EAST METRO Top Stories for April 11th    

Publish Date: April 11th        

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From the Ingles Studio, Welcome to The Community Podcast. This Podcast brings you the top stories from the Rockdale-Newton Citizen and the Morgan Citizen.  

Today is Thursday, April 11th, and Happy 95th birthday to Ethel Kennedy.

***04.11.24 – BIRTHDAY – ETHEL KENNEDY***

I’m KEITH IPPOLITO and here are your top stories presented by Drake Realty

1. Morgan County Sheriff candidate under investigation for elderly exploitation
2. Conyers Launches Storm Assistance Program in Tornado Aftermath
3. Black History Parade and Festival returns to Madison's Town Park April 20

Plus, Bruce Jenkins’ conversation with Leah McGrath on the difference between a nutritionist and registered dietician.

These stories and more are coming up in today’s edition of the Community Podcast for Rockdale, Newton, and Morgan Counties! Please like, follow, and subscribe.

BREAK: DRAKE 

STORY 1: Morgan County Sheriff candidate under investigation for elderly exploitation

A candidate for Morgan County Sheriff, Dietrich Roland, is under investigation for alleged exploitation of the elderly, as reported in an incident filed on April 1. The investigation follows claims by a 73-year-old woman and her power of attorney, accusing Roland and his ex-wife of financial exploitation. Allegations include persuading the woman to purchase a house and vehicles, and facilitating monthly financial transfers. Roland denies the accusations, attributing them to political sabotage. He highlights his longstanding relationship with the woman and previous FBI interviews that did not lead to prosecution. The Morgan County Sheriff's Office has informed the FBI and GBI of the ongoing investigation, aiming for fairness and impartiality due to Roland's candidacy.

STORY 2: Conyers Launches Storm Assistance Program in Tornado Aftermath

The city of Conyers is launching a Storm Assistance Program (SAP) to aid residents affected by the recent EF2 tornado. A map of affected areas has been generated, and $50,000 has been allocated for cleanup assistance. Residents with significant tree damage can apply for evaluation by the city's certified arborist, followed by removal by a contracted tree removal company. Applications are available on the city's website and at City Hall. The deadline for application submission is April 30. Mayor Vince Evans emphasizes the importance of assisting residents who may lack the means to clean up their properties after the tornado.

STORY 3: Black History Parade and Festival returns to Madison's Town Park April 20

The NAACP Black History Parade & Festival, sponsored by Morgan County NAACP, will be held at Town Park on April 20 from noon to 5 p.m. The parade starts at 12:30 p.m., featuring special guest Greene County Marching Band, fancy cars, floats, and more. The Festival includes kids’ activities, a Black History corner, science experiments by Georgia Military College, and information booths. Food vendors and live performances will entertain attendees. The grand marshal is Mrs. Willie J. Waller, and the parade route starts at Morgan County Middle School. Festival MC is Larry Tinsley from V-103 radio. Contact Morgan County NAACP for more information.

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We’ll be right back  

Break: WHEELER FUNERAL HOME

STORY 4: Rockdale County Officials Warn of Scammers Amid Tornado Disaster

Rockdale County officials caution residents against potential scammers following an EF-2 tornado that caused significant damage. Residents are urged to be wary of sharing personal or financial information and to verify the identity of individuals requesting such information. Tips include asking for identification, avoiding door-to-door offers, and consulting insurance agents. Scammers may pose as government employees or contractors, so residents should verify credentials and avoid upfront payments or cash-only transactions. Additionally, residents should research businesses, avoid contractors offering to pay insurance deductibles, and verify public adjuster licenses before hiring.

STORY 5: Madison sets aside $370K for greenspace acquisition

Madison's Mayor and City Council aim to acquire at least 20 more acres of protected greenspace in the city. They approved an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), allocating $370,000 for land acquisition deals. This initiative, led by City Planning Director Monica Callahan, won't increase property taxes. The move is a response to rapid residential and industrial growth, as well as stormwater challenges. City Councilman Ed Latham sees the initiative as a significant step in addressing stormwater issues. The details of land acquisitions will be made public after completion, ensuring transparency in fund utilization.

We’ll be back in a moment  

Break: CURIOSITY LB BIKE RACE

STORY 6: Interview 

And now here is Bruce Jenkins’ conversation with Leah McGrath on the difference between a nutritionist and registered dietician.

STORY 7:  LEAH INTERVIEW

We’ll have closing comments after this. 

Break: INGLES 4

Signoff-   

Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Community Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Gwinnett Daily Post, the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties, or the Paulding County News Podcast.

Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

Produced by the BG Podcast Network

Show Sponsors:

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• wheelerfuneralhome.com
• peachtreecornersga.gov/385/Curiosity-Lab-Criterium-2024

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