (Jan. 7 and 14) and “Drawing Basics” starting Jan. 17. Winter doesn’t stand a chance. STORY 5: Meet the first babies born in 2026 at hospitals in Gwinnett New Year’s Eve is exciting enough—countdowns, confetti, champagne. But imagine if Jan. 1 was also your birthday. That’s exactly the case for a few lucky babies born in Gwinnett hospitals as the calendar flipped to 2026. At 12:44 a.m., Julian Alessandro Sanchez made his debut at Northside Hospital Gwinnett in Lawrenceville, becoming their first baby of the year. Over at Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Braselton, Brittany and Ryan Hopper of Hoschton welcomed twin boys—Koen Anthony at 4:58 a.m. and Kaden Michael at 5:14 a.m. The Hopper family even received a gift basket from the hospital’s Auxiliary and Safe Kids program. We’ll be right back. Break 3: EAGLE THEATRE Gentleman’s Guide STORY 6: Gwinnett police offering free women's basic self-defense course The Gwinnett County Police Department is hosting a self-defense program for women 16 and up, and honestly, it’s something every woman should consider. The Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) course isn’t just about learning moves—it’s about building confidence, awareness, and practical skills to stay safe. Over four sessions (Jan. 20, 22, 27, and 29, from 6–9 p.m.), participants will dive into risk awareness, avoidance strategies, and hands-on defense techniques. It wraps up with a live simulation—because practice makes perfect, right? Held at the Gwinnett Police Training Center in Lawrenceville, spots fill fast. Don’t wait. Call 678.442.6520 or visit GwinnettCounty.com/RAD to register. STORY 7: Norcross Grad Mason Kaplan Earns NCAA Elite Scholar-Athlete Award Norcross alum Mason Kaplan just added another impressive accolade to his already stacked resume. On Saturday, the Illinois State linebacker snagged the NCAA FCS Football Elite Scholar-Athlete Award—one of the most prestigious academic honors in college football. Here’s the deal: this award isn’t just about being good on the field. It’s for the student-athlete with the highest GPA at the finals site of an NCAA championship. And Kaplan? He’s rocking a 4.0 in grad school, studying the psychology of sport and physical activity. Oh, and he’s also president of ISU’s Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. What’s wild? Kaplan started his college career as a quarterback, playing two seasons at Valparaiso and one at Illinois State before an injury sidelined him in 2024. This year, though, he’s made a seamless (and dominant) transition to linebacker, helping lead the Redbirds to Monday’s FCS National Championship in Nashville. 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.

On this episode, Donna and Orlando reflect on their evolution since starting the podcast in 2019 as Orlando bids farewell to Authentically Detroit. Together they look at how time sharpens politics and encourage Detroiters to keep showing up and building power where it matters.They also sat down with the Co-Founder and Executive Director of 482Forward to discuss how their work helps Detroiters to become fully engaged participants in efforts to change Detroit for the better. 482Forward grew out of trial by fire. Many of the founding organizations had previous relationships and shared work in Detroit, but came together for a special purpose– to create the 482Forward network. Molly Sweeney and Jamila Martin, founding co-directors, convened a roundtable of community-based partners at Excellent Schools Detroit who were interested in engaging in education organizing in their neighborhoods.Together, they are creating a Detroit where every student graduates ready to become a fully engaged participant in the world, equipped with the character and the capacity to negotiate her environment and change it for the better.Sign up to gather signatures and join Love Beats Greed actions here. FOR HOT TAKES:JAMES TATE SELECTED AS DETROIT COUNCIL PRESIDENT Support the showFollow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

Today is the deadline for candidate filings in the state of Wisconsin. To break down the races in this busy election year, host Dana Pellebon speaks with three powerhouse local journalists, Christina Lieffring, Enjoyiana Nururdin, and Faye Parks.  There was a general sense of surprise and excitement at the number of contested races. Nururdin says that she's noticed more people wanting to be active at the local level, including with the school board and Dane County Board. And Parks has noticed people getting engaged on topics like housing, school referendums, and other issues that affect their daily lives. Lieffring says that when things are going well, people tend to ignore local government, but things aren't going well right now.  Change is on the horizon in the city of Madison as a number of Common Council seats are up for grabs as the city adjusts to its new staggered terms. And in Dane County there are more unopposed races. Nururdin wants to see more debate and constituent feedback about Dane County Board positions, but this is challenging because newsrooms struggle to devote a lot of time and energy to smaller races, says Lieffring. The Governor's race may be the hottest line on the ballot with a large primary field of Democratic candidates but only two Republican contenders. Nururdin says that people want to see candidates who are active in the community, not just at press opportunities. And Lieffring wants to see the candidates go beyond political slogans.  Christina Lieffring is Tone Madison's Managing Editor, a free-wheelin' freelancer, and lifelong Midwesterner. Enjoyiana Nururdin is a Madisonian and the local government reporter at the Cap Times Newspaper where she covers the ins and outs of City Hall and politics in Dane County. A graduate of UW-Madison’s School of Journalism and Columbia University in New York, Enjoyiana brings experience covering homelessness, government transparency and uplifting community voices in her work. Faye Parks is the Producer of WORT’s 6pm Local News. Featured image of a person voting via Pexels. Did you enjoy this story? Your funding makes great, local journalism like this possible. Donate hereThe post Local Journalists Weigh-In on Upcoming 2026 Elections appeared first on WORT-FM 89.9.

Our HNN First Alert Weather team is watching that Kona low that could bring more heavy rains and thunderstorms. Honolulu police and state law enforcement release the final numbers from their joint New Year's Eve illegal fireworks enforcement. A revered kuma hula who dedicated her life to preserving ancient Hawaiian traditions dies in Hilo.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Police are investigating an apparent murder-suicide in Waikiki after finding the bodies of a man and woman in a room at the Wailana. Authorities say they received nearly 600 reports of illegal fireworks during New Year's celebrations, plus new numbers on arrests and fireworks seized. Hawaii mourns Nālani Kanakaʻole, a fifth-generation kumu hula who dedicated her life to preserving and practicing ancient Hawaiian traditions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hilo loses an icon. This morning, we remember kumu hula Nalani Kanakaole, and her legacy that will live on. Changes on the way for Hawaiian Airlines. Details on a $600-million investment plan and what you could see when flying in the future. The eyes of the tech world are on Las Vegas this week for the annual Consumer Electronics Show. Our expert Jamey Tucker is there. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the WFHB Local News for Tuesday, January 6th, 2026. In today's newscast, we're revisiting several of our feature reports from late 2025, highlighting issues that continue to shape life in Indiana and here in Bloomington. We're looking back at reporting on democracy, free speech and community response during extreme weather in today's episode …

Jen Sabella, the Director of Strategy and co-founder of Block Club Chicago, joins Bob Sirott to share the latest Chicago neighborhood stories. She provides details on: Flu Hospitalizations In Chicago Hit 3-Year High: The rise is driven by a new variant called subclade K that's led to outbreaks across the globe. There's still time to get […]

Developments in a road rage attack case in Kakaako. What the suspect is expected to do when he appears in court this week. How well are state leaders responding to the challenges that all of us are facing? The results from a new public survey. That's the name of a newly-launched tourism campaign targeting the Los Angeles market. We sent Casey Lund to the city of angels to check out what this could mean for the local visitor industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the WFHB Local News for Monday, January 5th, 2026. In today's newscast, WFHB's Youth Radio teamed up with the News Department for their journalism-focused day during their Winter Camp last week. The camp culminated into a final feature focusing on food insecurity in Monroe County – what it looks like locally, who it …

Bears Ticket Scams full 30 Mon, 05 Jan 2026 11:32:23 +0000 Ze8v7k7vLATgIVuoY53ULWyBZ5IIiOB1 local news,local,news Chicago All Local local news,local,news Bears Ticket Scams A dive into the top headlines in Chicago, delivering the news you need in 10 minutes or less multiple times a day from WBBM Newsradio. 2024 © 2021 Audacy, Inc. News False https://player.amperwavepodcasting.com?feed-link=https%3A%2F%2Frss.amperwa

Jon Hansen, host and executive producer of the Block Club Chicago Podcast, joins Bob Sirott to share the latest Chicago neighborhood stories. Jon has details on: Chicagoans March Against Trump's Removal Of Venezuelan Leader: ‘Solely About Oil And Power': Hundreds marched Downtown Saturday to denounce President Donald Trump's military operation in Venezuela, while Venezuelans living […]

Top Stories for January 3rd Publish Date: January 3rd From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Saturday, January 3rd and Happy Birthday to John Paul Jones I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia. Gwinnett couple handcuffed at home after fake hostage call Why warming up your car on cold mornings might actually be hurting it Judge again pauses Georgia execution amid parole board conflict questions 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 couple handcuffed at home after fake hostage call Christmas Eve turned into a nightmare for Fredis Mejia and his wife. One minute, they were watching a movie. The next? Police with guns and shields were storming their home on Sugar Mill Drive. Through his security cameras, he saw officers surrounding the house. Moments later, he was on the ground, handcuffed. His wife, terrified it was immigration officers, refused to open the door until neighbors convinced her. The reason? A fake 911 call claiming a woman was being held at gunpoint. The caller gave an address that doesn’t even exist—4051 Sugar Hill Court. Gwinnett police say they acted quickly, fearing someone’s life was in danger. But Mejia says they treated him and his wife like criminals. “No apology, nothing. They just left,” he said. Police now believe it was a “swatting” incident, where false reports trigger a heavy police response. It’s illegal, and those responsible could face serious charges. STORY 2: Why warming up your car on cold mornings might actually be hurting it We’ve all done it. It’s freezing outside, so you grab your coffee, throw on a coat, start the car, and let it idle while you finish getting ready. Feels like the right move, right? A warm car, defrosted windshield—what’s not to love? Well, here’s the thing: that old habit might actually be doing more harm than good. Back in the day, when cars had carburetors, warming up your engine was necessary. But modern engines? They don’t need it. In fact, idling too long can damage your engine. Fuel doesn’t fully evaporate in cold weather, which means it can wash away the oil that lubricates critical parts like pistons and cylinders. Less oil equals more wear and tear—and a shorter engine life. So, what’s the better move? Start your car, wait 30 seconds, and drive off gently. The motion warms the engine faster than idling ever could. And if your windshield’s iced over? Grab a scraper. Don’t just sit there waiting for the defroster to do all the work. Oh, and if you’re driving an EV, preheat it while it’s plugged in to save battery range. STORY 3: Judge again pauses Georgia execution amid parole board conflict questions A Georgia judge hit the brakes on Stacey Humphreys’ execution—again. Originally set for Dec. 17, the lethal injection was paused last-minute, and now Fulton County Judge Robert McBurney says there’s more to sort out. The issue? Possible conflicts of interest on the state parole board, which decides clemency. Humphreys’ lawyers argue two board members shouldn’t even be involved. One, Kimberly McCoy, was a victim advocate during his trial. The other, Wayne Bennett, was the sheriff overseeing security when the trial moved to Glynn County. “Pressing pause is the right move,” McBurney wrote, calling the concerns “non-frivolous.” Humphreys, 52, was convicted of killing two women in a Cobb County real estate office back in 2003. His defense team says he deserves a clemency hearing without potential bias. Both sides have until Jan. 19 to file more arguments. For now, the clock stops. 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: Virginia-Highland staple Murphy’s sold to father-son chef duo After 45 years, Murphy’s Restaurant, a Virginia-Highland institution, is changing hands—but not entirely leaving the family, in a way. Tom Murphy, who opened the beloved spot in 1980 as a Georgia State class project, has sold it to father-son chef duo Gregg and Matt McCarthy. They’ll officially take over on Jan. 5, 2026. The McCarthys are no strangers to Murphy’s. Gregg was executive chef from 2005 to 2009, and Matt joined as executive chef in 2023. “Murphy’s is more than a restaurant—it’s a cornerstone of this community,” they said. For decades, Murphy’s has been the go-to for brunch, wine tastings, and cozy dinners. And now, it’s ready for its next chapter. STORY 5: Historic Campbellton Park expands as development in South Fulton County continues Tucked along the Chattahoochee River, about 30 miles from Atlanta, lies the quiet, nature-filled city of Chattahoochee Hills. Mayor-elect Camille Lowe has big plans to make this hidden gem more accessible—without losing its charm. One of those big ideas? Expanding Campbellton Park from 18 acres to 95, thanks to a $2.5 million public-private effort led by the Trust for Public Land. Christine Hassell, who oversees capital projects for the Chattahoochee program, says the park is part of a larger vision: connecting one million people across 50 miles, from Atlanta to Alabama, through trails and river access. With new trails, birdwatching spots, and a rich history woven into the land, the park is already drawing visitors. And with MARTA’s bus rapid transit and local business revitalization underway, the area is poised for thoughtful growth. Break 3: GCPL Passport STORY 6: Teen accused of stealing thousands in East Cobb Venmo scam A 17-year-old is accused of pulling off a bold scam at a busy East Cobb intersection, tricking drivers into handing over thousands of dollars under the guise of collecting donations for a basketball team. Police say Antrez Jenkins stood at Johnson Ferry and Lower Roswell roads, asking for $1 donations. But when drivers opened payment apps like Venmo, he allegedly grabbed their phones and transferred much larger amounts before handing them back. One victim, Brenda Laskey, said it happened to her on Christmas Day. “He was messing with my phone, and I grabbed his and said, ‘Give me my phone back now!’” she recalled. When she got home, she discovered $2,000 had been drained from her account. Laskey immediately changed her passwords and called 911. Police arrested Jenkins at the same intersection, charging him with robbery and theft by deception. STORY 7: 25-year-old Georgia police officer battles stage 5 kidney failure At just 25, Officer Quas’Jon “Q” Flowers is facing a battle no one sees coming in their twenties: stage five kidney failure. A two-year veteran of the Albany Police Department, Flowers has been fighting a hereditary kidney condition since his teens. His health took a sharp turn in recent years—his kidney function plummeting from near-normal in 2021 to just 5–9% now. Doctors have placed a dialysis catheter, and he’s preparing for at-home treatments while awaiting final approval to join the kidney transplant list. A living donor could change everything, offering better outcomes and a shorter wait. The Albany Police Department is rallying behind him. “We lift him up in strength and support,” they said. Nearly 90,000 people in the U.S. are waiting for a kidney transplant. If you’d like to help, visit www.donatelifegeorgia.org to learn about organ donation. 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.

Law enforcement leaders share initial thoughts about effectiveness of beefed up efforts to crackdown on illegal fireworks. New video from Maui shows the moment a resident says an illegal firework exploded on the side of their Kahului home. And the Oahu man accused of killing his mother at her Hawaii Kai home tells a judge he wants to represent himself. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for January 2nd Publish Date:  January 2nd    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, January 2nd and Happy Birthday to Cuba Gooding Jr. I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal No more cars up Kennesaw Mountain, starting January Paychex founder makes historic $50 million gift to Wellstar Meet Aloka, the peace dog winning hearts nationwide during Walk for Peace 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 2 STORY 1: No more cars up Kennesaw Mountain, starting January  Starting this month, private cars will no longer be allowed up Kennesaw Mountain. The park’s steep, winding Mountain Road—famous for its blind curves and 12% grade—has become a safety headache, with too many close calls between cars, cyclists, and hikers. Instead, visitors can reach the summit by shuttle, bike, or on foot. A new pedestrian lane will make the 1.5-mile trek safer for walkers, while the unpaved hiking trail remains untouched. Acting Superintendent Beth Wheeler said the changes address “growing safety concerns” and aim to protect the park’s natural and historic beauty. Road striping starts Jan. 6, with closures lasting through March. STORY 2: Paychex founder makes historic $50 million gift to Wellstar Philanthropist and Paychex founder Tom Golisano just made history with a $50 million gift to Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia (WCHOG), the largest donation in Wellstar’s history. In recognition, the hospital will now be called the Wellstar Golisano Children’s Hospital of Georgia. This isn’t just a check—it’s a game-changer. The hospital is joining the Golisano Children’s Alliance, a network of 12 children’s hospitals across the U.S., opening doors to collaboration, innovation, and shared expertise. It’s the only hospital in the alliance representing Georgia and its neighboring states. The donation will fund projects like a cutting-edge pediatric cardiac ICU, further cementing Wellstar’s reputation for top-tier pediatric care. Other hospitals in the alliance include institutions in Buffalo, Fort Myers, and Hershey, Pa.—all part of Golisano’s mission to improve children’s health nationwide. STORY 3: Meet Aloka, the peace dog winning hearts nationwide during Walk for Peace   If you’ve ever seen a serene dog strolling alongside Buddhist monks—sometimes dressed better than the humans—you’ve probably met Aloka, the Peace Dog. Aloka isn’t flashy. He doesn’t bark for attention or demand the spotlight. But somehow, he’s become the quiet soul of the Walk for Peace, embodying everything it stands for. He walks when he can, rides when he’s tired, and never strays from the monks’ side. Once a stray in India, Aloka chose this life. Literally. He started following the monks during a peace walk years ago and never stopped. Now, he’s trekking across the U.S., his calm presence lifting spirits and drawing fans online. Despite the growing attention, Aloka stays grounded. He’s shy with fans, content to rest his paws in the grass or wait patiently for the next step. He doesn’t need words or signs to make his point. Aloka just shows up, step after step, proving that quiet compassion can be the loudest message of all. 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 2 STORY 4: Duo Arpeggione to perform Jan. 11 at St. Catherine’s Episcopal Church  St. Catherine’s Episcopal Church in Marietta (571 Holt Road) is hosting something special: a performance by the world-renowned Duo Arpeggione as part of its Friends of Music series. Mark your calendar—Sunday, Jan. 11, at 3 p.m., in the church sanctuary. Duo Arpeggione, formed in 2017, brings together pianist Catherine Lan and cellist Claudio Jaffe. Their program, “Romantic Resonance,” promises a journey through the evolution of piano and cello music, from Beethoven’s refined elegance to the fiery, nationalistic flair of Cassadó and Chopin. Admission is free—donations welcome. Seating is first-come, first-served. Questions? Call 770-971-2839 or email stcats@stcatherines.org. STORY 5: Sprayberry comes back to upend Sandy Creek Down 12 in the second half against three-time defending state champs Sandy Creek, Sprayberry’s boys basketball team could’ve folded. But they didn’t. Instead, they clawed their way back for a gritty 50-45 win Monday at the Lemon Street Classic. Sandy Creek (6-2) brought the heat early, showing why they’re one of the toughest defensive teams around. Sprayberry (9-3) struggled to find rhythm, trailing 26-18 at halftime. Nate McDaniel sparked an 11-2 run in the third, hitting a three and sinking free throws to pull Sprayberry within three. McDaniel, who’s been part of the program since he was a kid, finished with 16 points, 10 in the second half. The Yellow Jackets opened the fourth with eight straight points, taking a 39-34 lead. Sandy Creek fought back, briefly reclaiming the lead at 42-41, but McDaniel’s clutch three-point play and a layup from Christian Bass sealed the deal. ANTHONY JOSHUA: The boxing world is reeling after a tragic car crash near Lagos on Monday left Anthony Joshua injured and claimed the lives of two of his closest friends, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele. Joshua, a two-time heavyweight champ and Olympic gold medalist, is recovering in stable condition, his promoter confirmed. But the loss of Ghami, his strength coach, and Ayodele, a trainer, has left a deep void. Just hours before the crash, Joshua and Ayodele had shared a lighthearted moment on social media, playing table tennis together. Tributes poured in from the boxing community. Tyson Fury called it “heartbreaking,” while Chris Eubank Jr. remembered Ghami and Ayodele as “genuinely good men.” Shannon Courtenay urged fans to keep Joshua in their prayers, adding, “No one should have to witness what he did.” The crash is a stark reminder of the fragility of life, even for giants like Joshua. 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 2 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 1st Publish Date: January 1st From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Thursday, January 1st and Happy birthday to Verne Troyer I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Meet Aloka, the peace dog winning hearts nationwide during Walk for Peace Gwinnettians urged to 'treecycle' their live Christmas trees $100K in Pokémon cards stolen from Carrollton shop 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: Meet Aloka, the peace dog winning hearts nationwide during Walk for Peace If you’ve ever seen a serene dog strolling alongside Buddhist monks—sometimes dressed better than the humans—you’ve probably met Aloka, the Peace Dog. Aloka isn’t flashy. He doesn’t bark for attention or demand the spotlight. But somehow, he’s become the quiet soul of the Walk for Peace, embodying everything it stands for. He walks when he can, rides when he’s tired, and never strays from the monks’ side. Once a stray in India, Aloka chose this life. Literally. He started following the monks during a peace walk years ago and never stopped. Now, he’s trekking across the U.S., his calm presence lifting spirits and drawing fans online. Despite the growing attention, Aloka stays grounded. He’s shy with fans, content to rest his paws in the grass or wait patiently for the next step. He doesn’t need words or signs to make his point. Aloka just shows up, step after step, proving that quiet compassion can be the loudest message of all. STORY 2: Gwinnettians urged to 'treecycle' their live Christmas trees Christmas 2025 is officially in the rearview mirror, and if you went with a live tree this year, you’re probably staring at it now, wondering, “What the heck do I do with this thing?” Gwinnett Clean and Beautiful has your answer: “Treecycle” it. Yep, their annual Bring One for the Chipper program is back, and they’re asking families to drop off their used live trees at participating fire stations by Jan. 21, 2026. The trees will be chipped into mulch for parks and public spaces—because why let a perfectly good tree go to waste? The big chipping event happens Jan. 24 at Bethesda Park in Lawrenceville, and volunteers are needed. Want to help? You’ve got to be at least 14, and you can sign up through Volunteer Gwinnett. Oh, and a quick heads-up: no lights, tinsel, ornaments, or stands—just the tree, bare and ready for its second act. Questions? Call 770-822-5187 or email gwinnettcb@gwinnettcb.org. STORY 3: $100K in Pokémon cards stolen from Carrollton shop Christmas Eve took a sour turn for Tag Collects, a local trading card shop, when a thief smashed their way in and made off with over $100,000 in rare Pokémon cards and sealed merchandise. Co-owner Tommy Brown got the alert early that morning—someone had hurled a tow hitch ball through the front door. In under two minutes, the thief grabbed rare gems like the coveted Umbreon “Moonbreon” card (worth $3,000) and Gold Star Rayquazas, valued at $14,000 combined. Sealed boxes, some worth up to $12,000 each, were also taken. The store has launched a GoFundMe to cover repairs and payroll, while Carrollton police are asking anyone with tips to come forward. 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 STORY 4: Is New Year's Day a federal holiday? Here's what's open and closed The first day of 2026 is here, and while it’s a holiday for many, it might throw a wrench in your plans if you’re trying to run errands or grab last-minute essentials. Here’s the deal: Walmart? Open. Target? Open. Costco? Nope, closed. Same for Aldi and Trader Joe’s. Whole Foods? Modified hours. CVS and Walgreens? Open, but check for reduced pharmacy hours. Mail? Forget it—USPS, UPS, and FedEx are all taking the day off. Banks and government offices? Closed too. Moral of the story? Plan ahead. STORY 5: Wesleyan Grad Eva Garabadian Earns Auburn Basketball Spot in Open Tryout Eva Garabadian thought basketball was behind her. Done. She’d moved on. A former three-sport star at Wesleyan—basketball, lacrosse, softball—she started her college hoops career at Georgia College and State University, a Division II school. One season, 16 games off the bench. Then she transferred to Auburn, not for sports, but for life. Basketball? That chapter was closed. She played pickup games, joined Auburn’s club lacrosse team, and settled into her new normal. Until October. A random Instagram post about walk-on tryouts flipped everything. Two weeks later, she was at Neville Arena, trying out. No nerves, just drills she’d done a hundred times. Worst case? She’d go back to her regular life. Best case? A dream she thought was over might come back. And it did. A text from Auburn’s new head coach, Larry Vickers, sealed it: she made the team. Now, she’s an SEC basketball player. From Division II to SEC, from thinking it was over to living the dream again—Eva’s story is proof that sometimes, life gives you a second chance when you least expect it. FALCONS: The Falcons’ season, a rollercoaster of confusion and chaos, somehow got even weirder Monday night. Already eliminated from playoff contention weeks ago, Atlanta (7-9) pulled off a dramatic 27-24 win over the Rams, their third straight victory in a season that’s been equal parts frustrating and baffling. Zane Gonzalez nailed a 51-yard field goal with 21 seconds left, capping a game where Atlanta blew a 21-point lead but still managed to hang on. It’s been that kind of year—beating Super Bowl contenders like Buffalo and L.A., but losing to teams like the Jets and Panthers. Go figure. Bijan Robinson was unstoppable, racking up 195 rushing yards, two touchdowns, and a highlight-reel 93-yard run that left jaws on the floor. Rookie safety Xavier Watts continued his breakout season with two interceptions, tying Deion Sanders’ rookie record for Atlanta. But let’s not sugarcoat it—this season’s been a mess. Special teams? A disaster, with yet another blocked field goal returned for a touchdown. The Cousins signing? A head-scratcher. And yet, somehow, the Falcons are ending the year on a high note, showing flashes of the potential fans expected back in August. For now, though, they’ll be watching the playoffs from the couch—again. Break 3: GCPL Passport 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 2nd Publish Date: January 2nd   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, January 2nd and Happy Birthday to Cuba Gooding Jr. I’m Chris Culwell and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cherokee County’s Development Service Center going cashless Cherokee County musician Kurt Lee Wheeler performs in movie MLK Day Unity Breakfast returning to Canton after hiatus Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads We’ll have all this and more coming up on the Cherokee Tribune-Ledger Podcast, and if you’re looking for Community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  Commercial: INGLES 9 STORY 1: Cherokee County’s Development Service Center going cashless The Cherokee County Development Service Center is now cashless—no more bills or coins at the counter. If you’re handling business licenses, building permits, alcohol licenses, or even motorized cart registrations, you’ll need to pay with a card, check, money order, or online. The office, located on the ground floor of the county’s admin building in Canton, says this change will speed things up and make transactions more secure. So, plan ahead—no cash, no exceptions. Got questions? Call 770-721-7810 or email dsc@cherokeecountyga.gov. And hey, for more details, check out their website. STORY 2: Cherokee County musician Kurt Lee Wheeler performs in movie Kurt Lee Wheeler’s had plenty to smile about this holiday season. By day, he’s teaching at Creekland Middle School in Canton—a job he loves. But outside the classroom? He’s been busy releasing a new album and making his movie debut. After hearing his music, producer and actress Roberta Sparta invited Wheeler to perform in The Secret Life of a Good Wife, a Lifetime movie that premiered Thanksgiving Day. In a scene shot in Acworth, Wheeler and his band played during an outdoor gathering. Wheeler’s new album, Lathemtown, features some of the best bluegrass talent around, including Aaron Ramsey and Jake Stargel. A Cherokee County favorite, Wheeler’s also known for writing the county’s official song and performing at countless local events. With retirement from teaching on the horizon this May, Wheeler’s looking forward to traveling, spending time with his new grandchild, and, of course, making more music. STORY 3: MLK Day Unity Breakfast returning to Canton after hiatus  The MLK Day Unity Breakfast is making its long-awaited return to Canton on Jan. 19 after a six-year break. This free event kicks off at 8 a.m. with breakfast at the Cherokee County Conference Center (1130 Bluffs Parkway), followed by a program at 9 a.m. honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy of equality, justice, and service. The keynote speaker? Canton native and weather-climate expert Dr. James Marshall Shepherd, a Cherokee High valedictorian who’s advised NASA, Congress, and even the White House. The program will also feature local leaders, a community choir, creative dance, and the CFCC Unity Award Presentation. For more info or to donate, visit cfergusoncc.org. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 10 STORY 4: Johns Creek holds off Cherokee Cherokee had its shot—literally—but couldn’t quite close the deal, falling 69-63 to Johns Creek in Monday’s Lemon Street Classic at Marietta High. Down two with 33 seconds left, Polk Corben’s steal and layup gave Cherokee life. Then Johns Creek missed two free throws, leaving the door wide open. But Braylon Luster’s potential game-tying shot? Off the mark. Forced to foul, Cherokee watched the Gladiators ice it with four free throws. Tatum Holmes led the Gladiators with 25 points, while Kaysan Brock added 13. For Cherokee, Sean Williams and Braylon Luster each dropped 21, with Luster sparking a furious fourth-quarter rally. Trailing 58-46 after three, Cherokee clawed back with a 10-2 run, cutting the lead to one. But Brock’s clutch three-pointer with 1:33 left sealed the Gladiators’ win. It was a back-and-forth battle early. Cherokee’s hot start from deep gave them a 9-2 lead, but Johns Creek answered with a 12-4 run, fueled by three triples. By halftime, the Gladiators clung to a 30-28 edge. In the end, Cherokee’s fight wasn’t enough. FALCONS: The Falcons’ season, a rollercoaster of confusion and chaos, somehow got even weirder Monday night. Already eliminated from playoff contention weeks ago, Atlanta (7-9) pulled off a dramatic 27-24 win over the Rams, their third straight victory in a season that’s been equal parts frustrating and baffling. Zane Gonzalez nailed a 51-yard field goal with 21 seconds left, capping a game where Atlanta blew a 21-point lead but still managed to hang on. It’s been that kind of year—beating Super Bowl contenders like Buffalo and L.A., but losing to teams like the Jets and Panthers. Go figure. Bijan Robinson was unstoppable, racking up 195 rushing yards, two touchdowns, and a highlight-reel 93-yard run that left jaws on the floor. But let’s not sugarcoat it—this season’s been a mess. Special teams? A disaster, with yet another blocked field goal returned for a touchdown. The Cousins signing? A head-scratcher. And yet, somehow, the Falcons are ending the year on a high note, showing flashes of the potential fans expected back in August. For now, though, they’ll be watching the playoffs from the couch—again. I’m Keith Ippolito and this is your tribune ledger sports minute. STORY 5: New laws will address professional services, homeowner protections, car owners and politicians  While most laws from this year’s legislative session kicked in back in July, a few big ones kicked off on New Year’s Day. They tackle everything from dentist shortages to car tags, with a little campaign finance reform thrown in for good measure. Take House Bill 148, for example. Rep. John Carson, a CPA from Cobb, is trying to fix Georgia’s accountant shortage. His bill updates a 30-year-old licensing system, making it easier to become a CPA and letting out-of-state firms work here without opening an office. Then there’s House Bill 567, aimed at solving the dentist drought. Rep. Katie Dempsey’s bill allows licensed dentists to practice online—yes, teledentistry is now a thing—and ensures dental plans cover it. Homeowners get a win, too. Senate Bill 35 doubles the notice period for nonrenewal of certain insurance policies to 60 days. And Senate Bill 112 makes HVAC warranties transferable to new buyers and bans those annoying “register your product or lose your warranty” rules. Campaign finance? Senate Bill 199 tightens the rules, requiring PACs to keep detailed bank records and file disclosures with the State Ethics Commission. Oh, and candidates can’t be investigated within 60 days of an election. And for the patriotic crowd, there’s Senate Bill 291. It introduces a new license plate with the American flag and “America First” slogan. Proceeds go to the state’s general fund. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on breads Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: INGLES 1   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From tourist taxes to a higher minimum wage there's a lot of new laws to keep track of in the new year. We break down the ones that will impact you and your family. The new sewer rates that will impact your bill. How many passwords do you need to remember each day? If it's a bit overwhelming our tech expert has a way to keep track.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While illegal aerials still lit up the night sky, Honolulu firefighters and Emergency Medical Services saw a significant drop in fireworks-related cases. The first day of the new year was also marked by the first traffic-related deaths on Oahu and Kauai. From an increase in minimum wage to rules for fundraising platforms, we look at the new state laws that went into effect at midnight.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shamus Toomey, Editor in Chief and co-founder of Block Club Chicago, joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to share the latest Chicago neighborhood stories. Shamus has details on: 10 Things To Do Outside In Chicago This January: Start off the new year by savoring the last of the twinkling lights, going on an “owl prowl,” […]

We discuss the latest State of Local News report produced by the Local News Initiative at Northwestern's Medill School of Journalism.

In November, Bodega Paradise, an X rated bar in East Harlem, had its liquor license revoked and was forced to shut down. WNYC producer Iru Ekpunobi walks us through what happened, based on reporting by Charles Lane, and explains how New York City defines adult entertainment and enforces those rules.

The number of reported injuries was released after Hawaii residents lit up the night sky with fireworks on New Year's Eve. Dozens are believed to be dead after a bar fire in the Swiss Alps. Experts explain ways to make resolutions for the new year stick.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

First responders address New Year's firework-related calls. About 40 people died, 115 were injured in a fire at a Swiss Alps bar during last night's celebration. HNN goes undercover with law enforcement patrolling New Year's Eve.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hawaii gets ready to ring in 2026 with eating, watching fireworks, and spending time with loved ones. Law enforcement has stepped up its patrols as residents wait to see if the new fireworks laws will really work. And there are several professional fireworks shows to enjoy around town -- where you can witness a spectacle when the clock strikes midnight. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the WFHB Local News for Thursday, January 1st, 2026. In today's newscast, we continue to look back at our reporting this year on immigration. You will hear from a man who was detained for 9.5 months by ICE in addition to interviews with Exodus Refugee Immigration. That's coming up next in today's edition …

Northwest suburban Walmart closes after a fire New Year's Eve.

MATT MEISTER explains why LOCAL NEWS is dying in COLORADO. After 25 years in broadcast, he reveals the agendas that forced him to walk away.At the peak of a legendary career in broadcast meteorology, Matt Meister decided to ditch the corporate script and bet everything on a community-run startup. In this episode of the Colorado Business Podcast, Matt reveals the "corporate rails" that held him back and the truth about declining news viewership. We dive into the provocative reality of the agendas: political, corporate, and scientific, that exist behind the scenes in traditional media. This is a conversation about the death of an industry and the birth of a new era of independent media. TOPICS IN THIS EPISODE

Northwest suburban Walmart closes after a fire New Year's Eve.

1 / 4 MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 31st Publish Date: December 31st Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. Today is Wednesday, December 31st and Happy Birthday to Donna Summer I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal 1. ‘Bittersweet’ goodbye: Marietta school board says farewell to three colleagues 2. New Cobb Young Republicans Chair looks to affordability, voter engagement 3. Cumberland CID details big projects, future plans 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 1 STORY 1: ‘Bittersweet’ goodbye: Marietta school board says farewell to three colleagues The final meeting of the year for the Marietta Board of Education was a bittersweet one, full of hugs, tears, and heartfelt goodbyes as three longtime members—A.B. Almy, Kerry Minervini, and Jason Waters—stepped down. During the meeting, emotions ran high. Vice Chair Jaillene Hunter praised Almy for her relentless push for academic excellence. Angela Orange called Minervini “a woman who gives a million percent,” while Irene Berens, tearing up, described Waters as “an exceptional man and a dear friend.” Waters, who’s moving on to the Marietta City Council, called the moment “surreal.” Minervini, meanwhile, joked about finding a new hobby, and Almy expressed gratitude for her time on the board. The night ended with a video tribute, glass plaques, and a reminder of the board’s legacy: being named Georgia’s 2025 School Board of the Year. STORY 2: New Cobb Young Republicans Chair looks to affordability, voter engagement At just 25, Andre Stafford is stepping up as the new chairman of the Cobb Young Republicans, ready to shake things up. “I’m all in,” he says, a mantra that’s driven him since he first got involved in politics after the 2024 assassination attempt on Donald Trump—a moment that, for him, changed everything. Stafford, a restaurant manager by day, wants to grow the group, boost voter turnout, and focus on issues like affordability. “The American Dream feels like a fairy tale to my generation,” he says. “We need more homeowners, less paycheck-to-paycheck living.” His goal? Turn Cobb red—and keep it that way. STORY 3: Cumberland CID details big projects, future plans 2 / 4 Big things are happening in Cumberland, and Kim Menefee, the CID’s executive director, couldn’t be prouder. “2025 was our best year yet,” she told lawmakers at a recent meeting. One highlight? The first phase of the New Day Palisades project at Paces Mill Park. With $6.3 million in upgrades—like better parking, trail access, and erosion control—it’s already drawing millions of visitors. Phase 2 kicks off in 2026, with a $9.5 million price tag and plans for a visitor center and river overlooks. Oh, and driverless shuttles? Coming in 2027. Free rides connecting The Battery, Truist Park, and more. Cumberland’s future? Bold. 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 1 STORY 4: Cobb Superior Court Clerk asks judge to dismiss charges against her Lawyers for Cobb Superior Court Clerk Connie Taylor are fighting to get her case dismissed before it even reaches trial. Meanwhile, prosecutors are busy filing motions over what evidence can and can’t be shown in court. Taylor, elected in 2020, faces four felony charges tied to allegations she mishandled passport fee records—pocketing over $425,000 in fees during her first two years in office. Things escalated when a whistleblower claimed Taylor ordered records destroyed, reportedly saying, “We’re just going to Donald Trump this thing.” Taylor denies wrongdoing, but if convicted, she’ll lose her job permanently. A hearing is set for Feb. 5. STORY 5: Marietta residents call for increased safety measures after crash on train tracks Residents are sounding the alarm after a truck barreled off the road and crashed near the train tracks at Kennesaw Avenue and Church Street last week. Melissa Korczyk, out for a walk with her toddler and dog, heard the screech of tires just before 10 a.m. “I look up, and this car is flying down Kennesaw Avenue,” she said. “It hit the tracks, went airborne, and slammed into the pedestrian signal.” The driver, who also hit a light post and tree, escaped with minor injuries and was charged with reckless driving. “It’s scary,” Korczyk said. “That intersection feels like an accident waiting to happen.” Break: 3 / 4 STORY 6: Marietta celebrates legacy of service as three council members retire The Marietta Fire Museum was full of laughter, hugs, and a few teary eyes last week as friends, family, and city staff gathered to honor retiring council members Andy Morris, Grif Chalfant, and Johnny Walker. “You’ve left a footprint on this city that just keeps getting better,” said Mayor Steve “Thunder” Tumlin, summing up the mood of the night. Chalfant, who’s been on the council since 2005, joked about finally tackling 20 years of neglected home projects—and maybe fixing up his Triumph TR3. Morris, a lifelong Marietta resident, said he’s ready to relax with his new dog, Harry. “I might even pick up golf again,” he added. Walker, proud of his work on school traffic safety, plans to focus on real estate, photography, and more time at home. Each was presented with a Distinguished Service Award, a fitting send-off for years of dedication. STORY 7: Baby clothes program helps mothers in need year-round For nearly two decades, Rosemary Buckley has quietly made life a little easier for new moms in need. Every month, she gathers bundles of baby clothes—layettes—and delivers them to Wellstar Kennestone, where they’re given to families who could use a little extra help. “It’s not just store-bought stuff,” Buckley says. “Parishioners make blankets, tiny hats, even mittens. It’s beautiful.” Inspired by her 12 grandchildren and a simple church request back in 2007, Buckley has turned this into her mission. Monsignor John Walsh calls her a “woman of action.” She just calls it “something that needs to be done.” We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 1 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 4 / 4 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.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Drones started spotting sharks off New York City beaches this summer, leading to multiple closures. We take a look back at Janae's conversations with WNYC's Liam Quigley and marine biologist Hans Walters about what the sightings really mean.

As the one-year anniversary of the deadly fireworks explosion at Aliamanu approaches, law enforcement is taking additional measures to prepare for New Year’s Eve. Hawaii Department of Law Enforcement director Mike Lambert shared with Spotlight Now plans to blanket the island of Oahu through manpower and technology by Dec. 31. Emergency Medical Services director Dr. Jim Ireland said the Aliamanu explosion, which killed six people and injured 20 more, was the worst call of his 40-year career. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two Big Island men accused of smuggling tons of illegal fireworks over a decade make their first court appearance. Harrowing eyewitness accounts detail an early‑morning house fire in Kaneohe. An outreach program that brought medical care directly to people living on the streets is coming to an end.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A change is coming to how homeless individuals on Hawaii Island are cared for. Why less support will be available on the streets. Changes in charges at three popular beach parks on Maui. How much visitors have to pay, and when residents will have exclusive access. Cleaning up after the holidays can be tough. We have some do's and don'ts when it comes to taking out your Christmas tree. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two Hilo men were charged with several crimes related to illegal fireworks shipping, transportation, storage, and possession. Fire investigators are looking into what caused a blaze in Windward Oahu overnight that damaged three homes. And a critical program that provided medical care to people living on the streets is ending in the New Year, due to a lack of funding. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the WFHB Local News for Wednesday, December 31st, 2025. In today's newscast, we're looking back at some of our reporting on immigration in 2025. We'll look back at two reports from WFHB Correspondents tackling the topic of immigration early in 2025. That's coming up in today's episode of the local news: year in …

Shamus Toomey, Editor in Chief and co-founder of Block Club Chicago, joins Bob Sirott to share the latest Chicago neighborhood stories. Shamus has details on: Chicago's Top Chefs Unite For Todos Ponen, A Fundraiser For 125 Immigrant Families: Restaurateurs Diana Dávila and Marcos Carbajal will bring together more than 40 chefs for the Jan. 19 event […]

Utah Avalanche Center forecast, Wasatch County's Luke Searle to seek Utah statehouse seat, Point-in-Time Count leaders Heather Hogue and Amanda Christensen share how residents can get involved in the annual homelessness count, Wasatch Back state parks host "first-day" New Year's hikes, Utah Olympic Park General Manager Jamie Kimball shares an update on the park's facilities and upcoming events, Utah Avalanche Center warns skiers and riders of backcountry dangers after slides, Austin Smith from Bogus Basin ski resort in Boise talks about using snow storage as an unconventional early season snow solution, Utahns will be banned from using SNAP to buy soda starting Jan. 1 and Utah public safety offering Lyft gift cards for sober rides.

Top Stories for December 30th Publish Date: December 30th From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Tuesday, December 30th and Happy Birthday to Sandy Koufax I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Georgia State Parks offering First Day Hikes You can ring in the New Year early with your kids at Stone Mountain Park Registration for Georgia Rivers spring events 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 - Sugar Hill Ice Skating Rink STORY 1: Georgia State Parks offering First Day Hikes Kick off 2026 with a breath of fresh air—literally. Georgia State Parks are bringing back their First Day Hikes tradition on New Year’s Day, offering guided adventures for everyone, from casual strollers to hardcore hikers. Bonus? You’ll snag a First Day Hikes sticker to prove you started the year on the right foot. At Indian Springs, choose between a three-mile trek at 10 a.m. or a laid-back “Easy Breezy” hike at 1 p.m. High Falls? Two hikes, coffee, Chick-fil-A, and even a K-9 demo. Amicalola Falls adds a Birds of Prey show. Parking fees apply—call ahead to register! STORY 2: You can ring in the New Year early with your kids at Stone Mountain Park Stone Mountain Park’s got your New Year’s plans covered—especially if you’ve got kids (or just don’t want to stay up ‘til midnight). On Dec. 31, they’re doing an early countdown at 9 p.m., complete with fireworks and even snow. The fun kicks off at noon with Stone Mountain Christmas attractions, but the real magic happens at 8 p.m. Princess Aurora’s Light Spectacular and the Christmas Drone Show take center stage—this year with fire drones. Yep, drones that shoot fireworks. Think Santa’s sleigh launching sparks. Afterward? Music, dancing, and that 9 p.m. countdown. Who needs midnight anyway? STORY 3: Registration for Georgia Rivers spring events now open Ready to paddle into 2026? Georgia Rivers just dropped its adventure-packed schedule, and it’s a dream for river lovers—whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or just figuring out which end of the paddle goes in the water. From the Okefenokee Swamp to the Toccoa’s whitewater, there’s something for everyone: weekend camping trips, kayak fishing classes, even beginner-friendly “Kayaking 101” sessions. Oh, and don’t miss the America250 trips—history lessons on the water. Scholarships are available, too, because everyone deserves a chance to explore Georgia’s rivers. Check out the full lineup at garivers.org and start planning your next adventure. 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: In Gwinnett, it’s hard to afford housing on less than $75,000 a year Jeannie Johnson works two full-time jobs. At 54, she’s still chasing the dream most people take for granted—owning a home. “I’ve never bought a house. Never even had a brand-new car,” she says, standing on the back porch of her rented townhome in Lawrenceville. Her kids, grown but not gone, help with rent and groceries. Anayah, her daughter, once thought about moving out—until she saw the prices. “She said, ‘Yeah, I think I’ll stay home a little longer.’” Rent’s nearly doubled in recent years, from $785 to $1,485. Saving? Forget it. “Maybe someday,” Jeannie says. STORY 5: Lanier Islands Resort offers two ways to ring in the New Year Looking for a New Year’s Eve plan that works for everyone? Lanier Islands Resort might just have you covered. Whether you’re chasing a family-friendly evening or a grown-ups-only Havana Nights bash, they’ve got something for both vibes. For the kids (and parents who’ll probably be in bed by 10), there’s a celebration at Game Changer—think arcade games, duckpin bowling, axe throwing, and a sparkling cider toast at 7 p.m. Free to get in, but activities are pay-as-you-go. Meanwhile, the 21+ crowd can party in style with cocktails, a gourmet buffet, live music, and a champagne toast at midnight. Break 3: DTL HOLIDAY INTERVIEW - MARK BERENS - BERENS FROZEN CUSTARD STORY 6: Gwinnett County Public Library earns North American Innovation award for Hooper-Renwick Themed Library The Gwinnett County Public Library just snagged a huge honor—it’s been named a Top Innovator for 2025 by the Urban Libraries Council. Why? Their new Hooper-Renwick Themed Library in Lawrenceville, a space that’s all about equity, inclusion, and honoring history. “This award means the world to us,” said Charles Pace, GCPL’s executive director. “In a time when libraries face so many challenges, it’s a reminder of why we do what we do.” The library, built on the site of Gwinnett’s only pre-desegregation Black high school, blends history with modern resources, showcasing memorabilia and stories that deserve the spotlight. STORY 7: Lawrenceville's Baggett Elementary is GCPS's lone elementary school offering organized sports At Baggett Elementary, sports aren’t just about the game—they’re about giving kids a place to belong. Even though organized sports don’t officially start in Gwinnett County until middle school, a group of passionate teachers and staff decided to change that. It all started four years ago with basketball. Now? They’ve got T-ball, flag football, soccer, and cheerleading too. “We’ve basically built our own league,” said Jasmin Riley, the school’s PE teacher. The games are in-house—Baggett Blue vs. Baggett Red—but the energy is real. We’ll have closing comments after this Break 4: GCPS Hiring 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 Holiday Celebration 2025 – City of Sugar Hill Team GCPS https://www.downtownlawrencevillega.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.

In this episode of Moms of the Lou, Rebekah & Lauren rehash all the incredible happenings for local families in St. Louis this year! From new indoor play spaces, park renovations, new support resources for moms, we chat through it all. And we chat about what weʼre excited about thatʼs coming in 2026! Thanks for letting St. Louis Mom be a resource to you yet again this year, we are grateful for our community! We hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! To learn more about Moms of the Lou you can go to stlouismom.com or follow us on Instagram and Facebook. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast and Spotify. And don't forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! This episode was produced by the St. Louis Mom. It was recorded and edited by STL Bucketlist Studios in St. Louis, Missouri. 

A Columbia University student was suspended after creating an AI-powered job interview tool. Janae talks with WNYC's Ryan Kailaith about why the app sparked such strong reactions and how common AI use has become on campuses.

THIS IS NOW: HFD crews responded to a 2-alarm house fire in Kaneohe. City and state leaders warn the public of harsher illegal fireworks penalties ahead of New Year's Eve. Hawaii condominium owners now have the option to purchase state-run insurance products.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

State and City law enforcement departments are teaming up this New Year's Eve to crack down on illegal fireworks. Fire investigators believe a blaze on Maui that left seven people displaced may have been intentionally set. And President Trump says he wants to get to the next phase of the Gaza peace plan as quickly as possible. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How law enforcement and shipping companies are working together to stop the illegal flow of fireworks. Investigators determine a Maui house fire as potential arson, as multiple people are left displaced. Learn why Hawaii condominium owners may see insurance rates dramatically drop.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're getting a look the size of an overnight 2-alarm fire in Kaneohe. How many homes were damaged, as investigators look for a cause? Back to the scene of the fireworks explosion disaster. As well as, what's frustrating is that police are investigating the crime a year later. Despite the skyrocketing price of home insurance, there's actually some good news we'll tell you about for Hawaii condo owners coming up in this half hour.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the WFHB Local News for Tuesday, December 30th, 2025. In today's newscast, we look back at some of our field reports from 2025. You will hear protesters speaking out against wealth inequality from the Workers Over Billionaires protests in September. You will also hear voices from the community at Pridefest – describing what …

The podcast kicks off with the 19th anniversary of the show and an awkward walk down memory lane. Then, Lino tells stories of Cardinal Dolan in honor of his retirement. After that, the Advent Calendar and local news celebrates the season. And the podcast wraps up with taking a chance on Email of the Week!

A look back at CBS's decision to end The Late Show with Stephen Colbert in 2026. Janae talks with New York Times comedy critic Jason Zinoman about what led to the cancellation, what it says about the state of late-night TV, and how changing audiences and media habits are reshaping comedy.