The Community Podcast for Rockdale, Newton and Morgan CountiesGeorgia Power hiking rates
GA News Podcast – East Metro for Sunday, 12/22– Published Friday 12/19
From the Ingles Studio, Welcome to your Georgia News Podcast. This podcast features stories compiled from the publications of Times Journal.
Today is Sunday, December 22nd and Happy birthday to the Bee Gees
***12.22.24 - BIRTHDAY – BEE GEES***
I’m Peyton Spurlock and here is your top stories Georgia is talking about, presented by Drake Realty
- Georgia Power hiking rates
- Rising Student Anxiety Strains Counselors: ‘We Need More Resources’
- Archer Aviation Completes Construction of Manufacturing Facility in Covington
We’ll have these stories and more, coming up on your Georgia News Podcast and If you want community, local, and statewide news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!
Commercial: DRAKE (Drake Realty (Geoff)
Story 1: Georgia Power hiking rates
Georgia energy regulators approved a 3.5% rate increase for Georgia Power customers, raising average residential bills by $5.48 per month starting January 1. This is part of a series of increases over the past few years, totaling over $40, partly due to new nuclear reactors at Plant Vogtle and rising fuel costs. Commissioner Lauren McDonald supported the increase but expressed concern about its timing amid easing inflation. Georgia Power's lawyer, Brandon Marzo, stated the hike is necessary due to ongoing investments.
Story 2: Rising Student Anxiety Strains Counselors: ‘We Need More Resources’
School counselors in Georgia are seeking more support as student anxiety and emotional struggles rise. Amanda Johnson, a counselor at Armuchee Primary School, highlights the urgent need for mental health resources and reducing stigma. The American School Counselor Association recommends one counselor per 250 students, but current ratios are much higher, with Johnson serving 500 students and Candace Hammond at Pepperell High School handling 430 students each. Previously funded by CARES Act, mental health initiatives are now underfunded. Despite partnerships with local health organizations, resources remain insufficient. Counselors also educate parents and teachers to better support students.
Story 3: Archer Aviation Completes Construction of Manufacturing Facility in Covington
Archer Aviation Inc. has completed its 400,000-square-foot manufacturing facility, ARC, in Covington, Georgia, adjacent to Covington Municipal Airport. The facility will produce the Midnight eVTOL aircraft, with production starting in early 2025 and aiming for two aircraft per month by year-end. Archer plans to manufacture 650 aircraft annually by 2030, in partnership with Stellantis, which provides capital and expertise. The facility represents a $118 million investment and aims to transform urban travel with sustainable, low-noise aircraft. Governor Brian Kemp and Congressman Mike Collins praised the project for its innovation and job creation potential.
We’ll be right back
Break: WHEELER FUNERAL HOME (08.08.24 WHEELER OBITS_FINAL)
Story 4: Longtime Day Care Worker Announces Retirement
Betty Ann Tolbert, affectionately known as Ms. Betty, is retiring on December 20 after years of serving food and greeting children at daycares in Morgan County. With over 17 years of service, including 10 years at Little Tikes Early Learning Center and five years at Lemon Tree Academy Day Care, she has become a beloved figure. Known for her warm greetings and delicious meals, Ms. Betty is cherished by children and parents alike. Her retirement is bittersweet for the community, as she has been the heart of the daycare, bringing joy and energy to her interactions with the kids.
Story 5: Trump names Herschel Walker to ambassador post
President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Herschel Walker, a former University of Georgia football star and longtime friend, as U.S. ambassador to the Bahamas. Walker, who lost a 2022 Senate race to Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock, has been a successful businessman and advocate for youth sports. His friendship with Trump dates back to the 1980s when Walker played for Trump's USFL team. Walker joins other Georgians nominated by Trump, including former Sen. David Perdue and former Sen. Kelly Loeffler. All nominations require Senate confirmation, with Republicans set to control the Senate next month.
We’ll be right back.
Break: Ingles Markets 7
Story 6: Students K-12 Invited To Submit Their Most Fin-Tastic Artwork
The International Fish Art Contest for 2024-25 is now open for students from kindergarten to grade 12 worldwide. Organized by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, the contest encourages creativity and learning about fish through art and writing. Participants can enter the international contest or the Go Fish Georgia Award contest, creating hand-done illustrations of fish. Older students must also submit a creative writing piece. Top entries will be displayed at the Go Fish Education Center in Perry, Georgia. Entries are due by February 28, with various specialty awards available. More details are at FishArt.org.
Story 7: Hundreds gather to honor retiring Clerk of Courts Linda Hays
Hundreds gathered at the Newton County Historic Courthouse to honor retiring Clerk of Courts Linda Hays, who has served for 42 years, making her the longest-serving elected official in Newton history. Elected in 1982, Hays was praised by several Superior Court judges for her dedication and efficiency. Chief Judge Ken Wynne Jr. highlighted her commitment to public service, while Senior Judge John Ott credited her with maintaining a smooth court system. Senior Judge Sammy Ozburn noted her exemplary leadership among state clerks. Hays' deep faith and problem-solving approach were also celebrated by her colleagues.
We will have closing comments after this
Commercial: 11.12.24 MORGAN MEDICAL NOV_FINAL
Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s 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.
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