In this episode of the Paulding County News Podcast, your hosts Melissa Carter and Doug Harding bring you the latest happenings from around the county, alongside a special feature interview that could influence the future of our local education system.

Episode Highlights:

• A Tragic Loss in Our Community: We begin with a grim update as the GBI has arrested 18-year-old Osman Sesay Jr. in connection to the heart-wrenching fatal shooting of 11-year-old Zander Whatley in Hiram. This ongoing investigation seeks justice for a young life cut tragically short. Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward.

• A Beam of Hope: In lighter news, we share the touching story of 3-year-old Nathaniel Van Dam, a brave little warrior fighting cancer. With the support of Make-A-Wish Foundation and Good 2 Grow, Nathaniel and his family are set to make unforgettable memories at Disney World. A beautiful reminder of the power of community and hope.

• Mother's Day Miracle: In an inspiring Mother's Day story, Melissia Boynton, a resilient mother from Dallas, Georgia, received a heart transplant, offering her a new lease on life. This momentous occasion highlights the importance of organ donation and the miracles it can bring to families.

Special Feature Interview with Cynthia Starke-Jones: Amidst these stories of tragedy, hope, and miracles, we turn our focus to a pivotal upcoming event in Paulding County – the school board elections. Cynthia Starke-Jones, a Democratic candidate running for an at-large seat on the Paulding County School District board, joins us to discuss her campaign, her unique perspective, and her vision for the future of education in our county. With the Democratic primary just around the corner on May 21, 2024, Cynthia shares why she believes she's the fresh voice our schools need.

Whether it's her stance on educational policies, her innovative ideas for student success, or her commitment to the community, this is one conversation voters won't want to miss.

Join Melissa Carter and Doug Harding as they explore these compelling stories and sit down with a candidate who could play a crucial role in shaping the educational landscape of Paulding County.

Tune in to the Paulding County News Podcast – where local news meets depth, heart, and the voices of our community.

Your thoughts and engagement make our discussions richer. We invite you to share your perspectives and join us in making a difference in Paulding County.