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, November 2nd and happy birthday to David Schwinmmer 

***11.02.24 -BIRTHDAY – DAVID SCHWHIMMER*** 

I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are the stories Northwest Georgia is talking about presented by Drake Realty. 

1. Cedartown Native Turns Cancer Survivor Story into Advocacy 

1. A Wildlife Corridor In Polk County Is For The Birds, Bats And More 

1. Funeral Home Owner Arrested After Discovery of Bodies 

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:  Cedartown Native Turns Cancer Survivor Story into Advocacy 

In 2008, Kelly McKelvey from Cedartown discovered a breast lump and quickly became the first "Know in 24" patient at The Breast Center at Floyd, receiving rapid diagnostics and a biopsy within hours. Diagnosed with breast cancer at 34, she faced a challenging journey through treatment but was supported by a dedicated care team. Her early diagnosis allowed her to witness her children's graduations, a milestone she once feared missing. Now an educational interventionist and three-time educator of the year, McKelvey has impacted nearly 800 students and advocates for breast health, inspiring others with her story. 

STORY 2:   A Wildlife Corridor In Polk County Is For The Birds, Bats And More 

The development of wildlife corridors in Georgia, such as the Dugdown Corridor and Paulding Forest WMA, is crucial for connecting habitats and supporting biodiversity. These corridors, built through strategic land acquisitions and conservation efforts, allow animals like bears, bats, and at-risk fish to move safely between habitats. The initiative has seen over $90 million invested in creating a 32,000-acre preserve for hunting, fishing, and nature activities. Georgia's State Wildlife Action Plans (SWAPs) guide these efforts, identifying key conservation areas and securing funding to protect and connect vital ecosystems across the state. 

STORY 3:  Funeral Home Owner Arrested After Discovery of Bodies 

Chris Johnson, a funeral home owner in Coffee County, was arrested after 18 decomposing bodies were found at his business. Charged with 17 counts of abuse of a dead body, Johnson was taken into custody on October 27 following the discovery by deputies serving an eviction notice. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is handling the case, with more charges anticipated. The public is urged to provide any information to the authorities, and the case will be forwarded to the Waycross Judicial Circuit District Attorney for prosecution once the investigation concludes. 

Back in a moment 

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STORY 4: Calhoun City Schools Celebrates Coach Diane Smith 

 The Calhoun City Schools Board of Education meeting celebrated student achievements and honored Coach Diane Ralston-Smith for her 52 years of service, including 39 years as head softball coach. Smith, the winningest coach in school and Georgia state softball history, was recognized for her contributions to the community. The meeting also announced Red Ribbon Week poster winners from each school and covered light business, including personnel approvals, a financial report, and six field trip approvals. The next board meeting is scheduled for November 18. 

STORY 5:   Community Rally Kicks Off Effort To End Gun Violence 

A community cleanup initiative, "Let’s Squash This," aims to provide youth with alternatives to violence, starting with a rally at Willingham Gymnasium. Organized by Rome City Commissioner Elaina Beeman, the event included a gun buyback program to encourage ending gun violence. A second rally will involve local churches to build a supportive program for youth, offering activities like basketball, movie nights, and counseling. The initiative partners with organizations like NAMI Rome and Rome City Schools, seeking private support to foster a safer community. The effort emphasizes collaboration to create positive change and reduce fear in the community. 

Back in just a moment 

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STORY 6:  Three Convicted, Sentenced to Life for 2021 Murder in Fort Oglethorpe 

Three individuals, Keishann Rowe, Keonte Ragland, and Deonna Ragland, have been sentenced to life in prison for the 2021 murder of 19-year-old Jaylon Eberhardt in Fort Oglethorpe. A fourth suspect, Malachi Housley, previously pleaded guilty and received the same sentence. The group used social media to lure Eberhardt to a playground, where he was ambushed and shot by Housley. The murder stemmed from minor disagreements between Keonte Ragland and Eberhardt. Digital evidence and confessions revealed the calculated nature of the crime, leading to the convictions. The case was investigated by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by local district attorneys. 

STORY 7:  51st Peach State Marching Festival Packs Barron Stadium 

 The annual Peach State Marching Festival at Barron Stadium drew a record crowd of around 6,000 attendees, making it the largest in its history. Hosted by Rome High School, the event featured 27 high school bands competing, with many students performing for their largest audience yet. The festival, a culmination of months of preparation, was a bittersweet final competition for many. Highlights included a captivating performance by Jackson State University's band. Despite logistical challenges and unexpected heat causing dehydration issues, the event was deemed a major success, thanks to support from volunteers and local services. 

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 www.northwestgeorgianews.com 

Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. 

Produced by the BG Podcast Network 

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