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Top Stories for January 31st Publish Date: January 31st PRE-ROLL: KIA Mall Of Georgia From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Saturday, January 31st and Happy Birthday to Jackie Robinson I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia. Lanier Islands Resort offering Valentine's Day romantic getaway package Amid walkouts, GCPS affirms students’ right to expression, reminds them to follow rules Scott McCray’s lasting impact on downtown Lawrenceville 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: Lanier Islands Resort offering Valentine's Day romantic getaway package Lanier Islands Resort—where love stories seem to write themselves. With over a dozen dreamy indoor and outdoor wedding venues, it’s no wonder this lakeside gem has been the backdrop for countless “I do’s.” And this year? Valentine’s Day lands on a Saturday, making it the perfect excuse for a romantic escape. For couples looking to make a weekend of it, the resort’s Valentine’s Romantic Getaway has all the swoon-worthy details: champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries, cozy accommodations, a multi-course dinner at Sidney’s overlooking the lake, and breakfast the next morning. Want more? There’s spa treatments, snow fun at Margaritaville, or even a game day at Game Changer. Planning to pop the question? The resort’s wedding consultants can help you nail the moment, from finding the perfect spot to booking a photographer. Love is definitely in the air at Lanier Islands. STORY 2: Amid walkouts, GCPS affirms students’ right to expression, reminds them to follow rules Students across Gwinnett County are walking out of class, protesting immigration enforcement and the fear it’s brought into their schools. The district is trying to balance it all—supporting students’ voices while keeping things safe and orderly. The protests come as frustration grows nationwide over ICE’s actions, including the deaths of two U.S. citizens. Some students say they’re scared to even show up to school. The district reiterated its policy: ICE can’t enter non-public areas of schools without a judge-signed warrant. But fear lingers. Enrollment has dropped by thousands since ICE activity ramped up in 2025, according to the Gwinnett County Association of Educators. For now, GCPS is working with students to keep protests peaceful and on-campus. STORY 3: Scott McCray’s lasting impact on downtown Lawrenceville When Scott McCray first set his sights on expanding his restaurant footprint, downtown Lawrenceville wasn’t exactly buzzing. “It was quiet—really quiet,” he said. “Not much going on, but I saw potential.” That was back in the early 2000s, when the corner spot he wanted—a beat-up old drugstore—wasn’t even available. So, he waited. By 2006, McCray’s Tavern opened on Perry Street, and two decades later, it’s a cornerstone of Lawrenceville’s now-vibrant Square. Today, McCray owns nine restaurants, including Perry Street Chophouse and several McCray’s Taverns across metro Atlanta. But he’s not done yet. “We’ve got another building on the Square,” he teased. “Still figuring out what to do with it, but we’re working on something.” And then there’s St. Patrick’s Day—his annual “Perry Street festival” that shuts down the street, packs the rooftop deck, and unofficially kicks off spring. Reflecting on 20 years in the business, McCray still seems a little surprised. “I didn’t grow up dreaming about restaurants,” he said. “But once I opened my first place, I knew. It’s hard work, but I still love it. Every day.” 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 - GCPS STORY 4: GIVE East's Candice Richardson named GCPS Teacher of the Year Dr. Candice Richardson didn’t take the usual path to teaching. In fact, her journey started far from a classroom—in a doctor’s office in Nassau, Bahamas, where she worked as a physician. But life has a funny way of rerouting us. Fifteen years ago, she moved to the U.S. with her husband and began the long, grueling process of earning her medical license here. To make ends meet, she started substitute teaching. “I thought it’d just be temporary,” she said. “But when I walked into GIVE Center East, something clicked. I knew—this is where I’m supposed to be.” Fast forward to now: Richardson, who’s been teaching biology at GIVE for four years, was just named Gwinnett County Public Schools’ 2027 Teacher of the Year. It’s a rare honor for a teacher at an alternative school, and Richardson doesn’t take it lightly. At GIVE, Richardson works with students who’ve been written off by others. “These kids have been told they’re failures, that one mistake defines them,” she said. “But I believe in second chances. I want them to see they’re worth more than their worst moment.” Richardson’s passion for her students shines through in everything she does, from creating hands-on biology lessons to building relationships that show her students they’re valued. STORY 5: Republican state House leaders unveil plan to abolish homeowner property taxes Georgia Republicans are making a bold promise: no more property taxes for homeowners by 2032. Sounds great, right? But the details? Well, they’re complicated. House Speaker Jon Burns unveiled the plan Wednesday, calling it “historic tax relief” aimed at easing the financial strain on homeowners. Rising home values, he said, have made the current system “unsustainable.” The idea is to gradually phase out property taxes on primary residences, but here’s the catch—local governments rely on that money. A lot of it. Property taxes fund schools, police, fire departments—you name it. So, what happens when that revenue disappears? Burns’ plan would let cities and counties make up the difference by raising sales taxes or adding fees for specific services. But sales taxes are unpredictable, especially during economic downturns, and some areas might struggle to generate enough revenue. And then there’s the political hurdle. To make this happen, lawmakers need a constitutional amendment, which requires two-thirds approval in both chambers and a public vote. Oh, and the Senate? They’re focused on slashing income taxes instead. For now, the House hasn’t released all the details, but one thing’s clear: this proposal is ambitious—and it’s going to spark a lot of debate. We’ll be right back. Break 3: GCPL Passport STORY 6: TenMed Wound Care opening Lawrenceville office TenMed Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine is bringing its expertise to Lawrenceville, opening a new clinic at 696 Grayson Highway. For patients in Gwinnett County dealing with stubborn wounds—diabetic foot ulcers, surgical wounds, or other complex injuries—this is big news. The Lawrenceville location joins TenMed’s existing offices in Atlanta and Johns Creek, expanding access to advanced treatments like Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. Dr. Joshua Behlmann, the clinic’s medical director, said he’s excited to serve the community. “Our goal is simple: to provide life-changing care for those who need it most.” From personalized wound care plans to cutting-edge therapies, the clinic is ready to help. For more info, visit tenmedhealth.com or call 470-508-0696. STORY 7: Test-run of outdoor classrooms in Georgia schools clears General Assembly Georgia students might soon trade desks for fresh air, thanks to a new outdoor learning pilot program. On Wednesday, the state Senate gave unanimous approval to a bill that would create outdoor classrooms at select K-8 schools. Next stop? Governor Kemp’s desk. State Sen. Bo Hatchett shared his own experience: “I had an outdoor classroom at North Habersham Middle, and it made a huge difference. Every kid should have that chance.” Sen. Sheikh Rahman added, “Kids are glued to screens. Getting them outside? It’s good for their bodies, their minds—everything.” The program will run for three years before lawmakers decide what’s next. We’ll have closing comments after this Break 4: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING 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.

Top Stories for January 29th Publish Date: January 29th PRE-ROLL: GCPS From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Thursday, January 29th and Happy birthday to Tom Selleck I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. UGA’s online degree programs rank among nation’s best Archer students walk out of school to protest ICE actions State Rep. Scott Hilton files bill to protect kindergarten 'redshirting' 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 STORY 1: UGA’s online degree programs rank among nation’s best The University of Georgia’s online programs are making waves again, landing several top-10 spots in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best Online Programs rankings. UGA held strong at No. 18 overall, keeping its place among the nation’s top 20. What’s behind the rankings? The annual survey looks at things like student engagement, faculty credentials, tech, and peer reviews. And UGA? It’s shining. The numbers tell the story: UGA’s online retention ranking climbed to No. 4, and its graduation ranking jumped from No. 20 to No. 7. The Mary Frances Early College of Education continues to lead the charge, offering programs that help Georgia’s teachers grow their skills while staying in the classroom. Highlights include: No. 3 in Best Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction (up from No. 11) No. 3 in Educational/Instructional Media Design No. 4 in Special Education No. 6 in Educational Administration and Policy UGA’s programs for veterans also earned recognition, ranking No. 11 for making education more accessible through the GI Bill and other financial aid. The Terry College of Business wasn’t left out either—its online master’s in business and technology ranked No. 23 nationally. STORY 2: Archer students walk out of school to protest ICE actions At Archer High School, Sandra Brown-Peraza says immigrant students live with a constant, gnawing fear. Every day, stepping off campus feels like stepping into the unknown. “We’ve seen ICE waiting outside schools—places that are supposed to be safe,” she said. That fear boiled over on Tuesday when hundreds of students walked out, chanting “No more ICE.” Organizer Nehemiah Hamilton estimated 800 students braved the freezing cold to protest. The protest wasn’t just about raids—it was about lives lost. Students spoke of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, U.S. citizens killed by ICE agents in Minnesota. “They’re killing innocent people,” said Sasha Molnar. Not everyone supports the protests. U.S. Rep. Mike Collins dismissed them as “woke indoctrination,” but Hamilton fired back: “We’re not safe. We’re not backing down.” Meanwhile, Gwinnett Board Chairwoman Tarece Johnson-Morgan stood with the students, saying, “Their voices demand our empathy and care.” STORY 3: State Rep. Scott Hilton files bill to protect kindergarten 'redshirting' A new bill could give Georgia parents the final say on when their kids start kindergarten—at 5 or 6. Right now, the law says kids must be in school by 6, but it’s up to local districts to decide if a 6-year-old can start in kindergarten or must go straight to first grade. State Rep. Scott Hilton introduced House Bill 1048 to clear up the confusion. The bill comes after Gwinnett County Public Schools stirred controversy by ending its long-standing practice of allowing “redshirting,” where parents delay kindergarten until age 6. GCPS now sends all 6-year-olds straight to first grade, even if they’ve never been in a classroom. Parents pushed back hard, arguing that some kids—especially younger ones—need that extra year to mature. GCPS has hinted at a compromise, with an “expedited student support team” process to decide on a case-by-case basis if redshirted kids can go to kindergarten. But it’s no guarantee. If Hilton’s bill passes, though? That decision would be in parents’ hands, not the district’s. 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 Ga - GCPL Passport STORY 4: Gwinnett Stripers hiring gameday staff for 2026 The Gwinnett Stripers are gearing up for the 2026 season and looking for gameday staff to join the team. If you’re all about creating awesome fan experiences, this might be your shot. You can apply online now at GoStripers.com/jobs, or swing by their in-person Job Fair on Saturday, Feb. 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It’s happening in the Suite Lounge at Gwinnett Field. They’re hiring for part-time, seasonal roles in concessions, fan services, ticket sales, security, parking, gameday production, and even photography. Pro tip: Bring a few printed resumes to the Job Fair. Parking’s free, and you’ll enter through the Main Gate. STORY 5: Nalani Gainey reaches 2,000 career points in Seckinger victory It was a big night for Nalani Gainey—2,000 career points and counting. Oh, and Seckinger’s girls basketball team took down Chattahoochee 47-32 in Region 7-AAAAA action on Tuesday. Not a bad way to celebrate. Gainey was everywhere, racking up 24 points, five rebounds, five assists, five steals, and two blocks. The Jaguars, now 14-8 overall and 6-3 in the region, leaned on her leadership—and she delivered. Savan Johnson chipped in eight points and three boards, while Janyla Reed and Selah Wells dominated the paint with a combined 16 rebounds and four blocks. Titi Makinde added three points to round it out. GLADIATORS: The Atlanta Gladiators edged out the Orlando Solar Bears 2-1 Monday night in a gritty ECHL matchup at the Kia Center. It wasn’t pretty, but it was effective—and it keeps Atlanta rolling. Orlando struck first, capitalizing on a 5-on-3 power play midway through the first. Jack Adams buried a backdoor pass to make it 1-0, and the Solar Bears carried that lead into the second, outshooting Atlanta 9-6. But the Gladiators answered. Jack Matier ripped a power-play rocket from the point to tie it 1-1 in the second, with assists from Mike McNamee and Ryan Francis. Both teams traded chances—power plays, odd-man rushes, you name it—but the goalies stood tall. After two periods, Orlando had a 25-11 shot advantage, but the score stayed deadlocked. Then came the dagger. Early in the third, Alex Young sniped one short side off a slick feed from Isak Walther, giving Atlanta the 2-1 lead. From there, it was all about Semptimphelter, who slammed the door with 31 saves, earning his 12th win of the season. The Gladiators improved to 25-9-1, extending their point streak to five games. Next up? A three-game showdown with the Everblades in Estero. Buckle up—it’s going to be a battle. 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 28th Publish Date:  January 28th Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, January 28th and Happy Birthday to Jermaine Dye I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Local student Mathletes to compete in Cobb County Math Contest Support Cobb law enforcement and get a state tax credit Lawmakers push transparency in school board public comments 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 9 STORY 1: Local student Mathletes to compete in Cobb County Math Contest Cobb County’s middle school math whizzes are gearing up for the local MATHCOUNTS competition on Feb. 28 at Marietta High School. Organized by the Cobb County Chapter of the Georgia Society of Professional Engineers, the event will feature teams from Dickerson, Dodgen, and Hightower Trail middle schools. These students have been prepping since fall—hours of practice, problem-solving, and probably a few late-night algebra sessions. The competition includes both individual and team rounds, with topics like geometry, probability, and statistics. Oh, and there’s a fast-paced oral round too—no pressure, right? Winners will snag prizes and move on to the state finals on March 9 in Buford. MATHCOUNTS, a national program, aims to spark a love for math in middle schoolers—because let’s face it, this is the age where kids either embrace math or start running from it. With 50,000 students competing nationwide this year, it’s a big deal. For details, check out www.mathcounts.org. STORY 2: Support Cobb law enforcement and get a state tax credit Tax season is here, and if you live in Cobb County, there’s a way to support local law enforcement and get a state income tax credit. Thanks to the 2022 LESS Crime Act (short for Law Enforcement Strategic Support Act), Georgia taxpayers can donate to approved public safety foundations and get a dollar-for-dollar credit on their state taxes. Here’s the deal: individuals can donate up to $5,000, couples filing jointly can give $10,000, and corporations can contribute up to 75% of their state tax liability. Statewide, there’s a $75 million cap, and each foundation can accept up to $5 million annually. The process? Register with the Georgia Tax Center, wait for approval, and send your donation within 60 days. Funds go toward training, equipment, officer wellness, and community programs. In Cobb, you can donate to: Cobb Sheriff’s Foundation Acworth Police Community Foundation Cobb County Public Safety Foundation Kennesaw Public Safety Foundation Marietta Police Foundation For links and details, visit their websites. STORY 3: Lawmakers push transparency in school board public comments  Cobb County lawmakers are pushing for more transparency in school board meetings with House Bill 989, which would require public comments to be broadcast or recorded if the rest of the meeting is aired. Rep. David Wilkerson said it’s about consistency: “If you’re showing the meeting, show all of it. Don’t cut out the tough parts.” The bill comes after Cobb’s school board stopped broadcasting public comments last year, sparking backlash from parents and lawmakers. Critics called it censorship; the board cited liability concerns. Rep. Solomon Adesanya said public comments are crucial for oversight: “If you only hear one side, you control the narrative.” The bill has bipartisan support, with Rep. Jordan Ridley also signing on. “Transparency matters,” he said. “If you’re broadcasting, show the good, bad, and everything in between.” Meanwhile, Ridley floated the idea of an independent audit for Cobb schools, similar to one he championed in Cherokee County. Cobb school board Chair Randy Scamihorn defended the district, saying claims of a lack of transparency are “absolutely false.” Still, he invited lawmakers to review their processes, adding, “No organization is perfect.” 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 9 STORY 4: Cobb opens $24M joint police, sheriff firing range Cobb County just unveiled its shiny new $24 million firing range, and let’s just say—it’s a game-changer. Sheriff Craig Owens and Police Chief Dan Ferrell cut the ribbon Friday morning, joined by the Board of Commissioners, a crowd of officers, and deputies. The 65,000-square-foot facility, located next to the Public Safety Training Academy in Austell, replaces the old outdoor range that had been around for over 30 years. That one? It had a strict 8 p.m. curfew because of nearby neighborhoods. Now? Training can happen 24/7. The range features three separate areas, including a 100-yard precision range, and a high-tech 360-degree targeting system for realistic drills. Officers can train in low-light, no-light, and even less-lethal scenarios. Paid for with SPLOST funds, the range is a long-term investment in public safety—and a big win for Cobb County. STORY 5: Northwest Georgia voters to head to polls March 10 for federal and, now, state election Northwest Georgia voters are in for a political doubleheader on March 10. Not only will they pick a new state senator, but they’ll also decide if the former holder of that Senate seat, Colton Moore, should head to Congress. Here’s the backstory: Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene resigned in January with a year left in her U.S. House term, triggering a special election for District 14. Moore, who represented Senate District 53 (Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, Walker, and part of Floyd counties), stepped down mid-January to join the crowded race for Greene’s seat—22 candidates, to be exact. Qualifying for Moore’s old Senate seat runs Jan. 29 to Feb. 2. Voter registration closes Feb. 9, with early voting starting Feb. 16. If no one wins outright, expect a runoff on April 7. Buckle up, northwest Georgia—it’s going to be a busy ballot. Break: STORY 6: Chris Carr talks public safety in Cobb Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr didn’t hold back when he spoke to the Cobb County Republican Women’s Club on Friday. Public safety, he said, isn’t just about stopping crime—it’s about supporting law enforcement, tackling mental health, and improving education. And now, as a candidate for governor, he’s making his case. Carr highlighted his record: creating units to fight human trafficking, gangs, opioids, and organized retail crime. “Keeping people safe is the most basic job of government,” he said. “If families don’t feel safe, we’ve failed.” He shared staggering numbers—over 200 children rescued from trafficking, 115 gang members convicted—and warned about the fentanyl crisis, calling it a “war” fueled by Mexican cartels. His office recently seized 15 pounds of the drug, enough to kill millions. On education, he stressed the importance of literacy by third grade and slammed “woke progressivism” in schools. “Our kids aren’t social experiments,” he said. “Schools should teach reading, writing, and math—not radical ideology.” Mental health? Another priority. Carr called for more facilities statewide, saying jails shouldn’t double as treatment centers. He also floated limiting phones in high schools, blaming social media for worsening students’ mental health. When asked about gambling, Carr stood firm against casino betting, citing addiction concerns. On minors accessing pornography, he tied it to human trafficking and expressed fears about AI being used to exploit kids. Former Cobb GOP Chair Rose Wing praised Carr’s tough stance on drug cartels and said she believes he’d make a “great governor.” STORY 7: Woodstock native Bolt named assistant golf coach at KSU  Abigail Bolt, a former Woodstock High School star, is heading back to familiar turf—this time as the new assistant women’s golf coach at Kennesaw State. Owls head coach Ket Vanderpool, who worked with Bolt for three seasons at Georgia State, made the announcement Friday. Bolt, who played collegiate golf at Appalachian State from 2017-21, brings a mix of coaching chops and on-course expertise. At Georgia State, she helped lead the team to nine top-five finishes and four tournament wins. Before that? She honed her skills at Towne Lake Hills Golf Club, running junior clinics and managing tournaments. As a player, Bolt was a standout at Appalachian State, earning MVP honors her senior year and finishing with a 77.81 stroke average. Since graduating in 2021, she’s stayed active in the game, competing in amateur events and continuing to build her career in golf. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 9 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 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.

RV PODCAST NEWS EDITIONEpisode 586 - January 26, 2026Hey everybody, welcome to the RV Podcast News Edition. I'm Mike Wendland, and this is where we cut through the press releases, the hype, and the corporate spin to talk about what is really happening in the RV world.Now, quick programming note. If you are listening to this later in the week, we are watching a massive winter snow and ice storm that has affected campgrounds, travel plans, and even caused park closures across large parts of the country. Winter storm Fern has affected a huge swath of the country, 2,300 miles long, from Texas all the way to the East Coast. Ten states have reported more than a foot of snow. Many areas reported in excess of a half inch of ice. In some areas, an inch was reported, bringing down tree limbs across power lines. Well over a million customers have lost electric power and some may be without it for a week or more because of infrastructure damage and terrible road conditions.And as the snow, ice, and sleet slowly move off the eastern coast today, a massive cold front of arctic air is plunging much of the nation to dangerously cold temperatures. In the south, where temps rarely go below freezing, single-digit readings are being reported this morning.Obviously, this has affected many thousands in the RV Community. Fulltimers, even snowbirds who thought they were escaping the worst of winter in the mod south, are struggling to stay warm and keep the water running.The full affect of this storm is still be assessed but from everything we've been able to learn, RVers in the affected areas are reporting frozen water pumps at many campgrounds, propane shortages in the most affected areas and in some cases, no power. We've had reports from dozens of RVers impacted by the snow and overall, most say they are getting by. Most laid in plenty of bottled water, extra food, and made sure they had full tanks of propane and extra fuel for generators. One RVer - John, who lives in his Alliance fifth wheel in Missouri - said his biggest challenge was all the snow and ice piled on top of his slide out. He says the frigid air behind the snow isnt going to allow much melting and he is planning to get a ladder to clear the snow off.In Arkansas, a full-time couple - Sarah and Jim - said they wish they followed their friend's advice to haul their Jayco south towards Florida. “We have gone through two tanks of propane so far and the roads are so bad we can't get out to get them filled.” Her campground still has electricity but she said the lights have flickered and she expects she'll have to switch to generator power as the ice on the power lines is not melting.Perhaps the best assessment came from Ted, a Tennessee fulltimer, who lives in a fifth wheel on his own property along the Tennessee River.. “Most of us know what to do,” he said. “We can handle a week without power. We have a full fresh water tank and I have a 100 gallon propane tank to supplement the tanks in our rig. So we're dressed in heavy clothes and have extra blankets on the bed. This too shall pass.”Let's hope soon.Sop the storm dominates the RV news this week. But coming up, RVers are demanding a real voice with manufacturers, not a hand-picked group of industry insiders, and the response to that idea has been overwhelming.We will look at why campground reservations feel harder than ever to get, even as more parks are built. We will take a closer look at what is really happening in state parks, where long overdue upgrades are coming with some real tradeoffs. We will talk about used RV prices finally settling back toward reality.And we will have a little fun calling out how RV manufacturers keep copying each other's ideas, sometimes so closely it is honestly laughable.Before we get started…. a quick word about the RV Lifestyle Community at RVCommunity.com.If you are tired of ads, algorithms, and social media drama, this is different. It is a private, ad free community built by RVers, for RVers. Real conversations, real advice, real friendships.It is social media the way it SHOULD be.Learn more at RVCommunity.com.STORY 1 — It's Time RVers Had a Real VoiceFor years now, RVers have been talking among themselves about what is wrong with today's RVs.Too many quality issues. Too many poorly designed floorplans. Too many features that look great on a showroom floor but fail miserably in real life.And too often, it feels like no one in the industry is really listening.That thought hit home last week after a listener sent us a message that stopped us cold. He asked a simple but powerful question.Why don't RVers have a direct voice with manufacturers?With massive consolidation among RV manufacturers and dealers, buyers now have fewer real choices than ever before. You walk onto a mega dealer lot and see hundreds of rigs, but when you look closer, many are variations of the same designs, built by the same corporate parents, with the same lingering quality concerns.For many people ready to buy, the problem is not just price.It is confidence.They do not see the RV they actually want. And they are afraid to buy because of what they hear about reliability and workmanship.That is a terrible place for any industry to be.So it raises a bigger question.Who is speaking for real RVers?Right now, manufacturers mostly hear from dealers, sales teams, investors, and marketing departments.What is missing?Us.The people who actually live in these RVs. The ones who discover what works and what fails after thousands of miles of potholes, rainstorms, campground hookups, and real world use.Most feedback today is scattered across Facebook groups, YouTube comments, and forums. Thoughtful insights get buried in noise.That is not a system designed to build better RVs.It is a system designed to build frustration.So here is the idea that sparked a huge response.What if RVers spoke with one clear, organized, constructive voice?Imagine a live, moderated RVer Town Hall. Not a complaint fest. Not a shouting match. A serious conversation where experienced RVers present real world recommendations to manufacturers.Full timers and part timers. Fifth wheels and motorhomes. Retirees, families, weekend travelers.Talking about what actually matters.Build quality. Smarter layouts. Easier maintenance. Durability over decoration. Designs that match how people really camp.If structured properly and promoted well, manufacturers would pay attention. When customers speak thoughtfully and collectively, industries listen.Before we build anything like this, we want to hear from you.If you had five minutes with RV executives and engineers, what would you tell them?Not angry rants.Real ideas.Leave us a voicemail or send us an email at RVPodcast.com. We may feature your ideas on the podcast and use them as the foundation for a future live RVer Town Hall.This is not about tearing down manufacturers.It is about helping them build RVs that truly serve the people who buy them.Because the best RVs will not be created in boardrooms alone.They will be created when real RVers are finally heard.TRAVEL PLANNING WORKSHOP PROMOBefore we move on, a quick reminder.On February 5, I am hosting a live RV Travel Planning Workshop. This is where I walk you through how to plan smarter routes, find better campgrounds, avoid common mistakes, and build trips that actually match how you want to travel.It is practical, hands on, and you will walk away with a plan you can use immediately.Details and registration are available through our site, and I would love to have you join me.STORY 2 — Campgrounds Are Expanding, But Reservations Are Tighter Than EverHere is something RVers keep asking.If more campgrounds are being built, why does it feel harder than ever to get a reservation?On paper, things look good. New private parks are opening. Existing parks are adding sites. States are investing in infrastructure.But in practice, availability feels tighter than ever.RVers are traveling more often and staying longer. More parks are shifting toward monthly and seasonal stays for predictable income. Reservation systems make booking easier, but also more competitive.The result is a paradox.More campgrounds exist. But fewer open dates feel available.For RVers, this means planning earlier, being flexible, and sometimes looking beyond the most obvious destinations.STORY 3 — State Parks Are Upgrading, With Strings AttachedState parks are getting long overdue upgrades.New electrical systems. Rebuilt bathhouses. Extended sites for larger rigs.But these improvements come with tradeoffs.California has seen higher fees and reservation windows that fill in minutes. Florida has fewer first come, first served sites. Michigan's modernization brings 50 amp service and sewer hookups, but also higher nightly rates and tighter booking rules.Better infrastructure. Higher costs. Less spontaneity.State parks are still incredible values, but the old days of pulling in on a whim are fading fast.STORY 4 — Used RV Prices Are Finally Coming Back to EarthUsed RV prices continue to soften.Inventory is up. Buyers are cautious. Dealers are negotiating again.But buyers are selective.Condition matters. Maintenance records matter. Build quality matters.This shift is healthy. Confidence is returning, and patience is finally being rewarded.STORY 5 — Manufacturers Keep Copying Each Other, And It's Getting ObviousNow let's have a little fun, because this is one of those things you cannot unsee once you notice it.RV manufacturers love to talk about innovation.But if you walk a major RV show floor, you quickly realize how much copying is really going on.Case in point, the dinesk, that combination dining area and desk that slides, expands, and adapts depending on how you are using it.It was a standout feature in Brinkley RV models, clever, functional, and genuinely useful for how people live and work on the road.Fast forward to the Tampa RV SuperShow.Suddenly, a new Montana ad is showcasing a remarkably similar setup. And Winnebago rolls out a new towable with a nearly identical movable desk and dining combo.Coincidence? Not likely.And here is the part that makes industry veterans chuckle. Brinkley itself has been told that their dinesk concept resembles a similar idea introduced years ago by another fifth wheel manufacturer.In other words, the copying goes back generations.This is how the RV industry often works. One company takes a risk. Others watch carefully. And once the market responds, suddenly everyone has their own version.Sometimes that is healthy competition.But other times, it leads to stagnation. Instead of improving the idea, manufacturers simply replicate it, sometimes poorly, sometimes without understanding why it worked in the first place.The real opportunity here is not copying.It is listening.RVers know what features actually improve life on the road. They know what gets used every day, and what becomes a gimmick by the third trip.If manufacturers spent more time listening to real RVers and less time copying the rig across the aisle, innovation might actually mean something again.CLOSINGWhen you step back and look at all of this together, a pattern emerges.RVers want better built rigs. They want campgrounds they can actually access. They want state parks that balance upgrades with affordability. And they want to be heard.The RV lifestyle is thriving, but growth brings pressure. How the industry responds now will shape the next decade of RVing.Thanks for listening. We'll be back Wednesday with another Stories from the Road episode.

Top Stories for January 24th Publish Date: January 24th PRE-ROLL: Kia Mall of Georgia From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Saturday, January 24th and Happy Birthday to Neil Diamond I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia. GCPS cancels weekend activities; no decision made for Monday classes NAME CHANGE: Coolray Field's naming rights are up for grabs; will be Gwinnett Field for now Four dead in shooting at Lawrenceville home; child’s 911 call leads to suspect’s arrest 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: GCPS cancels weekend activities; no decision made for Monday classes Gwinnett County Public Schools is playing it safe this weekend—officials have canceled all activities scheduled for Saturday and Sunday due to the looming bad weather. “The safety of our students and staff is always our top priority,” the district said in a statement. As of Thursday afternoon, no decisions have been made yet about Monday. But the district promised to keep everyone in the loop if anything changes. For now, here’s the deal: All school events and facility use for Jan. 24–25? Canceled. Monday? Still up in the air. Stay tuned, and stay safe. STORY 2: NAME CHANGE: Coolray Field's naming rights are up for grabs; will be Gwinnett Field for now For 15 years, it’s been Coolray Field—home of the Gwinnett Stripers. But now? Say hello to Gwinnett Field. At least for now. Coolray Heating and Air’s naming rights deal ended in 2025, and while the Gwinnett Convention and Visitors Bureau hunts for a new corporate partner, the stadium’s getting a temporary rebrand. Signs are already coming down, including the big one on the outfield scoreboard (a crane’s needed for that beast). The Stripers’ website and new signage will reflect the change before the season starts in April. Meanwhile, Hall’s confident a new sponsor will step up soon. Even so, getting locals to stop calling it Coolray might take time. After all, even the apartments overlooking the field are named “The Views at Coolray Field.” Change is hard, but Hall believes people will adjust faster than they think. “Repetition works. Before long, they won’t even remember what it used to be called.” STORY 3: Four dead in shooting at Lawrenceville home; child’s 911 call leads to suspect’s arrest A tragic scene unfolded early Friday morning in a quiet Lawrenceville neighborhood—four adults were found dead in what police are calling a domestic shooting. It happened around 2:30 a.m. on Brook Ivy Court. Officers arrived after a “shots fired” call and discovered the victims inside the home, all with fatal gunshot wounds. Their names haven’t been released yet, but police confirmed there’d been prior calls to the house. Three young children were inside when it happened. Terrified, they hid in a closet. One of them—brave beyond words—called 911, giving officers the information they needed to respond quickly. When police arrived, the suspect’s car was still in the driveway. K-9 units tracked him to a nearby wooded area, where he was arrested without incident. The children, thankfully unharmed, are now with family. The investigation is ongoing. 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 - Gwinnett County Public Schools STORY 4: Athea King named executive director of the Suwanee Arts Center The Suwanee Arts Center has a new face at the helm—Athea King, a seasoned arts leader with a knack for bringing people and creativity together. Before landing in Suwanee, King worked at the Woodruff Arts Center, where she juggled everything from managing over 130 trustees to building partnerships and co-creating fundraising events that boosted arts education across Georgia. Her resume? Packed. She’s led gallery merchandising at Spruill Gallery, strengthened artist relationships, and turned their Holiday Art Fair into a record-breaking fundraiser. She’s also held roles at the High Museum, ArtCloud, and more, shaping her into a powerhouse of strategic planning, artist advocacy, and community programming. Oh, and she’s not just an administrator—she’s an artist herself. King’s fine art photography has been exhibited across the Southeast, backed by two Kickstarter campaigns. With a BFA in Photographic Imaging and a heart for collaboration, King’s ready to make Suwanee’s arts scene shine even brighter. STORY 5: Parkview senior earns Legion of Valor Bronze Cross award Candace Elkins, a senior at Parkview High, just earned one of the most prestigious honors in JROTC—the Legion of Valor Bronze Cross for Achievement. And honestly? It’s no surprise. As Cadet Battalion Commander, holding the rank of Cadet Lieutenant Colonel (the highest in her unit), Candace has led with grit and focus. Her leadership mantra? “Focus on your weakness and exploit it until it becomes your strength.” It’s worked wonders, according to First Sergeant Nontron D. Ward, her JROTC instructor. This award isn’t handed out lightly. Out of 300,000 JROTC students nationwide, only a handful receive it each year. To qualify, you’ve got to be in the top 10% of your JROTC unit and the top 15% of your class. Candace? She’s crushing it with a 98.8 GPA, a class rank of 43 out of 731, and a JROTC GPA of 98.5. But she’s not just about academics. She’s also a varsity lacrosse player, a Color Guard Commander, and a community service powerhouse. Dr. Frank Jones, a district coordinator, summed it up: “She’s the kind of well-rounded, high-achieving student the Legion of Valor Committee looks for.” We’ll be right back. Break 3: GCPL Passport STORY 6: Dumpster fire damages exterior of Dillard’s at Mall of Georgia Wednesday night got a little too heated at the Mall of Georgia—literally. A dumpster fire outside Dillard’s turned into a bigger problem when flames spread to the building’s exterior. It all started around 7:28 p.m., when 911 calls came in reporting the fire. By the time crews arrived five minutes later, the dumpster blaze had climbed up the two-story parapet wall near the loading dock. Firefighters jumped into action, attacking the flames with hoses while teams evacuated the store to make sure no one was trapped inside. Once everyone—about 40 people—was safely out, crews tackled the fire that had spread to a nearby tree and worked to protect surrounding areas. By 7:51 p.m., the fire was under control, though smoke still lingered inside Dillard’s. Fans were brought in to clear it out. The damage? Significant to the parapet wall, but thankfully, the fire didn’t make it inside the main building. No injuries were reported, and medical crews on-site focused on firefighter rehab. Fire officials later ruled the blaze accidental, with the dumpster as the starting point. Dillard’s and mall management were on hand to assist emergency crews as the situation unfolded. STORY 7: Lawrenceville's Natalee Summers honored as Gwinnett Tech's top GOAL student Natalee Summers, an Early Childhood Care and Education student at Gwinnett Technical College, was just named the 2026 GOAL winner—and she’s still wrapping her head around it. A Lawrenceville local, Natalee’s roots run deep in Gwinnett County. Raised in Georgia since she was seven, she credits her family, church, and community for shaping her journey. She’s not just a student—she’s a leader. From serving as a Student Ambassador to organizing a pajama drive that collected over 500 pairs for foster kids, Natalee’s heart is in everything she does. Her path to Gwinnett Tech wasn’t straightforward. Financial worries made a four-year university feel impossible, so she started in Radiologic Technology—practical, sure, but not her passion. Through the GOAL competition, Natalee realized something powerful: her story matters. After graduation, she hopes to work in Gwinnett County schools and eventually earn her bachelor’s in elementary education. 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.

===== 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.

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.

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.

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.

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for January 16th Publish Date:  January 16th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, January 16th and Happy Birthday to Albert Pujols I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal 50th Annual Kennesaw/Big Shanty Festival Community holds out hope for Ted's Montana Grill on Marietta Square Cobb advances 2028 SPLOST, sets community meetings Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on raw milk 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 6 STORY 1: 50th Annual Kennesaw/Big Shanty Festival  Mark your calendars—April 18 and 19 is the 50th Annual Kennesaw/Big Shanty Festival, brought to you by Superior Plumbing. It’s all happening in downtown Kennesaw, with hours from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. What’s in store? Over 250 arts and crafts booths, fair food galore, a beer garden, kids’ activities, and live acoustic music in the food court all weekend. Don’t miss the Georgia Grown Member Village, showcasing local goods from across the state. Scott Thompson of Brother Mojo will play at the 1885 Grill food court, while the United Bankshares Amphitheater and Main Street’s entertainment stage will feature local dance groups, school choirs, and more. Admission’s free, and parking’s available at Adams Park, Kennesaw First Baptist, and Swift-Cantrell Park, with shuttles running from Swift-Cantrell. Questions? Call 770-423-1330 or email missy@jrmmanagement.com. STORY 2: Community holds out hope for Ted's Montana Grill on Marietta Square  So, Ted’s Montana Grill is out. The long-vacant lot at 77 North Park Square stays empty, and the bison burgers? Not happening—at least for now. CEO George McKerrow, a Cobb local, said the decision came after a wave of public backlash. “In 50 years in this business, I’ve never seen this kind of vitriol,” he said. But here’s the twist: the tide on social media had actually shifted. By the time Ted’s pulled out, most comments were supportive. Even Mayor Steve “Thunder” Tumlin invited McKerrow to walk the Square and reconsider. The lot’s been an eyesore since 2010, and Councilman Johnny Walker, who’s been pushing for something—anything—to fill the space, is frustrated. “If Ted’s doesn’t come back, it could be years before anyone else steps up,” he said. The $5 million project was ready to go: a 4,311-square-foot building designed to match the Square’s historic charm. But now? It’s back to square one. STORY 3: Cobb advances 2028 SPLOST, sets community meetings  Cobb County’s 2028 SPLOST plan is officially in motion. On Tuesday, commissioners gave a unanimous thumbs-up to a preliminary list of projects, kicking off months of public input. What’s on the table? Everything from new fire stations and libraries to pedestrian safety upgrades and a $30 million aquatic center. The total? A hefty $790 million. Chair Lisa Cupid called it a balancing act: “Every dollar has a constituency. We need projects that move the county forward but also maintain the basics—roads, public safety, services.” Nine community meetings are set through March, giving residents a chance to weigh in before the final vote in April. 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 6 STORY 4: Addison Elementary School principal charged with DUI  Addison Elementary Principal Jill Spiva was arrested Thursday for DUI after a crash near the school, according to Cobb County Police. The wreck happened around 4:45 p.m. at Ebenezer and Sandy Plains roads, just minutes from Addison. Officers said Spiva appeared intoxicated and was at fault for the crash. A half-empty bottle of Smirnoff vodka was reportedly found in her car, per WSB-TV. Spiva refused sobriety and blood tests, prompting a judge to issue a warrant for a blood draw. She’s facing charges of DUI, open container, and failure to maintain lane. The district acknowledged the incident but declined to comment on her status. STORY 5: Mount Paran Christian enter apparel agreement with Nike and BSN Sports Mount Paran Christian School just announced a big win for its athletics program—a multi-year partnership with Nike and BSN SPORTS. Translation? Top-tier gear and branded apparel for student-athletes, coaches, and the entire MPC sports community. Nike will now be the official provider of athletic apparel and equipment, while BSN SPORTS steps in as the school’s brand distributor. “This partnership is huge,” said Athletic Director Mike Walker. “It’s about giving our athletes the best—gear that matches their heart and hustle.” The deal also lowers costs for families, sharpens team branding, and fuels MPC’s mission to compete at a championship level. 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. I'm Keith Ippolito and that’s your MDJ Sports Minute. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on raw milk We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 6 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 15th Publish Date: January 15th From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Thursday, January 15th and Happy birthday to Martin Luther King Jr. I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Dinosaur World Live returns to Gwinnett's Gas South Theater Gwinnett service organizations look to Families First model to better help others Ethics board dismisses complaint over Holtkamp's transit videos Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on raw milk 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: Dinosaur World Live returns to Gwinnett's Gas South Theater Dinosaur World Live is back—bigger, bolder, and fresh off its 2024 Olivier Award win for Best Family Entertainment. And guess what? It’s stomping into Gas South Theater on Feb. 7 for two shows. This isn’t your average dino show. Think jaw-dropping puppetry, life-sized dinosaurs so real you’ll swear they’re breathing, and a lineup that includes the mighty T. Rex, Triceratops, and more. The story? Miranda, daughter of paleontologists, grew up on a remote island surrounded by dinosaurs. Now, she’s bringing her prehistoric pals to meet you—just don’t get too close. Some of them bite. Tickets at GasSouthDistrict.com. STORY 2: Gwinnett service organizations look to Families First model to better help others LaShawna Edwards has always been a giver. It’s in her DNA. Helping others was just what her family did. So when life flipped the script and she found herself needing help? That was hard. “We’ve always been the ones giving,” she said. “To be on the other side of it? It’s rough.” Edwards, 50, had been juggling two jobs, raising her teenage sister, and caring for her mom, whose health was failing. Then came the rent hike—73%—and suddenly, they were living out of their car. What came next was Families First, a nonprofit that doesn’t just help—it acts. Edwards calls her caseworker, Angela Wylie, her “angel.” Wylie helped her find housing, food, and job resources. Edwards is still in a hotel, still searching for stability, but she’s hopeful. STORY 3: Ethics board dismisses complaint over Holtkamp's transit videos Gwinnett County Commissioner Matthew Holtkamp got some relief Tuesday when an ethics panel ruled he didn’t violate county rules by filming a video on a Ride Gwinnett bus urging voters to reject the 2024 T-SPLOST referendum. “I’ve been completely vindicated,” Holtkamp said. “This had no merit, and it’s unfortunate we had to waste resources on it.” The complaint, filed by a resident in Holtkamp’s district, claimed he improperly used county property for personal advocacy. But Holtkamp argued he paid his bus fare and had a friend—not county staff—film the video. The ethics board agreed, saying his actions didn’t break the rules. 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: Gwinnett County, Lawrenceville get federal funds for water and police projects Gwinnett County and Lawrenceville just scored over $2 million in federal funding for water upgrades and public safety improvements. U.S. Rep. David Scott announced the approval, with $1.09 million earmarked for Snellville’s water infrastructure—upgrading a booster station’s electrical system and adding backup power—and $1.03 million heading to the Lawrenceville Police Department. The police funds? They’ll cover new patrol cars, trauma kits, breaching tools, and other gear to boost safety for both officers and the public. “This $2.12 million investment will make a real difference,” Scott said. “Better water, safer streets—I’m proud to deliver for Gwinnett.” STORY 5: Dacula Boys Basketball Seizes Region Lead with Victory at Central Gwinnett Dacula’s boys basketball team just keeps rolling. With a nail-biting 60-57 win over Central Gwinnett on Tuesday, the Falcons snagged first place in Region 8-AAAAAA and stretched their win streak to 11 games. Now sitting at 16-1 overall and 5-0 in the region, Dacula handed Central its first region loss, dropping them to 5-1. Case Presley led the charge with 21 points, eight boards, and three assists. Josh Brown notched a double-double (10 points, 10 rebounds), while Kenny LaRue chipped in 10 points and some clutch playmaking. George Fajemirokun added six points and steady contributions all around. 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. We’ll be right back. Break 3: EAGLE THEATRE And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on raw milk 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 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.

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for January 14th Publish Date:  January 14th Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Wednesday, January 14th and Happy Birthday to Dave Grohl I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal East Cobb protest calls to end ICE after deadly shooting Interstate lane closure advisory for the I-285/I-20 West Interchange project ‘Ready to work for it’: Miss Cobb County 2026 looks toward Miss Georgia competition 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: East Cobb protest calls to end ICE after deadly shooting The intersection of Johnson Ferry and Roswell roads buzzed with energy Sunday afternoon as over 150 protesters gathered for the “ICE Out for Good” rally, part of a nationwide movement calling for the abolition of ICE. Chants of “No ICE, no fear, immigrants are welcome here” echoed across the streets, accompanied by honking horns and waves from passing cars. Protesters held handmade signs with messages like “Melt ICE,” “Justice for Renee,” and “Keep Orwell fiction.” The rally followed the recent fatal shooting of Renee Good, a Minneapolis woman, by an ICE agent during an immigration operation. Protesters, led by Indivisible Cobb, called out what they described as ICE’s unchecked violence. “This is about justice,” said Susan Lopez of Smyrna. “ICE is overstepping, and it’s time to hold them accountable.” Not everyone agreed. Terry Frost, a lone counter-protester, stood silently with a Trump campaign flag, voicing his support for ICE. “I can’t stand with people defending criminals,” he said. The protest remained peaceful, with no arrests reported. STORY 2: 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, lane shifts, and some frustration—so plan ahead. The project? Widening ramps, adding collector-distributor lanes, and improving traffic flow. But first, the closures: I-285 Northbound: Cascade to Bolton, nightly Jan. 12-16. Single-lane closures start at 9 p.m., double-lane closures at 11 p.m. I-285 Southbound: Hollowell to MLK Jr. Drive, same deal. I-20 Westbound: Anderson to Riverside, 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. I-20 Eastbound: Riverside to I-285, alternating lane closures. Flagging operations and pacing will also hit nearby roads. Check 511ga.org for updates, and drive safe! STORY 3: ‘Ready to work for it’: Miss Cobb County 2026 looks toward Miss Georgia competition   For Dominique Verville, crowned Miss Cobb County 2026 last August, life’s best moments often sit just past fear. “Fear shows up when something matters,” the 23-year-old from Kennesaw told the Kiwanis Club of Marietta on Thursday. “It doesn’t mean you’re unprepared—it means you’re standing at the edge of growth.” A graduate of Auburn University with degrees in aviation management and finance, Verville is a classically trained dancer, a licensed pilot, and now an aviation insurance underwriter. But her heart? It’s in service. Through her nonprofit, Hearts for Heroes, she supports veterans transitioning to civilian life, delivering supplies and reading her children’s book, Dear Soldier, to students. “The crown isn’t about me,” she said. “It’s about serving others.” 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: Mableton swears in new councilmembers, elects mayor pro tem The Mableton City Council kicked off the year with a packed agenda—and a little drama. New council members Cassandra Brown and Michael McNeely were sworn in, while Debora Herndon, reelected unopposed, will take her oath later this month. Then came the vote for mayor pro tem. After a 3-3 tie between Ron Davis and Keisha Jeffcoat, McNeely flipped his vote in a second round, giving Davis the role with a 4-2 majority. “Big shoes to fill,” Davis said, “but I’m ready to make this city the best it can be.” The council also approved Mableton’s participation in HUD’s Community Development Block Grant program, partnering with Cobb County to fund affordable housing, infrastructure upgrades, and economic development. STORY 5: Wood you believe it? New art exhibits open in Marietta   Two fresh exhibitions are taking over the Marietta-Cobb Museum of Art and they couldn’t be more different. Downstairs, “Georgia Wood Artists” showcases 50 stunning woodworks from 39 Georgia artists—everything from bowls to mandolins to abstract sculptures. Upstairs? Lawrenceville painter Maya Perez-Lugones makes her solo debut with a series of bold, surreal bathroom scenes. “It’s like night and day,” said museum director Sally Macaulay. “Every piece evokes something different. I love hearing what people feel.” Perez-Lugones’ work, inspired by light bouncing off bathroom surfaces, explores ego and compulsion. Meanwhile, the wood exhibit highlights craftsmanship, from whittling to woodturning. Tickets are $10; kids under 6 get in free. Break: STORY 6: Braves re-sign reliever Tyler Kinley    The Braves are keeping their bullpen busy this offseason, signing right-hander Tyler Kinley to a $3 million deal for 2026, with a $5.5 million club option for 2027 (or a $1.25 million buyout). Kinley, 34, was lights-out last season—5-0 with a ridiculous 0.72 ERA in just 25 innings after being traded from Colorado in July. Not bad, right? This move follows Atlanta’s other bullpen splashes: a $45 million deal for Robert Suarez and a $16 million re-signing of closer Raisel Iglesias. STORY 7: Health inspection follow-up brings big change for Hoboken Cafe  The Hoboken Café on Whitlock Avenue, a local favorite for Italian eats, bounced back this week after a rough health inspection in December. The follow-up? A shiny 97 out of 100—an “A” for food safety excellence. Back in December, though, things weren’t so great. The café scored a 69, just one point above a failing grade. Violations included raw meat stored above ready-to-eat foods, cooling and reheating issues, and sanitizer buckets with way too much solution. The last inspection found just one issue—improper cooling for stuffed peppers, which was fixed on the spot. Management says everything’s been addressed. 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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GDP Script/ Top Stories for January 13th Publish Date: January 13th From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Tuesday, January 13th and Happy Birthday to Julia Louis Dreyfus I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Former Buford star Zach Smith conquers final peak to complete Seven Summits Man found shot to death at Snellville area home Children’s Museum of Atlanta to debut 'AIM HIGH: Soaring with the Tuskegee Airmen' 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: Former Buford star Zach Smith conquers final peak to complete Seven Summits In early December, Zach Smith—former Buford football standout turned mountaineer—wrapped up something most of us can only dream about: climbing the last of the Seven Summits. On Dec. 1, he stood atop Mount Vinson in Antarctica, completing a journey fewer than 500 people have ever achieved. And this wasn’t just any year for Smith. In 2025 alone, he also summited Carstensz Pyramid in February and Mount Everest in July. Three summits. One year. Getting to Antarctica was no small feat. After a whirlwind of flights, freezing temps and carrying double provisions, Smith and his team lucked out with good weather, summiting in a week. Others weren’t so lucky, stuck on the mountain for days. Why three summits in one year? “It was about timing,” Smith said. “I was already in peak shape, and my wife and I decided it made sense to go for it.” But now? He’s ready for a slower pace. STORY 2: Man found shot to death at Snellville area home Gwinnett police are digging into a homicide after a man was found dead early Sunday in unincorporated Snellville. It was around 3:10 a.m. when officers got a call about someone down on Saddle Ridge Drive. When they arrived, they found a man—already gone—apparently from a gunshot wound. Detectives are on it, interviewing witnesses, while the Crime Scene Unit combs through the area for evidence. Police say it looks like an isolated incident, so there’s no threat to the public. The victim’s name hasn’t been released yet. Got info? Call detectives at 770-513-5300 or Crime Stoppers at 404-577-TIPS. STORY 3: Children’s Museum of Atlanta to debut 'AIM HIGH: Soaring with the Tuskegee Airmen' The Children’s Museum of Atlanta is kicking off 2026 with something special: “AIM HIGH: Soaring with the Tuskegee Airmen.” Opening Jan. 17, this hands-on exhibit dives into the history and legacy of the first Black military aviators, blending their groundbreaking story with the science and wonder of flight. Timed perfectly with Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the exhibit celebrates resilience, courage, and the belief that opportunity shouldn’t be limited by race. From climbing into a life-size cockpit to designing their own wings, kids can explore aviation through play. There’s even a Smithsonian companion exhibit, “Black Wings,” spotlighting African Americans’ contributions to flight—from early pioneers to modern astronauts. Running through May 10, AIM HIGH invites kids to dream big, imagine themselves as pilots, engineers, and innovators—and maybe even take flight someday. 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: Gwinnett County Sheriff's Office employee arrested on child molestation charges A former probationary employee of the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office has been arrested after an investigation into crimes against children, police said. It started Jan. 5, when a parent reported finding explicit messages sent to her underage daughter. Detectives with the Special Victims Unit identified 21-year-old Rylee Willis of Stone Mountain as the suspect. At the time, Willis was employed by the Sheriff’s Office but still in his probationary period. Willis now faces two counts each of child molestation and enticing a child for indecent purposes. He’s being held without bond. STORY 5: Gwinnett County hosting 911 Communications Hiring Event on Jan. 31 Ever wondered what it’s like to be the calm voice on the other end of a 911 call? Gwinnett County’s E911 Communications Division is hosting a hiring event and open house on Jan. 31, giving you a rare, behind-the-scenes look at this critical public safety role. Held at the Police Annex (800 Hi Hope Rd, Lawrenceville), the event includes tours of the 911 Center, live call observations, and the chance to meet seasoned dispatchers. You’ll even complete Phase I of the hiring process—think skills assessments, interviews, and more. Space is tight, so appointments (8 a.m. or noon) are first-come, first-served. Apply online, submit your background booklet, and secure your spot. Perks? A $4,800 hiring bonus, educational incentives, shift differentials, and overtime opportunities. Must be 18+, a U.S. citizen, and have a high school diploma or GED. Details: Gwinnett911Careers.com or contact Investigator Raemie Fransen at 770.513.5565. We’ll be right back. Break 3: EAGLE THEATRE STORY 6: Jason Lane retiring after more than a decade as principal at Mill Creek High School For the last 13 years, Jason Lane has been the principal at Mill Creek High School, a role he never really saw coming. “I didn’t think I’d be a principal,” he said. “But as an assistant principal, I loved helping kids and teachers. Then some mentors saw something in me I didn’t see in myself.” Now, after 28 years in education—24 of them in Gwinnett County—Lane is retiring at the end of the 2025-26 school year. During his tenure, Mill Creek has thrived: academic achievements, 20+ state championships, and a focus on student leadership that Lane is especially proud of. “Our kids are incredible,” he said. “They mentor younger students, run a leadership summit for grades 1-8, and just show up every day ready to lead. I’ll miss them the most.” Lane and his wife, Lisa, have two sons—both Mill Creek grads. Dylan teaches special education in Pennsylvania, and Brady is a freshman football player at Grove City College. As for what’s next? Lane isn’t sure yet. “I don’t know what the next chapter holds,” he said. “But I know how lucky I’ve been—especially here at Mill Creek. This place is special.” STORY 7: Gwinnett senator running for Georgia insurance commissioner The race for Georgia insurance commissioner just got a shakeup—and a Gwinnett County connection. State Sen. Nabilah Islam Parkes announced last week she’s running for the statewide office instead of seeking re-election. First elected in 2022, Parkes is stepping into the race with a clear focus: lowering insurance costs. Parkes has called for an investigation into industry practices, accusing incumbent John King of protecting companies over consumers. “You deserve someone who fights for you,” she said. 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.

The RV world always has back-channel stories and simmering controversies, and in this News Edition of the RV Podcast, we break down a couple of those stories and why they matter to RVers.In Episode 582, we dig into the growing backlash over the Harvest Hosts takeover of Escapees RV Club, where longtime members say a once-beloved community is being hollowed out in the name of profit. We examine what private equity ownership really means for RV clubs and why this story has struck such a nerve across the RV community.We also take a close look at major shake-ups in RV technician training. The sudden and unexplained departure of the president of the RV Technical Institute has raised serious questions at a time when the industry desperately needs qualified RV service techs. On top of that, we report on the reported sale of the National RV Training Academy in Texas and what it could mean for future RV tech education.There is more confusion at America's national parks as new entrance fees for international visitors are causing delays and long lines at park gates. With staffing shortages already stretching the National Park Service thin, we explain what RV travelers should expect and how to plan ahead.And finally, Marcus Lemonis may be gone from Camping World, but he is still very much in the headlines. An arbitrator has ordered Lemonis to pay more than $14 million in damages tied to his role on the TV show The Profit. We look at what this ruling means and how Camping World may navigate an increasingly competitive RV dealership landscape without him at the helm.This is the RV Podcast News Edition, released every Monday morning with insider news, industry developments, and issues that directly impact RV owners and travelers. Our main podcast, Stories from the Road, drops every Wednesday with interviews, destinations, and listener questions.Now let's dive into this week's news.Harvest Hosts vs. Escapees: A Membership Meltdown StoryIf you want to see what happens when private equity gets its hands on a beloved RV community, look no further than the Harvest Hosts takeover of Escapees RV Club. The internet is on fire with member complaints, and the details are jaw-dropping.Here's what's got everyone fired up: In July 2024, Harvest Hosts acquired the management and operations of Escapees RV Club, including the popular Xscapers subgroup for working-age RVers. What happened next has become a textbook case of how private equity-backed companies can effect beloved community organizations.Full disclosure: we've been an affiliate of Harvest Hosts for many years, and the company used to be, but no longer is, an advertiser on this podcast. We're also an affiliate of RV Overnights, a Harvest Hosts competitor that sponsors our Wednesday podcast.Jen and I really like Harvest Hosts and have used it many times. But this story still needs reporting. Because it illustrates what happens when big money gets involved in startups and independent businesses.First, you need to understand that Harvest Hosts is no longer a small, founder-funded RV startup. It is a private equity-backed platform designed to grow, consolidate, and eventually deliver a strong return to investors. In 2021, it reportedly received about $37 million in growth capital and it has been growing and expanding ever since.One of the most biggest acquisitions wasin 2024, when it bought the Escapees Club, which was a family run club started in 1978 by Joe and Kay Peterson, two full-time RVers who were traveling with their family and wanted a way to stay connected with others living the nomadic lifestyle. It grew and grew, was later turned over to Peterson family relatives who eventually sold Harvest Hosts. There was worry and grumbling from members simmering for a long time but most recently, just before Thanksgiving, it turned in to a dumpster fire. According to reports from members and a detailed timeline compiled by concerned community members, Harvest Hosts terminated the Xscapers convergence director and other Escapees staff just two days before the scheduled Thanksgiving convergence. That's what they called their gatherings - convergences. They told attendees they'd still have a place to park but the event would no longer have a host or the Xscapers brand attached to it. Imagine planning your entire holiday around an event, traveling to the location, and then being told the people running it were just fired.But it gets worse. Harvest Hosts then cancelled several future Xscapers convergences and meetups, seemingly everything except the one annual Bash event, often with little or no notice, according to Facebook group posts. For context, these convergences and gatherings were the main draw to the club for many members. The community-focused events, where working-age RVers could connect with others living the nomadic lifestyle, were what made Xscapers special. Members had planned their entire travel schedules around these gatherings.The pricing controversy adds insult to injury. An email from Harvest Hosts CEO Joel Holland promised "we're not changing the price of an Escapees membership, it's still just $49.95" while simultaneously announcing that Escapees would be folded into a $179 All Access membership bundle. Angry members called this classic bait-and-switch language designed to confuse them about what they're actually getting.When members started speaking out about what was happening, things took an even darker turn. Members report that Harvest Hosts began actively censoring and deleting complaints in the online groups they now control. Long-time community members said they were being banned. According to member accounts, they're even banned members from the public Facebook page simply for voicing their concerns about how the company is handling criticism.The complaints on Trustpilot paint an even darker picture. One review states that Harvest Hosts has "decimated" the community and fired loyal Escapees employees, calling it a "classic Manhattan Private Equity gut job" backed by Stripes, LLC. The review notes that "the only thing harvested here was the goodwill of a 40-year-old club." Stripes was the equity group that handled that private equity investment into Harvest Hosts.Adding fuel to the fire, Harvest Hosts hired Chris Smith as Senior Director of Community & Events, someone who members point out oversaw the worst membership decline in FMCA history during his eight years as Executive Director & CEO there. Members are questioning why leadership with that track record is now running their organization, especially given the mass cancellations and firings that followed his arrival.Long-time Escapees members feel completely betrayed. This wasn't just any RV club. Escapees was founded in 1978 by the Petersons and for over 40 years, it built a reputation as a member-first club where volunteers ran regional chapters and gatherings felt like family reunions. In their acquisition announcement, Harvest Hosts explicitly promised to retain Escapees employees, continue community events including "Xscapers Convergences," support Facebook groups, and be "good and earnest stewards of the Escapees and Xscapers brand." The controversy highlights a growing and troubling trend in the RV industry: venture-capital-backed companies buying beloved community organizations and strip-mining them for profit. Members on online forums say Harvest Hosts has essentially gutted Xscapers and taken away the big thing that made it worth joining. The pattern is clear: cancel the expensive community events that members loved, fire the staff who built relationships with those members, silence anyone who complains about it, and then act surprised when the core community revolts. As members point out, the people Harvest Hosts has made the angriest are precisely the community leaders and engaged members who made Xscapers worth joining in the first place.As one community member put it: "What kind of company cancels a paid Thanksgiving event that has been planned for months, that many people built their holiday plans around and traveled to, with just days' notice? A company that is making poor business decisions for profit and doesn't realize they are destroying the asset they've purchased with their own hands."The situation is being discussed across Reddit, RV forums, and has even found its way into Google's AI overviews. Despite Harvest Hosts' apparent attempts to censor and ban critics, other members are making it clear: they will not be silenced or ignored. The controversy highlights a growing and troubling trend in the RV industry: venture-capital-backed companies buying up everything in sight. Over the past 20 years, private equity firms like Bain Capital, Alliance Holdings, American Industrial Partners, and others have acquired some of the biggest names in RV manufacturing, dealerships, and services - including Heartland, REV Group, Fleetwood, Monaco, Roadtrek, Grand Design, Lazydays RV Center, and yes, Camping World. Investment banking firm Jackim Woods & Co. has tracked more than 65 private equity transactions in the RV sector over the last two decades. The goal is always the same: buy a mid-size company as a "platform investment," then triple or quadruple its size over 5-6 years through acquisitions and cost-cutting. While some of these deals have created jobs and improved operations, the Harvest Hosts takeover of Escapees shows the bumpy road this consolidation wave can create- when community and culture become subservient to profit margins and "operational efficiency."Sources:Community member timeline and documentation: Facebook groups and posts tracking the controversy - https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=excapers%20escapees Member reports of event cancellations and censorship: Facebook group discussions - https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=excapers%20escapeesRVForums.com discussion: https://rvforums.com/threads/harvest-hosts-buys-escapees-rv-club.18663/Trustpilot reviews: https://www.trustpilot.com/review/harvesthosts.comReddit complaints https://www.reddit.com/r/FullTiming/comments/1pnhrr3/escapees_dying_after_harvest_host_purchase/RVBusiness coverage: https://rvbusiness.com/harvest-hosts-takes-lead-mgt-role-in-escapees-rv-club/Harvest Hosts acquisition announcement (July 2024): https://www.harvesthosts.com/blog/harvest-hosts-acquires-escapees-rv-clubHarvest Hosts 2025 changes announcement: https://www.harvesthosts.com/blog/harvest-hosts-unveils-exciting-enhancements-for-2025-expanded-membership-options-and-seamless-access-to-rv-travel-benefitsMystery Surrounds Sudden Exit of RV Training Institute President Curt HemmelerMeanwhile, In Elkhart Indiana, there is a lot of insider talk wondering what happened at the RV Training Institute, a trade group aimed at providing training to RV technicians. After the unexpected and sudden departure of its President, Curt Hemmeler, late last month.In mid-October 2025, RVTA issued a brief statement confirming that Curt Hemmeler was no longer with RVTI, thanking him for his contributions and announcing that Sharonne Lee and Bryan Ritchie would provide interim oversight during the transition. RVB The announcement was characterized as an "unexpected leadership transition."Hemmeler had been with RVTI since December 2018, nearly seven years. He is the first and only president the group has ever had and was very well liked. Under his leadership, RVTI had grown significantly, with more than 23,000 individuals accessing the RVTI Learning Management System and over 7,000 newly certified RV technicians, with annual growth rates of 20-26%No reasons were given for the departure, but it's pretty clear this was NOT voluntary on Hemmeler's behalf. What stands out in this story is the complete lack of explanation. In an industry where Hemmeler had been so visible and clearly successful is unusual and raises questions. One report on RV News said Hemmeler declined to say he resigned and would not comment further, citing advice from his legal counsel. The industry desperately needs more RV techs. Just before the departure announcement, Hemmeler had been actively expanding Spanish-language certification options and developing partnerships with campground associations and colleges.The lack of an explanation on why such a high profile leader was removed and why a shroud of secrecy has enveloped this has spurned all sorts of rumors. And rumors are not good. The RVTA is too important to the industry to handle something like this so bush league.Source:RV News: https://www.rvnews.com/rv-technical-institute-director-leaves/?utm_source=chatgpt.comHas the National RV Traning Academy Texas been sold?On a related matter regarding another place where RV Techs are trained, I'm told by reliable industry sources that The National RV Training Academy Texas has been sold. The school trains RV service technicians and RV Inspectors, as well as RV owners interested in learning how to maintain the various systems of their recreational vehicles.The official announcement has not yet been made but the new owner is said to be Heavy Equipment Colleges, of Las Vegas, which is a similar training facility that concentrates on the construction industry and teaches students how to maintain machinery like bulldozers, cranes, and excavators. It has training across the country in several locations.We've reached out to get official confirmation and details on what all this means to the NRVTA students but have not heard back yet. Our sources say an announcement is expected soon.Sources:https://heavyequipmentcollege.edu/https://nrvta.com/National Park Entrance Delays We're getting reports now about the effect the stiff new entrance fees for non-U.S. residents are having on our national parks. According to the Washington Post, that question is causing longer wait times to enter parks and is leading some foreign tourists to turn away at the gates.Here's what's happening. As of January 1st, international visitors aged 16 and older now pay an extra $100 per person on top of regular entrance fees at 11 of America's most visited parks, including Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, and Zion. The nonresident annual pass also jumped from $80 to $250.To enforce this two-tiered pricing, park rangers must verify residency status and check IDs for every visitor 16 and older. That means asking about citizenship, reviewing documents like passports or driver's licenses, and sometimes dealing with language barriers.The problem? This is happening during a severe staffing crisis. The National Park Service has lost 24 percent of its permanent workforce since January 2025, nearly 4,000 people. With fewer rangers on duty and thousands more visitors needing ID verification, entrance lines are backing up significantly.Tour operators near parks like Yosemite report that many international visitors arrive unaware of the changes, leading to delays and confusion at entrance stations. Some are turning around rather than paying the unexpected surcharges.For RV travelers planning park visits: buy passes online in advance at Recreation.gov, have your government-issued photo ID ready, arrive early, and expect longer wait times at popular parks.Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2026/01/09/national-parks-immigration-checks/Marcus Lemonis ordered to pay $14 million for damaging business people he supposedly was helpingMarcus Lemonis may no longer be running Camping World - He quit as CEO Jan 1 to become the new CEO if the revitalized Bed, Bath and Beyond, which is trying to rebound from bankruptcy - but his personal style of running things as a celebrity CEO has landed him in some hot water.He was just ordered by an arbitrator to pay more than $14 million to a group of business owners whose companies appeared on the CNBC TV show he hosted called"The Profit,"In fact, of the roughly 100 businesses featured on "The Profit," more than 50 filed lawsuits, engaged in mediation talks, or settled with Lemonis and NBCUniversal over the harm they say they endured.Last week, an arbitrator found that Lemonis violated the terms of a 2021 settlement barring him from making statements that could harm their reputations, according to documents filed in New York state court. The documents were filed as part of a petition to confirm the arbitration award after a 30-day payment deadline lapsed.The business owners said Lemonis ran afoul of the settlement terms when he spoke about them negatively over the span of roughly a year, starting in November 2021.The arbitrator, retired judge Ariel Belen, concluded in a 98 page ruling that Lemonis' "disdain for the respondents, complete disregard to his obligations in the settlement agreement, and apparent lack of concern for the harm suffered by respondents were all put on full display during the arbitration hearing."While he was CEO of Camping World, Camping World significantly expanded its RV dealership footprint to over 200, but the company faced a lot of accusations of aggressive sales tactics, undisclosed fees (like "dealer prep"), high-pressure selling, misleading warranty/service contracts, and issues with quality/repairs, leading to numerous consumer complaints and lawsuits. It will be interesting to see how Camping World, without Lemonis at the helm handles a wave of new competitive pressure these days from a bunch of other aggressive and acquisition-minded RV dealership chains like Blue Compass, General RV and Campers Inn, to name a few.Source: https://www.inc.com/ava-levinson/bed-bath-beyond-ceos-trash-talk-could-cost-him-millions/91285388And that's it for this week's RV Podcast News Edition. Before we go, let me ask you whether you are planning your 2026 RV adventures? If so, I want to invite you to join me for my comprehensive RV Trip Planning Workshop, where in a live, one-hour interactive presentation, I'll walk you through the exact system Jen and I use to create unforgettable travel experiences. It will be livestreamed Feb 5, 2026 at 7 PM Eastern Time.If you are a member of our RVCommunity.com, it's free. The cost for non members is $10. You can RSVP at RVPodcast.com/workshopThis isn't about following influencer hotspots or checking boxes at overcrowded destinations. Instead, you'll learn how to design trips that match your interests, your budget, and your pace. We'll cover everything from route planning and campground selection to budgeting strategies and timing your travels to avoid crowds. Again, to register, go to RVPodcast.com/workshop

Top Stories for January 10th Publish Date: January 10th PRE-ROLL: Kia Mall of Georgia From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Saturday, January 10th and Happy Birthday to Rod Stewart I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia. Affordability a top concern as lawmakers prepare for Georgia legislative session Srim Academy to host series of free seminars for young parents Christkindl Market drove 77% increase in downtown Lawrenceville visitors 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: Affordability a top concern as lawmakers prepare for Georgia legislative session When Georgia lawmakers head back to the Capitol next week, it’s all about affordability—or at least that’s the plan. House Speaker Jon Burns isn’t mincing words: “We’re laser-focused on making life affordable,” he said Wednesday, pointing a finger at property taxes for crushing the dream of homeownership. “For too many families, it’s slipping out of reach. We’ve got to fix that.” Meanwhile, Senate Republicans are eyeing income taxes. A committee led by Sen. Blake Tillery wants to nix the 5.19% tax for individuals earning under $50,000 (or $100,000 for couples) and eventually scrap it altogether by 2032. But affordability isn’t just about taxes. Rising medical costs? A mess. The end of federal health insurance subsidies? A looming crisis. Burns says the House will tackle health care, focusing on keeping doctors in Georgia by expanding residency programs. STORY 2: Srim Academy to host series of free seminars for young parents Srim Academy, a Montessori school in Norcross, is kicking off a series of free seminars for young parents—because, let’s face it, parenting is hard. Topics? Everything from potty training and screen time battles to fostering independence and getting kids to actually move their bodies. The first session, “Fostering Your Child’s Independence: Lemonade, Ladybugs and Learning,” happens Saturday, Jan. 31, at 10:30 a.m. at 5511 Williams Road. Expect 90 minutes of practical advice, hands-on activities (think crafts and cooking), and maybe even a few lightbulb moments. Led by Srim’s seasoned faculty and guests from Gwinnett Building Babies’ Brains, it’s all about building confidence—for kids and parents. Bonus: giveaways! Details? Visit www.srimacademy.com or call 678-808-9813. STORY 3: Christkindl Market drove 77% increase in downtown Lawrenceville visitors Lawrenceville’s first year hosting the Atlanta Christkindl Market? A total game-changer. Nearly 371,000 people visited the market during its debut season downtown—more than double the attendance from its Buckhead days, even with fewer open days. And here’s the kicker: 159,500 of those visitors wandered over to the Lawrenceville Square, boosting local restaurants and shops by 77% compared to 2024. Free parking, shuttles, and a glowing Winterlight Walk helped draw crowds, with visitors from 48 states. Downtown businesses saw sales jump 5–30%, and vendors reported 20–30% higher sales than the previous year. The collaboration between the city and Gwinnett County was key, with County Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson adding, “This event showed what’s possible when partnerships thrive.” Lawrenceville’s officially on the holiday map. 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: 2026 Beer Chaser 5K Registration is open Whether you’re a speed demon or a beer-loving stroller, the Beer Chaser 5K is calling your name. On March 7, Suwanee Town Center Park transforms into a St. Paddy’s Day celebration with a twist—running, sipping, and plenty of green. This isn’t your average 5K. Sure, it’s a Peachtree Road Race qualifier, but it’s also a beer lover’s dream. Choose your adventure: run straight through or stop at five beer stations along the scenic Suwanee Creek Greenway. Each station features a different Georgia brewery, so your taste buds get a workout too. Not into mid-run sips? No worries. Every runner (21+) gets a full beer at the finish line. And the party doesn’t stop there—StillFire Brewing is hosting an after-party with live music, food trucks, and 25 beers on tap. Registration starts at $55 for the straight-through option or $65 if you want those beer stops. Prices go up Feb. 1, so don’t wait. Oh, and don’t forget your festive St. Paddy’s Day gear—there are prizes for best costume, best group, and best kilt. Proceeds benefit Kiwanis Charity, supporting local causes like the North Gwinnett Co-Op and Children’s Healthcare. Details? Head to SuwaneeBeerFest.com/beer-chaser-5k/. STORY 5: Lanier Islands Resort looks back at 2025, forward to an exciting 2026 Lanier Islands Resort just wrapped up a big year—its 50th anniversary—and it’s clear they’re not slowing down anytime soon. Recognized as one of Georgia’s Best Vacation Destinations, the resort is leaning into its legacy while planning some exciting upgrades for 2026. Last year was packed: a new chapel and garden for weddings, a free summer concert series, the return of Magical Nights of Lights, and even a lantern festival that drew 4,500 people. Oh, and they snagged awards from The Knot, WeddingWire, and GolfPass, among others. Looking ahead? A $3 million refresh for Legacy Lodge, a revamped golf clubhouse, and Georgia’s first lighted Par-3 course. Plus, new events like a Fall Songwriter Series. Big things are coming. We’ll be right back. Break 3: GCPL Passport STORY 6: Rep. Andrew Clyde announces 2026 Congressional Art Competition Hey, high school artists in Georgia’s Ninth District—Congressman Andrew Clyde wants *you* to show off your talent in the 2026 Congressional Art Competition. Got a creative spark? Here’s your chance to have your work displayed in the U.S. Capitol for a whole year. Submissions are due Feb. 20, and the process is simple: send a digital image of your piece first, and if you’re a finalist, drop off the physical artwork by March 13. The theme? Anything that reflects North Georgia—think landmarks, industries, or even your school. Accepted mediums include paintings, drawings, mixed media, photography, and more. Just keep it two-dimensional, under 26x26 inches framed, and under 15 pounds. Oh, and no copying or controversial content—this is about originality. Questions? Call Clyde’s Gainesville office at 470-768-6520. Let’s see what you’ve got! STORY 7: Gwinnett Chamber introduces Elevate Business series The Gwinnett Chamber is shaking things up with the launch of the Elevate Business Series (EBS)—a fresh, expanded take on their long-running Small Business Series. Starting in 2026, this revamped program is all about helping small and medium-sized businesses level up with sharper insights, practical strategies, and tools to thrive. Why the change? Simple: demand. Attendance has been climbing, industries are diversifying, and businesses are hungry for deeper, more advanced content. “Elevate reflects how far we’ve come—and where we’re going,” said Megan Lesko, the Chamber’s Senior VP of Membership. The first event? Feb. 24, featuring Media Frenzy CEO Sarah Tourville on strategic communications. 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.

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for January 9th Publish Date:  January 9th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, January 9th and Happy Birthday to Jimmy Page I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Georgia schedules election to replace Marjorie Taylor Greene Marietta Theatre Company announces 2026 season Flu season hits Georgia harder this year — What you should be watching for Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats 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 4 STORY 1: Georgia schedules election to replace Marjorie Taylor Greene  Georgia’s 14th Congressional District is gearing up for a special election on March 10, following Marjorie Taylor Greene’s abrupt resignation. Greene, once a staunch Trump ally, stepped down after a public fallout with the president over her push to release Jeffrey Epstein-related documents. Trump called her a “traitor” and vowed to back her challenger if she ran again. Ouch. The race? Already crowded. Nearly two dozen candidates are eyeing the seat, including two Democrats, an independent, and 20 Republicans. Big names like State Sen. Colton Moore and Dalton Councilman Nicky Lama are in the mix. Qualifying runs Jan. 12–14, with a $5,220 fee. STORY 2: Marietta Theatre Company announces 2026 season Marietta Theatre Company just dropped its 2026 season lineup, and honestly? It’s a good one. Tickets are already on sale—season passes start at $65, and they’re flexible, so no stressing over dates. “Live theater sticks with you—it’s magic that lingers,” said Katrina Stroup, the company’s president. “This season? Laughter, music, joy. We’ve got it all.” Here’s what’s coming: Little Shop of Horrors (Jan. 22-31): A cult classic with humor, heart, and a man-eating plant. 9 to 5: The Musical (May 28-June 6): Dolly Parton. Friendship. Revenge. Enough said. All Shook Up (Aug. 13-22): Elvis meets Twelfth Night. Chaos ensues. Details at mariettatheatre.tix.com. STORY 3: Flu season hits Georgia harder this year — What you should be watching for  Flu season’s here, and Georgia’s getting hit hard—again. Over 300 people have been hospitalized since Dec. 21, and it’s not just the flu. RSV and colds are making the rounds too. Feeling run down? Fever, chills, body aches, sore throat? Yeah, it might be the flu. Dr. Earl Stewart Jr. from Wellstar says Influenza A (H3N2) is the big culprit this year, hitting kids, seniors, and folks with chronic conditions the hardest. Symptoms usually last 5–7 days, but that cough? It might stick around for weeks. When to worry? If you’re struggling to breathe, have chest pain, or your kid’s lethargic and not drinking fluids—get to the ER. Prevention? The usual suspects: flu shots, handwashing, rest, and staying hydrated. And if you do catch it, antivirals like Tamiflu can help—especially if you act fast. Stay safe, everyone. 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 4 STORY 4: Cobb Prom Swap  Got an old prom dress or suit gathering dust in your closet? Give it a second life at the Cobb Prom Swap! The Cobb County Public Library is collecting gently used dresses, suits, shoes, jewelry, accessories, and even new, unused cosmetics through Feb. 7. Drop-off locations include: East Cobb Library, Marietta North Cobb Library, Kennesaw Powder Springs Library, Powder Springs Vinings Library, Atlanta West Cobb Library, Kennesaw Then, teens can shop for free at the Prom Swap events—first-come, first-served—on Feb. 21 (South Cobb Library, Mableton) and Feb. 28 (Switzer Library, Marietta). Perfect outfits, no price tags. STORY 5: Wheeler overcomes rocky start to beat Cherokee Cherokee came out swinging, but Wheeler landed the knockout punch, pulling away for a 78-64 win Tuesday night at Cherokee High. The Wildcats (12-3, 4-0 Region 5AAAAAA) have been living out of suitcases for weeks, and while this wasn’t their cleanest game, they handed the Warriors (11-5, 3-1) their first region loss—without starters Kevin Savage and Lamarrion Lewis. UConn commit Colben Landrew was unstoppable, dropping 26 points. Jaron Saulsberry added 17, and Amare James chipped in 16, including a half-court buzzer-beater that sparked Wheeler’s comeback. Cherokee started hot—Sean Hamilton’s seven-point run helped build a 20-6 lead. But Wheeler clawed back, outscoring the Warriors 26-12 in the second quarter and never looking back. 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. I'm Keith Ippolito and that’s your MDJ Sports Minute. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 4 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 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.

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

From a disastrous New Year's Eve and attempting Dry January, to big podcast changes, relationship oversharing and dream holiday plans with Ella. New year, same Grace. Tune in, divas!

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.

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.

===== 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.

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.

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.