LISTEN: From culture and classrooms to sports and service, Dalton residents share what makes their town more than just the “Carpet Capital of the World.”

 

In this podcast, Hammond Creek Middle School students Sophia Hernandez-Lopez, Ayowolemi Ilesanmi, Brandt Bowers, and Tucker Rewis venture beyond the classroom to explore what fuels community pride in Dalton, Georgia, from cultural celebrations to acts of service.

DALTON, Ga. — What creates pride in a community? For a group of seventh-grade students, the answer lies not in a single idea, but in the shared voices, experiences, and connections of the people who call Dalton home. Through interviews and personal reflections, these young journalists set out to uncover what makes their town a source of pride for so many.

Nestled in northwest Georgia between the Blue Ridge Mountains, Dalton is often recognized for its role in the carpet industry. However, students found that pride in the community runs much deeper. For some, like student Ayowolemi Ilesanmi, pride is rooted in the people. Others, such as Sophia Hernandez Lopez, highlight creativity and teamwork as defining qualities. Across perspectives, a common theme emerged: pride lies in how individuals come together to celebrate their differences and support one another.

Two sudents sit at a table during an interview, one holding a microphone toward the other, with notes and a notebook on the table in front of them.

Sophia Hernandez-Lopez interviews Dalton State College Student Raven Barahona.

Students extended their reporting to the campus of Dalton State College, where they interviewed both students and staff. Business management major Raven Barahona described the community’s cultural celebrations as a major source of pride, pointing to events that honor Hispanic heritage through food and tradition. “It makes me proud of my heritage,” Barahona shared, emphasizing how inclusive celebrations strengthen both identity and community bonds.

A student reporter holds a recorder toward a woman at a conference table while two other student reporters look on.

Tucker Rewis interviews Dalton State College Professor Jaime Connors.

Faculty member Dr. Jaime Connors echoed similar sentiments, noting the importance of service and collaboration. She highlighted initiatives such as free tax preparation programs in which students assist local residents. “Seeing those groups come together… makes us stronger in our pride,” Connors said. Educators like middle school teacher Patrick Wingfield also contribute by empowering students, helping them feel valued and invested in their community’s future.

After speaking with a diverse range of voices, the student journalists concluded that Dalton is more than its title as the “Carpet Capital of the World.” It is a place defined by culture, opportunity, and unity. As one student reflected, “You can take the person out of Dalton, but you can’t take the pride of Dalton out of the person.”