EAST METRO Top Stories for January 2nd
Publish Date: January 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, January 2nd and Happy birthday to Cuba Gooding Jr.
***01.02.25 - BIRTHDAY – CUBA GOODING JR***
I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Drake Realty
Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on budget shopping
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 (Drake Realty (Geoff)
STORY 1: Newton Sheriff Brown takes oath of office for fifth time
Sheriff Ezell Brown was sworn in for his fifth term as Newton County Sheriff on Dec. 27, marking over 45 years in law enforcement. The ceremony, led by Probate Court Judge Melanie Bell, took place at the Newton County Sheriff's Office. Brown, first elected in 2008, emphasized his commitment to transparency, excellence, and high service standards. Under his leadership, the office has introduced programs to enhance public safety and community trust. Brown expressed gratitude to Newton County citizens for their support, pledging to continue strengthening the community.
STORY 2: Morgan County Charter School System Looks To New Era With New Schools
The Morgan County Charter School System is celebrating 2024's achievements and planning for 2025, focusing on building a new primary and elementary school on a consolidated campus, estimated at $80 million, to be completed by 2028. Superintendent Dr. Virgil Cole highlighted the successful passage of ESPLOST and a bond referendum, and the completion of the $2.7 million Agricultural Learning Lab. Assistant Superintendent Jay Homan noted academic progress, with accreditation ratings exceeding network averages. The system aims to continue improving education quality and fostering innovation, supported by strong community partnerships.
STORY 3: Georgia Rivers plans adventures for 2025
Georgia Rivers is offering 14 guided canoe and kayak trips in 2025, ranging from the Okefenokee Swamp to the Chattahoochee River. These trips cater to all skill levels and highlight small streams, African-American history, and new water trails. Registration opened on Dec. 28, with fees from $110 to $450 and scholarships available. The trips begin in March with adventures on Muckalee and Kinchafoonee creeks, and continue with events like the Ebenezer-Abercorn Adventure, focusing on Black history. The signature Paddle Georgia event in June covers 80 miles over seven days. The organization also offers a free Georgia River Guide app for independent exploration.
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We’ll be right back
Break: WHEELER FUNERAL HOME (08.08.24 WHEELER OBITS_FINAL)
STORY 4: Madison-Morgan Convention & Visitors Bureau To Boost Tourism In 2025
Tourism is a major industry in Morgan County, supporting local businesses and generating significant revenue. The Madison-Morgan Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) has been enhancing tourism post-pandemic, with visitor spending reaching $61.1 million, supporting 550 jobs, and saving households $733 in taxes annually. In 2025, the CVB plans to expand tourism efforts with a new strategic plan focusing on understanding tourist engagement, refining marketing, and launching cooperative marketing initiatives. In 2024, their website traffic grew by 27%, and media exposure garnered 197 million impressions, boosting the local economy and community involvement.
STORY 5: Judge Mumford retiring after 40 years of public service
Rockdale County Chief Superior Court Judge Robert F. Mumford retired on the last day of 2024, ending a four-decade public service career. Mumford, who served as a judge, district attorney, and state representative, will be succeeded by Judge Nancy Bills, with Judge Maureen Wood filling his vacancy. Elected in 2012, Mumford's achievements include securing funds for the Nancy Guinn Library and initiating the county's first drug accountability court. He played a key role in developing Rockdale's legal system and will continue as a senior judge. Mumford expressed gratitude to his wife and Rockdale citizens for their support.
We’ll be back in a moment
Break: Ingles Markets 10
And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on budget shopping
*** INGLES ASK LEAH 3 BUDGETING***
We’ll have closing comments after this.
Break: 11.12.24 MORGAN MEDICAL NOV_FINAL
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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