COMMERCIAL:
From the Ingles Studio this is The Northwest Georgia News Podcast from the Rome News Tribune, Calhoun Times, Catoosa Walker News, and Polk County Standard.
Today is Saturday, July 27th and happy 49th birthday to MLB player Alex Rodriguez.
***07.27.24 – BIRTHDAY – ALEX RODRIGUEZ***
I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Northwest Georgia is talking about presented by Drake Realty.
These stories and more are coming up in today’s edition of the Northwest Georgia News podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!
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STORY 1: Audit Underway For Northwest Ga. Housing Authority Finances
The Northwest Georgia Housing Authority's new director, Justin Jones, has initiated efforts to address financial discrepancies within the agency by hiring an outside accountant, Shango Oseitutu. Concerns over cash flow issues and misallocated funds were raised during a recent board meeting. Jones acknowledged problems stemming from an improperly set up financial reporting system implemented several years ago. These issues involve ensuring funds designated for specific projects are properly allocated. Board Chair Lee Hight emphasized the need for accurate financial reporting and rectifying misallocated payments before the upcoming annual audit deadline of Sept. 30. Newly appointed board member Jamie Palmer, with a personal connection to the authority, expressed commitment to addressing these challenges.
STORY 2: Calhoun Non-Profit to Host Annual Back to School Celebration
The Christian Community Outreach Ministry will host its eighth annual Back to School Celebration on Saturday, July 27, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Calhoun Recreation Department. The event provides free backpacks, school supplies, clothes, and shoes to local school children. Last year’s event was well-attended, drawing hundreds of families and community organizations. Activities include music, games, and free food for the whole family. Families are advised to arrive early to line up for supplies. The CCO Ministry operates out of World Harvest Church and offers support throughout the week. For more information, contact Sherry Turner at 678-767-0071 or visit christian-community-outreach.com.
STORY 3: Catoosa Schools Proposing 30% Property Tax Hike
The Catoosa County school board has proposed a 30.14% property tax increase for 2024, maintaining the current millage rate of 15.040 mills. The increase is attributed to rising costs, particularly in state-mandated employee insurance. Although the millage rate remains unchanged, state law requires advertising it as a tax increase due to the "rollback rate" calculation. Three public hearings are scheduled in August at the board's offices in Ringgold to gather citizen input. Last year, the board increased property taxes by 18.65%. The majority of property taxes in the county are levied by the school board compared to county and city governments.
Back in a moment
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STORY 4: PSD High Schools Going Cashless For Athletic Events
Cedartown and Rockmart high schools are transitioning to a fully digital ticketing system for all home athletic events starting this school year. Cash and paper tickets will no longer be accepted at the gate. Instead, fans must use the GoFan platform via website or app to purchase tickets. School staff will assist with digital purchases using debit or credit cards at the gate. Cash transactions will still be available at concession stands. Advantages touted include convenience, speed, and enhanced security. This change aims to streamline entry, eliminate cash handling, and reduce wait times. The system debuts during preseason scrimmages on Aug. 2, with tickets priced at $10 each.
STORY 5: Soaring To New Heights: The Coosa Eagles Marching Band
Coosa High School's marching band celebrated the conclusion of their band camp with music and laughter at the school's newly installed football field turf. The camp, held over two weeks with daily practices from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., focused on preparing for the upcoming season. Band director Cody Bray commended the students for exceeding expectations by completing their full show opener titled "Infinite Sky," themed around soaring to new heights. Featuring the school's fight song and alma mater, the show aims to highlight each band section with energetic music and solos.
Back in just a moment
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STORY 6: Locals React: Strong Feelings on Biden Passing the Torch
Reaction to President Joe Biden's decision not to seek reelection as the Democratic Party’s nominee varied widely among local political figures on Monday, July 22.
Vinny Olsziewski, a Democratic Party leader in Georgia, expressed strong support for Biden's endorsed successor, Vice President Kamala Harris, calling her a capable leader.
Jamie Palmer, Chair of the Floyd County Republican Party, welcomed Biden's decision as beneficial for President Donald Trump and Republicans, emphasizing it as a positive move for America on the world stage.
Democratic nominee for Northwest Georgia’s 14th Congressional District, Shawn Harris, praised Biden's leadership and values, thanking him for his service to the country.
On the other hand, incumbent Republican Marjorie Taylor Greene speculated about a "soft civil war" in the "deep state" and called for Biden's immediate resignation, questioning his fitness for office.
Denise Burns, GOP Chair for the 14th District, echoed concerns about Biden's capability to fulfill his term.
Local Democrats expressed confidence in Biden’s governance and praised his record, with Olsziewski highlighting Biden's ability to govern effectively despite criticisms.
Overall, while opinions varied greatly, there was a notable focus on Biden's legacy and the implications of his decision for the upcoming election and national leadership.
STORY 7: Model Lady Devils Volleyball Hosts Biggest Youth Camp Yet
Model's youth volleyball camp this summer underscored the sport's rapid growth locally, buoyed by the Lady Devils' recent successes in 2023. Head coach Kendall Roberts and her team welcomed 95 campers, more than doubling attendance from the previous year, reflecting the program's increasing popularity. The camp focused on teaching proper techniques to participants aged 6 to 14 through drills, scrimmages, and skill demonstrations. Divided into two groups and utilizing two gyms for the first time, the camp aimed to foster a fun and learning-oriented environment. Each camper received a T-shirt and volleyball to continue practicing at home. Looking ahead, Roberts and her team are gearing up for the 2024 season, aiming to build on their momentum from the previous year’s achievements, with official practices set to begin soon.
We’ll have closing comments after this.
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Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Northwest Georgia News 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 northwestgeorgianews.com
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