EAST METRO Top Stories for February 28th
Publish Date: February 28th
Commercial: MORGAN MEDICAL JAN_FINAL
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 Friday, February 28th and Happy birthday to Brian Jones
***02.28.25 - BIRTHDAY – BRIAN JONES***
I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Times Journal
Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on fast food
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.
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STORY 1: Newton County Extends Administrative Leave for County Manager
Newton County Manager Harold Cooper’s paid administrative leave has been extended to March 4 as the Board of Commissioners seeks more information following his Feb. 8 DUI arrest. Initially suspended for 10 days with pay, the board voted 4-1 to extend the leave after a closed session discussion. Commissioner J.C. Henderson opposed the extension, advocating for dismissal, while Commissioner Stephanie Lindsey cited policy ambiguity and the need for further details. Cooper, hired in May 2023, faces charges of DUI and improper lane usage after being pulled over for crossing the centerline. The board will revisit the matter at its next meeting.
STORY 2: Madison-Morgan Cultural Center Presents Madison Antiques & Fine Things
The Madison-Morgan Cultural Center will host the Madison Antiques & Fine Things event from March 20-22 at The Hall on Foster Street. This reimagined three-day event features antique dealers, artists, and interior designers from across the Southeast. It kicks off with a preview party on March 20, offering cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, live music, and early shopping. Friday and Saturday include lectures by renowned speakers like architect Andrew Cogar, designer Charlotte Moss, and landscape architect Hadden Powell. The event is a fundraiser for the Center and promises a blend of history, art, and Southern charm. Tickets are available online.
STORY 3: Man charged with aggravated assault in connection with body found in Habersham County
The Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a missing person case that led to the discovery of a body in Habersham County on Feb. 20. The investigation began with a welfare check in Rockdale County, and foul play was suspected the next day. Lee Daffin, 57, was identified as a person of interest and apprehended after a vehicle chase in Stephens County. Human remains were found in Cornelia, but the identity has not been released. Daffin faces charges of aggravated assault and terroristic threats, with additional charges pending as the investigation continues.
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We’ll be right back
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STORY 4: Lady Dogs Going To Final Four
Morgan County High School's girls basketball team dominated Carver-Columbus 58-33 in the Georgia AA State Championship Elite 8, showcasing stifling defense and strong rebounding. Led by junior Cydney Burke's 24 points, the Lady Dogs built an early 19-4 lead and never looked back. Madison Holcomb added 14 points, while Jaden Young scored 10. Now 21-9, Morgan County advances to the Final Four to face 29-1 Murray County on tonight at Georgia Southwestern University. Ranked 11th in AA, the Lady Dogs are riding high, with their coach praising the team's momentum and determination to keep their winning streak alive.
STORY 5: Newton Commissioners Press for New Programming at Nelson Heights
The Nelson Heights Community Center in Newton County is undergoing a $1 million renovation, funded by a 2022 SPLOST referendum, with plans to reopen this summer. Renovations include a splash pad, new playground equipment, a fully renovated kitchen, updated lighting, flooring, security cameras, and more. The center, closed in 2023 due to management issues, will also receive a new operating plan within 60 days. Commissioners are focused on defining the center’s purpose, such as after-school programs or senior services, and ensuring long-term staffing. Renovation costs have raised concerns, but officials aim to maximize savings during the process.
We’ll be back in a moment
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And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on fast food
*** INGLES ASK LEAH 5 FAST FOOD***
We’ll have closing comments after this.
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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 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 https://www.rockdalenewtoncitizen.com/ and https://www.morgancountycitizen.com/news/
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