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Community radio show celebrates four years
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Small towns are full of talk. Gossip and rumor, sure, but also talk about family, God and politics.

Forrest and Sharon Sawyer cover it all and have been sharing their takes on the issues on WGFS (1430-AM), Covington's only radio station. Their show "Thy Brother's and Sister's Keeper" airs 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays and is celebrating its fourth anniversary this weekend.

The show is an eclectic mix of prayer, community announcements, Bible lessons, news updates and interviews with the movers and shakers in Newton County.

"I don't know how we survived these four years except for God. I don't know how we got into it, but it presented itself and I'm glad we're able to help people and do what we can for this community, both black and white," said Forrest.

The show has grown from a quick, 15-minute segment to a full-fledged three-hour event. This Sunday's show will feature Covington Police Chief Stacey Cotton and potentially one of the area's local bishops, Forrest said.

During the past four years, judges, politicians, non-profit directors and religious leaders have all come to the station, located at the corner of Hendricks and Reynolds streets in Covington.

In addition to the Sawyers, local resident and former county commissioner Susette Monk is a frequent guest host who chimes in on local politics and participates in interviews. The show also includes a 30-minute segment run by Newton High School senior Brandi Clark, daughter of local businessman Jimmy Clark. "Brandi and Company" features interviews with fellow students, teachers and even the superintendent.

Both shows attempt to tackle difficult issues, and Forrest said they won't shy away from controversy.

To listen online go to irieatl.com.