Paulding County News Podcast

Welcome to your Paulding County News Podcast and Happy Easter.  I’m Melissa Carter, along with Doug Harding.  A teen tries to flee police, but current technology thwarted his efforts.  Plus, a collaboration between two of your favorite restaurants for a while new guilty pleasure.   But first, let’s take a look at our top stories.

PC News

Attention Paulding turkey hunters - turkey hunting season kicked off yesterday.

Private lands are open for turkey hunting, but public hunting grounds don’t open until on Saturday, and will run through May 15th.

According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, the turkey population faced challenges in reproduction from 2021 to 2022.

Emily Rushton, the Wild Turkey Project Coordinator, noted that while reproduction rates have dipped slightly, hunters can still expect comparable gobbler numbers to previous years.

During the season, hunters are reminded of bag limits— one turkey per day, with a total of two for the season, and specific regulations for Wildlife Management Areas and National Forest lands.

All hunters, including youth, must maintain a harvest record and complete the reporting process through Georgia Game Check within 24 hours of harvesting.

For those under 16, no license is needed, but older hunters must obtain the necessary licenses unless hunting on private land.

This from WSB.

PC News

Congratulations to Brandon Maple!

Maple has been named Battalion Chief with the Paulding County Fire & Rescue.

Battalion Chief Maple will now lead Battalion 1 on the B-shift.

Blake Maynor also got a promotion! 

Now Lieutenant Maynor will serve at Station 3 on A-shift.

This from Paulding County Government.

PC News

In an inspiring comeback story, 13-year-old Carley Krokey of Dallas is back in action after a harrowing battle.

Diagnosed with a large brain tumor last year, Carley faced unimaginable challenges.

Carley's journey began with crippling headaches, leading to a terrifying diagnosis.

But through two surgeries and months of rehabilitation, she never lost hope.

Carley says she never quit, because quitting is just not an option at that point.

Now, with the tumor gone and her spirit stronger than ever, Carley's back where she belongs: playing the game she loves.

This from Fox 5.

Weather

Partly Sunny today with a High of 78 in Dallas and Hiram.  Lows in the upper 50’s.

Partly Sunny tomorrow with a High of 79 in Dallas and Hiram.  Lows in the lower 60’s.

Thunderstorms Tuesday, Highs in the upper 70s.

Arrest Report

From WSB’s Facebook page:

A Georgia teen thought he had outsmarted police after they said he stole a car, but now he’s behind bars after trying to run.

The owner of the Dodge Charger was able to live track the car, giving a good location for the police helicopter, which helped patrol cars locate 17-year-old Jerious Simpson.

Mike Morris

What is it about thugs and Dodge Chargers? Always a Charger.

Stephen Robinson

Liberal Fulton county judges will slap him on the wrist like all the others and he'll be back to terrorizing communities in no time.  If not, already.

Tom Ludlow

Big ups to the role model getting a jump on his career! Put in that work!

Sonny Linn

Yet another upstanding member of society.

Social Media

From the Paulding County Facebook page:

Wright Squad asked - Just curious .......How many potholes yall run over daily?

Shannon Banks

Too many, LOL. And that's while looking like a drunk driver, trying to avoid them.

Mikayla Rose Goodman

For the amount of taxes paid, should be zero.

Russ Harvey

All of this half-finished road construction that has been billed in the millions/billions of dollars that is over budget and past due.

Logan Gordon

On average, 5

Austin Jarvis

37ish

Preston Hansen

1262.50 in 20 miles

Weird Story

A bank robbery in Westchester, Illinois took an unexpected turn.

Larnie Brewer stands accused of holding up a Byline Bank branch with a chilling note.

The demand for cash came with a threat, but Brewer didn't get far.

Just minutes after the robbery, law enforcement caught up with Brewer at a nearby bus stop.

The stolen money, equipped with a tracking device, led officers right to him.

Brewer's alleged confession sealed the deal.

He's now in custody, thanks to swift action by authorities.

This from WSB.

Events

• Saturday beginning at 10am - grand reopening of the Dallas Markets.

• April 20th from 10am until Noon - the 21st annual Touch-A-Truck at Veterans Park in Dallas.

• April 27th from 8a until Noon - its Keep Paulding Beautiful’s Shred Day at the Watson Building in Dallas.

(Interview)

State News

Another Georgia county faces a cyber crisis.

Gilmer County officials are grappling with a ransomware attack.

They've enlisted top cybersecurity experts to combat the threat.

While some services are affected, vital infrastructure like the 911 center stands strong.

The full extent of disruption remains unclear.

Meanwhile, officials are tight-lipped about the attack.

This from Fox 5.

Sports

From the Paulding County Sports Chronicle:

In soccer,

North Paulding Girls beat Dunwoody 2-1

South Paulding Girls beat Hughes, 5-1

Douglas County Boys bear Paulding County, 7-0

South Paulding Boys beat Hughes 10-0

East Paulding Boys defeated Pebblebrook, 3-0

In Lacrosse,

Alpharetta Girls beat East Paulding, 20-1

And Hiram High School is honoring the outgoing Girls Basketball Coach Michelle Caldwell.  Coach Caldwell has completed her 17 years of coaching the team and secured the Lady Hornets 339 wins.  Nice job, Coach.

PC News

And we finish with a very selfish story, Paulding County, because my son is so excited for this.  But maybe you’ll be excited too.

Krispy Kreme doughnuts are set to hit all McDonald's restaurants.

This follows a successful test run in Kentucky and promises availability in Paulding County by 2026.

Tariq Hassan, McDonald's USA's chief marketing officer, expressed excitement, calling it a chance to unlock new business opportunities.

Krispy Kreme's president and CEO, Josh Charlesworth, hailed the move as fulfilling the daily pleas from doughnut enthusiasts.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week’s episode of the Paulding County News Podcast, join duo Melissa Carter and Doug Harding as they guide you through the local news, heartfelt stories, and significant developments within our beloved community and its surroundings. This episode promises a rich blend of legislative updates that bear the potential to shape our future, alongside inspiring narratives of commitment and triumph that showcase the spirit of Paulding County.

In an exclusive segment, Doug chats with Pastor Steve Flockhardt of New Season Church, delving into the plans set for Easter. This discussion is bound to uplift and inspire, offering a glimpse into the communal and spiritual preparations for one of the most cherished times of the year.

Tune in to remain informed, feel inspired, and strengthen your connection with the vibrant Paulding County community.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week’s episode of the Paulding County News Podcast, join hosts Melissa Carter and Doug Harding as we delve into a mix of compelling local stories and impactful national news affecting our community.

A surprising turn of events sees a prison officer facing time behind bars – we’ll uncover the details. Meanwhile, Paulding parents are voicing their concerns over a local elementary school, sparking a community-wide conversation. What’s your stance? We invite you to weigh in.

Our top stories feature a significant announcement from the White House - over 78,000 public service workers, including teachers and nurses, will see their student debt erased, marking a nearly $6 billion gesture of gratitude for their service. Plus, we spotlight a group of University of North Georgia students, with one of our own from Paulding County, who have snagged a win at the innovateUNG Pitch Challenge with their "Smart Snack Solutions."

In an inspiring blend of education and environmentalism, East Paulding High School STEM students are exploring how mushrooms could revolutionize our approach to pollution. Their groundbreaking project could not only win them a national title but also offer a novel solution to a global problem.

On the sports front, catch up on the latest high school baseball outcomes and celebrate Georgia State Pitcher Baley Coleman's recent accolade.

And for those who marvel at the mysteries of the night sky, don’t miss our segment on the upcoming penumbral lunar eclipse – a celestial precursor to an eagerly anticipated total solar eclipse.

Tune in for these stories and more, as we explore the happenings that keep Paulding County pulsing.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Paulding County News Podcast, hosts Melissa Carter and Doug Harding take you through a week of intriguing headlines. 

Our top story is the much-anticipated reopening of the Dallas Markets, after owner Andrew Rodriquez's unpermitted bunker led to a lengthy license suspension. We also cover the arrest of a local Dallas man by the Cedar Bluff Police Department on multiple charges.

A heartfelt plea from local detectives has us seeking your help to find a cherished lost ring. Our strange news segment will have you double-checking the crispness of your bacon, as we share the shocking story of a Floridian man's tapeworm ordeal.

In sports, we celebrate victories from North Paulding in baseball and Hiram in women's soccer, along with an exciting announcement about the new broadcast team for the Braves on Bally Sports South and Southeast.

We conclude with an important discussion on the rising trend of depression and anxiety among teenage boys, emphasizing the need for recognition, open communication, and support.

Tune in to stay informed, engaged, and aware with the happenings in and around Paulding County.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to your Paulding County News Podcast.  I’m Melissa Carter, along with Doug Harding.  A local student is arrested, but not everyone agrees it was the right move.  Plus, why don’t all Paulding County hospitals have the same services? We’ll get your take. But first let’s take a look at our top stories.

PC News

After 137 days of license suspension, the Dallas Markets have announced they have their business license again. 

You remember in November the markets were ordered closed after owner Andrew Rodriquez started building an unpermitted bunker.

The Rodriquezes say they will soon announce the official reopening of the markets.

This from the Dallas Markets.

PC News

Last week Dollar Tree, Inc. revealed plans to shutter approximately 1,000 Family Dollar and Dollar Tree stores.

The decision outlines the closure of approximately 600 Family Dollar outlets this year, with an additional 370 Family Dollar and 30 Dollar Tree stores to follow suit over the next few years.

There are several in Paulding County, though no word on which stores may be closing.

Most recently, Family Dollar made headlines for a record $42 million fine imposed due to federal officials' findings of unsanitary storage conditions for food, drugs, and other items.

This from The Patch.

PC News

At the Paulding County Airport, a new aviation maintenance school is opening doors for local students.

With the establishment of the GBAA Scholarship, aspiring aviation enthusiasts have a unique chance to receive financial aid for their college education.

This opportunity not only fosters the growth of the aviation industry but also supports the educational pursuits of students in the community.

You can find out more and apply at GBAA.org.

This from Paulding County Uncensored.

Weather

Rain today with a High in Dallas of 68, 69 in Hiram.  Lows in the low 40’s.

Sunshine tomorrow, with a High in Dallas of 57, 58 in Hiram.  Freezing temperature of 31 tomorrow night.

Tuesday more sunshine with a Highs in the upper 50’s.

Arrest Report

From the Georgia Gazette:

A Paulding County High School student was arrested for possession of marijuana and knife in her purse, which she said she kept for protection at her mother’s house but thought she had removed it.

Brandyy Red

Is no one concerned why this child needs a knife for protection at her mom’s house?

Staci Cain-Carter

Maybe if this joke ass school system would ACTUALLY do something, these kids wouldn’t feel the need to go to this extreme.

Lisa Braddock

wait a sec. What exactly would y’all expect a school to do about a kid peddling vapes and drugs with a knife? She’s not a baby … mugshots … legal adult here. I’d be more concerned if the school didn’t do this. Vape pens and marijuana are all in every school and it is a concern. What should have been done??

Social Media

From the What’s Happening in Paulding County Facebook page:

Tina Contois posted:  Paulding County is growing so very quickly. I do not understand how the local hospital does not have labor and delivery there. Tanner hospital in Villa Ricca does for god sake‘s.

Evelyn S Elsner

It has to do with politics.

Casey Whatyousay

Lots of misinformation here. Ultimately boils down to GA certificate of Need. All additions to hospital and associated programs require approval. Approval that is most of time met with lawsuits from neighboring competitors. Can take upwards of 5-10 years to get through the bureaucracy. By then what you originally was seeking approval for is out dated. Thats why hospitals always seem “behind the times.”

Jodi Steed

The Certificate of Need system in Georgia is what controls the medical offerings in an area. There is currently a push in legislation to abolish the CON in Ga. Call your state senators and representatives to voice your opinions.

Kylie Hunter

Tanner’s care is better than Wellstar’s anyways.

What do you think? Give us a call at (404) 997-8655 and tell us.

Weird Story

A decaying police headquarters in New Orleans has brought an odd problem to officers, rats in the evidence room.

Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick revealed that the vermin-infested building has reached such dire conditions that rats managed to snack on confiscated marijuana.

'The rats eating our marijuana, they're all high,' she remarked during a city council meeting.

Plans are underway to relocate the 910 officers to a temporary high-rise building.

This from Sky News.

Events

• Today at Noon - Paddy’s Scavenger Hunt on the Farm at Little Fox Hollow in Dallas.

• Wednesday beginning at 4pm - Wine Down Wednesday at Vintage Wine Bar in Dallas.

• March 24th at 10:30am - Anthem Edition at Pickett’s Mill Baptist Church in Dallas.

Interview: Pastor Steve Flockhardt from New Season Church

State News

In a move that could potentially redirect taxpayer dollars, the Georgia House Education Committee advanced Senate Bill 233, dubbed the 'school choice bill.'

If enacted, it would allocate $6,500 vouchers to students from the state's lowest-performing schools, allowing them to attend private institutions.

Advocates argue it offers personalized educational options.

However, critics caution that this may disproportionately benefit urban areas, leaving rural counties with limited options.

With the legislative session ending soon, lawmakers aim to finalize the bill by the end of the month.

This from Atlanta New First.

Sports

From the Paulding Sports Chronicle:

In lacrosse, it was the North Paulding Girls beating Kennesaw Mountain, 20-2.

North Paulding Boys defeated East Paulding, 19-0.

In baseball, Paulding County beat North Manchester, 10-4.

It was East Paulding over Dekalb County, 11-0.

South Paulding beat Alexander,  2-1.

North Paulding lost to Campbell, 9-3.

PC News

The Great American Eclipse is just around the corner.

Happening on April 8, residents across the country, from Texas to Maine and everywhere in between, are gearing up for this celestial event.

Although Paulding County won't experience a total eclipse, we’ll still witness an impressive 80 to 85% coverage of the sun.

Mark Lancaster, an astronomer at Fernbank Science Center, assures us that while the lighting may change slightly, without proper protective gear, you might not even notice the eclipse.

Here are three safe ways to catch a glimpse of the partial eclipse:

• Protective Glasses: Remember those "eclipse glasses" from 2017? If you still have them, ensure they're in good condition. If not, make sure to purchase ISO certified glasses online. Regular sunglasses or welding glasses won't cut it.
• Shadow Boxes: Create your own with a shoebox, foil, paper, tape, and a pencil. Cut holes in the box, cover one with foil, make a small hole with the pencil, tape white paper inside, and voila! Witness the eclipse's projection safely.
• Looking Down: Don't forget to observe the ground! The eclipse will cast unique shadows, especially through trees and bushes, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

Remember, safety first.

This from 11 Alive.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us in this episode of the Paulding County News Podcast with your hosts, Melissa Carter and Doug Harding. We discuss a controversial incident where a woman was arrested for shooting her neighbor's cat - was her action justified or not? We're eager to hear your thoughts.

In our education segment, we debate whether teachers are more motivated by their salaries or the impact they can make on their students. This is a conversation you won't want to miss.

But first, let's dive into the top local stories. We cover the traffic disruption on Wendy Bagwell Pkwy due to an 18-wheeler severing a power line, and the eventual reopening of all lanes. We also honor Corp. Nico Bartlett of the Hiram PD, who was recently named Hero of the Year by the Jess Rousey Honoring Heroes Foundation.

Next, we congratulate the graduates of the Georgia State Patrol's 115th Trooper School, particularly our very own Paulding native, Austin Scott. Plus, we delve into a chilling story about NFL fans suffering severe frostbite at a Chiefs game in Kansas City.

In our sports update, we celebrate the North Paulding Lady Pack’s achievement as State Runners Up in basketball, and the ranking of North Paulding's baseball and lacrosse teams. We also discuss Kirk Cousins' massive new contract with the Atlanta Falcons.

Lastly, we commend the North Paulding High School Army JROTC Leadership team for securing a spot in the Championship event in Washington, D.C. 

Tune in to get the pulse of what's happening in Paulding County!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Melissa Carter and Doug Harding in this episode of the Paulding County News Podcast. This week, we discuss the newly approved commission overseeing Georgia's prosecutors and the controversy surrounding it. We also share exciting news for fine arts students in Paulding County - the Doris Butz Fine Arts Scholarship is now accepting applications. In our weird story segment, we recount the unusual predicament of a Welsh grandmother who got lifted into the air by a store's security shutters. Lastly, as we spring forward into daylight saving time, we offer practical tips to help you adjust your sleep schedule and make the most of the time change. Tune in for these stories and more, only on the Paulding County News Podcast.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to the Paulding County News Podcast, your go-to source for all things happening in our beloved county. In this episode, we pay tribute to a long-serving deputy of the Paulding County Sheriff’s Office who left us too soon. We also celebrate the recognition of WellStar Paulding Hospital as one of the best in the world. Hear about the upcoming public office elections and how you can participate. Lastly, we share an amusing tale of a woman's ingenious escape from a medieval bathroom. Tune in for these stories and more!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to your Paulding County News Podcast.  I’m Melissa Carter, along with Doug Harding.  Are you a thrifter? We’ll talk about the best places to go in Paulding, coming up.  Plus, if you’re a Jeep owner, we have a serious recall to tell you about.  But first, let’s take a look at our top stories

PC News

A Paulding County mother - accused of stabbing three of her children to death and attempting to harm four others in a horrific incident back in 2022 - has accepted a plea deal.

Darlene Brister has been sentenced to three consecutive life terms for the tragic deaths of her children, aged five months, three years, and five years.

Paulding County District Attorney Matthew Rollins had initially sought the death penalty against Brister.

This from WSB.

PC News

The Paulding County community mourned the life a cherished deputy last week.

Forty-three-year-old Deputy Allen Rakestraw tragically passed away at his home after suffering a medical emergency.

His funeral was held Wednesday at the New Season Church in Hiram.

Deputy Rakestraw was an 8th-generation Paulding County resident and had harbored a lifelong aspiration of becoming a deputy sheriff.

With nearly 14 years of service, Rakestraw had become an integral part of the sheriff’s office, contributing notably to the Uniform Patrol Division and managing law enforcement communications.

This from Atlanta News First.

PC News

Congratulations to the Paulding County, where four high schools have been named State AP Honor Schools for 2024. 

They are East Paulding High School, Hiram High School, North Paulding High School and Pauling County High School.

The State AP Honor Schools designation reflects the district's emphasis on advanced placement programs and the success of its students in mastering rigorous coursework.

This from What’s Happening in Paulding County.

Weather

We get a brief break in the rain today, High in Dallas 55, 54 in Hiram.  Low near 40.

Rain continues tomorrow, High in Dallas 47, 46 in Hiram.  Low in the mid-40’s.

More rain on Tuesday, High’s in the mid-60’s.

Arrest Report

From 11 Alive’s Facebook page:

A Georgia mother faces charges after a viral video showed her 12-year-old son riding in the trunk of a car.

The 36-year-old woman was charged with reckless conduct and seat belt violation following the incident.

The video, which quickly spread on social media, captured the boy peeking out of the trunk as the car drove through the area.

Kara Wise

I never rode in a trunk as a child, but had plenty of rides in the back of a pickup truck. I lived to tell. Lol.

Jeff Biddle

That’s the way I delivered newspapers sometimes in the 60’s.

Jason Wyatt

Wow. Y'all don't even want to hear all the ways I rode growing up. This is nothing.

Social Media

From the What’s Happening in Paulding Facebook Page, Ashley Tillett wants to know What are the best Thrift Stores in Paulding?

Cathy Austin

Not many of them to thrifty anymore. Victory is one of the better ones around here.

Wendy Lecroy

The Thrift Store in Paulding Plaza and St. Vincent de Paul are my favorites.

Windy Mullins

Victory Thrift Baptist Church in Dallas close to Ingles. Great cause also.

Tammy Carroll

Lula Beans in Dallas.

Weird Story

A thrift store in Florida received an unexpected and potentially dangerous donation when a WWII-era grenade was found among items dropped off.

The discovery prompted evacuations and a response from the local bomb squad.

Authorities also evacuated nearby businesses and homes as a precaution.

Officials eventually found that the grenade was a decommissioned Mills bomb, and is no longer explosive.

This from Fox News.

Events

• March 4th from Noon until 5p - City of Hiram Community Blood Drive at the Events Place in Hiram.

• March 5th beginning at 7p - Interstate Poker Night at The Box Sports Bar and Grill in Dallas.

• April 24th beginning at 9a - Paulding Cops for Kids Annual Golf Tournament at Creeksside Golf & Country Club in Hiram.

State News

The tragic death of 19-year-old De’Asia Hart, caught in the crossfire of a shooting near a RaceTrac gas station near Georgia State University last October, has prompted her family to take legal action.

They plan to file a lawsuit against the gas station and others, including The Mix apartment complex nearby.

Hart was one of four innocent victims caught in the gunfire, and her family alleges that the Atlanta 911 call center failed to respond to multiple calls for help, delaying medical attention crucial for her survival.

The lawsuit will argue that both RaceTrac and The Mix were negligent in providing adequate security, despite a history of violence in the area.

Hart leaves behind a one-year-old daughter.

This from WSB.

Sports

From the Paulding County Sports Chronicle:

In basketball - in the Girls State QuarterFinals - it was North Paulding over Buford, 74-69.

In baseball, winners this week include:

East Paulding

Paulding County

South Paulding

North Paulding

In soccer, for the boys:

South Paulding beat Villa Rica…but it was a tie between Adairsville and Hiram, as well as between East Paulding and Bremen.

Paulding County girls won this week, but South Paulding, East Paulding, and Hiram girls came up short.

In Lacrosse, on the boys side:

North Paulding beat Woodstock, 14-4. 

On the girls side, East Paulding lost to Dalton 15-6.

PC News

Attention Paulding Jeep Grand Cherokee owners, a significant recall has been issued due to a critical safety concern.

The recall affects certain 2021-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L and 2022-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee models.

The recall addresses a potential ball joint issue in the upper control arm and steering knuckle, which could lead to a loss of vehicle control and pose a serious safety risk to drivers.

While no accidents or injuries have been reported thus far, dealers will provide free replacements.

Owners can anticipate receiving notification letters by April 12th.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to your Paulding County News Podcast.  I’m Melissa Carter, along with Doug Harding.  We get your thoughts in the immigration issues found after a Georgia student us murdered.  Plus, it only comes around every 4 years but what is the purpose of Leap Day anyway? We’ll tell you.  But first, let’s take a look at our top stories

PC News

Tragic news out of Paulding County as Deputy Allen Rakestraw, a stalwart of the sheriff's office, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 43 after suffering a medical emergency at home.

Deputy Rakestraw, who served for nearly 14 years, fulfilled his lifelong dream of joining the Paulding County Sheriff's Office to rising through the ranks from jailer to deputy.

Despite his full-time duties in the uniform patrol division, Rakestraw also dedicated himself to maintaining the sheriff's office law enforcement radios and even ran his own contracting company on the side.

Rakestraw's funeral is scheduled for today.

This from The Patch.

PC News

Early voting us underway for the presidential primary.  Here are the places you can vote in Paulding County:

Watson Government Complex now through March 8th.

Dianne Wright Center, also now through March 8th.

And at Burnt Hickory Park, March 4th-8th only.

Voting begins at 9am and ends at 5pm.

This from Paulding County Uncensored.

PC News

In a remarkable tale of faith and resilience, 89-year-old Donald Voyles is defying stereotypes as one of the nation's oldest church planters.

Voyles, with a history steeped in ministry, has seen his latest venture, Mt. Tabor Community Baptist Church, flourish from a humble beginning to a thriving congregation.

Despite his age, Voyles' commitment to spreading the Word remains unwavering.

And he's not alone. With Georgia experiencing rapid growth, the state's Baptist Mission Board is investing heavily in church planting efforts, recognizing the urgent need for more places of worship.

As Voyles nears his 90th birthday, his passion for preaching and teaching continues to drive him forward, leaving an indelible mark on all who encounter his ministry.

This from Kentucky Today.

Weather

Stormy weather today, High in Hiram and Dallas 71, Low of 32.

Thursday, Partly Sunny.  High in Hiram and Dallas 59, Low 40.

More Rain Friday and Cooler.  High in the 40’s.

Arrest Report

From WSB’s Facebook page:

New details have emerged regarding Jose Ibarra, accused of murdering college student Laken Riley here in Georgia.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement reveal Ibarra was arrested after illegally entering the U.S.,  and was subsequently arrested in New York before making his way South.

Barry Joiner

The report says innocent until proven guilty while referring to the New York charge for driving uninsured and endangering a child. Well, he wasn’t innocent of violating our laws when he came into the country illegally!! Should have been deported. This has to stop.

Kyle Rogers

He committed this crime in broad daylight because he thought he'd get away with it because no one knew who he was.

Diane Chadwick

Makes me sick thinking what he has been “given” when he crossed the border illegally. He took a life while here……disgusting.

What are your thoughts? Give us a call at (404) 997-8655 and tell us.

Social Media

From the What’s Happening in Paulding Facebook page:

What is the rule for fishing on the side of the road? I see a bunch of people doing it here and there and curious what the regulations are on that before I start spot fishing.

Gb Barr

As long as it’s not from a bridge.

Janet Rogers

Demooney lake is 24 hours. We fish all night. Huge catfish in there. You can pull right up to the lake. It’s $15 dollars a person. We love it. You are going to need a good net. They are to heavy to get some of them up on the bank.

Sam Mathis

Lock and dam in Rome. Is good for night fishing for catfish.

Weird Story

Fans and former employees came together outside the last Hooters in West Virginia for a candlelight vigil.

Closed since March 2020, the restaurant in Kanawha City is set for demolition to make way for a gas station.

What began as a lighthearted joke on social media quickly became a heartfelt tribute, with hundreds paying respects to the eatery known for its hot wings and iconic servers.

Organizers were surprised when Hooters' corporate office sent calendars to be distributed among mourners.

This from UPI.

Events

• Tomorrow beginning at 6pm - BlairOutLoud SOLO at Los Magueys Dallas.

• Starting Friday - SpongeBob the Musical at Dallas Theater & Civic Center.

• March 4th from Noon until 5p - City of Hiram Community Blood Drive at the Events Place in Hiram.

• March 5th beginning at 7p - Interstate Poker Night at The Box Sports Bar and Grill in Dallas.

• April 24th beginning at 9a - Paulding Cops for Kids Annual Golf Tournament at Creeksside Golf & Country Club in Hiram.

(Interview)

State News

A woman has been apprehended by City of Monroe police for allegedly stealing flowers from gravesites at Rest Haven Cemetery on East Highland Avenue.

Responding to reports on Saturday, officers discovered the suspect near her van, which contained approximately 100 artificial flowers believed to have been taken from the cemetery.

The investigation revealed the flowers were indeed from gravesites, leading to the woman's arrest.

While her identity remains undisclosed, authorities have yet to specify the charges she will face.

This from WSB.

Sports

The Paulding Sports Chronicle & Paulding County High School’s JROTC:

In basketball tournament action - the Hiram boys lost to Tri-Cities 45-41, while the North Paulding girls beat Newton, 48-37.

Paulding County High School’s Drill Team competed against 20 other area schools, and brought home 7 victory streamers, with 1st Place in the following categories:

Male Armed squad

Female Armed squad

Female Color guard

Male Team Exhibition

PC News

Tomorrow is Leap Day, but ever wondered what would happen without a Leap Day? Turns out, it's more than just a quirky calendar quirk.

Leap year, with its extra day added to February every four years, serves a vital purpose in keeping our calendar in sync with the Earth's orbit around the sun.

Without it, major events would gradually shift, seasons would become misaligned, and holidays like Christmas might end up in the wrong season.

That Earth's orbit isn't precisely 365 days long—it's actually about 365.25 days.

By adding an extra day every four years, we keep our calendar in harmony with celestial events like equinoxes and solstices.

So, now you know, Paulding County.

This from Atlanta News First.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.