GA News Podcast – East Metro for Sunday, 8/15– Published Friday 8/18
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 18th and Happy heavenly Birthday to MLB HOF Roberto Clemente.
***08.18.24 – BIRTHDAY – ROBERTO CLEMENTE***
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!
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Story 1: University System of Georgia Reports $21.9B in Economic Impact
In fiscal 2023, the University System of Georgia (USG) had an economic impact of $21.9 billion, marking a 9% increase from the previous year, according to a study released on August 14. This impact includes $14.6 billion in direct spending and $7.3 billion from the multiplier effect in local communities. USG institutions created 163,332 jobs statewide, comparable to the combined impact of the top five employers in Georgia. Graduates from the Class of 2023 are projected to earn nearly $1.4 million more over their lifetimes compared to those without a degree. Chancellor Sonny Perdue highlighted the dual benefit of USG's economic contributions and its role in enhancing graduates' financial prospects.
Story 2: 'Complete Execution Debacle,' Ossoff says of Postal Service
U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff expressed frustration over the United States Postal Service's (USPS) inefficiency during a Cobb Chamber of Commerce luncheon. Ossoff highlighted that he receives more complaints about postal service issues than any other matter, noting a particularly low First-Class Mail On Time rate of 34% in north Georgia. He criticized Postmaster General Louis DeJoy's management decisions, including a poorly executed distribution plan, which he called a "management failure." Although only the USPS Board of Governors can remove DeJoy, Ossoff promised to continue applying public pressure for improvements. He stressed that reliable mail service is essential for citizens, businesses, and elections.
Story 3: Early Voting to Include Weekend Dates in Cobb
Cobb County residents can vote early for the November 2024 general and presidential elections on select weekends. The Cobb County Board of Elections approved early voting dates starting Oct. 15, with weekdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and extended hours on two Saturdays: Oct. 19 and Oct. 26. On Sundays, Oct. 20 and Oct. 27, five locations will be open from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. to accommodate voters and church-goers. Early voting ends on Nov. 1, with no voting from Nov. 2 to Nov. 4. Election Day is Nov. 5, and voters must visit their assigned polling location.
We’ll be right back
Break: Wheeler’s funeral
Story 4: Madison Adopts Industrial Development Regs, Falls Short On Developers' Demands
On August 12, Madison Mayor and City Council passed a new industrial zoning ordinance with a 4-to-1 vote, aiming to regulate industrial growth more tightly while giving the council greater control. The ordinance includes limits on building space and stricter conditions for developments, such as requiring a permit for projects exceeding certain thresholds for traffic and water use. Councilman Ed Latham opposed the ordinance, arguing it could hinder economic growth and negatively impact low-income residents. Despite his objections, the ordinance was adopted, replacing the Heavy Commercial (C5) district with a new Light Industrial Zone (I) and adjusting various land-use standards. Councilman Eric Joyce and Mayor Fred Perriman praised the ordinance as a necessary step and acknowledged the active role of citizens in shaping it.
Story 5: Industrial Park Coming to Ball Ground
On August 8, the Ball Ground City Council approved the annexation of a one-acre parcel at 1355 Old Canton Road into the city. This land, already zoned for light industrial use, will be added to a planned five-acre industrial park. Developer Scott Merrell will construct five buildings, starting with two: one for a model railroad club and another for a linen company. The annexation ensures that all buildings within the park will fall under city jurisdiction. Site work for the project is already in progress.
We’ll be right back.
Break: INGLES 1
Story 6: SAY CHEESE: Duluth Launches New Selfie Stands in Downtown
Downtown Duluth has introduced new Selfie Stands designed to enhance photo opportunities for visitors. Created by community development specialist Jessica Bianchi and A1 Signs, these stands feature strategically placed cell phone holders that highlight key downtown landmarks like City Hall, the Eastern Continental Divide Marker, and local art pieces. The stands allow for both vertical and horizontal shots, aiming to improve the quality of photos and promote the city's vibrant public art. Bianchi's initiative provides a creative and practical solution for capturing the best angles of Duluth's scenic spots.
Story 7: 'The Breakfast Club' Will Lead Off Fox Theatre's Summer Film Festival
The Fox Theatre's annual Coca-Cola Summer Film Festival kicks off on August 23 with a screening of "The Breakfast Club," followed by "The Little Mermaid" and "Bohemian Rhapsody" on August 24, and "Casablanca" and "West Side Story" on August 25. Tickets start at $12 and are available at foxtheatre.org or 855-285-8499. For an enhanced experience, patrons can purchase Marquee Club Level seats for $45, which include early entry, food and drink options, and rooftop access. The festival features films on a large screen under the theatre’s iconic blue sky and includes pre-show experiences like sing-alongs and performances on the “Mighty Mo” organ. Film Tours are also offered, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the theatre, though these tours are not ADA accessible.
Commercial: Dermatology Con.
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