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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 22nd and happy heavenly birthday to NBA player Pete Maravich.

***06.22.24 – BIRTHDAY – PETE MARAVICH***

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

1. Two New Catoosa County Commissioners Coming in 2025
2. Several Gordon County Construction Projects Wrapping Up
3. Future of Rome's Travel Gymnastics Program at Risk. What We Know.

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: Two New Catoosa County Commissioners Coming in 2025

In Catoosa County, Steven Henry secured victory in the Republican runoff for Board of Commissioners chairman, defeating incumbent Larry Black by 187 votes. Henry, a former chairman, will face Democrat Greg Bentley in the November election. Similarly, in District 3, Richard Tharpe won the Republican runoff against incumbent Vanita Hullander by 77 votes and will compete against Democrat Alex Brady in November. Despite significant local interest and controversy, voter turnout remained low, with only 4,013 voters participating in the chair race out of 45,000 registered and 1,331 in District 3 out of 11,830. Candidates like Henry and Tharpe aim to prioritize unity and effective governance, hoping to move past prior disputes and focus on improving the county.

STORY 2: Several Gordon County Construction Projects Wrapping Up

Gordon County Government has been actively advancing multiple construction projects recently. Completed projects include renovations at the Administration Building, Records Retention Building, and Evidence Building. Nearing completion are the new Public Works Building and upgrades at Brookshire Park, including a boat ramp and recreational facilities. The Public Works Building, replacing an older structure, is expected to finish in August under Momon Construction. Renovations at the historic Administration Building, funded by SPLOST, involved restoring its slate roof and completing interior repairs. The Records Retention Building expanded with SPLOST funds aims to meet future needs, while Brookshire Park enhancements, partly funded by grants, will add recreational amenities by month's end.

STORY 3: Future of Rome’s Travel Gymnastics Program at Risk. What We Know.

The Rome-Floyd Parks and Recreation Department is reviewing the viability of its travel gymnastics program due to declining participation and rising costs. Last year, the program incurred over $34,000 in expenses while only attracting 39 gymnasts, down from over 100 a decade ago. The program no longer covers its costs, and attracting top coaches to enhance the program would require substantial fee increases that might alienate current participants. The department's advisory board is considering options, including surveying parents about their willingness to accept higher fees to sustain the program, which has been subsidized at $860 per gymnast annually. The discussion follows the departure of the head coach, prompting a reevaluation of the program's long-term sustainability.

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STORY 4: Hall County Solicitor General Indicted In Fraud Scheme

Hall County Solicitor General Stephanie Woodard has been indicted on charges including 11 counts of theft by taking and 34 counts of false statements and writings. The indictment alleges she unlawfully acquired funds from Hall County and the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of Georgia for personal expenses not related to her official duties. It also accuses her of fraudulent reimbursement claims for travel expenses she either already submitted or didn't actually incur. Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr emphasized the importance of integrity in public office, stating that such actions undermine the legal system. The alleged offenses spanned from July 2018 to September 2022, and the indictment follows a presentation of evidence to a Hall County grand jury by the attorney general’s Public Integrity and White Collar Crime Unit.

STORY 5: Calhoun Farm Awarded Labor Stabilization Grant

Rise ‘N Shine Organic Farm in Calhoun has secured a $200,000 federal grant under the USDA’s Farm Labor Stabilization and Protection Pilot Program. This initiative aims to enhance the resilience of the U.S. food chain by supporting small and mid-sized farms in hiring and retaining workers. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack highlighted that these grants will bolster rural communities and farm competitiveness. Rise ‘N Shine plans to use the funds to improve worker recruitment and retention through initiatives like bonus payments, paid sick leave, and housing maintenance plans. Established in 2005, the farm has grown to cultivate nearly 30 acres, utilizing high tunnel hoop houses to supply organic produce year-round and collaborate with local artisans.

Back in just a moment

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STORY 6: Rome’s Fourth of July Fireworks Display to Get More Boom

This year's Fourth of July festivities in Rome promise an enhanced fireworks display with larger 5-inch shells replacing 3-inch ones, ensuring higher bursts and better visibility. Ridge Ferry Park opens at noon with a splash zone and water inflatables starting at 1 p.m. Food carts and concessions will be available, complemented by musical performances including Hunter Chastain. The highlight, sponsored by Atrium Health Floyd, will be Zambelli Fireworks' grand finale showcasing over 1,500 pieces starting at 9:15 p.m. Entry is free, with parking at $5 per vehicle and splash zone wristbands at $5 per child. Additional celebrations include the Cave Spring Fourth of July Parade and the Lindale Independence Day festivities on June 29th.

STORY 7: Dollar Tree Adding Gordon County Standalone Location

Dollar Tree is expanding its presence in Gordon County with a new location under construction at the intersection of Dews Pond and Lovers Lane roads near the Food City Gas 'N Go station. Grading work began recently on the 1.24-acre site for a 9,973-square-foot building. Culbertson Contractors are overseeing the $1.4 million project, according to a permit issued by the City of Calhoun in late April. The property is owned by Dews Pond LLC based in Morristown, Tennessee. Dollar Tree, known for its discount variety stores, already operates in Calhoun with locations at W.C. Bryant Parkway and South Wall St., under its Family Dollar brand.

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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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