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, August 17th and happy 66th birthday to singer Belinda Carlise.
***08.17.24 – BIRTHDAY – BELINDA CARLISLE***
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: Tiffany World Named Assistant Principal At Rome Middle School
The Rome Board of Education has appointed Tiffany World as the new assistant principal at Rome Middle School. A Rome High graduate with 19 years of educational experience, World has previously taught in Chattooga County, served as a reading interventionist, and worked as a math coach at Anna K. Davie Elementary. She holds a Doctorate in Education from Kennesaw State University and has also served in the U.S. Navy. World expressed enthusiasm about joining the Rome Middle School team and looks forward to contributing to academic success. Principal Christian Barnes praised her readiness and leadership skills, stating she will be a great addition to the staff.
STORY 2: Gordon County4-H Open House Aug. 22
Join the Gordon County 4-H Open House on Thursday, Aug. 22, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the pavilion on Highway 53 Spur. The event, open to K-12 youth in Gordon County, will showcase 4-H clubs, competitive teams, contests, projects, camps, and more. Enjoy shaved ice, snacks, inflatables, live animals, games, music, and prize drawings. Drop in to explore opportunities for leadership and community service.
STORY 3: GNTC’s Nursing Program Achieves 100% Pass Rate
All 16 graduates of Georgia Northwestern Technical College’s Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program achieved a 100% pass rate on the NCLEX-RN exam this year, marking the second consecutive year of perfect scores. The graduates, who received their degrees on May 2, 2024, took the licensure exam between May 10 and July 27. Most have secured RN positions within GNTC’s service area and obtained multistate compact licensure, allowing them to practice in 42 states. ASN Program Director Michelle Spears-Sevy credited the success to the students' dedication and the faculty's commitment to innovative teaching and clinical partnerships.
Back in a moment
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STORY 4: What's Happening Around Polk County?
The Rockmart City Council is hosting a Community Engagement Night on Aug. 27 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at City Hall for residents to discuss concerns with council members and city staff. Also on Aug. 27, the Northwest Georgia Area Agency on Aging holds a quarterly meeting at 10 a.m. in Rome.
Ongoing community activities include Polk County EMA's volunteer recruitment for the CERT program, monthly free groceries at Worldview Baptist Church, and food assistance at the Good Neighbor Center Pantry. Cross Factor Church offers a free community meal and clothing every month, while Bethlehem MB Church holds worship services. The Polk County Democratic Party and Sons of the American Legion host regular meetings and events. Polk Family Connection meets monthly to discuss community support.
STORY 5: Bus Driver Recognized For His Exemplary Service During Wreck
At a Rome Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, bus driver Nakita Strickland was honored for his heroism after safely managing his bus during a crash on Ga. 101. Strickland's quick actions ensured the safety of his 24 passengers, despite the bus rolling and hitting a utility pole; only six passengers needed hospital treatment, all of whom were released the next morning.
The board also approved updates to 10 policies, including changes to personnel leave, financial activities, and student suspensions. Notably, paid paternal leave was increased from 120 to 240 hours. Two additional policies on student conduct and hearings were introduced for first reading and will be voted on next meeting. The board also decided to postpone the superintendent evaluation, with a follow-up meeting to be scheduled.
Back in just a moment
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STORY 6: Advocates for Children Officially Opens Calhoun Office
Advocates for Children celebrated the opening of their new Calhoun office on Wednesday with a ribbon-cutting and luncheon. President and CEO Rachel Castillo emphasized the mission to protect children, empower families, and strengthen communities. The new office, located at 209 S. Wall Street, will enhance their services in Gordon County. It will serve as a base for CASA training and the RISE program, which supports homeless youth aged 18 to 24. The expansion is aimed at bolstering their long-standing commitment to the community.
STORY 7: Packed House for Tax Hearing, Brings Out Teachers
At the final public hearing on August 13, the Catoosa County school board faced a packed room with 61 speakers discussing a proposed 30.14% increase in residential property taxes for the 2024-25 budget. Unlike previous meetings dominated by anti-tax sentiments, this hearing featured many teachers supporting the increase, citing the need for adequate funding for schools. Teachers presented petitions and highlighted the impact of underfunding on education quality. Superintendent Chance Nix emphasized the budget's reliance on local taxes due to unfunded state mandates. Critics expressed concerns about the tax burden on residents, especially those on fixed incomes, while supporters stressed the importance of investing in education despite the financial strain. The board will vote on the proposal after considering the feedback.
We’ll have closing comments after this.
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Sign off--
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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