Northwest Georgia NewsEven With More People Working Here, Jobless Rate Climbs in May.
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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, June 29th and happy 63rd birthday to NFL HOF John Elway.
***06.29.24 – BIRTHDAY – JOHN ELWAY***
I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Northwest Georgia is talking about presented by Drake Realty.
- Even With More People Working Here, Jobless Rate Climbs in May.
- Mannington Mills Sells Calhoun Manufacturing Plant
- Catoosa Commission Moves Citizen Comments Back to Beginning of Meetings
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: Even With More People Working Here, Jobless Rate Climbs in May
In May, despite job gains across Rome/Floyd and the region, unemployment rates increased in area counties. Floyd, Bartow, Gordon, Polk, and Chattooga all saw upticks, with a total of 5,425 jobless individuals across these counties. Floyd reported a 3.3% unemployment rate, matching May 2023 levels, while other counties saw slight increases. Rome's jobless rate also reached 3.3%, up from April but consistent with a year ago. Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson noted industry shifts and increased workforce participation among students and graduates impacting summer unemployment rates statewide. In the broader region, the Northwest Georgia jobless rate rose to 3.3%, with significant increases in labor force and employed numbers compared to last year.
STORY 2: Mannington Mills Sells Calhoun Manufacturing Plant
Mannington Mills has sold its rigid core manufacturing plant in Calhoun to Bossen New Materials Corporation. The sale includes 23 acres of property, including a luxury vinyl tile manufacturing facility. Despite the sale, Mannington remains committed to the rigid core business, intending to expand its product offerings and leverage innovative technologies. President and CEO Tom Pendley emphasized that Mannington will continue to lead in this category by sourcing products from trusted partners while maintaining its reputation for quality and performance. The sale does not affect Mannington's other operations, including its headquarters and production in Georgia. Pendley expressed confidence in Mannington's ability to adapt to market changes and meet customer demands moving forward.
STORY 3: Catoosa Commission Moves Citizen Comments Back to Beginning of Meetings
In early 2021, Catoosa County commissioners moved public comments to the end of their meetings to avoid potential inappropriate language that might be heard by children in attendance. This decision sparked discontent among residents who felt their input became less relevant. Commissioner Vanita Hullander recently proposed returning public comments to their original position near the beginning of meetings. At the June 18, 2024 commission meeting, after discussion among all five board members, the change was unanimously approved. This means public comments will now occur before administrative fiscal matters are addressed, aligning with the community's desire for more timely and impactful participation in local governance.
Back in a moment
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STORY 4: Wheelchair Athletes From Across The Globe Training In NWGA
Between 45 and 50 wheelchair athletes worldwide will gather in Northwest Georgia for the Cedartown Wheelchair Athlete Training Camp and 5K. Hosted at Darlington School, athletes will train on local roads and the track, culminating in a mini-track meet for extra training and friendly competition. The main event, the Cedartown Wheelchair Athlete 5K, will feature athletes from 13 countries. Starting at 6 p.m. on July 2 at Peek Park in Cedartown, it includes a Kids Fun Run and an awards ceremony honoring outstanding athletes and community members. Founded in 1999, the event, known as the world’s fastest wheelchair 5K, has become a key fixture alongside other prestigious races like the Peachtree Road Race in Atlanta.
STORY 5: Dempsey to Chair Study Committee on Alternatives to Opioids for Pain Management
State Rep. Katie Dempsey, a Rome Republican, will lead the House Study Committee on Alternatives to Opioids for Pain Management, alongside 11 other lawmakers including Republicans and Democrats from across Georgia. The committee, established by legislation during the 2024 session of the Georgia General Assembly, aims to promote non-opioid options for pain relief. It includes citizen representatives with expertise in recovery, criminal justice, healthcare, and personal experience with opioid-related loss. The committee's mandate under House Resolution 1360 is to enhance awareness of non-opioid treatments among healthcare providers through education and propose legislative changes ahead of the 2025 session to advance integrated pain management care.
Back in just a moment
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STORY 6: Catherine Thompson’s Journey to Become Calhoun’s First Female Firefighter
In January 2024, Catherine Thompson made history as the first female firefighter in the 125-year history of the Calhoun Fire Department, graduating alongside six other recruits. Originally from Adairsville, Thompson, the youngest of seven siblings, hadn't planned on becoming a firefighter but was drawn to the opportunity when Calhoun announced their recruitment drive. Despite initially not passing the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT), Thompson persisted with determination and eventually succeeded, earning her place in the department. Reflecting on her groundbreaking role, Thompson emphasized the job's challenges but underscored unity among firefighters in pursuing the common goal of community safety. She expressed gratitude for the privilege to serve and hopes to continue serving Gordon County for years to come.
STORY 7: Long Reflects on First Year as United Way of Gordon County Director
Stacy Long transitioned from the Voluntary Action Center to lead the United Way of Gordon County in June 2023, where she now oversees support for 12 local partner agencies focusing on education, basic needs, and health. Her role involves advocacy, fundraising, and ensuring efficient allocation of resources to maximize community impact. Under her leadership, the United Way has streamlined its agency partnerships to enhance effectiveness. Long is also spearheading initiatives like ALICE to assist financially struggling households above the poverty line. She encourages community involvement through monthly United4Gordon meetings and educational IMPACT sessions, emphasizing the critical role of volunteers in sustaining local programs.
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