Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast

Top Stories for December 27th  Publish Date: December 27th  PRE-ROLL: Sugar Hill Ice Skating From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast.  Today is Saturday, December 27th and Happy Birthday to Mick Jones  I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia.  Rising costs for insurance, with reports of refusals to pay claims, could spur legislation Georgia DOT suspends lane closures for the holidays Grayson man gets 80-year prison sentence for robbery-turned-murder  All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe!  Break 1: Kia Mall of Georgia STORY 1: Rising costs for insurance, with reports of refusals to pay claims, could spur legislation Insurance costs are climbing, and people are fed up. Policyholders say they’re paying more for less—claims denied, delays dragging on for months. Meanwhile, insurers aren’t exactly thrilled with Georgia either. The state ranked dead last in profitability for insurance companies last year.  “Less competition means higher prices,” said Robert Hoyt from UGA’s Terry College of Business.  At a final hearing in Gwinnett, lawmakers heard it all: auto repair shops battling insurers, marathoners denied prosthetics, and frustrated customers paying out of pocket.  Rep. Matt Reeves says change is coming. “We’ll be looking at prices, profits, and penalties. It’s overdue.”  STORY 2: Georgia DOT suspends lane closures for the holidays  With the holidays here, there’s a little gift from GDOT: no lane closures on major roads, interstates, or near shopping spots. From Dec. 23 at 6 a.m. to Dec. 28 at 10 p.m., and again Dec. 31 at 5 a.m. to Jan. 2 at 5 a.m., you’ll get a smoother ride.  But don’t zone out—crews might still be working, and emergencies? Yeah, those closures can still happen.  Stay sharp, watch for signs, and be extra careful near work zones. Need updates? Check the 511GA app or GDOT’s website. Safe travels, and happy holidays!  STORY 3: Grayson man gets 80-year prison sentence for robbery-turned-murder  A 20-year-old from Grayson, known on the streets as “Draino,” will spend the rest of his life—and then some—behind bars. Adrian Synclare Johnson was convicted last Friday on nearly two dozen charges, including murder and racketeering, for his role in the February killing of 24-year-old Gerryon Ceasor during a botched drug robbery.  The sentence? Two life terms (one without parole) plus 20 years. “Gang violence won’t be tolerated,” said DA Patsy Austin-Gatson.  Prosecutors say Johnson and six others planned to rob Ceasor of his Draco pistol. Shots were fired. Ceasor didn’t survive. The others await trial.  We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.  We’ll be right back  Break 2: Ingles Markets  STORY 4: Polar Vortex Is Strengthening: What It Means For GA Winter Temps  Georgia’s Christmas forecast? It was warm. And, according to The Weather Channel, this unseasonably toasty trend is sticking around through March.    Why? A strong polar vortex. Sounds intense, right? But here’s the twist: the stronger it is, the less it messes with us. Instead of icy blasts, we’re looking at above-average temps across the South, especially in February.    Meanwhile, the North gets the cold and wet. La Niña vibes, basically—warm down here, chilly up there. So, enjoy the sunshine, Georgia. Winter’s taking it easy.  STORY 5: Georgia swears in its youngest state representative  At just 21, Ali’s already making waves. Youngest lawmaker in Georgia’s history? Check. Youngest Democratic state rep in the country? Also check. But he’s quick to brush off the titles. “First and foremost, I’m a brother, a son, and your neighbor,” he says.  Ali’s story mirrors his district’s—immigrant parents, humble beginnings, and a relentless climb. “We went from eating white rice every night to owning a home,” he recalls. That shaped him.   His journey into politics started young, sparked by threats to his community’s mosque. Now, he’s building bridges, lowering costs, and proving age doesn’t define leadership.  We’ll be right back.  Break 3: DTL HOLIDAY INTERVIEW - Lorraine Green   STORY 6: Metro Atlanta man accused of cheating people out of almost $1 million by selling bogus UGA tickets  A 43-year-old Alpharetta man, Matthew Neet, is accused of pulling off a nearly $1 million scam that targeted college football fans and investors. Fake tickets, bogus investments—he allegedly promised it all, but delivered nothing.  Prosecutors say Neet offered hard-to-get UGA football tickets (think Alabama, Texas matchups) and pitched timberland projects in Costa Rica. The catch? None of it was real. Instead, he pocketed $943,000 from over two dozen victims.  Neet’s been charged with wire fraud and waived indictment. The FBI’s still digging, and prosecutors are ready to take him on.  STORY 7: ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ cast member Kandi Burruss stars in ‘& Juliet’ on Broadway  Kandi Burruss is taking her talents to Broadway. Yep, the “Real Housewives of Atlanta” star and Grammy-winning artist joined the cast of & Juliet on Dec. 11 at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre in New York. She’s stepping into the role for a limited run through March 8, 2026, following TikTok sensation Cheryl Porter.  The show? A playful twist on Romeo & Juliet—what if Juliet didn’t, you know, end it all over Romeo?  Burruss, a 14-season RHOA veteran, adds this to her packed résumé: singer, songwriter, producer, restaurateur, and now Broadway star.   We’ll have closing comments after this   Break 4: GCPS Hiring  Signoff –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com  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:  www.ingles-markets.com    www.kiamallofga.com  Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill  Team GCPS      NewsPodcast, CurrentEvents, TopHeadlines, BreakingNews, PodcastDiscussion, PodcastNews, InDepthAnalysis, NewsAnalysis, PodcastTrending, WorldNews, LocalNews, GlobalNews, PodcastInsights, NewsBrief, PodcastUpdate, NewsRoundup, WeeklyNews, DailyNews, PodcastInterviews, HotTopics, PodcastOpinions, InvestigativeJournalism, BehindTheHeadlines, PodcastMedia, NewsStories, PodcastReports, JournalismMatters, PodcastPerspectives, NewsCommentary, PodcastListeners, NewsPodcastCommunity, NewsSource, PodcastCuration, WorldAffairs, PodcastUpdates, AudioNews, PodcastJournalism, EmergingStories, NewsFlash, PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Top Stories for December 25th  Publish Date: December 25th  PRE-ROLL: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING  From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast.  Today is Thursday, December 25th and Happy birthday to Jimmy Buffett   I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia.  Duluth named Georgia's most Hallmark movie-like city Solicitor's Office donates 5K proceeds to help domestic violence victims Salleigh Grubbs appointed to State Election Board    Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on holiday foods   All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe!  Break 1: GCPS Hiring  STORY 1: Duluth named Georgia's most Hallmark movie-like city  If you’re dreaming of a Hallmark-style Christmas, Gwinnett County’s got you covered—no need to pack your bags. According to The Action Network, three Gwinnett cities made Georgia’s top five most Hallmark-like towns, with Duluth taking the crown as number one.  Why Duluth? Think walkable streets, a buzzing town green, and a community that actually shows up—for festivals, concerts, and all the holiday feels. “It’s less about historic landmarks and more about people-driven traditions,” they said.  Lawrenceville and Suwanee also made the list, proving Gwinnett’s got that small-town magic—minus the guaranteed snow or last-minute romantic plot twists.  STORY 2: Solicitor's Office donates 5K proceeds to help domestic violence victims  Three local groups that support domestic violence survivors got a little holiday cheer last week, courtesy of the Gwinnett County Solicitor’s Office.  Solicitor General LisaMarie Bristol handed out checks to Mosaic Georgia, the Partnership Against Domestic Violence, and Ahimsa House during a ceremony at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center. The $12,080 came from the office’s third annual Dash 4 Domestic Violence 5K.  “This is about more than money—it’s about action,” the office said.  The event drew 170 runners, 65 volunteers, and 33 sponsors, raising over $12K to help survivors and their families across Gwinnett.  STORY 3: Salleigh Grubbs appointed to State Election Board  Former Cobb GOP Chair Salleigh Grubbs has been tapped for the State Election Board, the Georgia Republican Party announced Monday.  Lt. Gov. Burt Jones made the appointment, filling the seat left vacant by Rick Jeffares. Grubbs called it a “recess appointment” and said she’s ready to get to work immediately.  “Salleigh’s leadership and commitment to election integrity are unmatched,” said Georgia GOP Chair Josh McKoon.  A Marietta native, Grubbs has been a vocal advocate for fair elections for years. “I’m honored and humbled,” she said. “This is about transparency, bipartisanship, and making Georgia’s elections better for everyone.”  We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.  We’ll be right back  Break 2: Kia Mall of Georgia - DTL HOLIDAY  STORY 4:   Bittersweet: Candymakers navigate tariff, supply chain challenges during holiday season  For Jocelyn Dubuke, owner of Jardi Chocolates, 2025 was a gamble. Faced with rising tariffs and supply chain chaos, she spent every dollar of last year’s revenue to stockpile chocolate. Why? To keep her customers from feeling the pinch.  “Come January, I told my distributors, ‘Whatever chocolate you’ve got in the States, I want it,’” she said. “I wasn’t about to tell my customers halfway through the year, ‘Oh, by the way, your price just doubled.’”  Chocolate’s tricky—rules you can bend, but not break. And with cacao only grown overseas, tariffs hit hard.   STORY 5: Brookwood Tops Archer for First Deep South Classic Title in 10 Years  Masai Knight spent most of the game dishing out assists—nine of them, to be exact—but his biggest play came when it mattered most.  With Brookwood clinging to a four-point lead in the final minute of the Deep South Classic championship, Knight threaded a perfect pass to Grant Dehnke, who scored inside to stretch the lead to six. A defensive stop, a couple of free throws, and that was it—Brookwood sealed a 61-52 win, their first tournament title in a decade.  FALCONS: Bijan Robinson was electric, C.J. Henderson clutch, and the Falcons? They held on—barely. Atlanta edged Arizona 26-19 on Sunday, thanks to Henderson’s diving interception with 90 seconds left, slamming the door on the Cardinals’ final drive.  Robinson? Unreal. 171 total yards, a touchdown grab, and a spot in Falcons history—just the third player to hit 2,000 scrimmage yards in a season. Not bad company: Jamal Anderson, William Andrews.  Arizona? Another heartbreak. Seven straight losses, 12 of their last 13. Brissett’s 203 yards weren’t enough, and a wild Michael Wilson TD catch wasn’t either.  Atlanta’s still alive. Barely.  Break 3:   And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on holiday foods   Break 4:   We’ll have closing comments after this   Break 5: Ingles Markets 3  Signoff –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com  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:  www.ingles-markets.com    www.kiamallofga.com  Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill  https://www.downtownlawrencevillega.com/  Team GCPS    News Podcast, Current Events, Top Headlines, Breaking News, Podcast News, Trending, Local News, Daily, News, Podcast, Interviews See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Top Stories for December 23rd  Publish Date: December 23rd  From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast.  Today is Tuesday, December 23rd and Happy Birthday to Eddie Vedder  I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia.  Christkindl Market heading into final days of first run in Lawrenceville Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 66 hosts annual Cops and Kids Christmas event EXPLORING GWINNETT'S HISTORY: Christmas in the past  All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe!  Break 1: Kia Mall of Georgia - Sugar Hill Ice Skating Rink Final  STORY 1: Christkindl Market heading into final days of first run in Lawrenceville  The Atlanta Christkindl Market has been buzzing with holiday cheer, drawing over 226,000 visitors to downtown Lawrenceville since Thanksgiving. But if you haven’t made it out yet, time’s running out—Christmas Eve is your last chance.  This German-inspired market has become a magnet for families across Gwinnett and beyond, offering European treats, handmade ornaments, and festive vibes. City Manager Chuck Warbington predicts the final tally will top 320,000 visitors.  The market, at 210 Luckie St., is open daily now through Christmas Eve. Hours vary, so check ahead—and maybe book a Santa photo while you’re at it.  STORY 2: Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 66 hosts annual Cops and Kids Christmas event  Holiday traditions come in all shapes—carols, candles, big family dinners, and gift exchanges. But for the past 35 years, Gwinnett law enforcement has added its own twist: one December night dedicated to giving back.  On Thursday, officers from 10 Gwinnett departments gathered at the Walmart on Lawrenceville Highway for the annual Cops and Kids Christmas. They strolled the aisles with families, helping kids pick out toys and clothes—making sure there’d be something under the tree.  For many officers, this event is tradition.   This year, 61 families and 104 kids were treated to gifts, Christmas dinner fixings, and even a “blessing box” from Hebron Baptist Church.  For officers, it’s more than just shopping—it’s a chance to connect with the community and show a different side of law enforcement. More than 100 officers, plus Gwinnett Police Explorers, joined in this year.   STORY 3: EXPLORING GWINNETT'S HISTORY: Christmas in the past  When we think about Christmases past, it’s easy to romanticize them—quiet, simple, less commercial. Maybe we picture what our grandparents described or scenes from old books, but the truth? It all depends. Time, place, culture, class—Christmas looked different for everyone.  By the 1800s, Christmas shifted toward family. Homemade gifts, carols, and decorated trees became staples. For enslaved people, though, the holiday was bittersweet—sometimes a brief reprieve, sometimes more work.  In Gwinnett’s early days, Christmas was simple. Handmade decorations, maybe a church service, and stockings filled with candy, nuts, and—if you were lucky—an orange.   We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.  We’ll be right back  Break 2: Ingles Markets STORY 4: ART BEAT: Instructor Jae Montano helps people find 'The Joy of Painting'  Jae Montano doesn’t believe in mistakes—just “happy accidents.” A Certified Bob Ross Instructor (one of only 18 in Georgia), she’s made it her mission to share the joy of painting, one brushstroke at a time.    Born in Seoul, South Korea, Jae didn’t start painting until the pandemic hit. Stuck at home, she stumbled across Bob Ross on YouTube and was hooked. That spark led her to classes with Steve Ross, Bob’s son, and eventually to becoming a certified instructor herself in 2022.    Now, Jae teaches Ross’s wet-on-wet technique across Atlanta and Gwinnett, helping students create dreamy landscapes without fear or perfectionism.   You can catch her at festivals like Suwanee Arts and Duluth Spring and Fall, or shop her work at Suwanee and John’s Creek Art Centers. For classes and more, visit www.paintingwithjae.com.  STORY 5: HOUSING MATTERS: Georgians struggle with cost of living more than most Americans  The cost of living is crushing. For some, it’s meant bouncing between overpriced motels; for others, it’s homelessness. Here’s a look at the latest on affordable housing and the fight against homelessness:  Georgia ranks 8th in financial struggle:  A United Way study puts Georgia in the top 10 states where people can’t afford basics like food, gas, and housing. Nearly 34% of adults are behind on rent or mortgage, and 41% struggle with daily expenses. Nationwide, 42% of households can’t cover essentials—13% live in poverty, while 29% are stuck in the “ALICE” gap: earning too much for aid, but not enough to get by.  Warming centers hiring  Gwinnett’s warming centers open when temps hit 35°F or below, offering meals and shelter. They’re hiring attendants ($18/hour) to work 5:30 p.m.–7 a.m. Apply at gwinnettcounty.com/WarmingStationsJob.  It’s tough out there—help is out there too.  Break 3: DTL HOLIDAY INTERVIEW GDP_DTL_MARK BERENS_122325_FINAL  STORY 6: Gwinnett school board drops high schools from cell phone ban  Gwinnett County Public Schools will follow the new state law banning cell phones in K-8 classrooms, but high schools? Not yet.    The school board voted 3-2 last week to ban personal devices—phones, smartwatches, tablets, headphones—in elementary and middle schools. Originally, the plan included high schools too, but that part was dropped after some debate.    Why? Flexibility. “High schoolers have jobs, leave early, and have different responsibilities,” said Vice Chairwoman Tarece Johnson-Morgan.    Still, the state might force the issue soon. Lawmakers are already eyeing a high school ban for 2026.    For now, the K-8 ban covers the entire school day—class, recess, even assemblies. Exceptions? Only for students with special needs.  STORY 7: Atlanta's Christmas Day forecast sees temperatures near record high  It’s not exactly sweater weather, folks—Christmas in Atlanta is shaping up to feel more like a spring fling. Highs are expected to hit the low to mid-70s, putting this year in the running for one of the warmest Christmas Days on record. The all-time high? A toasty 75 degrees back in 2015.    By Christmas Eve, most of metro Atlanta will bask in the 70s, while the North Georgia mountains hover in the 60s.    Rain? Not likely. Just sunshine, warmth, and maybe a little disbelief.  We’ll have closing comments after this   Break 4: GCPS Hiring  Signoff –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com  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:  www.ingles-markets.com    www.kiamallofga.com  Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill  Holiday Celebration 2025 – City of Sugar Hill  Team GCPS  https://www.downtownlawrencevillega.com/     NewsPodcast, CurrentEvents, TopHeadlines, BreakingNews, PodcastDiscussion, PodcastNews, InDepthAnalysis, NewsAnalysis, PodcastTrending, WorldNews, LocalNews, GlobalNews, PodcastInsights, NewsBrief, PodcastUpdate, NewsRoundup, WeeklyNews, DailyNews, PodcastInterviews, HotTopics, PodcastOpinions, InvestigativeJournalism, BehindTheHeadlines, PodcastMedia, NewsStories, PodcastReports, JournalismMatters, PodcastPerspectives, NewsCommentary, PodcastListeners, NewsPodcastCommunity, NewsSource, PodcastCuration, WorldAffairs, PodcastUpdates, AudioNews, PodcastJournalism, EmergingStories, NewsFlash, PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Top Stories for December 20th  Publish Date: December 20th  PRE-ROLL: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING  From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast.  Today is Saturday, December 20th and Happy Birthday to Dick Wolf  I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia.  Apartment fire displaces 19 residents in Buford Philadelphia Winn Chapter DAR Honors Veterans on National Wreaths Across America Day HOLIDAY TRAFFIC: Year-end travel expected to set new record  Plus, Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre  All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe!  Break 1: Kia Mall of Georgia STORY 1: Apartment fire displaces 19 residents in Buford  Tuesday afternoon, chaos broke out at the Plantation Ridge Apartments in Buford when a fire erupted on a second-story balcony. It was 3:44 p.m. when 911 calls started pouring in—residents scrambling to evacuate as flames climbed toward the second floor.  By the time firefighters arrived, the back of the three-story building was ablaze. Crews worked fast, deploying hose lines to knock down the fire while police helped evacuate everyone inside. Six units were damaged—fire, water, the works—but thankfully, no one was hurt.  The fire displaced 19 people—11 adults, eight kids. The Red Cross and apartment management are stepping in to help.  Investigators traced the fire to a second-story balcony and ruled it accidental.  STORY 2: Philadelphia Winn Chapter DAR Honors Veterans on National Wreaths Across America Day  On Dec. 13, the Philadelphia Winn Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) held two heartfelt ceremonies to honor veterans resting at Gwinnett Memorial Park and East Shadowlawn Memorial Gardens.  It was all part of Wreaths Across America, a nationwide effort to remember the fallen, honor those who serve, and teach future generations about the cost of freedom. Volunteers placed fresh balsam wreaths—handcrafted in Maine, red bows and all—on veterans’ graves.  The ceremonies featured local JROTC cadets, SAR Color Guard, and more. Through Dec. 31, wreath sponsorships are buy-one-get-one-free for next year’s event.  STORY 3: HOLIDAY TRAFFIC: Year-end travel expected to set new record  More than 122 million Americans—including 3.8 million Georgians—are gearing up to hit the road, skies, or rails this holiday season, according to AAA. That’s a record-breaking number, up 2.2% from last year.  “People are ready to travel,” said Debbie Haas, AAA’s VP of travel. “Roads will be packed, airports busy—plan ahead, leave early, and maybe consider travel insurance if you’re flying in winter weather.”  Of the 122 million, most (89%) will drive, with 109.5 million taking road trips. In Georgia, 3.4 million will drive, while nearly 200,000 will fly. Christmas week? Busier than New Year’s. Stay safe.  We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.  We’ll be right back  Break 2: Ingles Markets 1- DTL HOLIDAY  STORY 4: Fani Willis testifies to Georgia Senate committee  After over a year of dodging Republican efforts to drag her before the Georgia Senate, Fani Willis finally showed up at the Capitol on Wednesday—and it was a spectacle. For three hours, the Fulton County district attorney sparred with a special committee she called a “political farce.”  The committee, created by Senate Republicans, has been gunning for Willis ever since she indicted Donald Trump and 18 others over the 2020 election. The hearing? A mix of accusations and insults.  Sen. Greg Dolezal, filling in as chair, grilled Willis on everything from her office’s spending to her use of a media tracking service. Willis fired back, calling some questions “ignorant”.  Both sides threw punches. Dolezal pointed to Willis’ political donations and her staff’s ties to Democratic campaigns. Willis countered with social media posts showing Dolezal and others using the investigation for their own political gain.  The hearing ended with no clear resolution—just more finger-pointing.  STORY 5: UPDATE: 19-year-old shot by Gwinnett police after charging officers with a knife  Gwinnett County police are looking into a Thursday afternoon shooting involving one of their own.  It started around 1:40 p.m. when the State Mobile Crisis Team called officers to help with a mental health situation on Lockridge Drive, near Peachtree Corners.  When officers arrived, they spoke with the crisis team and a 19-year-old outside the home. Clinicians decided the teen needed to go to the hospital for evaluation. But things escalated fast.  “The subject went back inside, came out with a knife, and charged at the officer,” said Cpl. Angela Carter. “Despite commands to stop, the officer fired, striking the individual.”  Paramedics on scene treated the teen, who was taken to the hospital and is alive, though their condition is unclear.  The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is now handling the case, as is standard in officer-involved shootings.  Here is Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre  -Interview with Shane Delancey- Break 3: THE STRAND  STORY 6: UGA researchers find more evidence that mining would harm Okefenokee  New research has added weight to what environmentalists have been saying for years: mining near the Okefenokee Swamp is a terrible idea.  Scientists at UGA found that water in the swamp and the aquifer beneath it share the same “fingerprint,” meaning they’re connected. Pull water from the aquifer? You’re pulling it from the swamp too.  For years, it was assumed a thick clay layer separated the two, but this study flips that on its head. Rainfall raises the swamp’s water level—and, a month later, the aquifer’s.  Activists are calling the findings a “game changer.”  STORY 7: Gwinnett Native Todd Welborn Named Mountain View Head Football Coach  Mountain View has tapped Todd Welborn as its new head football coach for the 2026 season, and honestly, it feels like a homegrown story coming full circle.    Welborn, a former Collins Hill offensive lineman and a 26-year coaching veteran, has spent most of his career in Gwinnett County. For the past four years, he’s been a key part of Mountain View’s program, serving as defensive coordinator and handling a lot of behind-the-scenes work. Now, he’s stepping into the top spot, replacing John Poitevint, who led the Bears to three playoff runs from 2020 to 2025.    Welborn, who’s deeply rooted in the Mountain View community—his kids attend local schools, his wife teaches in the cluster, and he’s coached youth football in the area—sees potential. “We’ve got talented kids,” he said. “It’s time to fix last year’s mistakes and let the sun rise over Mountain View.”    We’ll have closing comments after this   Break 4: VILLA RICA WONDERLAND TRAIN- GCPS Hiring  Signoff –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com  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:  www.ingles-markets.com    www.kiamallofga.com  Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill  Team GCPS      NewsPodcast, CurrentEvents, TopHeadlines, BreakingNews, PodcastDiscussion, PodcastNews, InDepthAnalysis, NewsAnalysis, PodcastTrending, WorldNews, LocalNews, GlobalNews, PodcastInsights, NewsBrief, PodcastUpdate, NewsRoundup, WeeklyNews, DailyNews, PodcastInterviews, HotTopics, PodcastOpinions, InvestigativeJournalism, BehindTheHeadlines, PodcastMedia, NewsStories, PodcastReports, JournalismMatters, PodcastPerspectives, NewsCommentary, PodcastListeners, NewsPodcastCommunity, NewsSource, PodcastCuration, WorldAffairs, PodcastUpdates, AudioNews, PodcastJournalism, EmergingStories, NewsFlash, PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Top Stories for December 18th  Publish Date: December 18th  PRE-ROLL: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING  From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast.  Today is Thursday, December 18th and Happy birthday to Keith Richards  I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia.  Arizona developer building 300-plus apartments in Peachtree Corners' Technology Park First buildings underway at Sugarloaf Crest in Lawrenceville GGC celebrates future nurses during pinning ceremony    Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats  All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe!  Break 1: GCPS Hiring-Villa Rica Wonderland Train  STORY 1: Arizona developer building 300-plus apartments in Peachtree Corners' Technology Park  Technology Park Atlanta, a hub for Fortune 500 companies and tech innovators, is about to get a residential twist. Soon, it won’t just be a place to work—it’ll be home for hundreds.  Alliance Residential Company, the Arizona-based developer behind Broadstone Peachtree Corners, has snagged 10.7 acres in the park to build Broadstone Innovation, a 326-unit apartment community set to open in spring 2027.  Think sleek, modern living: a salt sauna, red-light therapy pods, a resort-style pool, EV chargers, and even a food truck zone.   STORY 2: First buildings underway at Sugarloaf Crest in Lawrenceville  Parkland Residential has kicked off vertical construction at Sugarloaf Crest, a new build-to-rent community in Gwinnett County. What’s that mean? Townhomes—67 of them—are going up on 5.2 acres, complete with a big central green space.  Located on Sugarloaf Parkway, right next to Richards Middle and Cedar Hill Elementary, these two- and three-bedroom homes are designed for modern living: open layouts, sleek kitchens, walk-in closets, and even washers and dryers included. The three-bedroom units? They’ve got lofts and nearly 2,000 square feet of space.  STORY 3: GGC celebrates future nurses during pinning ceremony  In a room buzzing with pride and emotion, 39 nursing students at Georgia Gwinnett College celebrated their pinning ceremony—a moment that marks the leap from student to nurse.  “Y’all, it’s been two years!” joked Merick Sanogo, the class speaker, earning laughs and cheers. His classmates surprised him with a pineapple, a nod to his quirky tradition of gifting one on every birthday.  The ceremony, steeped in tradition, included the lighting of the Nightingale Lamp and the Nurse Pledge. For Prudence Donald, an international student from Tanzania, it was a dream realized. “If you can dream it, you can achieve it,” she said.  We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.  We’ll be right back  Break 2: 07.14.22 KIA MOG- DTL HOLIDAY  STORY 4:   Freight rail line from coast to northwest Georgia reports record traffic  Georgia’s freight rail line from the Port of Savannah to Murray County just hit a record: nearly 4,000 containers moved in November, a 35% jump from last year. Seven CSX trains a week now roll through the Appalachian Regional Port near Chatsworth, cutting truck traffic—and emissions—in metro Atlanta.  Opened in 2018, the inland port is fueling growth in northwest Georgia. A UGA study found it added 5,600 jobs in Dalton, Rome, and beyond over two years. And there’s more to come: the $127 million Blue Ridge Connector, opening next spring, promises to expand rail capacity even further.  STORY 5: GGC's Devontre Chaney, Brasen James Earn Continental Athletic Conference Awards  Georgia Gwinnett College juniors Devontre Chaney and Brasen James just snagged Continental Athletic Conference Player of the Week honors after leading the Grizzlies to a big road win.  Chaney? He was unstoppable—15 points, 15 boards, and eight assists. Oh, and he went 9-for-10 at the line. That’s his seventh double-double this season. The guy’s averaging 15.9 points and 10.2 rebounds.  James locked it down defensively, holding his matchup to just six points (16 below average) while adding 14 of his own.  FALCONS: As the Falcons limp toward the end of a rough 2025 season, the big question looms: will Raheem Morris and Terry Fontenot keep their jobs? Atlanta’s 5-9 record doesn’t inspire much confidence, even after Thursday’s wild 29-28 comeback win over Tampa Bay. Sure, it was fun—rallying from 14 down in the fourth quarter—but in the grand scheme? It’s meaningless. The playoffs are out of reach, even in the laughable NFC South.  Despite a 13-18 record, failed coaching hires, and some head-scratching moves (what was that with Ike Hilliard?), Morris has the locker room behind him. Bijan Robinson, for one, is all in.   Owner Arthur Blank will have a tough call to make. Morris says it’s about building for next year, but will he get the chance? Three games remain—Arizona, the Rams, and the Saints. If the Falcons finish strong, maybe Morris gets another shot.   And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on saturated fats  We’ll have closing comments after this   Break 3: Ingles Markets 10  Signoff –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com  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:  www.ingles-markets.com    www.kiamallofga.com  Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill  https://www.downtownlawrencevillega.com/  Team GCPS    News Podcast, Current Events, Top Headlines, Breaking News, Podcast News, Trending, Local News, Daily, News, Podcast, Interviews See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Top Stories for December 16th  Publish Date: December 16th  PRE-ROLL: Villa Rica Wonderland Train  From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast.  Today is Tuesday, December 16th and Happy Birthday to Yosemite Sam  I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia.  Gwinnett leaders update lawmakers on voting site challenges, public safety efforts Brookwood High selected to participate in the GaDOE Gifted in Action series Gwinnett Chamber announces 2025 Business Excellence Award winners  Plus, Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre  All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe!  Break 1: Kia Mall of Georgia - Sugar Hill Ice Skating Rink STORY 1: Gwinnett leaders update lawmakers on voting site challenges, public safety efforts  Gwinnett County is cutting polling locations—down from 156 to 144—and the reason? Insurance headaches. Churches and private organizations, once reliable voting sites, are pulling out, according to Elections Supervisor Zach Manifold.   Manifold shared the news during a meeting with Gwinnett’s state lawmakers, where elections and public safety took center stage. Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson emphasized collaboration: “When local and state leaders work together, we serve our residents better.”  On the safety side, Police Chief J.D. McClure highlighted staffing gains and a futuristic twist—drones as “first eyes” on crime scenes. Progress, but challenges remain.  STORY 2: Brookwood High selected to participate in the GaDOE Gifted in Action series  Brookwood High just got a big nod from the Georgia Department of Education—it’s been featured in the GaDOE Gifted in Action series, a webinar collection for educators working with gifted and talented students.  Eric Rovie’s AP Literature and Language classes were in the spotlight, with the GaDOE team recording his students in action. Rovie’s approach? Open discussions, tough questions, and a classroom built on trust.   Gifted education isn’t just about acceleration, says Dr. Keena Ryals-Jenkins of GCPS—it’s about sparking curiosity and pushing boundaries.  STORY 3: Gwinnett Chamber announces 2025 Business Excellence Award winners  The Gwinnett Chamber’s Business Excellence Awards lit up the John Maxwell Leadership Center last week, celebrating the movers, shakers, and innovators shaping Gwinnett’s business scene.  Nick Masino, Chamber President & CEO, kicked things off, followed by keynote speaker Darryll Stinson—a TEDx speaker and leadership guru—who delivered a heartfelt, no-fluff message about trust, growth, and greatness. “It’s about elevating results,” he said, leaving the room buzzing.  Masino summed it up: “When our businesses thrive, so does our region.”  Winners spanned 10 categories, from Spectrum Autism Support Group (Community Contributor) to iS3 Tech Services’ Adam Hammock (Founder Award). A night of well-earned applause.  We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.  We’ll be right back  Break 2: Ingles Markets - DTL HOLIDAY    STORY 4: Gwinnett road closures Dec. 13-19  Heads up, Gwinnett drivers—here’s what’s happening on the roads this week (Dec. 13–19). Expect closures, detours, and delays, all courtesy of construction, utility work, and improvements.    Big ones to note: **Ballpark Lane** is closed through April 2026. Detours are in place, but, yeah, plan extra time.    Other spots with intermittent lane closures include **Beaver Ruin Road**, **Sugarloaf Parkway**, and **Rockbridge Road**—plus about 30 more.    For details or detour routes, contact the Gwinnett DOT.  STORY 5: ART BEAT: Players Guild at Sugar Hill to stage 'The Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder'  Looking for a darkly funny way to kick off the new year? *The Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder* hits Sugar Hill’s Eagle Theatre stage Feb. 6–15, promising six performances of murder, mayhem, and music.    The story? Monty Navarro, a broke clerk, discovers he’s ninth in line to inherit a fancy title and fortune. His solution? Start “removing” the D’Ysquith family members ahead of him. It’s twisted, hilarious, and based on the 1907 novel *Israel Rank*.    JD Touchton stars as Monty, marking his first musical role in four years.    Tickets? Boxoffice@pgatsh.com. Now, here is Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre  - Shane Delancey -  Break 3: THE STRAND HOLIDAY  STORY 6: Mill Creek Grad Holden Cammarata Runs 100-Mile Day for Williams Syndrome  Holden Cammarata had a wild dream—run 100 miles in a single day. Not a marathon, not two, but *four*.    The 2025 Mill Creek grad and Georgia Tech freshman had always pushed himself, running cross country in high school and now with Georgia Tech’s club team. But this? This was next level. “It’s a big jump,” he admitted. “With my foot surgery coming up, I figured this might be my last shot.”    But Holden didn’t just run for himself. He ran for Molly Kate Cloer, the little sister of his high school teammate Tyler, who has Williams Syndrome. Inspired by their family, he turned his grueling goal into a fundraiser, raising over $8,000 for the cause.    The run itself? Brutal. By mile 60, his injured foot was screaming. By mile 80, the park closed, forcing him to finish in a church parking lot. Every step hurt. But his parents, old teammates, and even strangers showed up to cheer him on, some running alongside him.    After 25 hours, 33 minutes, and 32 seconds, Holden crossed the finish line—exhausted, in pain, but surrounded by love.    STORY 7: Northside Hospital Gwinnett named one of nation's best for maternity care  Northside Hospital Gwinnett just got some big news—it’s officially one of the best places in the country to have a baby, according to *U.S. News & World Report*.    The hospital earned a “High Performing” rating for maternity care, putting it in the top 10% nationwide for uncomplicated pregnancies. Pretty impressive, right? Last year alone, they delivered 4,245 babies.    Northside Gwinnett also scored high marks in 15 other areas, from heart surgery to stroke care. When you’re here, you’re family.  We’ll have closing comments after this   Break 4: GCPS Hiring  Signoff –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com  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:  www.ingles-markets.com    www.kiamallofga.com  Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill  Holiday Celebration 2025 – City of Sugar Hill  Team GCPS  https://www.downtownlawrencevillega.com/     NewsPodcast, CurrentEvents, TopHeadlines, BreakingNews, PodcastDiscussion, PodcastNews, InDepthAnalysis, NewsAnalysis, PodcastTrending, WorldNews, LocalNews, GlobalNews, PodcastInsights, NewsBrief, PodcastUpdate, NewsRoundup, WeeklyNews, DailyNews, PodcastInterviews, HotTopics, PodcastOpinions, InvestigativeJournalism, BehindTheHeadlines, PodcastMedia, NewsStories, PodcastReports, JournalismMatters, PodcastPerspectives, NewsCommentary, PodcastListeners, NewsPodcastCommunity, NewsSource, PodcastCuration, WorldAffairs, PodcastUpdates, AudioNews, PodcastJournalism, EmergingStories, NewsFlash, PodcastConversations   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Top Stories for December 13th  Publish Date: December 13th  PRE-ROLL: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING  From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast.  Today is Saturday, December 13th and Happy Birthday to Ted Nugent  I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia.  Suwanee recognizes Eagle Scout projects Suspect arrested after road rage incident leads to stabbing on I-85 in Gwinnett Peachtree Corners Town Center's movie theater is third major closure of 2025  Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk  Break 1: THE STRAND HOLIDAY  STORY 1: Suwanee recognizes Eagle Scout projects  At November’s City Council meeting, Suwanee took a moment to shine a spotlight on three incredible Eagle Scouts who poured their time, energy, and heart into projects that made the community a little brighter.  “Thank you to these young leaders for their creativity and dedication,” the city shared.  Here’s what they accomplished:  Jocelyn Carsley (Troop 5109) transformed the barn at White Street Park with a kids’ activity area and a colorful mural.  Meredith Carsley (Troop 5109) built observation decks for better views at city events.  Colin Kenney (Troop 608) revamped the landscaping around the “Mommy” sculpture at PlayTown Suwanee.  Amazing work, all around!  STORY 2: Suspect arrested after road rage incident leads to stabbing on I-85 in Gwinnett  A man accused of stabbing another driver in a road rage clash last month has been arrested, Gwinnett County police announced.  The incident happened on Nov. 13 along I-85 South. Peter Chai, the victim, told officers he got into a heated exchange with a white van. Things escalated fast. According to police, the van’s driver, Yoandry Rincon, got out, approached Chai’s window, and stabbed him in the chest.  Chai fought back—grabbing a bat from his car—which sent Rincon running back to his van.  Chai was hospitalized but has since recovered. Rincon? He’s now in Gwinnett County Jail, facing aggravated assault charges.  STORY 3: Peachtree Corners Town Center's movie theater is third major closure of 2025  It’s been a tough year for Peachtree Corners Town Center, and now there’s more bad news to close out 2025—CMX Cinebistro has shut its doors.  The theater, which opened in March 2019, quietly disappeared from the CMX website, though it was still being hyped on social media just a few months ago as the go-to spot for date nights and family outings.  This marks the third big closure in six months. Lazy Dog left in July, blaming parking headaches, and Uncle Jack’s Meat House followed in August. For a six-year-old development, it’s starting to feel like a rough patch.  We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.  We’ll be right back  Break 2: Ingles Markets - DTL HOLIDAY  STORY 4: Housing Matters: HUD pauses changes to housing grants after lawsuit  The cost of living is crushing, and it’s forcing people into impossible situations—cramped hotel rooms, shelters, or worse, the streets. Here’s the latest on housing and homelessness:  HUD’s Homeless Aid Shake-Up Hits Pause The Trump administration’s plan to cap grants for permanent housing and programs like those supporting transgender communities has been put on hold after a lawsuit. Critics say the changes would displace 170,000 people. HUD now promises a revised policy by January.  Atlanta Food Bank’s Big Push With demand up 70%, the Atlanta Community Food Bank is racing to collect 10 million meals by year’s end. A $100,000 match doubles every donation.  Housing Market Stalls New home listings dropped 1.7%—the sharpest decline in two years. Buyers and sellers are waiting, unsure of what 2026 will bring.  STORY 5: Kim Peeples makes a lifelong impact on Brookwood’s theater family  For Kim Peeples, music isn’t just a career—it’s her heartbeat.  She retired from Brookwood High in 2019, but let’s be honest, she never really left. This year, she hit a milestone: her 100th musical production, “String,” which won the region one-act competition.   Peeples’ journey with Brookwood started in the early ’80s, when she was fresh out of college and working under her middle school chorus teacher, Lori Ziecker. “Lori was everything,” Peeples said, her voice catching. “She passed in May, but her influence is everywhere.”  Over the years, Peeples became a cornerstone of Brookwood’s theater and choral programs, working alongside the Lindahl family—first Ken and Patty, and now their daughter, Laura.   And family is exactly what Brookwood has been to Peeples. From directing “Evita” in 1990 to the award-winning “1940s Radio Hour” in 1998, and more recent productions like “Ragtime” and “Bright Star,” her passion has left an indelible mark.  We’ll be right back.  Break 3: Kia Mall of Georgia And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk  - Interview - We’ll have closing comments after this   Break 4: VILLA RICA WONDERLAND TRAIN- GCPS Hiring  Signoff –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com  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:  www.ingles-markets.com    www.kiamallofga.com  Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill  Team GCPS        NewsPodcast, CurrentEvents, TopHeadlines, BreakingNews, PodcastDiscussion, PodcastNews, InDepthAnalysis, NewsAnalysis, PodcastTrending, WorldNews, LocalNews, GlobalNews, PodcastInsights, NewsBrief, PodcastUpdate, NewsRoundup, WeeklyNews, DailyNews, PodcastInterviews, HotTopics, PodcastOpinions, InvestigativeJournalism, BehindTheHeadlines, PodcastMedia, NewsStories, PodcastReports, JournalismMatters, PodcastPerspectives, NewsCommentary, PodcastListeners, NewsPodcastCommunity, NewsSource, PodcastCuration, WorldAffairs, PodcastUpdates, AudioNews, PodcastJournalism, EmergingStories, NewsFlash, PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GDP Script/ Top Stories for December 11th  Publish Date: December 11th      PRE-ROLL: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING  From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast.  Today is Thursday, December 11th and Happy birthday to Nikki Six   I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia.  Atlanta Christkindl Market proving a hit in Lawrenceville Gwinnett commissioners OK 4% salary adjustment for county employees Paul Duke STEM High School honored for work to improve student outcomes  Plus Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre  All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe!  Break 1: GCPS Hiring-Villa Rica Wonderland Train  STORY 1: Atlanta Christkindl Market proving a hit in Lawrenceville  Avery Boutin and Jordan Lettis had never been to the Atlanta Christkindl Market before, but now that it’s landed in their backyard? They couldn’t resist. Sunday night, they joined the crowd under twinkling string lights, wandering the aisles, riding the Ferris wheel, and—of course—grabbing raclette sandwiches.   This is the market’s first year in Lawrenceville, and it’s already a hit. City Manager Chuck Warbington said it’s tripled downtown foot traffic. Vendors? 90 booths, everything from bratwursts to alpaca scarves. And the hot chocolate line? Let’s just say, patience required.  STORY 2: Gwinnett commissioners OK 4% salary adjustment for county employees  Gwinnett County employees just got an early Christmas surprise—4% raises, approved by commissioners on Tuesday. Starting pay? Now at least $40,000 a year for full-timers. Not bad, right?  The adjustment, retroactive to Oct. 25, bumps up pay ranges across the board, including public safety roles. Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson called it a step toward addressing inflation and keeping Gwinnett competitive. “We’re investing in the people who keep this county running,” she said.  With a $2.6 billion budget vote looming in January, it’s unclear how this raise fits in. But for now? A little extra in the paycheck feels good.  STORY 3: Paul Duke STEM High School honored for work to improve student outcomes  Paul Duke STEM High just snagged a huge honor—one of only two schools in Georgia named a 2025 National ESEA Distinguished School. Pretty big deal, right? This recognition isn’t handed out lightly. It’s for Title I schools that are crushing it academically and making real strides with their students.  Principal Dr. Jonathon Wetherington couldn’t be prouder. “This is about our students, our teachers, our families—all of us,” he said. Their STEMforALL initiative? Game-changer. It’s hands-on, rigorous, and inclusive, reaching multilingual learners, students with disabilities, and those facing economic challenges.  Oh, and Flex Fridays? Genius. Targeted support, projects, college prep—it’s working. Graduation rates? Over 90%.  We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.  We’ll be right back  Break 2: Kia Mall of Georgia - DTL HOLIDAY  STORY 4:   Gwinnett County Public Library offering RISE Teen Entrepreneurship program  Got a teen with big dreams of running their own business? Gwinnett County Public Library’s RISE Teen Entrepreneurship Program might be just the thing. Starting Feb. 17, 2026, this four-week crash course will teach teens (ages 13–19) how to turn ideas into real businesses.  Here’s the deal: they’ll brainstorm, build a business plan, and pitch their ideas to local entrepreneurs in a Shark Tank-style showdown. Winners? Cash prizes.  Meetings are weekly, 5:30–7:30 p.m., at the Lawrenceville Hooper-Renwick branch. Deadline to apply? Jan. 5.  Oh, and library cardholders can use maker spaces—think laser printers, podcast gear, sewing machines—for free. Dream big, Gwinnett!  STORY 5: Touchdown Club of Gwinnett Honors Best in 2025 High School Football  The Touchdown Club of Gwinnett threw a big bash Monday at 12Stone Church, celebrating the absolute best of Gwinnett high school football from the 2025 season. And wow, what a lineup.  Buford’s Tyriq Green snagged Athlete of the Year—no surprise there, considering he’s leading his team to the Class AAAAAA state finals. North Gwinnett cleaned up too, with Zach Lewis (Offensive Lineman), Max Patterson (Tight End), and Chauncey Davis (Defensive Back) all taking home top honors.  Other schools? Brookwood, Collins Hill, and Grayson had multiple winners, too. Honestly, the talent in this county is unreal. Full list? It’s long—like, really long. But trust me, these kids earned it.  GEORGIA SWARM: The Georgia Swarm are itching to get back on the floor. After dropping their season opener to Buffalo—yeah, the three-time champs, no big deal—they’ve had a week off to regroup. That 15-11 loss? Not ideal.  Saturday, Dec. 13, they’re finally at home, Gas South Arena, facing the Oshawa FireWolves. Rookie Nolan Byrne? Scored his first goal in Buffalo. Shayne Jackson? Four goals, still a beast. And this team? Big. Fast. Aggressive. Fans better buckle up—it’s gonna be fun.  Here is Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre  Break 3: THE STRAND - Ingles Markets 7 - THE SUGAR HILL HOLIDAY  Signoff –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com  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:  www.ingles-markets.com    www.kiamallofga.com  Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill  Holiday Celebration 2025 – City of Sugar Hill  https://www.downtownlawrencevillega.com/  Team GCPS    News Podcast, Current Events, Top Headlines, Breaking News, Podcast News, Trending, Local News, Daily, News, Podcast, Interviews See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Top Stories for December 9th  Publish Date: December 9th  PRE-ROLL: DTL HOLIDAY  From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast.  Today is Tuesday, December 9th and Happy Birthday to John Malkovich   I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia.  Neighborhood Christmas Train Experience rolls into holidays to help benefit Norcross Co-op North Gwinnett Co-op in need of donations for annual Santa Shop Toy Drive Gwinnett's budget hearing draws few speakers, but feedback still accepted  All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe!  Break 1: Kia Mall of Georgia - Villa Rica Wonderland Train  STORY 1: Neighborhood Christmas Train Experience rolls into holidays to help benefit Norcross Co-op  The fourth annual Neighborhood Christmas Train Experience isn’t just about trains—it’s about giving back. Held at 3135 Repps Miller Road in Norcross, this massive holiday display supports Neighborhood Cooperative Ministries, a nonprofit helping families in crisis.  “Last year, we raised $11,000,” said organizer Jonathan Galucki. “This year, we’re aiming for $15,000—and we’ve got a matching grant lined up.”  The event runs Dec. 13, 14, 20, and 21, with tickets starting at $8. Expect nearly a dozen trains, a LEGO Christmas City, and an interactive Engineer Training Center where kids can run their own trains.  Live music, festive vibes, and even a Buffalo Bills watch party? It’s all here. Visit neighborhoodchristmastrain.com for details.  STORY 2: North Gwinnett Co-op in need of donations for annual Santa Shop Toy Drive  The North Gwinnett Co-Op pulled off a miracle earlier this year, keeping families fed during the food-stamp crisis caused by the federal shutdown. But that effort came at a cost—plans for their annual Kristen Mullen Santa Shop had to take a back seat.  “We fed families twice in November and gave out over 600 holiday meals,” said Executive Director Kim Phillips in a heartfelt Facebook video. “But now, we’re behind on toys for the Santa Shop.”  The shop, which lets parents choose gifts for their kids with dignity, needs unwrapped toys by Dec. 12—especially sensory toys and gifts for teens.  Visit ngcoop.org to help.  STORY 3: Gwinnett's budget hearing draws few speakers, but feedback still accepted  The public hearing for Gwinnett County’s proposed $2.6 billion 2026 budget? Quiet. Not a single taxpayer showed up to speak. Instead, community leaders—library board, health board, Mosaic Georgia—took the mic to thank commissioners for their expected funding.  But here’s the gist: the budget is $66 million leaner than 2025’s, with Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson applauding department heads for trimming costs. “They worked hard to find efficiencies,” she said.  Where’s the money going? Public safety and public works dominate—new police HQ, fire station relocations, 911 upgrades, road repaving, and even drones for mall patrols.  Want to weigh in? Submit comments online by Dec. 31.  We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.  We’ll be right back  Break 2: Ingles Markets - Sugar Hill Holiday  STORY 4: 'A Charlie Brown Christmas' coming to Red Clay Music Foundry Dec. 13  Even after all these years, Jeffrey Bützer still loves playing *A Charlie Brown Christmas*. Listening to the record? Not so much. “I don’t really enjoy listening to it anymore,” he admits. “But playing it? That’s different. It’s jazz—you don’t play it the same way twice. T.T. (Mahony) takes different solos every night, sometimes longer, sometimes shorter. It keeps me on my toes, and people love it. It’s a tradition for so many, and honestly, I love that.”    Bützer, Mahony, bassist Francisco Lora, and vocalists Kelly Winn and Audrey Gamez will bring the Peanuts magic to Eddie Owens Presents at Red Clay in Duluth on Dec. 13.    Since the original album is only 35 minutes, the group adds some surprises—like songs from the *Phil Spector Christmas Album*—and even clips from the TV special. “We never announce it; we just do it,” Bützer says. “No one’s ever left early, so I guess it works.”    And the fans? They keep coming back. “We’ve got ‘Snoopy Groupies,’” Bützer laughs. “One woman came every year, moved away, and now flies back for the show. It’s wild.”    For tickets, visit eddieowenspresents.com.    STORY 5: Primerica collects nearly 82,000 food items for Can-A-Thon  Christmas is about giving, right? Helping those in need?   Primerica hosted its annual canned food drive last week at its Duluth headquarters, collecting a jaw-dropping 81,846 cans for the Salvation Army’s Can-A-Thon. But this year, they ditched the Santa hats for bell-bottoms and tie-dye.    The theme? “Can You Dig It.” Employees went all-in on the 60s and 70s vibe—think hippie costumes, peace signs, and even a nod to the Mystery Machine from *Scooby-Doo*.    Groovy, right?    We’ll be right back.   Break 3: Sugar Hill Ice Skating Rink STORY 6: Families of crime victims remember loved ones at annual vigil  As the names of Gwinnett County crime victims appeared on the screen at last weeks Crime Victims Candlelight Vigil, Deborah Free leaned into Renee Haygood’s shoulder, her tears unstoppable.    Deborah’s daughter, Rachel, was killed in a domestic violence murder-suicide just two months ago. This will be the family’s first Christmas without her.    Held at 12Stone Church in Duluth, the vigil—organized by the Gwinnett DA’s Office—offered grieving families a space to honor their loved ones. Three Christmas trees stood adorned with ornaments for victims, while a bell rang for each name read aloud.    For Venetia and Jeffrey Coleman, who lost their son Bradley to a carjacking three years ago, the vigil was a chance to share hope.   For the Free family, it was their first vigil—but not their last. “We’ll be back every year,” said Rachel’s sister, Jenn. “Her story doesn’t end here.”    STORY 7: Grayson LB Tyler Atkinson Named Gatorade Georgia Football Player of the Year  Gwinnett County’s got another star in the books—Grayson senior linebacker Tyler Atkinson just snagged the Gatorade Georgia Football Player of the Year award for 2025-26. That makes him the fifth-ever winner from Gwinnett, and the first since Mill Creek’s Caleb Downs in 2022.    Atkinson’s season? Unreal. The 6’3”, 221-pound Texas Longhorns commit racked up 96 tackles, 26 for loss, nine sacks, and 22 QB hurries, leading Grayson to the state quarterfinals. Oh, and he’s a five-star recruit ranked No. 14 nationally for 2026.    Off the field? He’s hosting youth football clinics, mentoring at church, and rocking a 3.48 GPA.   Atkinson’s also in the running for Gatorade’s National Player of the Year. Big things ahead.    We’ll have closing comments after this   Break 4: GCPS Hiring  Signoff –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com  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:  www.ingles-markets.com    www.kiamallofga.com  Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill  Holiday Celebration 2025 – City of Sugar Hill  Team GCPS  https://www.downtownlawrencevillega.com/     NewsPodcast, CurrentEvents, TopHeadlines, BreakingNews, PodcastDiscussion, PodcastNews, InDepthAnalysis, NewsAnalysis, PodcastTrending, WorldNews, LocalNews, GlobalNews, PodcastInsights, NewsBrief, PodcastUpdate, NewsRoundup, WeeklyNews, DailyNews, PodcastInterviews, HotTopics, PodcastOpinions, InvestigativeJournalism, BehindTheHeadlines, PodcastMedia, NewsStories, PodcastReports, JournalismMatters, PodcastPerspectives, NewsCommentary, PodcastListeners, NewsPodcastCommunity, NewsSource, PodcastCuration, WorldAffairs, PodcastUpdates, AudioNews, PodcastJournalism, EmergingStories, NewsFlash, PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Top Stories for December 6th  Publish Date: December 6th  PRE-ROLL: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING  From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast.  Today is Saturday, December 6th and Happy Birthday to Peter Buck from REM  I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia.  Gwinnett Chamber Foundation honors small business leaders at inaugural Power of Impact Gala Lawmakers seek Lottery money for need-based college scholarships Applications for Jackson EMC Washington Youth Tour now open  All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe!  Break 1: Kia Mall of Georgia  STORY 1: Gwinnett Chamber Foundation honors small business leaders at inaugural Power of Impact Gala  The Gwinnett Chamber Foundation held its first-ever Power of Impact Gala on Dec. 3 at Bear’s Best Suwanee, bringing together over 130 business leaders to celebrate small business growth and mentorship.  Award winners included Dr. William “Bill” Russell (Legacy Business Leader), Alicia Cole of Lillies Boutique (Certification Cohort Member), and Berthine Crèvecoeur West of Westbridge Solutions (Accelerator Cohort Member).  The event also celebrated the 2025 Small Business Impact Institute graduates, seven of whom earned supply-chain certifications.  STORY 2: Lawmakers seek Lottery money for need-based college scholarships  Georgia’s public colleges hit record enrollment this fall, with over 382,000 students, but a bipartisan Senate committee says too many are still being left behind. The HOPE Scholarship, funded by the state lottery, has helped over 2 million students since 1993, but it’s merit-based—requiring a 3.0 GPA—and doesn’t account for financial need.  For low-income students juggling work and school, losing HOPE often means dropping out entirely. The committee is pushing for a $126 million need-based aid program, funded by the lottery’s $1.7 billion reserves.  But not everyone’s on board. Critics argue need-based aid feels like “social welfare,” despite warnings of a growing “brain drain” as students leave Georgia for better financial aid elsewhere.  Gov. Brian Kemp praised HOPE’s legacy this week, but advocates say Georgia must do more to keep talented students in-state.  STORY 3: Applications for Jackson EMC Washington Youth Tour now open  Jackson EMC is now accepting applications for the 2026 Washington Youth Tour—a once-in-a-lifetime, all-expenses-paid trip to D.C. from June 12-19. Four lucky high school sophomores or juniors from the Jackson EMC service area will be selected for this leadership experience.  Who’s eligible? Students with strong grades, a passion for community service, and an interest in building connections. You can apply online at jacksonemc.com/wyt or be nominated by a teacher or counselor.  Applications close Jan. 31, 2026. Finalists will interview on Feb. 16 with a panel of leaders.  The trip includes visits to monuments, Smithsonian museums, Arlington Cemetery, and even a chance to meet Georgia’s congressional delegation.  We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.  We’ll be right back  Break 2: Ingles Markets - DTL HOLIDAY  STORY 4: Walmart launches drone delivery service in Georgia — including Loganville  No, drones won’t be squeezing down your chimney, but if you live near one of six Walmart Supercenters around Atlanta, they might just drop a package on your lawn in time for Christmas.    Walmart, teaming up with Wing, announced Wednesday that drone deliveries are now a thing in metro Atlanta—just in time for last-minute shoppers. Need wrapping paper? Holiday meal ingredients? A stocking stuffer you forgot? These 12-pound drones, zipping along at 60 mph, can deliver in five minutes if you’re within six miles.    For now, Georgia’s drone-enabled Walmarts are in Conyers, Dallas, Hiram, Loganville, McDonough, and Woodstock.  And while this is Atlanta’s first legal drone delivery service, drones have already been making, uh, less festive deliveries—state officials recently flagged them as a growing problem for smuggling contraband into prisons.    Still, for holiday procrastinators, this tech could be a game-changer. Fewer delivery trucks on the road? That’s a win for everyone.    STORY 5: ‘TIS THE SEASON: Your 2025 Guide To Tree Lightings And Holiday Celebrations In And Around Gwinnett County  The holidays are in full swing, and there’s no shortage of festive fun around Gwinnett County. Here’s a quick rundown:    **Suwanee’s Jolly Holly Days** (Dec. 8–9): Two days of crafts, live music, a pet parade, and Santa’s grand arrival.    **Lilburn Holiday Parade** (Dec. 9): Floats, bands, and Christmas characters galore.    **Duluth’s Deck the Hall** (Dec. 9): Snow slides, crafts, and Santa pics.    For more, check city websites!    Break 3: GCPS HIRING  STORY 6: Dr. Carla Price joins Northeast Georgia Physicians Group in Dacula  For over 20 years, Dr. Carla Price has been a familiar face in northeast Georgia, caring for families and building relationships that last. Now, she’s bringing her expertise—and her heart—to Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Hamilton Mill.    Her journey started on a farm in Fairmont, West Virginia, where she helped her grandfather care for sick cows. That early love of healing led her to West Virginia University for med school, then Savannah for residency, and eventually to Winder in 2002.    Now, when she’s not at the clinic, you’ll find her on her 8-acre horse farm in Jefferson, raising chickens, riding horses, or tending to her bees. She’s also a beach lover, often escaping with her fiancé and three daughters.    NGPG Hamilton Mill, located at 3575 Braselton Highway in Dacula, is open seven days a week. Call 770-848-5300 or visit ngpg.org/price to book an appointment.    STORY 7: Rainbow Village marks 12th year as Subaru of Gwinnett's hometown charity  Rainbow Village, a Duluth nonprofit helping families overcome homelessness, has once again been named Subaru of Gwinnett’s Hometown Charity for the 2025 Subaru Share the Love® Event.    This marks 12 years of partnership, with donations from car sales and service appointments supporting Rainbow Village’s mission of “Help, Hope, Housing, and Healing.” For a nonprofit that relies on private funding for 90% of its budget, relationships like this are a lifeline.    Last year’s event raised $51,475. This year? They’re aiming even higher.    We’ll have closing comments after this   Break 4: THE SUGAR HILL HOLIDAY   Signoff –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com  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:  www.ingles-markets.com    www.kiamallofga.com  2025 Buford Holiday Festival & Parade All-In-One Flyer  Holiday Celebration 2025 – City of Sugar Hill  Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill      NewsPodcast, CurrentEvents, TopHeadlines, BreakingNews, PodcastDiscussion, PodcastNews, InDepthAnalysis, NewsAnalysis, PodcastTrending, WorldNews, LocalNews, GlobalNews, PodcastInsights, NewsBrief, PodcastUpdate, NewsRoundup, WeeklyNews, DailyNews, PodcastInterviews, HotTopics, PodcastOpinions, InvestigativeJournalism, BehindTheHeadlines, PodcastMedia, NewsStories, PodcastReports, JournalismMatters, PodcastPerspectives, NewsCommentary, PodcastListeners, NewsPodcastCommunity, NewsSource, PodcastCuration, WorldAffairs, PodcastUpdates, AudioNews, PodcastJournalism, EmergingStories, NewsFlash, PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GDP Script/ Top Stories for December 4th  Publish Date: December 4th      PRE-ROLL: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING  From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast.  Today is Thursday, December 4th and Happy birthday to Jeff Bridges    I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia.  Lake Lanier Association Completes Phase Three of Shoreline Protection Program Hilscher wins another term in Suwanee City Council Police aim to deter youth gun violence in slain officer's memory   Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on carrots  All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe!  Break 1: GCPS Hiring    STORY 1: Lake Lanier Association Completes Phase Three of Shoreline Protection Program   Lake Lanier’s shoreline just got a little more secure—5,280 feet of it, to be exact. The Lake Lanier Association (LLA) announced the completion of the third phase of Project Armor, its ongoing effort to fight erosion caused by heavy boat traffic. This phase reinforced 16 badly eroded areas with rip rap, a method that helps absorb wave energy and protect the shoreline.  Over the past 12 years, the LLA has armored 3 miles of shoreline, saving 28 islands and areas from disappearing into the lake. Why does it matter? These islands aren’t just pretty—they’re vital. They provide wildlife habitats, beaches, and safe spots for fishing and recreation. Without protection, some islands have already vanished, and erosion is making the lake shallower, threatening both recreation and the drinking water supply for over 5 million Georgians.  This project, supported by partners like the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and local counties, is far from over. With 12 million visitors a year, Lake Lanier’s waves aren’t slowing down anytime soon.  STORY 2: Hilscher wins another term in Suwanee City Council   Suwanee City Councilwoman Beth Hilscher is sticking around for another four years after edging out David Martinez in Tuesday’s runoff for the Post 4 seat.  Unofficial results show Hilscher pulled in 734 votes to Martinez’s 638.  Suwanee wasn’t the only Gwinnett city with a runoff—Duluth voters also hit the polls to decide the Post 3 City Council race between incumbent Lamar Doss and challenger Marlene Denise Tucker.  In Suwanee, it’s Hilscher who’s celebrating.  STORY 3: Police aim to deter youth gun violence in slain officer's memory    Gwinnett County police have rolled out a new program aimed at steering kids away from guns while honoring Officer Antwan Toney, who was tragically killed in the line of duty seven years ago.  Called Toney’s Program, it launched in September and focuses on first-time or minor handgun offenses among juveniles. The program, named after Toney—who was shot by a teen in 2018—pairs participants with mentors for a seven-week curriculum and three months of follow-up support.  Families are involved too, attending sessions alongside their kids. Teens hear from gun violence victims and learn conflict resolution, emotional awareness, and nonviolent decision-making.  The first group graduated last month, with the next starting in January.   We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.  We’ll be right back  Break 2: 07.14.22 KIA MOG- DTL HOLIDAY  STORY 4:   Snellville man convicted of attacking former basketball teammates    A Snellville man, just 20 years old, is headed to prison for 25 years after a string of violent attacks on his former high school basketball teammates.  Jet Horne, once a senior on South Gwinnett High’s 2022-23 team, was convicted last week on a laundry list of charges—aggravated assault, firearm possession, criminal damage, even hijacking a car. The incidents? Three separate attacks between December 2024 and May 2025.  In December, Horne ambushed Talal Ansah, shooting him eight times as he returned home from work. Ansah barely survived. Then, in March, Horne fired into Timair Walker’s car, injuring a neighbor with a stray bullet. By May, he escalated—holding Maalik Leitch at gunpoint, stealing his BMW, and leading police on a chase.  Ballistics tied it all together, sealing Horne’s fate. “This was a violent, senseless series of crimes,” said DA Patsy Austin-Gatson. “We’re grateful for justice and continue to pray for the victims.”  STORY 5: BOYS BASKETBALL ROUNDUP: Dacula Keeps Rolling with Lopsided Win  Dacula cruised past Jackson County on Tuesday night, dominating with an 82-58 win in boys basketball.  Case Presley was unstoppable, racking up 20 points, 12 rebounds, and five assists. Josh Brown added 15 points, six boards, and four steals, while Dorian Douglas chipped in 15 points, five steals, and four assists.  Kenny LaRue (nine points, six assists), Luke Anderson (nine points), and Caleb Golding (nine points, four rebounds) rounded out the Falcons’ balanced attack. Dacula now sits at 6-1 on the season.  ATLANTA FALCONS:   The Falcons, with six losses in their last seven games, will take on the Seahawks, who’ve won six of their last seven. Led by coach Mike Macdonald and quarterback Sam Darnold, the 9-3 Seahawks face the Falcons at 1 p.m. Sunday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.  U.S. MENS SOCCER:   The U.S. Men’s National Team will face Belgium, Portugal, and Germany in a high-stakes pre-World Cup series. Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium hosts two matches: USA vs. Belgium on March 28 at 3:30 p.m. ET and USA vs. Portugal on March 31 at 7 p.m. ET. Both games will air on TNT, HBO Max, Telemundo, and Peacock.  We’ll be right back.  Break 3: THE SUGAR HILL HOLIDAY  And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on carrots  Break 4: BUFORD HOLIDAY FESTIVAL  We’ll have closing comments after this   Break 5: Ingles Markets 4  Signoff –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com  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:  www.ingles-markets.com    www.kiamallofga.com  Strand Marietta – Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre  Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill  Holiday Celebration 2025 – City of Sugar Hill  2025 Buford Holiday Festival & Parade All-In-One Flyer  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Top Stories for December 2nd  Publish Date: December 2nd  PRE-ROLL: BUFORD HOLIDAY FESTIVAL   From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast.  Today is Tuesday, December 2nd and Happy Birthday to Nelly Furtado  I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia.  Coca-Cola Caravan coming to Lanier Islands Resort Suwanee’s new ‘Bookshelf’: A mural that lets you judge a wall by its cover Gwinnett native Brandon Brigman changes life through CrossFit  All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe!  Break 1: Kia Mall of Georgia - Downtown Lawrenceville Holiday  STORY 1: Coca-Cola Caravan coming to Lanier Islands Resort  The Coca-Cola Holiday Caravan is rolling back into Lanier Islands Resort on Saturday, Dec. 13, lighting up the night alongside the resort’s Magical Nights of Lights. Picture it: a glowing 18-wheeler, mile after mile of twinkling displays, and all the holiday vibes you can handle.  From 5 to 8:30 p.m., the Caravan will park outside Game Changer, where you can snap pics with Santa, sample new Coke flavors, and browse holiday merch.  Beyond the Caravan, there’s Game Changer—an indoor playground with arcade games, axe throwing, and festive cocktails—and License to Chill Snow Island, featuring snow tubing, skating, and carnival rides.  Magical Nights of Lights runs nightly through Jan. 4, with carload pricing starting at $35. Discounts are available for military, first responders, educators, and toy or food donors on select nights. For details, call 770-945-8787.  STORY 2: Suwanee’s new ‘Bookshelf’: A mural that lets you judge a wall by its cover  A bold new mural now greets visitors at Suwanee’s Town Center on Main, and it’s a stunner. Titled “Bookshelf,” the piece was created by renowned artist Pat Perry, whose jaw-dropping, photorealistic murals have popped up all over the globe.  Back in early 2025, Suwanee put out a call for artists, and nearly 90 submissions poured in. Perry’s work stood out—his knack for blending realism with thoughtful, site-specific designs won over the Suwanee Public Arts Commission (with a little help from the Gwinnett Creativity Fund).  Over two and a half weeks, Perry turned the walls outside the Suwanee branch of the Gwinnett Public Library into a vibrant tribute to storytelling. The mural’s placement—right by the pedestrian bridge—was no accident. It ties together the library, the park, and the new Town Center on Main.  But here’s the cool part: “Bookshelf” isn’t just a mural. It’s a puzzle for book lovers. Perry didn’t paint books or readers; instead, he filled the piece with objects that hint at famous works of literature. A pearl for Steinbeck’s The Pearl. Chewing gum for To Kill a Mockingbird. Matches for McCarthy’s The Road. Over 20 literary Easter eggs are hidden in the mural, waiting for sharp-eyed readers to uncover them.  It’s not just art—it’s a celebration of imagination, curiosity, and the stories that shape us.  STORY 3: Gwinnett native Brandon Brigman changes life through CrossFit For Brandon Brigman, CrossFit isn’t just a workout—it’s his whole world. It’s where he transformed his body, met his wife, and found his calling.  Back in 2010, Brandon, a former 270-pound offensive lineman from West Georgia, stumbled into NoExcuses CrossFit in Suwanee. He was bored of treadmills and marathon training, so he gave CrossFit a shot. Ten minutes into his first workout, he was wrecked. “I thought I was in shape—I’d just run a marathon. Nope.”  Fast forward: he became a trainer, then the gym’s general manager, and in 2018, he bought the place. Now, NoExcuses is thriving, with 100 members, six employees, and a whole lot of heart.  “It’s not just fitness,” Brandon says. “It’s accountability, community, and people who actually care if you show up.”  We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.  We’ll be right back  Break 2: Ingles Markets - Sugar Hill Holiday  STORY 4: McClure High senior earns statewide recognition for leadership  Jasmine Osorio-Antonio is already making waves—and she’s just getting started.    A senior at McClure Health Science High in Duluth, Jasmine juggles more than most adults. Coding Club founder? Check. DECA leader? Yep. Junior Achievement honoree? Absolutely. In October, she was named one of Junior Achievement of Georgia’s Nineteen Under Nineteen, a recognition for students who are shaking things up with leadership and innovation.     Her résumé is stacked: Horatio Alger Scholar, Alexander Hamilton Scholar, NCWIT Honorable Mention, and finalist in the Girls Who Code AI + Sustainability Challenge. Oh, and she’s in the top 10% of her class.    But Jasmine’s not just about accolades. She’s hands-on. Her Coding Club, which she started with a teacher, gives students real-world experience—projects they can actually show off.    And somehow, she still finds time to work three jobs: as a “FANgineer” at Georgia Tech games, a parking lot ambassador near Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and helping with her mom’s cleaning business.    Her future? Computer science and business.   STORY 5: Strickland says Georgia’s future ‘on the line’ in attorney general race  State Sen. Brian Strickland is running for Georgia attorney general, and he’s got a lot to say about why.  “I want my boys to grow up in the same Georgia I did,” he said. “We’ve got a good thing going here, but it’s a pivotal time. The wrong person in this seat could change everything.”  Strickland, who’s been in the General Assembly since 2012, has a packed résumé: chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, former floor leader for two governors, and now a candidate to replace Chris Carr. His campaign? Focused on public safety, defending state laws, and tackling new threats like AI-driven crime.  But it’s not all politics. Strickland’s a dad of two young boys, one of whom is autistic. He wears a faded autism awareness bracelet daily, a reminder of the work still needed.  His campaign is grounded in what he calls “common sense” values: supporting law enforcement, protecting families, and ensuring Georgia stays a place people want to call home.   We’ll be right back.   Break 3: Sugar Hill Ice Skating Rink STORY 6: GCPS sets new calendars, but religious holiday debate lingers Gwinnett County Public Schools just rolled out its calendars for the next two school years, and, well, not everyone’s thrilled. Board member Tarece Johnson-Morgan called it “disappointing” and “non-inclusive,” pointing out that the calendar still leans heavily on Christian holidays while leaving out major ones from other faiths, like Ramadan or Rosh Hashanah.    The district says they surveyed families, and most prioritized longer breaks and fewer digital learning days over adding religious holidays. But Johnson-Morgan argues there’s room for a “Yes/And” approach—keeping the current structure while recognizing key non-Christian holidays.    It’s a debate that’s not going away anytime soon in one of the nation’s most diverse districts.  STORY 7: Gwinnett schools preparing to adopt cell phone ban policy  Gwinnett parents, it’s time to weigh in: should cell phones be banned in schools?    The school board is considering a new policy—Policy JCDAF—that would ban personal devices like phones, smartwatches, and tablets starting in the 2026-2027 school year. Exceptions? Only for students with medical or learning plans.    This isn’t just a local idea. It’s tied to Georgia’s new Distraction-Free Education Act, which requires elementary and middle schools to ban phones by 2026. Gwinnett’s proposal goes further, extending restrictions to high schools.    For younger students, the ban would last all day—class, recess, assemblies, everything. High schoolers? They’d get a little more freedom, with phones allowed during lunch.    The district says the goal is to cut distractions and reduce bullying, citing studies showing phone bans can lower bullying by nearly 45%.    Parents, students, and staff can share their thoughts by emailing myschoolboard@gcpsk12.org.  We’ll have closing comments after this   Break 4: GCPS Hiring  Signoff –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com  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:  www.ingles-markets.com    www.kiamallofga.com  Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill  Strand Marietta – Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre  Holiday Celebration 2025 – City of Sugar Hill  2025 Buford Holiday Festival & Parade All-In-One Flyer      NewsPodcast, CurrentEvents, TopHeadlines, BreakingNews, PodcastDiscussion, PodcastNews, InDepthAnalysis, NewsAnalysis, PodcastTrending, WorldNews, LocalNews, GlobalNews, PodcastInsights, NewsBrief, PodcastUpdate, NewsRoundup, WeeklyNews, DailyNews, PodcastInterviews, HotTopics, PodcastOpinions, InvestigativeJournalism, BehindTheHeadlines, PodcastMedia, NewsStories, PodcastReports, JournalismMatters, PodcastPerspectives, NewsCommentary, PodcastListeners, NewsPodcastCommunity, NewsSource, PodcastCuration, WorldAffairs, PodcastUpdates, AudioNews, PodcastJournalism, EmergingStories, NewsFlash, PodcastConversations See omnys

Top Stories for November 29th  Publish Date: November 29th  PRE-ROLL: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING  From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast.  Today is Saturday, November 29th and Happy Birthday to Vin Scully   I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia.  Piedmont Oncology Opens Early Detection Pancreatic Cancer Clinic, First of Its Kind in Georgia You can now use a digital driver’s license to buy beer, cigarettes in Georgia Musical events, attractions to get into the magical spirit of the holiday season  All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe!  Break 1: Kia Mall of Georgia STORY 1: Piedmont Oncology Opens Early Detection Pancreatic Cancer Clinic, First of Its Kind in Georgia  Piedmont Oncology just opened Georgia’s first Early Detection Pancreatic Cancer Clinic, and honestly, it’s a big deal. Pancreatic cancer is brutal—13% five-year survival rate, no screening test, vague symptoms that sneak up on you. But this clinic? It’s here to change that.  Dr. Andrew Page, the clinic’s medical director, says early detection is everything. “Education about risk factors is critical,” he explained. The clinic will focus on genetic counseling, research collaborations with NIH and Mayo Clinic, and, hopefully, developing a much-needed screening test.  None of this would’ve happened without donors like Purple Pansies. Their support is saving lives.  STORY 2: You can now use a digital driver’s license to buy beer, cigarettes in Georgia  Big news for Georgians: you can now use a digital driver’s license to buy alcohol, tobacco, and other age-restricted items. Yep, your phone just got even more useful.  The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) announced the update Monday, calling it a “major step forward” in modernizing IDs. But here’s the catch: it’s up to individual businesses to accept them. No guarantees.  Oh, and don’t try using a screenshot—doesn’t count. Retailers need a special mDL reader to scan the license, and staff still have to verify your age. Progress? Sure. Perfect? Not quite yet.  STORY 3: Musical events, attractions to get into the magical spirit of the holiday season  It’s that time again—holiday magic is everywhere, and Atlanta’s got no shortage of ways to celebrate. From concerts to tree lightings, here’s what’s happening:  Holiday Shows at the FOX Theatre:  Lauren Daigle’s Behold Christmas Tour (Dec. 4): Grammy-winning magic.  Christmas Together (Dec. 6): Amy Grant, Cece Winans, and Michael W. Smith.  A Drummer Boy Christmas (Dec. 8): for King + Country’s festive storytelling.  Elf the Musical (Dec. 16–20): Buddy’s heartwarming journey.  Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet (Dec. 23–24): Ballet meets acrobatics.  Festive Attractions:  Stone Mountain’s Flight to the North Pole (Nov. 8–Jan. 4): Help Santa save Christmas.  Garden of Lights (Nov. 15–Jan. 11): Stroll through dazzling displays.  Georgia Aquarium Holidays (Nov. 14–Jan. 2): Twinkling lights, Santa, and sea life.  Don’t miss these great events!  We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.  We’ll be right back  Break 2: Ingles Markets - DTL HOLIDAY  STORY 4: Student loan change could drain nurse pipeline, Ga. dean warns  Nursing is no longer considered a “professional degree” by the U.S. Department of Education, and nurses are, understandably, furious.  The change, tied to the “One Big Beautiful Bill”, means nursing students can’t access the $200,000 loan cap reserved for professional programs. Instead, they’re stuck with a $100,000 limit—less than what many need to cover tuition.  Linda McCauley, dean of Emory’s Nursing School, didn’t hold back: “In a time when we desperately need more nurses, why make it harder? It feels like they didn’t think this through.”  The fallout? Fewer nurses, more debt, and a lot of frustration.  STORY 5: Flight delays: Here are your rights when flying over the holidays in 2025  Stuck at the airport? Here’s a tip: if your flight’s delayed more than three hours (domestic) or six hours (international), you’ve got rights. Travel expert Katy Nastro says airlines must offer a refund or rebook you—your choice.  But here’s the catch: no double-dipping. You can’t get both. And meal vouchers? Only if the delay’s the airline’s fault, like staffing or mechanical issues. Hotels? Depends on the airline.  The Department of Transportation even published a guide for what airlines owe you. Pro tip: screenshots of your license don’t count for ID.   Break 3: BUFORD HOLIDAY FESTIVAL  STORY 6: Forsyth school board approves use of same alarm system in place at Apalachee High School  Forsyth County schools are stepping up safety with a $2.4 million Centegix alarm system, approved by the Board of Education this week.  You’ve probably heard of these “panic alarms”—they’re the same system credited with the quick response during the tragic Apalachee High School shooting last year. Teachers and staff wear a button they can press in emergencies, instantly alerting law enforcement without fumbling for a phone.  The system also includes color-coded strobe lights for visual alerts, ensuring ADA compliance. The first year’s cost? $420,000, with the rest spread over five years. Safety, it seems, is getting an upgrade.  STORY 7: Recall alert: Honda recalls 256K vehicles for loss of power software error  Honda’s recalling over 256,000 vehicles—specifically 2023–2025 Accord Hybrids—because of a software glitch that could cause the car to lose power mid-drive. Not ideal, right?    The issue? The integrated control module’s CPU might reset itself while you’re cruising along. Dealers will fix it for free, though, so there’s that.    Honda says owners will get a heads-up by mail starting Jan. 5, but if you’re the impatient type (or just worried), you can call them at 888-234-2138. Oh, and if you’re curious, the recall number is TN2. Stay safe out there!  We’ll have closing comments after this   Break 4: THE SUGAR HILL HOLIDAY   Signoff –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com  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:  www.ingles-markets.com    www.kiamallofga.com  2025 Buford Holiday Festival & Parade All-In-One Flyer  Holiday Celebration 2025 – City of Sugar Hill  Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill    NewsPodcast, CurrentEvents, TopHeadlines, BreakingNews, PodcastDiscussion, PodcastNews, InDepthAnalysis, NewsAnalysis, PodcastTrending, WorldNews, LocalNews, GlobalNews, PodcastInsights, NewsBrief, PodcastUpdate, NewsRoundup, WeeklyNews, DailyNews, PodcastInterviews, HotTopics, PodcastOpinions, InvestigativeJournalism, BehindTheHeadlines, PodcastMedia, NewsStories, PodcastReports, JournalismMatters, PodcastPerspectives, NewsCommentary, PodcastListeners, NewsPodcastCommunity, NewsSource, PodcastCuration, WorldAffairs, PodcastUpdates, AudioNews, PodcastJournalism, EmergingStories, NewsFlash, PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GDP Script/ Top Stories for November 27th  Publish Date: November 27th      PRE-ROLL: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING  From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast.  Today is Thursday, November 27th and Happy birthday to Bruce Lee    I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia.  More than 4 million expected to pass through Atlanta airport during Thanksgiving season ‘Elf The Musical’ coming to Fox Theatre for the Christmas season Flight delays: Here are your rights when flying over the holidays in 2025   Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on soy and oat milk  All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe!  Break 1: STRAND THEATRE    STORY 1: More than 4 million expected to pass through Atlanta airport during Thanksgiving season   Thanksgiving travel is in full swing, and Hartsfield-Jackson is bracing for over 4 million passengers. “It’s like our Super Bowl,” said General Manager Ricky Smith, half-joking but clearly ready for the chaos.  The busiest day? Dec. 1, with 375,000 travelers expected—though that’s slightly down from last year, thanks to folks opting for road trips during the recent government shutdown. Still, the airport’s pulling out all the stops: new info totems, real-time TSA wait times, and extra security (some visible, some not).  Smith’s advice? Arrive early, stay patient, and if something feels off, speak up.   STORY 2: ‘Elf The Musical’ coming to Fox Theatre for the Christmas season   Buddy the Elf is in town, and he’s bringing the holiday cheer! “Elf The Musical” is hitting the Fox Theatre stage Dec. 16-21, but Buddy’s not waiting till then to spread some Christmas magic.  Catch him around Atlanta this weekend: Friday night at The Blind Elf Parlour Bar (5:30-7:30 p.m.), or Saturday at the Children’s Museum (10 a.m.-noon), the Georgia Festival of Trees (2-4 p.m.), and Atlantic Station’s Light the Station event (4-7:30 p.m.).  So, grab your syrup and get ready—it’s gonna be festive!    STORY 3: Flight delays: Here are your rights when flying over the holidays in 2025    Ever been stuck at the airport, staring at the departure board, wondering what your rights are? Turns out, there’s a “magic number” for delays: 3 hours for domestic flights, 6 for international. Hit that threshold, and airlines have to help—refund, rebook, your call.  But here’s the catch: no extra compensation in the U.S. Some airlines, like Delta or Alaska, will throw in meal vouchers or even a hotel if it’s their fault (think staffing, not weather). Others? Not so generous.  Pro tip: check your airline’s policy before you fly. And pack snacks. Always.  We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.  We’ll be right back  Break 2: 07.14.22 KIA MOG- DTL HOLIDAY  STORY 4:   Real Christmas trees may be the real bargain this year because of tariffs    With artificial tree prices climbing (thanks, inflation and tariffs), real Christmas trees might just be the better deal this year—and they come with the bonus of supporting local farmers.  At Savage Farms, the holiday prep is in full swing. “We always encourage folks to buy live trees,” said Mason Savage. “It supports local farmers and, honestly, the U.S. economy.”  They’ve got Georgia-grown Murray Cypress and Carolina Sapphire, plus Frasier firs from North Carolina—an area bouncing back after Hurricane Helene.  Prices? Still $10 per foot. “It’s a blessing,” Savage said, “bringing that Christmas joy to our community.”  STORY 5: Holiday lights on display in metro Atlanta  The holidays are here, and metro Atlanta is lighting up—literally. Whether you’re cruising through a drive-thru wonderland or strolling under glowing canopies, there’s magic everywhere.  Candy Rush at Six Flags (Marietta): A mile of lights, candy canes, and a gingerbread village. Sweet tooth? Satisfied. Nov. 14–Jan. 4. $39.99 per car.  Fantasy in Lights at Callaway Gardens: Seven miles, 10 million lights, and Santa. Forbes loves it, and so will you. Nov. 14–Jan. 4. Tickets start at $24.99.  Lanier Islands’ Magical Nights of Lights: Six miles of twinkling displays. Pure nostalgia. Nov. 15–Jan. 4. Tickets? $25.  WildWoods: AGLOW at Fernbank: Glowing gardens, luminous dandelions, and interactive magic. Nov. 14–Feb. 28. Tickets? $16.95.  Go make some memories!  We’ll be right back.  Break 3: THE SUGAR HILL HOLIDAY  And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on soy and oat milk   Break 4: BUFORD HOLIDAY FESTIVAL  We’ll have closing comments after this   Break 5: Ingles Markets 1  Signoff –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com  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:  www.ingles-markets.com    www.kiamallofga.com  Strand Marietta – Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre  Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill  Holiday Celebration 2025 – City of Sugar Hill  2025 Buford Holiday Festival & Parade All-In-One Flyer  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Top Stories for November 25th  Publish Date: November 25th  PRE-ROLL: BUFORD HOLIDAY FESTIVAL   From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast.  Today is Tuesday, November 25th and Happy Birthday to Joe DiMaggio   I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia.  John Berry ready to kick off 29th annual Christmas tour in Sugar Hill 'A welcome addition' — Popular Christkindl Market coming to Lawrenceville for the holiday season Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, resigns house seat  All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe!  Break 1: Kia Mall of Georgia - DTL HOLIDAY STORY 1: John Berry ready to kick off 29th annual Christmas tour in Sugar Hill  John Berry’s not making it home for Thanksgiving—again. The country music legend is kicking off his 29th annual Christmas with John Berry tour at the Eagle Theatre in Sugar Hill, where he and his band will spend the week rehearsing before the first show on Friday, Nov. 28.  The tour hits 17 cities, including Macon, the only stop that’s been on the schedule every single year. “Even during COVID, the mayor made sure we kept the streak alive,” Berry said.  The show? A mix of his hits (Your Love Amazes Me, Standing on the Edge of Goodbye) and Christmas classics from his O Holy Night album.   STORY 2: 'A welcome addition' — Popular Christkindl Market coming to Lawrenceville for the holiday season  One of the country’s top Christmas markets has found a new home—right in Lawrenceville.  The Atlanta Christkindl Market, a German-style holiday tradition that draws up to 160,000 visitors each year, kicks off on Black Friday and runs through Christmas Eve at the Lawrenceville Lawn. Think handcrafted gifts, authentic German food and drinks, a 150-foot Christmas tree, a Ferris wheel, and family-friendly entertainment.  After four years in Buckhead, the market outgrew its space.   “This is a perfect fit,” said Mayor David Still. “It’s another reason to celebrate the season in our city.”  STORY 3: Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, resigns house seat  Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene dropped a bombshell Friday—she’s stepping down from her seat in the House. Her last day? January 5.  The announcement came via a video she posted on X (formerly Twitter) Why now? What’s next? There’s plenty of room for speculation.  Greene’s exit is bound to shake things up. One thing’s for sure: the political world will be buzzing about this one for a while.  We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.  We’ll be right back    Break 2: Ingles Markets - SUGAR HILL HOLIDAY  STORY 4: Police: Hit-and-run driver allegedly abandoned injured passenger after accident  A horrifying crash in Duluth earlier this month left a passenger fighting for their life—and the driver now facing a stack of charges.    Samuel Contreras-Garcia, who police say fled the scene on foot, has been charged with felony hit-and-run, reckless driving, and more. The crash happened around 5:30 a.m. on Nov. 16 at Buford Highway and Duluth Highway.    Officers found a mangled silver sedan wedged between poles, and the unrestrained front-seat passenger had been thrown from the car. Critically injured, they were rushed to the hospital.    Surveillance footage allegedly shows Contreras-Garcia abandoning the wreck without calling 911. He was arrested two days later.  STORY 5: Gwinnett DA's Office recognizes law enforcement  The Red, Blue, and You event wasn’t the only moment of gratitude for Gwinnett’s law enforcement. The District Attorney’s Office hosted its own appreciation ceremony, shining a spotlight on the bravery and service of officers, deputies—and even a nurse—who’ve gone above and beyond.    Held at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center, the event honored more than a dozen individuals from six agencies.    “When lives are on the line, having people like this step up—it’s everything,” said DA Patsy Austin-Gatson.   We’ll be right back.   Break 3: Sugar Hill Ice Skating Rink Final  STORY 6: GCPS announces 2026 graduation schedule  Gwinnett County Public Schools just dropped the 2026 graduation schedule, and it’s a mix of tradition and big arena vibes. Phoenix High kicks things off on May 14 at Lawrenceville Lawn, while Duluth and Discovery close it out on Memorial Day, May 25, at Gas South Arena.  Most schools will stick with Gas South Arena for their ceremonies, but a few—like Central Gwinnett, Brookwood, Parkview, and Mill Creek—are keeping it old-school with graduations at their home stadiums.  STORY 7: Gwinnett's tag offices moving to new hours of operation in 2026  Starting in 2026, Gwinnett’s tag offices are trimming their hours—closing 30 minutes to an hour earlier each day. Beginning Jan. 1, offices will run from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Right now, they stay open until 5:30 p.m. most days and 6 p.m. on Wednesdays.    Why the change? Tax Commissioner Denise Mitchell pointed to the growing use of self-service kiosks—16 in total, with three available 24/7. “We want to make things easier,” she said.    Oh, and heads up: all tag offices, the main office, and the call center will close at noon on Dec. 5 for system updates. Back to normal Dec. 8.  We’ll have closing comments after this   Break 4: STRAND THEATRE  Signoff –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com  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:  www.ingles-markets.com    www.kiamallofga.com  Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill  Strand Marietta – Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre  Holiday Celebration 2025 – City of Sugar Hill  2025 Buford Holiday Festival & Parade All-In-One Flyer      NewsPodcast, CurrentEvents, TopHeadlines, BreakingNews, PodcastDiscussion, PodcastNews, InDepthAnalysis, NewsAnalysis, PodcastTrending, WorldNews, LocalNews, GlobalNews, PodcastInsights, NewsBrief, PodcastUpdate, NewsRoundup, WeeklyNews, DailyNews, PodcastInterviews, HotTopics, PodcastOpinions, InvestigativeJournalism, BehindTheHeadlines, PodcastMedia, NewsStories, PodcastReports, JournalismMatters, PodcastPerspectives, NewsCommentary, PodcastListeners, NewsPodcastCommunity, NewsSource, PodcastCuration, WorldAffairs, PodcastUpdates, AudioNews, PodcastJournalism, EmergingStories, NewsFlash, PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Top Stories for November 22nd  Publish Date: November 22nd  PRE-ROLL: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING  From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast.  Today is Saturday, November 22nd and Happy Birthday to Rodney Dangerfield  I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia.  GBI arrests Braselton police chief on stalking charge Scarlett Rigsby’s nonprofit quietly battles weekend hunger for Gwinnett schoolchildren Mountain View naming recognition wall for former coach killed in Apalachee shooting  All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe!  Break 1: Kia Mall of GA STORY 1: GBI arrests Braselton police chief on stalking charge  Braselton Police Chief Michael Steffman is out of a job—and facing serious charges. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation arrested the 49-year-old on allegations of stalking, harassment, and misconduct, including misuse of license plate readers.  According to the GBI, Steffman used the automated systems to stalk and harass multiple people. He’s now charged with stalking, harassing communications, violating his oath, and several counts of misusing the plate recognition system.  Steffman resigned and retired after his arrest, though the city called it “personal reasons.” This comes just seven months after he was sworn in as permanent chief, following 20 years with the department.  Braselton has named Zack Tiller as interim chief while the case moves forward. The GBI is asking anyone with information to contact their Athens office or submit tips anonymously online.  STORY 2: Scarlett Rigsby’s nonprofit quietly battles weekend hunger for Gwinnett schoolchildren  After nearly 20 years at the Gwinnett YMCA, Scarlett Rigsby’s job disappeared during the 2008 economic crash. She thought her next step would be another nonprofit—her work felt like a calling, a ministry. But starting her own? That wasn’t on the radar.  Yet in 2010, with her Golden Retriever, Truth, by her side, she launched Nothing but the Truth in Lawrenceville. What began with feeding 15 kids at one school has grown into a lifeline for nearly 1,300 students across 50 schools, sending weekend food home in backpacks.  “People used to say, ‘There aren’t hungry kids in Gwinnett.’ But there are,” Rigsby said.  The nonprofit’s reach has expanded—reading programs, English classes, even “swag bags” for girls without period supplies. “It’s about meeting people where they are,” she said.  Fifteen years in, Rigsby dreams of the next generation taking over.   STORY 3: Mountain View naming recognition wall for former coach killed in Apalachee shooting  One of the four victims of the tragic Apalachee High School shooting will soon be honored with a permanent memorial at the Gwinnett County school where he spent a decade teaching and coaching.  The Gwinnett County Board of Education voted to name Mountain View High School’s track recognition wall after Ricky Aspinwall—known to students as “Coach A.” Aspinwall, who taught math and coached football and track, was killed in the September 2024 shooting in Barrow County.  “Coach A left a legacy of integrity, service, and compassion,” wrote Mountain View School Council President Gail Devers. “Our community was deeply impacted by his loss.”  The wall, which will display track records, will be a visible tribute during school events.   We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.  We’ll be right back  Break 2: Ingles Markets STORY 4: Man convicted of killing woman on Stone Mountain Highway  A Stone Mountain man will spend the rest of his life in prison for the brutal murder of Breana Marie Rogers, a 33-year-old woman who had been living with him at a south Gwinnett hotel.    Edward Rodley Smith Jr., 39, was convicted of malice murder and sentenced to life without parole for the October 2022 killing.    “Breana tried to escape, and he hunted her down,” said Gwinnett DA Patsy Austin-Gatson. “We hope this verdict brings her family some measure of justice.”    Rogers was shot four times—three in the back, once in the head—after fleeing their hotel. Witnesses reported hearing her yell, “I’m tired of this,” before Smith chased her down.    Smith claimed self-defense, but the jury didn’t buy it, deliberating just 90 minutes before convicting him.  STORY 5: Lawmakers consider ways to reduce chronic absenteeism  Georgia students skipping too much school might soon face some tough consequences—like losing their driver’s licenses or getting benched from sports teams.  That’s one of several ideas floated by a legislative study committee tackling the state’s growing absenteeism problem, which has only worsened since COVID. “It’s about the kids, but it’s also about Georgia’s economy and workforce,” said Sen. John F. Kennedy, who chaired the committee.  The group’s recommendations include harsher penalties for chronic absences, but also more support for struggling families—like providing hygiene products, clothing, and even washing machines.  One nonprofit leader shared heartbreaking stories: kids skipping school because they’re embarrassed by dirty clothes or the smell of bed-wetting siblings.  Lawmakers also discussed banning cellphones in high schools and expanding mental health services, though the $34 million price tag for elementary school programs left some stunned.  Break 3: BUFORD HOLIDAY FESTIVAL  STORY 6: 'Merry Mighty Mo and More!' returns to Fox Theatre  Few holiday traditions in Atlanta feel as timeless as a Christmas sing-along with the Fox Theatre’s Mighty Mo—the second-largest theater organ in the country and a true piece of history.    This year, the free *Merry Mighty Mo and More!* returns on Wednesday, Dec. 10, at 7 p.m., bringing festive cheer while celebrating the Fox’s opening day—Christmas 1929.    Want to make it extra special? Snag access to the Marquee Club, where you’ll find pre-show bites, private restrooms, premium drinks, and even a visit from the Coca-Cola Polar Bear.    The night includes sing-alongs led by organist Ken Double, photos with Santa, a performance by Like The Dickens, and a screening of *Olaf’s Frozen Adventure.*    Guests are encouraged to “Bring Your Socks to the Fox” to support City of Refuge, an organization helping Atlanta families with housing, job training, and more.    For details, visit foxtheatre.org.  STORY 7: Legislation would expedite building approvals amid soaring home costs  As housing costs keep climbing, builders are fed up with delays and red tape. Their solution? A push for stricter limits on how local governments handle construction permits.  House Bill 812 would set hard deadlines for issuing permits—no more clock resets during plan reviews—and give the state power to block local building rules that go beyond Georgia’s minimum standards.  But local officials aren’t buying it. They argue the real problem is sloppy, incomplete plans from developers.   Environmentalists also raised alarms, warning that rushed approvals could lead to more pollution and poorly regulated construction. One called the proposed deadlines “crazy low.”  Meanwhile, builders say the current system is broken, with one even complaining about mosquito prevention reviews. It’s a messy debate, and the stakes are high.  We’ll have closing comments after this   Break 4: THE SUGAR HILL HOLIDAY   Signoff –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com  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:  www.ingles-markets.com    www.kiamallofga.com  2025 Buford Holiday Festival & Parade All-In-One Flyer  Holiday Celebration 2025 – City of Sugar Hill  Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill      NewsPodcast, CurrentEvents, TopHeadlines, BreakingNews, PodcastDiscussion, PodcastNews, InDepthAnalysis, NewsAnalysis, PodcastTrending, WorldNews, LocalNews, GlobalNews, PodcastInsights, NewsBrief, PodcastUpdate, NewsRoundup, WeeklyNews, DailyNews, PodcastInterviews, HotTopics, PodcastOpinions, InvestigativeJournalism, BehindTheHeadlines, PodcastMedia, NewsStories, PodcastReports, JournalismMatters, PodcastPerspectives, NewsCommentary, PodcastListeners, NewsPodcastCommunity, NewsSource, PodcastCuration, WorldAffairs, PodcastUpdates, AudioNews, PodcastJournalism, EmergingStories, NewsFlash, PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GDP Script/ Top Stories for November 20th  Publish Date: November 20th      PRE-ROLL: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING  From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast.  Today is Thursday, November 20th and Happy birthday to Bobby Kennedy     I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia.  Lawmakers consider paring tax credits and exemptions to offset income tax cuts Piedmont Eastside and Piedmont Oncology welcome medical oncologist Sami Ali Gwinnett commissioners to issue bonds for Gas South Arena renovations   Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on rice  All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe!  Break 1: STRAND THEATRE    STORY 1: Lawmakers consider paring tax credits and exemptions to offset income tax cuts   Georgia lawmakers are seriously considering wiping out the state income tax—$16 billion in revenue—and replacing it by slashing $30 billion in tax credits and exemptions.  “It’s not if, it’s when,” said Sen. Blake Tillery, who’s leading the charge. He called it a move for “competitiveness.”  Supporters like economist Arthur Laffer praised states like Tennessee for thriving without income taxes, calling it “really cool” not to file returns. But critics, like Sen. Nan Orrock, warned it could hit low-income families and retirees hardest, especially if sales taxes rise.  The debate? Far from settled.  STORY 2: Piedmont Eastside and Piedmont Oncology welcome medical oncologist Sami Ali   Piedmont Eastside Medical Center and Piedmont Oncology are thrilled to welcome Dr. Sami Ali to their team. Dr. Ali, a board-certified hematologist and oncologist, brings years of experience treating patients with lung cancer, colorectal cancer, blood disorders, and more.  Before joining Piedmont, Dr. Ali spent eight years at The Oncology Institute in Los Angeles, where he provided personalized care, led treatment plans, and contributed to clinical research.  “We’re excited to have him,” said Larry Ebert, Piedmont Eastside’s CEO. “His expertise will help us expand cancer care in Gwinnett County.”  Dr. Ali is now accepting new patients. For appointments, visit Piedmont.org or call 678-639-3950.  STORY 3: Gwinnett commissioners to issue bonds for Gas South Arena renovations    Gwinnett County commissioners took a big step Tuesday toward funding a major facelift for the 23-year-old Gas South Arena. The plan? Revenue bonds—up to $172 million worth—to cover renovations like new seating, upgraded security, better concessions, and even a shiny new parking deck.  The total cost? Somewhere between $170 and $176 million. The county might chip in $40 million to ease the debt load, according to Financial Services Director Russell Royal.  What’s changing? Think premium seating, revamped suites, modernized restrooms, grab-and-go food, and a high-tech security plaza. Oh, and the roof, HVAC, and electrical systems? All getting replaced.   We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.  We’ll be right back  Break 2: 07.14.22 KIA MOG  STORY 4:   Georgia Gwinnett College celebrates International Education Week    Georgia Gwinnett College turned International Education Week into a colorful, culture-packed celebration that brought the world to campus.  From Nov. 10, students and staff dove into 14 events—everything from global traditions to study-abroad opportunities. The highlight? A visit from Lithuania’s Consul General, DOH-vee-dahs Dovydas shpo-KOW-skas Špokauskas, who spoke on diplomacy and security, thanks to professor DOH-vee-leh Dovilė  boo-DREE-teh  Budryte.  Korean culture stole the show at Seoul Connections, with K-Pop, snacks, and games filling the room. And the International Thanksgiving? A feast of global flavors, live music, and a cultural fashion show.  The week wrapped with poetry, music, and a reminder: the world’s waiting—go explore it.  STORY 5: Gwinnett waiving tax penalties for residents impacted by government shutdown  Gwinnett County is throwing a lifeline to residents hit hard by the recent federal shutdown. On Tuesday, commissioners gave Tax Commissioner Denise Mitchell the green light to waive penalties and interest on late ad valorem taxes for those furloughed or who lost SNAP benefits during the chaos.  “Georgia law lets me waive penalties for reasonable cause,” Mitchell explained. “And over the past few weeks, I’ve heard from residents struggling to pay their bills because of the shutdown.”  This doesn’t erase the taxes—just the late fees. To qualify, folks need proof of furlough or lost benefits, and the waiver only covers bills due during or shortly after the shutdown.   We’ll be right back.  Break 3: THE SUGAR HILL HOLIDAY  And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on rice  Break 4: BUFORD HOLIDAY FESTIVAL  We’ll have closing comments after this   Break 5: Ingles Markets 8  Signoff –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com  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:  www.ingles-markets.com    www.kiamallofga.com  Strand Marietta – Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre  Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill  Holiday Celebration 2025 – City of Sugar Hill  2025 Buford Holiday Festival & Parade All-In-One Flyer    News Podcast, Current Events, Top Headlines, Breaking News, Podcast News, Trending, Local News, Daily, News, Podcast, Interviews See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Top Stories for November 18th  Publish Date: November 18th  PRE-ROLL: BUFORD HOLIDAY FESTIVAL   From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast.  Today is Tuesday, November 18th and Happy Birthday to astronaut Allan Shepard   I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia.  The Sandwich Project celebrates milestones and welcomes new executive director Norcross receives international award for branding efforts Elementary and middle school cellphone bans proving popular, as debate moves to high schools  All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe!  Break 1: Kia Mall of Georgia  STORY 1: The Sandwich Project celebrates milestones and welcomes new executive director  Before the latest government shutdown even hit, the Sandwich Project was already out there—quietly, relentlessly—feeding Atlanta’s hungry. This grassroots nonprofit, born in the chaos of 2020, has now delivered over 2.2 million sandwiches across metro Atlanta. Two million sandwiches. Let that sink in.  And now, they’ve got their first executive director: Christine Cooper Nowicki, a longtime volunteer with a heart for service. “This wasn’t something I saw coming,” she admits, “but food insecurity has always been personal for me.”  Every week, volunteers—families, Girl Scouts, Rotary Clubs—make 8,000 sandwiches. It’s messy, beautiful, and life-changing work. Learn more at thesandwichproject.org.  STORY 2: Norcross receives international award for branding efforts  Norcross just snagged a Silver Davey Award—pretty impressive, right? Out of 2,000+ global entries, this small-but-mighty city was recognized for its killer branding and communication efforts in the Government and Municipal category.  The secret sauce? A partnership with Lawrenceville’s Accent Creative Group, the creative minds behind Norcross’ ads, event logos, social media, and more. “Our brand isn’t just a look,” said Mayor Craig Newton. “It’s how we tell our story.”  The Davey Awards celebrate big ideas on small budgets, and Norcross nailed it—showcasing a community alive with culture, creativity, and connection. Not bad for a little city with big heart.  STORY 3: Elementary and middle school cellphone bans proving popular, as debate moves to high schools  Georgia high schools might soon say goodbye to cellphones, following the success of bans already in place at some schools.  Starting next fall, a new law will require elementary and middle schools to lock up phones during the day. High schools aren’t included—yet. But with 92% of teachers supporting the idea, according to a Georgia Southern University survey, the push is gaining momentum.  At Lakeside High in DeKalb, Principal Susan Stoddard said banning phones was a game-changer: “You heard kids talking again—actual conversations in the hallways.”  Still, some parents worry about emergencies. Lawmakers? Divided. But this debate isn’t over. Not even close.    We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.  We’ll be right back  Break 2: Ingles Markets 7- Sugar Hill Holiday  STORY 4: Agency seeks more power to enforce campaign finance law  Georgia’s election finance watchdog wants sharper teeth, and lawmakers might just hand them over. The State Ethics Commission says it needs more power to investigate campaign finance violations—like the $300,000 fine it slapped on Stacey Abrams’ nonprofit earlier this year for failing to disclose millions in donations and spending.  Sen. Bill Cowsert, who’s running for attorney general, is leading the charge. “We need transparency,” he said. “Big money shouldn’t dominate politics.”  But critics call it political theater, especially with Fulton DA Fani Willis now in the committee’s crosshairs. Meanwhile, the Ethics Commission says it’s hamstrung without stronger subpoena powers. The fight’s far from over.  STORY 5: Corps of Engineers says below normal rainfall could make Lake Lanier hazardous  Lake Lanier’s water level is holding steady—for now. As of last week, it sat at 1,065.51 feet, just a hair above the historic median of 1,065.39 feet for this time of year. But here’s the catch: rainfall’s been scarce lately, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is keeping a close watch.    “The dry spell could mean lower levels ahead,” said Dustin Gautney from the Corps. And with Lanier’s hidden hazards—tree stumps, old roadbeds, even remnants of submerged towns—boaters and swimmers need to stay sharp.    The advice? Wear your life jacket, watch for obstacles, and stay safe out there.  We’ll be right back.   Break 3: Sugar Hill Ice Skating Rink Final  STORY 6: Loganville shooting suspect arrested in Lawrenceville  A chaotic Friday afternoon unfolded as a shooting at a Loganville CVS ended with an arrest in downtown Lawrenceville.    Loganville police issued a BOLO alert around 4 p.m. for a vehicle tied to a “serious incident” at the CVS on Atlanta Highway, where a woman had been shot in the head. Critical condition. No name released.    Lawrenceville’s FLOCK cameras flagged the car near the Square. Officers swarmed West Crogan Street, shields up, and arrested the driver without a fight.    The suspect’s name? Still under wraps. The victim? Airlifted to Grady. It’s a mess, and the investigation is ongoing.  STORY 7: State raises red flags in Gwinnett Schools' CCRPI report  Gwinnett County Public Schools is celebrating some wins in college and career readiness—but the state’s latest report card tells a more complicated story.    Sure, GCPS outperformed Georgia in seven areas, mostly in elementary and middle schools. But high schools? They’re lagging. The only bright spot there is content mastery. And across all levels, the district is struggling to close gaps, especially in English Language Arts.    Red flags? Plenty. Targets missed for multiple demographics—African-American, Hispanic, economically disadvantaged, and more. Progress scores for high schools dropped by over 10 points.    The takeaway? There’s work to do. Wins are great, but gaps can’t be ignored.  We’ll have closing comments after this   Break 4: STRAND THEATRE  Signoff –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com  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:  www.ingles-markets.com    www.kiamallofga.com  Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill  Strand Marietta – Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre  Holiday Celebration 2025 – City of Sugar Hill  2025 Buford Holiday Festival & Parade All-In-One Flyer      NewsPodcast, CurrentEvents, TopHeadlines, BreakingNews, PodcastDiscussion, PodcastNews, InDepthAnalysis, NewsAnalysis, PodcastTrending, WorldNews, LocalNews, GlobalNews, PodcastInsights, NewsBrief, PodcastUpdate, NewsRoundup, WeeklyNews, DailyNews, PodcastInterviews, HotTopics, PodcastOpinions, InvestigativeJournalism, BehindTheHeadlines, PodcastMedia, NewsStories, PodcastReports, JournalismMatters, PodcastPerspectives, NewsCommentary, PodcastListeners, NewsPodcastCommunity, NewsSource, PodcastCuration, WorldAffairs, PodcastUpdates, AudioNews, PodcastJournalism, EmergingStories, NewsFlash, PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Top Stories for November 15th  Publish Date: November 15th  PRE-ROLL: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING  From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast.  Today is Saturday, November 15th and Happy Birthday to Macho Man Randy Savage  I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia.  Six finalists named for GCPS Teacher of the Year Housing Matters: Car club to deliver food, clothes to the homeless John McCutcheon to headline 'A Song for Ukraine' benefit concert in Lawrenceville  All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe!  Break 1: Kia Mall of Georgia STORY 1: Six finalists named for GCPS Teacher of the Year  And then there were six.  From 141 local honorees to 25 semifinalists, Gwinnett County has narrowed it down to six incredible educators vying for the 2027 Teacher of the Year title. These finalists—representing elementary, middle, and high schools—are more than just teachers. They’re innovators, mentors, and champions for their students.  Whether it’s Tram Nguyen, Stephanie Guynn, Dr. Lisa Babbage, Austin Hannon, Dr. Candice Richardson or Batavia Sumlin, each finalist brings something extraordinary to the table.  The winner will be announced Jan. 29 at a district celebration. Until then, these six are already heroes in their classrooms.  STORY 2: Housing Matters: Car club to deliver food, clothes to the homeless  Sky-high prices and relentless demand have left too many Gwinnett residents stuck—some in overpriced hotels, others with nowhere to go. It’s heartbreaking.  Cruising for a Cause This Sunday, Nov. 16, the Sinnerz Society car club is doing more than flexing their rides—they’re delivering food, warm clothes, and supplies to the homeless. Founder Rafael Diaz says, “It won’t last long, but it’s something.”  The group meets at 12:30 p.m. at the BP on Pleasant Hill Road in Duluth. Got a car? Great. Don’t? Doesn’t matter—just join. The caravan rolls out at 1:30.  Follow @sinnerzsociety on Instagram for updates.  STORY 3: John McCutcheon to headline 'A Song for Ukraine' benefit concert in Lawrenceville  Grammy-nominated folk legend John McCutcheon is bringing his music—and his heart—to the Lawrenceville Arts Center on Saturday, Nov. 22, at 5 p.m. for A Song for Ukraine, a benefit concert unlike any other.  Partnering with HelpingUkraine.US, McCutcheon aims to raise funds for displaced Ukrainian children. “This is more than a concert,” he said. “It’s about hope, resilience, and standing together.”  The evening will also feature Ukrainian bandura player Olena Kovban, a child vocalist, and an art sale showcasing works created by children in Kharkiv’s underground shelters.  Tickets start at $50, with VIP options available. Proceeds go directly to humanitarian aid.  We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.  We’ll be right back  Break 2: Ingles Markets STORY 4: Mall of Georgia to host Tree Lighting Ceremony on Saturday  Santa’s already made himself comfy at the Mall of Georgia, but the real holiday magic kicks off tonight with the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony.    From 5 to 9 p.m. on Nov. 15, expect festive chaos: the Grinch, Papa Elf, live reindeer, face painting, crafts, and even Bubbles Over GA. The tree lights up at 7 p.m., followed by a cozy outdoor screening of *The Polar Express*.    And, of course, Santa’s ready for his close-up. The Santa Photo Experience runs through Dec. 24 (hours vary). Got pets? Bring them for photos on Nov. 23, 6:30–8:30 p.m. Special needs families can reserve a sensory-friendly session on Nov. 23, 8:30–10 a.m.  STORY 5: Power of Impact Gala & Awards to celebrate small business growth across Gwinnett  Mark your calendars: the Gwinnett Chamber Foundation’s first-ever *Power of Impact Gala & Awards* is happening Dec. 3 at Bear’s Best Suwanee.    The night kicks off with a 6 p.m. reception, followed by dinner and awards at 7. It’s all about celebrating the small businesses and leaders driving Gwinnett’s growth—and proceeds go straight to supporting the Foundation’s mission of helping local businesses scale and thrive.    Honorees include Dr. William “Bill” Russell (Legacy Leader) and Georgia Power (Corporate Champion). Tickets and sponsorships are available now at GwinnettChamberFoundation.org/PowerofImpact.    Don’t miss it!  Break 3: BUFORD HOLIDAY FESTIVAL  STORY 6: Study: Gwinnett Library delivers big value to community  The Gwinnett County Public Library isn’t just a place for books—it’s a powerhouse of community impact. A new study from UGA’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government found the library delivers $92.5 million in benefits, turning every $1 of public funding into $3.40 of value.    Think about it: 3.5 million checkouts, 240,000 program attendees, 1.4 million Wi-Fi connections, and over 13,000 uses of meeting rooms. From job applications to tutoring sessions, it’s a lifeline for so many.    “Every dollar multiplies into real outcomes,” said Executive Director Charles Pace. Stronger families, smarter students, connected communities—it all starts here.    Learn more at gwinnettlibrary.com.  STORY 7: Georgia Gwinnett College to offer first master's degree  Big news for Georgia Gwinnett College: the Board of Regents just gave the green light for GGC’s first-ever graduate program—a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Secondary Education. Classes could kick off as early as spring 2027, pending final approval.    “This is huge,” said GGC President Dr. Jann L. Joseph. “We’re not just offering affordable bachelor’s degrees anymore—we’re stepping up to meet the demand for skilled, well-prepared teachers.”    With Gwinnett County Public Schools hiring 92% of GGC’s education grads, this new program is set to make waves, opening doors for students, alumni, and career changers alike.  We’ll have closing comments after this   Break 4: THE SUGAR HILL HOLIDAY   Signoff –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com  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:  www.ingles-markets.com    www.kiamallofga.com  2025 Buford Holiday Festival & Parade All-In-One Flyer  Holiday Celebration 2025 – City of Sugar Hill  Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill      NewsPodcast, CurrentEvents, TopHeadlines, BreakingNews, PodcastDiscussion, PodcastNews, InDepthAnalysis, NewsAnalysis, PodcastTrending, WorldNews, LocalNews, GlobalNews, PodcastInsights, NewsBrief, PodcastUpdate, NewsRoundup, WeeklyNews, DailyNews, PodcastInterviews, HotTopics, PodcastOpinions, InvestigativeJournalism, BehindTheHeadlines, PodcastMedia, NewsStories, PodcastReports, JournalismMatters, PodcastPerspectives, NewsCommentary, PodcastListeners, NewsPodcastCommunity, NewsSource, PodcastCuration, WorldAffairs, PodcastUpdates, AudioNews, PodcastJournalism, EmergingStories, NewsFlash, PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GDP Script/ Top Stories for November 13th  Publish Date: November 13th      PRE-ROLL: SUGAR HILL ICE SKATING  From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast.  Today is Thursday, November 13th and Happy birthday to Steve Zahn     I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia.  Fernbank celebrates holidays with 'Winter Wonderland' exhibit Salvation Army to kick off Red Kettle Campaign on Friday Atlanta awarded NWSL franchise that may call Marietta home   Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on pesticides   All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe!  Break 1: STRAND THEATRE    STORY 1: Fernbank celebrates holidays with 'Winter Wonderland' exhibit  Fernbank’s “Winter Wonderland” is back, running Nov. 22, through Jan. 11—and honestly, it’s kind of magical. Picture this: two floors packed with dazzling trees and displays, each one telling a story about how different cultures celebrate the season. Japan, Kenya, Scotland, Guatemala—just a few of the countries featured.  It’s not just pretty lights, either. There’s a scavenger hunt (yes, for adults too) where you can hunt for ornaments and hidden treasures. Oh, and if you’re into nighttime vibes, check out WildWoods: AGLOW. Tickets? $25.95 for adults, cheaper for kids. Go online to snag them early—prices jump at the door.  STORY 2: Salvation Army to kick off Red Kettle Campaign on Friday   Starting this Friday, the Salvation Army of Gwinnett County kicks off its Red Kettle Campaign—you know, those little red kettles and the cheerful bell ringers? They’ll be at 49 spots around the county, raising money to help folks in need. The goal this year? $150,000 by Christmas Eve.  And it’s not just about the holidays. Last year, they served over 6,000 meals, gave 2,700+ nights of shelter, and helped hundreds of families with rent, utilities, and gifts for their kids. Want to help? Ring a bell or start a virtual kettle. Every penny stays local. Details at salvationarmygwinnett.org.  STORY 3: Atlanta awarded NWSL franchise that may call Marietta home    Arthur Blank’s bringing pro women’s soccer to Atlanta—finally. On Tuesday, he announced he’s snagged the rights for an NWSL expansion team, shelling out a record $165 million. The team kicks off in 2028, playing home games at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.  Blank’s already talking about a “world-class” training facility, and Marietta’s making its pitch hard. Mayor Steve Tumlin’s ready to pull out all the stops, even eyeing shovel-ready land near Atlanta United’s training ground.  Atlanta’s soccer scene is booming—United, the U.S. Soccer Training Center, and now this. Blank’s betting big, and honestly? It feels like a win.  We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.  We’ll be right back  Break 2: 07.14.22 KIA MOG  STORY 4:   Gwinnett honors service members during Veterans Day Ceremony    Veterans Day isn’t about sales or shopping sprees—at least, it shouldn’t be. Retired Army Sgt. Maj. Kerry Dyer reminded everyone of that during Gwinnett County’s ceremony this week. “It’s a day for gratitude,” he said, standing before a crowd of veterans spanning generations, from Korea to the Gulf. “Not just for battles fought, but for lives lived in service.”  Gwinnett, home to over 30,000 veterans, pulled out all the stops—marches, music, and heartfelt speeches. Judge Shawn Bratton called the turnout “unspeakably touching.” And with new veteran resource centers on the way, the county’s commitment feels real. Two words: thank you.  STORY 5: Georgia Gwinnett College students dive into environmental science during inaugural Gwinnett River Rendezvous event   Georgia Gwinnett College just pulled off something pretty cool—the first-ever Gwinnett River Rendezvous. Picture this: students, faculty, and volunteers fanning out across the county, collecting water samples from rivers and streams, then testing them back on campus for things like bacteria and turbidity. It wasn’t just science—it was hands-on, messy, real-world learning.  For sophomore Andreas Forbes, it was a first. “I’m an environmental science major, but I hadn’t done anything like this before,” he said. “It felt real.”  The data? It’s going straight to Gwinnett Water Resources to help track contamination. And GGC? They’re already planning next year’s rendezvous.  We’ll be right back.  Break 3: THE SUGAR HILL HOLIDAY  And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on pesticides   Break 4:   We’ll have closing comments after this   Break 5: Ingles Markets 5  Signoff –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com  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:  www.ingles-markets.com    www.kiamallofga.com  Strand Marietta Holiday Celebration – City of Sugar Hill Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.