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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, May 18th, and happy 77th birthday to MLB HOF Reggie Jackson.

***05.18.24 – BIRTHDAY – REGGIE JACKSON***

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

1. Georgia First Lady Promotes 988 Suicide Prevention Hotline
2. Jimmy Carter’s Grandson Says Ailing Former President Nearing the End
3. Postal Service Agrees to Pause Restructuring Mail Processing System

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: It's OK To Not Be OK: Georgia First Lady Promotes 988 Suicide Prevention Hotline

Georgia's first lady, Marty Kemp, is actively promoting the new national suicide prevention hotline, 988, aiming to reduce the stigma around seeking mental health care. She emphasized the importance of raising awareness, especially in light of the pandemic's impact on mental health. Speaking at the Rosalynn Carter Georgia Mental Health Forum, Kemp highlighted the need to address mental health issues openly, drawing from her experience combating human trafficking. Kevin Tanner, the DBHDD commissioner, highlighted the surge in calls to the hotline, especially from rural areas, attributing it to anonymity and resource scarcity. The state is investing in reducing response times and deploying mobile crisis teams, recognizing the need for increased funding for treatment centers. Tanner's upcoming appearance at an Atlanta Braves game aims to further raise awareness about 988, particularly in rural communities.

STORY 2: Jimmy Carter’s Grandson Says Ailing Former President Nearing The End

At the Rosalynn Carter Symposium on Mental Health Policy, Jimmy Carter's grandson, Jason Carter, shared an update on the former president's condition, noting that despite his advanced age and hospice care, he remains present. Jason reflected on his grandfather's faith journey and suggested that he may be nearing the end. He highlighted the importance of caregiving in mental health, acknowledging the legacy of Rosalynn Carter's advocacy. Jason expressed gratitude for the caregiving experienced firsthand and emphasized its significance in mental health initiatives.

STORY 3: Postal Service Agrees to Pause Restructuring Mail Processing System

U.S. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy has pledged to halt a postal service restructuring plan until at least January 1, 2025, responding to concerns raised by senators, including Sen. Jon Ossoff of Georgia, about mail delays. This decision comes after complaints about significant delays in mail processing at distribution centers in Georgia and other states, notably the Atlanta Regional Processing and Distribution Center in Palmetto. DeJoy's aim with the restructuring plan is to enhance the postal service's financial sustainability and competitiveness. Despite delays, he remains committed to the plan, asserting that it is crucial for service reliability and cost-effectiveness. Sen. Peters announced the pause on social media, emphasizing the importance of preserving critical mail service.

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STORY 4: Recorded Floyd Prison Visit Nets Drug Smuggling Arrest

Eldrin Jejuan Hand, a Newnan man, is accused of conspiring to have drugs delivered to his work detail at the Floyd County Prison. Hand allegedly collaborated with another inmate and an individual named Tamara Mitchell to arrange a marijuana drop-off at the Rome Public Works facility. Recorded conversations revealed Hand instructing Mitchell on the drop-off location. Corrections officers later discovered marijuana hidden beneath a rock at the designated spot. Hand faces charges including felony conspiracy, use of a communications device for a felony, possession of marijuana, and possession of prohibited items by inmates. As of Wednesday, he remains in jail without bond.

STORY 5: Calhoun Police Department Assists in Crackdown on Mailed Drugs and Firearms

In March 2024, the Calhoun Police Department participated in a multi-agency parcel interdiction operation aimed at targeting suspicious packages in the mail stream. The operation led to the seizure of various illegal drugs, firearms, and large sums of suspected drug-related currency. Four individuals were arrested for drug trafficking offenses as a result of the operation. Chief of Police Tony Pyle emphasized the importance of collaboration between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in tackling gang and drug-related crimes through initiatives like the Safe Streets Task Force. The operation involved numerous agencies, including the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, DEA, FBI, and local sheriff's offices and task forces. Pyle commended the joint effort, highlighting it as a successful example of cooperation for public safety.

STORY 6: Biden, Trump to Debate Next Month in Atlanta

President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are set to debate on June 27 at CNN's Atlanta studios, marking a departure from traditional debates with no live audience. The last such debate was in 1960 between Nixon and Kennedy. Biden and Trump exchanged barbs, with Biden challenging Trump to face him again, and Trump accepting. It's uncertain if third-party candidates will join. Participants must meet certain criteria, including ballot access and polling thresholds. Moderators and further details will be announced later.

STORY 7: Traveling UGA Exhibit To Start In Cedartown

"UGA Athletics in Your Town" is a traveling exhibit showcasing materials from the University of Georgia Athletic Association archives, touring cities and counties across Georgia this summer. Starting May 20 at the Cedartown Library, it runs until August 2, open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jason Hasty, athletics history specialist, will present historic Georgia Bulldogs artifacts. The tour aims to connect with Georgia alumni and fans statewide. These exhibits are free and open to the public. For more details, contact Jason Hasty at hasty@uga.edu.

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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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