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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, July 8th, and happy 62nd birthday to singer Toby Keith
***Keith***
I’m Brian Giffin and here the stories Northwest Georgia is talking about presented by Drake Realty
Ga. Supreme Court to review Coomer ethics complaint after second JQC recommendation
Floyd County Elections Board seeking public input on proposed precinct map changes
And Rome calls for community conversation concerning gun violence
Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets is here to talk with Bruce Jenkins about cutting back on soda
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Crawford of the US dept. of Agriculture on that same topic
These stories and more are coming up in today’s edition of the Northwest Georgia News podcast
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STORY 1: coomer
The case of suspended appellate judge Christian Coomer has returned to the Georgia Supreme Court after a second review by the Judicial Qualifications Commission. The commission's second report focuses on Coomer's alleged actions during his candidacy for judicial office or while serving as a judge. Coomer represented Floyd and Bartow counties in the Georgia House of Representatives for eight years, until he was appointed to the state Court of Appeals on Sept. 14, 2018. The accusations primarily revolve around Coomer's dealings with a wealthy elderly man and include allegations of concealing prior misconduct, dishonesty, and self-interest. Coomer's attorneys have filed a response, disputing the jurisdiction and factual accuracy of the JQC's findings. The case remains under review by the Georgia Supreme Court..…….get more info at northwestgeorgianews.com
STORY 2: Elections
The Floyd County Elections Board is holding two public meetings to gather input on proposed changes to the voting precinct map. The changes aim to consolidate precincts and have polling locations where both city and county voters can cast their ballots. The proposal is based on demographic changes and cost-saving considerations. Some precincts will merge, while others will combine county and city precincts. The proposed changes will be voted on by the Elections Board on August 1 and, if approved, will be implemented for the November election. Objections to the modifications must be filed prior to the vote. See the map and read more at northwestgeorgianews.com
STORY 3: gun
A surge in gun violence in Rome has prompted city leaders to organize a community meeting aimed at initiating a culture shift to address the issue. The meeting, hosted by the Rome City Commission, will involve community and faith leaders, schools, parents, and youth. The Rome Police Department has responded to over 30 shooting incidents so far in 2023, with eight shooting deaths during the first half of the year. The crimes often involve individuals who know each other, and stolen guns further contribute to the problem. The community meeting seeks to find solutions and address the underlying causes of gun violence.
Back in a moment
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STORY 4: shell casings
Two incidents of shots fired into homes have occurred in East Rome, targeting housing authority properties. Bullets were shot through the front doors of three apartments at the Sandra D. Hudson Villas, damaging three cars as well. Another incident at Park Homes Apartments resulted in a resident's door being damaged. The Northwest Georgia Housing Authority is taking action, evicting residents connected to the shootings and implementing additional security measures. Rome has seen a significant increase in gun violence, prompting community leaders, including the NAACP, to call for change. The Rome City Commission will host the aforementioned community meeting to address the issue and seek solutions.
STORY 5: Catoosa
The Catoosa County Board of Education plans to maintain the current millage rate of 15.040 mills. Although there is no change proposed, state law requires it to be advertised as a tax increase based on the "rollback rate." The rollback rate is calculated to produce the same revenue as the previous year's millage rate, taking into account any increase in the property value. Due to rising costs, particularly employee insurance, the proposed budget requires a millage rate higher than the rollback rate. Three public hearings will be held to gather public opinions on the proposed millage rate. Read more at northwestgeorgianews.com
STORY 6: cemetaries
A group of volunteers in rural Polk County is working to preserve the historic Simpson Cemetery. Led by the Polk County Cemetery Preservation Committee, the volunteers are documenting, cleaning, and maintaining cemeteries throughout the county. The Simpson Cemetery is the final resting place of notable individuals, including Sarah Murphy, who founded an orphanage, and Noah Borders, a former slave turned landowner and craftsman. The cemetery has been neglected and overgrown, making it difficult to recognize its significance. The committee aims to involve the community in caring for cemeteries, especially private ones, and raise awareness about preserving local history.
……….Back in just a moment
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Story 7: trafficking
Additional charges have been filed against 35-year-old Paden Elliott Brownlow, who was already in jail on drug trafficking and stolen firearms charges. The charges stem from a Floyd County Police Department investigation into a burglary in Alabama, where firearms, a truck, a trailer, and a tractor were stolen. Police identified Brownlow as a suspect after a video showed a thief driving a truck with a distinct "Let's Go Brandon" graphic, which matched Brownlow's vehicle. During a search of his property, police found stolen firearms, methamphetamine, and other stolen items. Brownlow now faces several felony charges, including making false statements to the police. He also faces charges in Alabama related to the thefts.
Story 8: Curtis
Rodney Curtis, a Gordon County native with 20 years of law enforcement experience, has announced his intention to run for Gordon County Sheriff in the upcoming November 2024 election. Curtis, who has worked in various roles including administration, operations, investigations, and professional standards, believes there is a need for change in leadership at the Sheriff's Office. He acknowledges the growing crime rate in the county due to rapid growth and expresses his commitment to making the community safer. Incumbent Sheriff Mitch Ralston, who has held the office since 2009, ran unopposed in previous elections.
We’ll have closing comments after this
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Thanks again for listening to today’s Northwest Georgia News podcast. For more on these stories and other great content visit northwestgeorgianews.com. Giving you important information about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? 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.
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