Gwinnett charges dropped against detained journalist Mario Guevara

GDP Script/ Top Stories for July 12th Publish Date: July 12th PRE-ROLL: From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Saturday, July 12th and Happy Birthday to Christine McVie I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia. Gwinnett charges dropped against detained journalist Mario GuevaraGeorgia Power to update energy forecasts amid uncertain demandLawmakers conclude listening tour on access to cancer care 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: 07.14.22 KIA MOG STORY 1: Gwinnett charges dropped against detained journalist Mario Guevara Local journalist Mario Guevara, known for covering Atlanta's Hispanic community and ICE operations, is no longer facing traffic charges in Gwinnett County. Solicitor General Lisamarie Bristol announced insufficient evidence to prosecute charges of reckless driving, unlawful use of a telecommunication device, and failure to obey signs, as the incidents occurred on private property. However, Guevara still faces federal immigration charges, with ICE questioning his legal status despite his work permit and ongoing efforts toward permanent residency. Guevara claims he is being targeted for his journalism, which has drawn local and national attention. STORY 2: Georgia Power to update energy forecasts amid uncertain demand Georgia Power's 2025 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) faces scrutiny for overestimating energy demand, driven by the rapid growth of data centers. Critics, including environmental groups, argue the projections could leave ratepayers covering billions in stranded assets if demand falls short. While Georgia Power committed to updating forecasts and reporting on large-load projects, many called for stronger demand-side management (DSM) efforts to reduce energy needs. The utility plans to increase DSM spending from $90M to $160M annually, but some remain dissatisfied. The PSC will vote next week, with debates ongoing over coal plant operations and natural gas upgrades. STORY 3: Lawmakers conclude listening tour on access to cancer care Around 66,000 Georgians will be diagnosed with cancer this year, with 19,000 deaths expected, prompting state lawmakers to study ways to reduce these rates. Georgia exceeds national averages for lung, prostate, breast, and colorectal cancer, with rural areas facing significant barriers to care due to rising costs, limited access, and medical industry consolidation. Experts highlighted issues like pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) controlling drug markets and low reimbursement rates for clinics. Lawmakers aim to address drug pricing, access to screenings, and systemic healthcare challenges, with plans to continue studying cancer care access and solutions. 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: STORY 4: Deputies: Buford man threw deep freezer at 59-year-old at Lake Lanier after fight over nudity A Buford man, Logan Nicholas Young, 42, was arrested on July 3 after a bizarre incident on Lake Lanier involving public indecency, a fight, and a flying deep freezer. Young allegedly got naked on a boat, argued with a 59-year-old man, punched him, and later threw a deep freezer at him, causing a head injury and knocking him into the lake. Deputies found Young hiding under a bed on his houseboat after he ignored their attempts to contact him. He was charged with six offenses, including aggravated assault, and released on bond on July 6. STORY 5: Robert Michener named Gateway85 CID's interim executive director The Gateway85 Community Improvement District (CID) appointed longtime employee Robert Michener as interim executive director following Emory Morsberger's resignation after nearly 20 years of involvement. Michener, with 17 years at Gateway85, previously served as director of operations, overseeing infrastructure, security, and landscaping projects. Board Chairman Shiv Aggarwal praised Morsberger's contributions and welcomed Michener's leadership during the transition. The CID will continue focusing on economic development, mobility, and quality of life improvements as it searches for a permanent leader. Michener expressed excitement about guiding the district's next phase of growth. Break 3: STORY 6: 'Superman' stars excited to bring DC reboot to theaters Edi Gathegi, Isabela Merced, and Anthony Carrigan star in the new "Superman" reboot, with Gathegi playing Mr. Terrific, Merced as Hawkgirl, and Carrigan debuting as Metamorpho. At a red carpet event in Atlanta, Gathegi contrasted his survival as Mr. Terrific with his infamous death as Darwin in "X-Men: First Class." Merced highlighted the mix of CGI and practical sets, comparing her Hawkgirl role to her experience in "Dora the Explorer." Carrigan, ...