TOH Newscast Scripts: 95.3 WGUR “The Noise”
April 26, 2025
The purpose of this broadcast was to announce the jury verdict awarded in a Georgia lawsuit claiming that Roundup weed killer caused cancer. The report detailed the specific outcome, including $65 million in compensatory damages and $2 billion in punitive damages. Although the jury ordered Bayer to pay nearly $2.1 billion, the company plans to appeal the verdict, maintaining that the decision contradicts scientific evidence.
April 17, 2025
The purpose of this broadcast was to report the conclusion to a police pursuit, where a man attempting to evade Rockdale County deputies during a traffic stop drowned in a lake. The report notes that the man fled on foot and never resurfaced after entering the water. The outcome led to the recovery of the man's body later that day, with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation assisting.
April 08, 2025
The purpose of the broadcast was to disseminate essential, though tragic, breaking news regarding a multi-fatality event in Coastal Georgia. The lead identifies the five victims—a mother and her four children—killed in the crash on Interstate 95. All five family members died at the scene, while the driver of the other vehicle survived.
For my first practicum as a Mass Communication student, I worked as a newswriter and anchor for Georgia College’s radio station, 95.3 WGUR “The Noise.” Each week, I selected two to three timely and relevant stories to write, record, and edit for broadcast. This experience strengthened my skills in news judgment, scriptwriting, and audio production while teaching me how to communicate information clearly and engagingly. It also gave me valuable hands-on experience in the fast-paced world of campus media. Below are a few of my favorite stories from my time at WGUR.
April 24, 2025
The purpose of this broadcast was to communicate the shift in Georgia’s legal landscape following Governor Kemp's signing of two major Tort Reform bills into law. The report outlines the aims of the new legislation to reduce liability costs for businesses. The outcome is that the new law restricts when property owners can be sued, though critics argue the measures will obstruct access to justice for victims.
April 16, 2025
The purpose of this broadcast was to deliver official information concerning the extended state tax deadline in Georgia. However, the report’s primary purpose was to warn the public that scammers are exploiting the extension through fraudulent schemes such as phishing emails and fake IRS texts. To counteract the criminal outcome, experts recommended that taxpayers file early, use strong passwords and verify communications directly with the IRS.
April 02, 2025
The purpose of this broadcast was to focus on the felony charges filed against a North Georgia man accused of embezzling $1.4 million from his employer. The report details how the man allegedly diverted funds into personal accounts. The current outcome is that he faces multiple charges, including theft by taking, with officials noting that the investigation remains ongoing and additional charges may be pending.
April 23, 2025
The purpose of this broadcast was to formally announce the launch of State Senator Jason Esteves’s Democratic Gubernatorial Bid for the 2026 Georgia election. Utilizing details from the official campaign announcement, the lead established Esteves as the first Democrat to enter the race. The outcome includes the dissemination of his political platform, which focuses on lowering living costs, expanding healthcare and restoring abortion rights, setting the stage for future competition
April 9, 2025
The purpose of this broadcast was to explore the economic consequences of new tariffs implemented by President Donald Trump, focusing on the resulting financial strain placed upon Georgia's small business community. With quotes from Metro Atlanta Chamber's Chief Economist, the report provided expert warnings about the impact on various industries across Georgia. The overall outcome includes increased costs from Chinese suppliers and a prediction that consumers will face higher prices on everyday goods
April 01, 2025
The purpose of this broadcast was to provide a crucial update on the status and size of the Big Ridge Fire in Rabun County. The lead announced the fire had reached 2,862 acres and was 8% contained. The outcome reflected positive progress in containment efforts aided by light rain and humidity, though several roads and recreation areas remained closed. This report advised residents and visitors to stay alert as efforts continue.