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.
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
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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.
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:
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.
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