Listen to Lonnie Wimberly and Tanya Barnhill-Turnley tell us why they have earned the vote of District 4's registered voters. They share their accomplishments and their aspirations. We also get their take on whether the Augusta Commission is irreparably divided.

Peter Hubbard has studied environmental issues and testified before the Georgia Public Service Commission. Learn who he is, why he wants to serve in this capacity, and what he would do if elected.

Who is Running for Georgia Public Service Commission District 2? by Local Matters by Janice Allen Jackson

Can Augusta Reduce Gun Violence? With Janice Allen Jackson by Local Matters by Janice Allen Jackson

Eva Posner of Evinco Strategies shares lessons learned from assisting people who want to serve in elected office. We discuss imposter syndrome, body shaming, and other things that prevent women from seeking office. We also touch upon corruption, burnout, the discipline required to raise funds, and how good elected officials are fundamentally problem solvers who are determined to make a difference, particularly at the local level. We also ask the following question: Are there enough good people seeking office? Learn more about Evinco at https://www.evincostrategies.com/,

Shannon Watson is the Founder and Executive Director of Majority in the Middle, where she provides civic education in an effort to demystify government. We explore the role of national politics, media, and human nature in ensuring continued division at al levels of government. Are there conflict engineers dictating this? Have we put up artificial barriers? Are there too many moral absolutes? What is the key to building better understanding? What can the average person to help us all get along? Learn more about Majority in the Middle - http://majoritymiddle.org/.

In this episode of Local Matters, we sit down with author, counselor, and lifelong activist Beth Green to unpack spiritual activism—and how empathy, accountability, and oneness can heal our politics and our daily lives. Beth shares her journey from atheist to spiritually guided counselor, what it means to be an empath, and why secrecy and ego keep us stuck. We also explore Christian nationalism, justice, and the practical tools she teaches for living with reality and supporting one another.

Dr. Sherice Janaye Nelson, an author and researcher specializing in leadership and African diasporic politics, discussed her book "Visibly Invisible" which explores the contributions of Black women in the United States Congress. She shared her academic journey through HBCUs and her research on the Congressional Black Caucus, highlighting the historical and contemporary challenges faced by Black women in politics while noting their significant legislative impact and evolving representation while yelling in the forest long enough for radical ideas become normalized. Dr. Nelson emphasized the importance of HBCUs and sororities in building support networks for women in politics, discussing how these connections help navigate challenges and promote collective progress. You can purchase her book at https://uwpbooks.com/product/visibly-invisible-the-black-women-of-the-congressional-black-caucus/

Dr. Randell Trammell of the Center for Civic Engagement talks about the Center's mission of educating young people about how important it is to learn how government works. We also discuss his bid to become Georgia State Superintendent of Schools, education funding, school/parent choice, state takeovers of local school systems, the Georgia Promise Scholarship, and the struggle to keep certified teachers in our classrooms. Learn more about him and his organizaton at georgiacivics.org/ and www.facebook.com/Trammell4Georgia/. DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and opinions regarding this tragedy belong solely to her. These are not to malign any profession, organization, anyone, or anything. Local Matters does not endorse candidates. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page: www.Janiceallenjackson.weebly.com Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LocalMattersPodcastofGeorgia Subscribe on Youtube: Local Matters Podcast of Georgia youtube.com/@localmatterspodcastofgeorg3624 Twitter: twitter.com/JAJAndAssocLLC Podcast: Soundcloud: Local Matters @localmatterspodcast Spotify: Local Matters open.spotify.com/show/3rtuvmCNMVW…637e0260a38c45c7 Apple Podcasts: Local Matters podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/loca…st/id1547887548

On August 12, the Richmond County Board of Education will decide who our next school superintendent is. Information about the two finalists, Dr. Malinda Cobb and Dr. Keith Simmons, is available on the school system's website. Host Janice Allen Jackson reviews the process, key data points illustrating the current status of the system, and her thoughts about what the school board should look for in a new leader. She also describes what a Strategic Waiver School System is, why Richmond County qualifies to be one, and the implications in the classroom. Learn more about the search and the finalists at https://www.rcboe.org/site/default.aspx?PageType=3&ModuleInstanceID=189409&ViewID=7b97f7ed-8e5e-4120-848f-a8b4987d588f&RenderLoc=0&FlexDataID=231796&PageID=1. DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and opinions regarding this tragedy belong solely to her. These are not to malign any profession, organization, anyone, or anything. Local Matters does not endorse candidates. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page: www.Janiceallenjackson.weebly.com Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LocalMattersPodcastofGeorgia Subscribe on Youtube: Local Matters Podcast of Georgia youtube.com/@localmatterspodcastofgeorg3624 Twitter: twitter.com/JAJAndAssocLLC Podcast: Soundcloud: Local Matters @localmatterspodcast Spotify: Local Matters https://open.spotify.com/show/3rtuvmCNMVWfhcO6hkYXCQ?si=637e0260a38c45c7 Apple Podcasts: Local Matters https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/local-matters-podcast/id1547887548

Paul Johnson, former Mayor of Phoenix, AZ, is also an author and host of The Optimistic American Podcast, discusses his background in politics and his experiences as a young elected official. He explores the political landscape of Arizona, and why he is optimistic about our country's future. Paul shared insights about the value of listening and avoiding labels in political discourse, the council-manager form of government, how the provision of services should come first, and the benefits of non-partisan elections. They also touch on the lack of decorum in public spaces and the degree to which we have become tribal. The conversation concluded with a discussion of Paul's book "What's Right with America," which highlights the country's economic success and emphasizes the importance of free markets and individual empowerment in driving progress. Learn more about the book at https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Whats-Right-with-America/Paul-Johnson/9798895650554. DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and opinions regarding this tragedy belong solely to her. These are not to malign any profession, organization, anyone, or anything. Local Matters does not endorse candidates. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page: www.Janiceallenjackson.weebly.com Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LocalMattersPodcastofGeorgia Subscribe on Youtube: Local Matters Podcast of Georgia youtube.com/@localmatterspodcastofgeorg3624 Twitter: twitter.com/JAJAndAssocLLC Podcast: Soundcloud: Local Matters @localmatterspodcast Spotify: Local Matters https://open.spotify.com/show/3rtuvmCNMVWfhcO6hkYXCQ?si=637e0260a38c45c7 Apple Podcasts: Local Matters https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/local-matters-podcast/id1547887548

In an era of megachurches, Miracle Making Ministries has focused on missions and meeting the needs of the people around them. Rev. Dr. Robert Williams describes his notion of what a pastor is, what it means to truly have an impact, and whether the seminary education prepares someone to lead a solid congregation. Learn more about his journey and his work:  https://mirmakmin.com/. DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and opinions regarding this tragedy belong solely to her. These are not to malign any profession, organization, anyone, or anything. Local Matters does not endorse candidates. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page: www.Janiceallenjackson.weebly.com Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LocalMattersPodcastofGeorgia Subscribe on Youtube: Local Matters Podcast of Georgia youtube.com/@localmatterspodcastofgeorg3624 Twitter: twitter.com/JAJAndAssocLLC Podcast: Soundcloud: Local Matters @localmatterspodcast Spotify: Local Matters https://open.spotify.com/show/3rtuvmCNMVWfhcO6hkYXCQ?si=637e0260a38c45c7 Apple Podcasts: Local Matters https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/local-matters-podcast/id1547887548

Seth Winterhalter is a keynote speaker and podcaster who has made it his mission to share inspiring stories of local leaders and city turnarounds. We discuss the underappreciated work of local governments, how lonely it is to be a City Manager, and how little the average person knows about what it takes to make sure residents enjoy basic services. Seth also discussed how local officials build community in an increasingly isolated society. Learn more about Seth at https://haltingwinter.com/. DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and opinions regarding this tragedy belong solely to her. These are not to malign any profession, organization, anyone, or anything. Local Matters does not endorse candidates. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page: www.Janiceallenjackson.weebly.com Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LocalMattersPodcastofGeorgia Subscribe on Youtube: Local Matters Podcast of Georgia youtube.com/@localmatterspodcastofgeorg3624 Twitter: twitter.com/JAJAndAssocLLC Podcast: Soundcloud: Local Matters @localmatterspodcast Spotify: Local Matters https://open.spotify.com/show/3rtuvmCNMVWfhcO6hkYXCQ?si=637e0260a38c45c7 Apple Podcasts: Local Matters https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/local-matters-podcast/id1547887548

Sheffie Robinson, a software engineer, clinical sociologist, and college faculty member, is a recent appointee to Augusta's Charter Review Committee. She explains what led to Augusta-Richmond County consolidation in 1995, what a charter is, and how the committee will get public feedback. We also touch on transparency, accountability, and what it will take for our elected officials to build trust and grow Augusta. For more information, please visit www.augustaga.gov/3314/Charter-Review-Committee. You can also email Sheffie at crc_srobinson@augustaga.gov. DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and opinions regarding this tragedy belong solely to her. These are not to malign any profession, organization, anyone, or anything. Local Matters does not endorse candidates. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page: www.Janiceallenjackson.weebly.com Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LocalMattersPodcastofGeorgia Subscribe on Youtube: Local Matters Podcast of Georgia youtube.com/@localmatterspodcastofgeorg3624 Twitter: twitter.com/JAJAndAssocLLC Podcast: Soundcloud: Local Matters @localmatterspodcast Spotify: Local Matters https://open.spotify.com/show/3rtuvmCNMVWfhcO6hkYXCQ?si=637e0260a38c45c7 Apple Podcasts: Local Matters https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/local-matters-podcast/id1547887548

Why would only 2% of Georgia voters cast ballots in a statewide election? Do people care about the cost of utilities? If you do, you have the chance to return to the polls on July 15. Learn who can and can't vote in that election, the functions of the Georgia Public Service Commission, and who made the runoff. I also tackled one of my pet peeves in my local government days and now: Property owners who don't take care of their property! DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and opinions regarding this tragedy belong solely to her. These are not to malign any profession, organization, anyone, or anything. Local Matters does not endorse candidates. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page: www.Janiceallenjackson.weebly.com Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LocalMattersPodcastofGeorgia Subscribe on Youtube: Local Matters Podcast of Georgia youtube.com/@localmatterspodcastofgeorg3624 Twitter: twitter.com/JAJAndAssocLLC Podcast: Soundcloud: Local Matters @localmatterspodcast Spotify: Local Matters https://open.spotify.com/show/3rtuvmCNMVWfhcO6hkYXCQ?si=637e0260a38c45c7 Apple Podcasts: Local Matters https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/local-matters-podcast/id1547887548

Rebecca Callis Mixson of the Augusta Small Business Development Center provided an overview of their services and history, explaining how it assists entrepreneurs across Georgia. Running a business is challenging, so they support business owners, and in so doing, help expand Georgia's economy. They offer business consulting and training programs. She shared her background and discussed the center's network of consultants, upcoming training initiatives, and recent events like the Women's Summit. They offer financial and marketing workshops, emphasizing the importance of financial management, user experience, and practical business advice for entrepreneurs. Learn more about SBDC at https://georgiasbdc.org/locations/augusta-office. DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and opinions regarding this tragedy belong solely to her. These are not to malign any profession, organization, anyone, or anything. Local Matters does not endorse candidates. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page: www.Janiceallenjackson.weebly.com Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LocalMattersPodcastofGeorgia Subscribe on Youtube: Local Matters Podcast of Georgia youtube.com/@localmatterspodcastofgeorg3624 Twitter: twitter.com/JAJAndAssocLLC Podcast: Soundcloud: Local Matters @localmatterspodcast Spotify: Local Matters https://open.spotify.com/show/3rtuvmCNMVWfhcO6hkYXCQ?si=637e0260a38c45c7 Apple Podcasts: Local Matters https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/local-matters-podcast/id1547887548

Patrick King of the Natural Resources Defense Council explained his organization's advocacy for environmental policies and their involvement in Georgia Power's Integrated Resource Plan hearings. The discussion also covered the potential impact of data centers on energy infrastructure and the importance of informed voting in the upcoming Public Service Commission elections. This election is crucial because these Commissioners approve utility rates. DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and opinions regarding this tragedy belong solely to her. These are not to malign any profession, organization, anyone, or anything. Local Matters does not endorse candidates. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page: www.Janiceallenjackson.weebly.com Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LocalMattersPodcastofGeorgia Subscribe on Youtube: Local Matters Podcast of Georgia youtube.com/@localmatterspodcastofgeorg3624 Twitter: twitter.com/JAJAndAssocLLC Podcast: Soundcloud: Local Matters @localmatterspodcast Spotify: Local Matters https://open.spotify.com/show/3rtuvmCNMVWfhcO6hkYXCQ?si=637e0260a38c45c7 Apple Podcasts: Local Matters https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/local-matters-podcast/id1547887548

Rick Reinhard, a former local government official now with Niagra Consulting, shared his expertise in redeveloping and repurposing underutilized church buildings.  During his tenure with the United Methodist Church, this became one of his specialties. Janice and Rick discussed their shared history in Richmond, Virginia, and explored the challenges and opportunities of reusing historic church buildings. Declining church attendance has created a signifcant problem for many communities. They examined various approaches churches are taking to adapt to changing circumstances, while also discussing the complexities of managing empty church structures and the importance of flexible regulations and community partnerships for successful repurposing. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page: www.Janiceallenjackson.weebly.com Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LocalMattersPodcastofGeorgia Subscribe on Youtube: Local Matters Podcast of Georgia youtube.com/@localmatterspodcastofgeorg3624 Twitter: twitter.com/JAJAndAssocLLC Podcast: Soundcloud: Local Matters @localmatterspodcast Spotify: Local Matters https://open.spotify.com/show/3rtuvmCNMVWfhcO6hkYXCQ?si=637e0260a38c45c7 Apple Podcasts: Local Matters https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/local-matters-podcast/id1547887548

Erick Montgomery, Executive Director of Historic Augusta, discussed the organization's mission to preserve historic sites and structures in Augusta, Georgia. He shared insights on various preservation projects, challenges faced in protecting historic buildings, and the importance of advocacy and resources . The conversation also touched on the appointment process for the Historic Preservation Commission's Board members and the need for comprehensive city plans to support preservation initiatives. We touch on the demolition of W. S. Hornsby Elementary School and the former Immaculate Conception Catholic School, and the on-going battle over the future of the old First Baptist Church. DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and opinions regarding this tragedy belong solely to her. These are not to malign any profession, organization, anyone, or anything. Local Matters does not endorse candidates. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page: www.Janiceallenjackson.weebly.com Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LocalMattersPodcastofGeorgia Subscribe on Youtube: Local Matters Podcast of Georgia youtube.com/@localmatterspodcastofgeorg3624 Twitter: twitter.com/JAJAndAssocLLC Podcast: Soundcloud: Local Matters @localmatterspodcast Spotify: Local Matters https://open.spotify.com/show/3rtuvmCNMVWfhcO6hkYXCQ?si=637e0260a38c45c7 Apple Podcasts: Local Matters https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/local-matters-podcast/id1547887548

Tim Watson of the Small Business Administration discussed the current status of Hurricane Helene relief efforts in Georgia. He explained that the declaration for the hurricane began in September and has been extended multiple times. He also clarified that the SBA offers programs for business owners, non-profit organizations, and individuals who incurred damage from the hurricane. These programs include loans for physical damage and economic injury, covering up to $100,000 for renters and up to $500,000 for homeowners. Tim emphasized that these programs are available for those who have applied for FEMA grants and that the SBA can assist those who are insured, underinsured, or uninsured. Potential applicants to apply online at sba.gov/disaster or call (800) 659-2955 for more information. DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and opinions regarding this tragedy belong solely to her. These are not to malign any profession, organization, anyone, or anything. Local Matters does not endorse candidates. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page: www.Janiceallenjackson.weebly.com Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LocalMattersPodcastofGeorgia Subscribe on Youtube: Local Matters Podcast of Georgia youtube.com/@localmatterspodcastofgeorg3624 Twitter: twitter.com/JAJAndAssocLLC Podcast: Soundcloud: Local Matters @localmatterspodcast Spotify: Local Matters https://open.spotify.com/show/3rtuvmCNMVWfhcO6hkYXCQ?si=637e0260a38c45c7 Apple Podcasts: Local Matters https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/local-matters-podcast/id1547887548