🌱 Taylor Appoints Ward + Life Sentence Sought + New Bodycams For CPD

Hey, friends! It's Friday and I'm back in your inbox to get you caught up on all the most important things happening in Cartersville, including news on...

• New Bartow County Fire Chief
• State seeks life sentence for alleged molester
• New body and in-car cameras for CPD

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But first, today's weather:

Some sun, then turning cloudy. High: 61 Low: 54.

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Here are the top three stories today in Cartersville:

1. County Commissioner Steve Taylor has appointed Billy Ward as the new Fire Chief for Bartow County. Chief Ward's 41-plus years of experience with Bartow County Fire has given him a clear vision for the future of the Fire Department. Chief Ward will begin his new leadership position immediately. (wbhfradio.org)
2. For the third time, bond was denied for a Cartersville man charged with several sexual offenses against a minor in Bartow Superior Court on Dec. 27. "I think there is risk for intimidating the victim and the witnesses," Judge Watkins said. Per Bartow County Sheriff's Office records, the 44-year-old Cartersville defendant has been charged with one count of aggravated sexual battery and seven counts of child molestation, who is a familial relative. (Subscription: The Daily Tribune News)
3. The Cartersville Police Department has partnered with Utility, Inc. for new body and in-car camera systems. CPD's investment is intended to increase transparency and accountability in our community. (The Cartersville Police Department via Facebook)

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Today in Cartersville:

• Picture Book Putt Putt - Cartersville Library (2:00 PM)
• Live Music w/ Tim O'Donovan - JZ's Taste of Georgia (7:00 PM)
• Cold Finger Live - Tom's Place (9:00 PM)

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From my notebook:

• "Tuesday we had the talented and creative Randi Miller Sonenshine as our speaker. She shared her inspiration and journey in writing The Nest That Wren Built and The Lodge That Beaver Built. If you don't yet know about these fabulous children's books you are missing out!" (Rotary Club of Etowah via Facebook)
• "End of Year Giving is here and your favorite charity is in need! We have big projects planned for 2023 and we need your support! $142,400 is our goal in trail mapping, blazing and maintaining your favorite trails and outdoor places here in Georgia!" (Friends of Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites via Facebook)
• "Take the kids to Tellus Science Museum on January 21 for the Solar Sky Watch event! With special filters on their solar telescope in the observatory, Tellus allows you to safely view the Sun and learn all about this big star. All ages are welcome!" (Cartersville-Bartow County Convention & Visitors Bureau via Facebook)
• See Latest Pets Available For Adoption In The Cartersville Area (Cartersville Patch)

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Now you're in the loop and ready to head out the door on this Friday! I'll see you soon.

— Josee Noble

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Cartersville Daily? Contact me at Cartersville@Patch.com