EAST METRO Top Stories for May 2nd
Publish Date: May 2nd
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From the Ingles Studio, Welcome to The Community Podcast. This Podcast brings you the top stories from the Rockdale-Newton Citizen and the Morgan Citizen.
Today is Thursday, May 2nd, and Happy 62nd birthday to Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson
05.02.24 – BIRTHDAY – DWAYNE JOHNSON***
I’m Keith Ippolito and here are your top stories presented by Drake Realty
Plus, Bruce Jenkins’ conversation with Leah McGrath on breakfast ideas instead of vending machines.
These stories and more are coming up in today’s edition of the Community Podcast for Rockdale, Newton, and Morgan Counties! Please like, follow, and subscribe.
BREAK: DRAKE
STORY 1: Conyers man charged in beating death of elderly father
Conyers resident Danny Lee Chastain faces malice murder charges following the death of his 91-year-old father, Talmadge Chastain, in a tragic case of alleged domestic violence. The assault took place at their shared residence on Woodland Circle. Originally detained on April 13 for battery and aggravated assault, the charges against Danny Chastain escalated to malice murder subsequent to his father's passing at Grady Memorial Hospital six days later, on April 19. This incident came to light following a welfare check initiated due to Danny's aggressive behavior, leading deputies to discover the elder Chastain with evident signs of physical assault. Efforts to detain Danny Chastain encountered resistance, resulting in his being Tased before arrest. This case continues to develop as local authorities proceed with the investigation.
STORY 2: Morgan to receive share of $3 million of PILOT payments released by JDA
Morgan County will receive $450,000 boost from the Joint Development Authority, thanks to unanimous approval. This funding, part of a larger $3 million allocation, is aided by Meta's PILOT payments, positioning Morgan County for significant economic and community development. Highlighting the collaborative effort, this disbursement underscores the enduring commitment of the JDA and its partners to advance local infrastructure and growth.
STORY 3: School Superintendent Dr. Duke Bradley III unveils priorities for new school year
The Newton County School System, led by Superintendent Dr. Duke Bradley III, is on the brink of significant changes, with the introduction of new organizational priorities for the upcoming school year. These changes, designed with contributions from both stakeholders and the Board of Education, aim to enhance academics, operations, and the overall culture within the schools. The reform will introduce several crucial positions, including a chief of Learning and Leadership, alongside a concerted effort to bolster literacy and instructional effectiveness. Additionally, the initiative will focus on vital areas such as staff recruitment, mental health support, and increasing parent engagement. These comprehensive priorities lay the groundwork for an ambitious strategic plan slated for 2025, targeting widespread improvements across Newton County Schools.
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We’ll be right back.
Break: WHEELER FUNERAL HOME
STORY 4: Braves Games Pulled from Comcast Cable
Comcast cable customers find themselves in the dark regarding Bally Sports regional networks coverage, which includes the Atlanta Braves and Atlanta Hawks games. The crux of the issue lies in the expiration of the agreement between Comcast and Diamond Sports Group, resulting in the removal of Diamond Sports' signal from Comcast's offerings. This blackout not only affects Atlanta-based fans but also extends to markets in Detroit, Miami, and Minneapolis, leaving a sizable viewer base without access to their favorite regional sports content. To alleviate some of the inconvenience caused, Comcast has stepped forward with a goodwill gesture, offering credits to those impacted by the loss of service. Despite this setback for Comcast subscribers, it's noteworthy that Bally Sports continues to be accessible through several other platforms, including DirecTV, DirecTV Stream, AT&T U-verse, Cox, FuboTV, and Spectrum.
STORY 5: Newton School System 2025 Budget Includes Pay Increases
The Newton County School System's FY 2025 budget suggests notable changes in compensation for educators and staff, featuring a $239.7 million budget—an $18 million increase from the previous year. It encompasses $139.8 million in state funds, with local revenues expected to climb by $8.5 million, primarily due to an estimated 10% increase in the county tax digest and interest earnings. Key components include a state-required $2,500 salary boost for certified personnel, a 3.5% wage rise for classified staff, and adjustments in health insurance premiums. Approval by the school board is pending for May.
STORY 6: Interview
And now here is Bruce Jenkins’ conversation with Leah McGrath.
We’ll have closing comments after this.
Break: INGLES 10
Signoff-
Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Community podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Gwinnett Daily Post, the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties, or the Paulding County News Podcast.
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