GA News Podcast – East Metro for Sunday, 8/25– Published Friday 8/22
BREAK: RENDER APARTMENTS
From the Ingles Studio, Welcome to your Georgia News Podcast. This podcast features stories compiled from the publications of Times Journal Inc.
Today is Sunday, August 25th and Happy heavenly Birthday to actor Sean Connery.
***08.25.24 – BIRTHDAY – SEAN CONNERY***
I’m Keith Ippolito and here is your top stories Georgia is talking about, presented by Drake Realty
We’ll have these stories and more, coming up on your Georgia News Podcast and If you want community, local, and statewide news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!
BREAK: DRAKE
Story 1: Mail processing delays in Georgia affecting tax payments
U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff has raised concerns with the IRS about delays in mail processing affecting Georgians' federal tax payments. Constituents are facing penalties and interest for late or missing payments due to USPS delays. Ossoff, who previously questioned Postmaster General Louis DeJoy about mail delays in Atlanta, is now urging the IRS to waive penalties, adjust accounts promptly, and expedite tax refunds for those impacted by USPS issues. Despite improvements reported in June, mail delays persist, prompting Ossoff's latest intervention.
Story 2: Local Election Officials Calling on State Board to Pause Future Rules Changes
On August 21, Georgia local election officials urged the State Election Board to halt recent changes to election rules before the November election. Officials, concerned about disruptions, argue that last-minute rule adjustments could undermine public trust and complicate preparations for absentee, early, and Election Day voting. Recent changes include new requirements for reconciling ballot counts and allowing discretionary inquiries into election results. Critics argue these changes could lead to errors and delays, while proponents claim they are necessary to ensure election integrity. The board will consider further rule changes on September 20.
Story 3: Fundraising Efforts Continue To Build New Home For Displaced Local Veteran
Al Cox, a 72-year-old retired veteran from Morgan County, is getting a new home after his previous one was destroyed by fire in July 2023. The construction of his new home has begun thanks to a fundraiser initiated by David and Christie Pike, who were moved by Cox's story. Despite raising $100,000 with the help of Little Bethel Church, they aim to raise an additional $50,000 to complete the 1,200-square-foot house. The GoFundMe campaign has raised over $2,600 so far. Cox, who has faced numerous personal hardships, including losing his wife and son, has been living in a camper while seeking assistance. The project highlights community support and Cox's desire to advocate for other veterans.
We’ll be right back
Break: Wheeler Funeral
Story 4: Ga. Supreme Court Hears Challenge To State Strip Club Tax
A Georgia Supreme Court hearing on Wednesday addressed a challenge to the state’s 1% tax on strip clubs, which funds child sex trafficking prevention efforts. The Georgia Association of Club Executives argued the tax unfairly targets businesses not involved in child trafficking, as minors are barred from strip clubs. They suggested massage parlors or lingerie studios might be more relevant targets. However, Deputy Solicitor General Ross Bergethon defended the tax, citing studies linking strip clubs to prostitution and asserting the tax’s appropriateness. The plaintiffs also argue that the tax violates First Amendment rights, but the state maintains that taxing strip clubs is similar to taxing other entertainment venues.
Story 5: Trail of Tears: Cherokee Voices Project Reveals New Insights
Andrew Jones, a history professor at Reinhardt University, is leading the Cherokee Voices Project, which focuses on 1838 property claims filed by Cherokee people during the Trail of Tears. These claims, filed against the U.S. government, offer a Native perspective on the forced relocation, contrasting with the previously dominant accounts from white officials and soldiers. Jones’s research highlights the resistance of the Cherokee to forced land privatization and the violence they faced. The project has digitized and transcribed these claims, providing valuable historical and genealogical insights.
We’ll be right back.
Break: INGLES 3
Story 6: Alpha Esports & Technology now open in Suwanee
Davin Jackson founded Alpha Esports & Technology in 2023 in Suwanee to offer young people guidance in technology through gaming. Drawing inspiration from childhood arcades, Jackson aims to create a modern space where kids can engage in STEM, AI, and cybersecurity in a positive, non-toxic environment. With a background in cybersecurity and a desire to mentor, Jackson's facility provides gaming opportunities while focusing on education and skill development. Despite a current participant base of about 50, Jackson hopes for increased community and school involvement, recognizing the potential for gaming to enhance creativity and teamwork. More information is available at www.alphaesportstech.com.
Story 7: Madison Planning And Zoning Approves Changes To Allow For RaceTrac Gas Station
RaceTrac may soon build a new gas station in Madison after the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission approved a map amendment and variance for the project. Located on seven acres at 2090 Eatonton Road, the station will be situated in an area currently zoned C-4 (interstate commercial) and will require rezoning of other parcels to C-4. The proposal must still receive final approval from the Madison City Council. The new station will not include long-term parking, showers, car washes, or mechanics. Construction is expected to be completed by 2026.
BREAK: Dermatology Con.
Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s 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.
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