Woodstock Daily Update - November 18, 2025

Woodstock Names Sole Finalist for New Police Chief. The City of Woodstock has officially named Roland Castro as the sole finalist for the Chief of Police position. Castro, formerly of the Johns Creek Police Department, was selected after a search process to replace the outgoing leadership. In accordance with Georgia state law, the city must announce a finalist 14 days prior to official appointment. Castro is slated to begin on December 8th. Source: City of Woodstock Official WebsiteTrial Begins for 2021 Murder of Firefighter & Wife. The trial of Matthew Lanz began on Monday in Cobb County. Lanz is accused of the November 2021 murders of Cherokee County firefighter Justin Hicks and his wife Amber in their Acworth home. The case sparked a massive manhunt and “Blue Alert” four years ago, and the trial marks a significant step toward justice for the grieving public safety community. Source: Courthouse News ServiceMissing Canton Man Found Deceased. The search for 61-year-old James “Greg” Powell has ended in tragedy. Powell, who went missing with his dog earlier this month, was discovered deceased near Red Top Mountain in Bartow County. Authorities do not suspect foul play. Source: WSB-TV AtlantaCherokee Schools Hit All-Time High CCRPI Scores. The Cherokee County School District has achieved its highest-ever College and Career Ready Performance Index (CCRPI) scores. The data highlights a 92.8% graduation rate for the Class of 2025, significantly exceeding state averages and marking a new milestone for academic progress in the county. Source: Cherokee County School DistrictCritical Fire Weather Warning: The National Weather Service has issued a Fire Danger Statement for North Georgia today. Humidity levels are expected to drop to 15-20%, which, combined with dry fuels and northwest winds, creates a high risk for wildfires. Residents are urged to secure trailer chains and avoid outdoor burning. Source: National Weather Service - Peachtree CityNever Alone Food Pantry Reports Rising Demand Despite the visible economic growth in Woodstock, the “Never Alone” food pantry reports that demand for assistance has more than doubled. They are highlighting the issue of “hidden hunger” in the suburbs and are requesting donations of proteins and canned goods. Source: Georgia Public BroadcastingCherokee JROTC Teams Win National Titles. Student-athletes from Cherokee County’s JROTC Raiders programs have earned national and state championship titles in recent physical and tactical competitions. Source: Cherokee County School DistrictUpcoming Community Events* Tonight: CCSD Job Fair (Support staff/Bus drivers).* Thursday: Holiday Sip + Shop in Downtown Woodstock (5 PM - 9 PM).* Ongoing: “Adopt-A-Senior” donation drive (Blankets, toiletries) for Cherokee Senior Services. Source: IN WDSTKDisclaimer: The author used AI in collaboration to create this newscast. All sources are from publicly available sources. All rights reserved: Woodstock Daily Update Sponsor: The Woodstock Daily is a production of RiverRun.Digital. Visit us today at https://riverrun.digital This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit woodstockdaily.substack.com