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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, April 13th and happy 77th birthday to singer Al Green.
***04.13.24 – BIRTHDAY – AL GREEN***
I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Northwest Georgia is talking about presented by Drake Realty.
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: How Does Polk Fire Rescue’s New Paid Positions Help Citizens?
Polk County Fire and Rescue service took a significant step forward with the introduction of paid firefighters at Station 6 in Fish Creek. This marks the first time the largely volunteer agency has regular staff at a station in its 50-year history. The station will now have a minimum of two firefighters on duty between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. on weekdays. The move aims to enhance fire coverage during daytime hours when many volunteers are at their primary jobs. The department's chief, Mike Hanuscin, hopes to fill more full-time positions soon. The initiative is expected to improve response times and potentially reduce home insurance rates by enhancing the department's Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating.
STORY 2: Berry College Dean named Oglethorpe University Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Gabriel Barreneche, currently the dean of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences at Berry College, has been selected as the new provost for Oglethorpe University in Atlanta. Oglethorpe University President Kathryn McClymond highlighted Barreneche's commitment to student success, innovation, and multicultural perspectives. As provost, Barreneche will oversee all academic affairs, faculty, and related departments at Oglethorpe. Previously, he served as chief academic officer at Berry College's Evans School and held leadership roles at Rollins College in Florida. Barreneche's academic background includes degrees in Spanish and Hispanic Languages and Literature. He is set to join Oglethorpe University on July 1.
STORY 3: City of Calhoun Proclaims National Telecommunicator's Week
During their regular meeting, Calhoun’s City Council honored local 911 employees ahead of National Telecommunicators Week. An Open House event by Gordon County 911 will be held on April 16. The city received a favorable Fiscal Year 2023 audit report, showcasing its strong financial position. Annexation and zoning requests were approved, as well as a Beer and Wine Pouring License request. Additionally, a road block request for a church event was approved. Calhoun Utilities Water and Sewer Director Erik Henson provided an update on efforts to address per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the water supply, including plant modifications and ongoing litigation. A presentation by a leading expert on PFAS is scheduled for the next council meeting on April 22.
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STORY 4: African American History Month contest winners
The winners of the Walker County African American Historical and Alumni Association Inc’s 2024 Black History Month contests were announced, including Maci Landen from North LaFayette Elementary School winning first place in the elementary school art contest. Maryam Muhammad from Muhammad Home Based School secured first place in the middle school history poster contest. Winners received ribbons, certificates, and monetary awards, and were featured on the "Beverly’s Historical Moments" television show on March 21. The winners were celebrated alongside teachers and association representatives.
STORY 5: Floyd County Commission Gets Update On Airport Upgrades
Floyd County commissioners received updates on renovations at Richard B. Russell Regional Airport, including the extension of the main runway by 1,000 feet funded by SPLOST. A $3.8 million federal earmark will extend the taxiway, unrelated to the SPLOST project. Kinetic Aviation Maintenance is moving operations to the airport, with plans for a new hangar. The commission also approved funding for a new truck for Public Works, issued proclamations for Sexual Assault Awareness Month and National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, and approved items on the consent agenda, including permits and contracts.
STORY 6: State Ends Weekly Covid New Case/Fatallity Reports After Four Years
Georgia’s Department of Public Health ceased its weekly updates on new COVID cases and fatalities after over four years. The final report, issued on March 27, cited a continuous decline in new cases. The state started these reports in March 2020, initially daily, then transitioning to weekly. A COVID resource website now provides information on virus-related inquiries and treatment. The final report revealed 1,330 new cases statewide, with 38 fatalities, including cases from Floyd and Bartow counties. The cumulative impact in the five counties includes confirmed cases and deaths, with free testing still available at the Coosa Valley Fairgrounds in Rome.
STORY 7: Cave Spring City Council Moves On Water and Sewer System Improvements
Cave Spring is embarking on a $15 million water system upgrade, with $12 million secured through a loan from the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA) and $3 million from local sales tax funds. The project aims to improve the aging water distribution system, increase water pressure, and reduce leakage. GEFA's loan offers a reduced interest rate, with over $5 million in principal forgiveness. Additionally, the city approved a bid for phase two of a sewer project and revisited a proposed sign ordinance to address concerns about billboard placement in the downtown area.
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