A  candid talk about whether we should, based upon the influence of Rev Dr William Barber. Exploring the origin of the oldest African American holiday and how public policy determines what freedom means today.

Did you celebrate Juneteenth?

Today I explain how powerful the Office of Governor is, despite the paltry qualifications to run. He or she recommends a state budget, proposes and vetoes legislation, and appoints judges and others when elected offices are vacated.

"Governor" Equals Power

Candidates throughout the state of Georgia qualified last week. This episode explains how to know which ones will be on your ballot, why some people chose not to run, and how to start your evaluation of the candidate.

Election Season Has Begun! with Janice Allen Jackson

Brian Beard, Public Affairs Specialist with the Small Business Administration (SBA), explains the loan process for homeowners, renters, businesses, and non-profits affected by Hurricane Helene. Brian explained that SBA loans can cover damage not covered by insurance or FEMA, including deductibles and partial coverage. He also mentioned that SBA loans have lower interest rates than credit cards or bank loans, and can replace more expensive debt. Brian further clarified that SBA loans do not require collateral or closing costs for amounts up to $50,000, and there's no interest or payments for the first year.

Hurricane Damage? See SBA!

Listen as I explain the vision behind Local Matters. I am not here to tell you how to vote, but I am here to provide you with the information you need to make decisions you feel good about.

Listen live, every Wednesday, 1:30pm, WKZK.net, 1600AM, 103.7FM

What is Local Matters? Why does local matter?

A discussion of how the pandemic has led to changes in how and when we vote. Addresses the request to postpone elections in Georgia, and the response of Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, based upon legal and other constraints.

Life at the Intersection of COVID-19 and Citizenship

The steps Georgia Voters should take to prepare to vote on June 9, the offices on the ballot, and how to research the candidates. Also reviews the Advisory questions on the Democratic and Republican ballots.

Get Ready! Get Ready! June 9 is coming!

Candidates Johnson and Thurman discuss what the Augusta Commission is missing. I also describe my take on the New York Times' feature story on Georgia's system of voting.

District One, Running Off with Jordan Johnson and Michael Thurman

Post election review of the Richmond County Board of Education races, Augusta Circuit District Attorney race, US Senate Special Election, and Trump vs. Biden, with special focus on what might be a changing politic landscape in Georgia.

It's Over, But It's Not Over! #Election2020

Local and state governments, though often overshadowed by federal government, have tremendous impact on our quality of life. This podcast provides a valuable service by educating people on how to improve their own quality of life through civic engagement. Various organizations encourage residents to register and vote, but it does not appear that anyone is showing voters how to make good decisions when they do. It feels akin to hiring someone for a job without reviewing the job description. Local Matters changes that narrative by educating voters with short, clear, and unbiased civics lessons from a career local government professional, public speaker, and management consultant.

Hurricane Damage? See SBA!

Local Matters

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