Local Matters Podcast

Chief Michael Pickett shares his journey into law enforcement and his approach to creating safer communities in Birmingham, Alabama. From building trust between officers and residents to crime prevention, community partnerships, and youth engagement, he explains why effective policing requires more than enforcement—it requires relationships with the people you serve. Chief Michael Pickett is a seasoned law enforcement leader with a distinguished career in public safety, special operations, and crime reduction. He was officially appointed Chief of Police for the Birmingham Police Department on April 1, 2025, after serving as Interim Chief of Police since November 20, 2024. Under his leadership, he has implemented an 8-Point Crime Reduction Plan, relaunched the Police Athletic Teams, and led initiatives that have reduced the city’s violent crime rate. Prior to his current role, Pickett served as Deputy Chief of the Special Operations Bureau, where he was instrumental in planning and executing high-profile security operations. His leadership was pivotal during The World Games 2022 (TWG), where he served as the Law Enforcement Branch Director, successfully overseeing Alabama’s one and only SEAR 1-rated event. He enhanced his expertise by becoming a 2024 graduate of the FBI National Academy. Chief Michael Pickett remains committed to enhancing the safety and well-being of Birmingham’s residents while fostering stronger partnerships between law enforcement and the community 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 at www.Janiceallenjackson.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 Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

Janice Allen Jackson welcomes Citibot Co-Founder and CEO Bratton Riley back to Local Matters Podcast of Georgia for a conversation about AI, customer service, accessibility, employee morale, and public trust. Bratton explains how Citibot helps government agencies communicate with residents through AI-powered voice, web chat, text, and other channels. They discuss multilingual access, modern alternatives to frustrating automated phone menus, and how technology can handle repetitive questions while giving government employees more time to solve complex problems and connect with the people they serve. The conversation also explores a bigger question surrounding AI: instead of viewing technology only as a replacement for workers, how can local governments use it to support employees, improve the resident experience, make better use of community data, and strengthen trust? Bratton Riley is Co-Founder and CEO of Citibot, a leading provider of AI-powered communication solutions for governments nationwide. A recognized innovator in civic technology, Bratton is passionate about transforming how governments engage with residents. He works closely with public sector leaders to modernize service delivery, expand accessibility, and strengthen public trust through secure, responsible AI. His focus is on equipping communities with the tools they need to communicate more efficiently, transparently, and effectively in the digital age. 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 at www.Janiceallenjackson.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 Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

In this episode of Local Matters, Janice Allen Jackson sits down with Ellen Lubinsky, an attorney and mental health advocate, to discuss her experiences with psychiatric treatment and her push for greater informed consent and patient choice. They explore psychiatric medications and withdrawal, the cost and accessibility of therapy, the 988 system, psychiatric hospitalization, medical malpractice, Social Security disability, insurance, and the role of policy in mental healthcare. Ellen also discusses the Mental Health Choice Project, an organization she founded to raise awareness about informed consent and choices in mental health treatment. Ellen Lubensky is an attorney and mental health reform advocate working at the intersection of law, patient rights, and psychiatric care accountability. With over 20 years of legal experience, including work in Social Security Disability and medical malpractice, she brings a legal perspective to issues surrounding informed consent, patient rights, and transparency in psychiatric care. Through education, advocacy, and public engagement, Lubensky works to increase awareness of informed consent, psychiatric medication withdrawal, misdiagnosis, and the need for greater support for individuals navigating mental health treatment. Website: https://ellenlubensky.com/ Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/ellen_lubensky/ https://www.facebook.com/ellen.lubensky/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellenlubensky/ https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenlubensky 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 at www.Janiceallenjackson.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 Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

What role did slavery play in the American Revolution? In this episode of Local Matters, Dr. Sean Gallagher explores the experiences of enslaved people during the Revolutionary War, including the fight for freedom, slave confiscation, forced labor, and the formation of maroon communities. Dr. Gallagher also discusses the skilled labor performed by enslaved people and how the choices made during the Revolution helped shape America’s ongoing struggle with race and freedom. A fascinating conversation that challenges how we understand the founding of the United States. Dr. Sean Gallagher is an Assistant Professor of History at the University of South Carolina in Columbia. He is a historian whose research focuses on slavery, labor, and the American Revolution, with particular attention to the experiences and contributions of enslaved people during the founding of the United States. His research examines the ways Patriots and state governments depended on enslaved labor during the Revolutionary War, including shipbuilding, piloting, blacksmithing, carpentry, road construction, fortification work, hospital labor, and other skilled and unskilled trades. His work also explores the experiences of Black Loyalists who sought freedom by joining the British, as well as the confiscation and trafficking of enslaved people by Patriot forces. A major focus of his research is marronage, the formation of communities of enslaved people who escaped bondage and sought refuge in difficult terrain. His work examines maroon communities along the Savannah River during and after the Revolutionary War and their connections to the broader history of Black freedom and resistance. Dr. Gallagher earned his Ph.D. in American History from the University of California, Davis. His research began with an interest in early American labor history before leading him to investigate the central role enslaved people played in the labor systems that supported the Revolutionary War. He is currently completing his book manuscript, Slavery’s Revolution, which is forthcoming from Penn Press. His research has also appeared in academic journals and other publications, including work on different aspects of the Black experience during the American Revolution. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page at www.Janiceallenjackson.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 Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

How can local governments rebuild trust with their communities? In this episode of Local Matters, Janice Allen Jackson sits down with Mark Bowers to discuss public participation, government transparency, and the growing debate surrounding data centers. They explore how better communication and meaningful community engagement can help residents feel heard and strengthen trust in local government. Mark is a Senior Account Executive with Go Vocal - a Digital Community Engagement GovTech company that unifies resident engagement efforts with a single, centralized platform, replacing fragmented tools and siloed processes to make informing and engaging residents easier, while offering a wide range of participation methods. 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 at www.Janiceallenjackson.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 Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

Author Denise Benz opens up about growing up in a home that looked perfect from the outside but hid abuse and secrecy behind closed doors. She talks about the courage it took to finally speak her truth, why "what happens in this house stays in this house" keeps people trapped, and how she emancipated herself from a past that tried to define her. Denise Benz is an author, speaker, and brand strategist with more than 17 years of experience helping influential leaders, speakers, and entrepreneurs amplify their message and impact. Throughout her career, she has worked alongside some of the most recognized names in personal development and entertainment, including Tony Robbins, Lisa Nichols, Kim Coles, Iyanla Vanzant. Today, Denise is using her own voice to tell a story she carried in silence for years. Her memoir, Only My Face Was Smiling: Faith Carried Me, Secrecy Almost Broke Me, is a powerful story of childhood trauma, faith, resilience, and healing. Through her work and her writing, Denise helps others understand that what tried to break them does not get to define them. Denise's memoir, Only My Face Was Smiling, is available now — you can purchase it here: https://www.denisebenz.com/order-now1.html 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 at www.Janiceallenjackson.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 Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

Neil Thanedar is a nonprofit leader and activist who started his career as a scientist, founder, and angel investor. His three startups are now worth over $100 million. He is executive director of the Michigan Campaign Finance Network, a nonpartisan nonprofit fighting dark money in Michigan politics, and founder and chairman of Labdoor, the independent worldwide alternative to the FDA. He also served as executive director of the Detroit Partnership and senior advisor to his father, Shri Thanedar, in his campaigns for governor, State House, and US Congress. A University of Michigan alumnus, Neil and his family call Michigan home. Neil is also the author of Positive Politics, out now in bookstores, on Audible, and Spotify: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FWF8XDX3?tag=scribemedia0a-20&th=1&psc=1&geniuslink=true 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 at www.Janiceallenjackson.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 Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

Liz Ortenburger is the CEO of SafeNest, Nevada’s largest and most comprehensive nonprofit addressing domestic and sexual violence, and a thought leader reshaping how the world understands, prevents, and responds to abuse. For more than two decades, Liz has been at the forefront of advocacy for women’s and children’s safety, bringing both urgency and vision to a field long constrained by reactive solutions. At SafeNest, Liz leads a multi-million-dollar organization that delivers a fully integrated continuum of care—including emergency response, prevention education, housing, legal advocacy, and offender intervention—designed to disrupt cycles of violence at their roots. Under her leadership, SafeNest has expanded beyond traditional service delivery to address the broader epidemic itself, forging strategic partnerships with law enforcement, policymakers, healthcare systems, and community leaders to align public policy with the lived realities of survivors and families. Liz is known for challenging conventional narratives around domestic violence. She believes that lasting change requires a fundamental shift: from punishment to prevention, from survivor-only solutions to system-wide accountability, and from silence to truth-telling. Her work calls for confronting long-ignored root causes of domestic violence and including abusive partners in the path to meaningful intervention and healing—while centering hope, safety, and long-term impact. A Ph.D. candidate in Public Policy and Administration at Walden University, Liz’s research focuses on policy analysis and the social construction of abusive partners in public policy. She holds an MBA from IESE Business School in Barcelona and a bachelor’s degree from California State University, Fresno, where she was a nationally ranked track and field athlete and cross-country team captain. 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 at www.Janiceallenjackson.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 Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast 00:00 Intro & Episode Overview 02:11 Meet Liz Ortenberger (SafeNest CEO) 03:09 Liz's Career Path: Girl Scouts to SafeNest 05:11 Why the Focus Shifted to Abusers, Not Just Survivors 06:14 Why 70% of Survivors Go Back 07:54 Leaving Means Divorcing Your Whole Community 09:59 The "Fire-Breathing Dragon" Survival Metaphor 10:41 Mecklenburg County Case Studies 12:31 Why Teens Normalize Abuse 13:37 "He Has to Square Up on Me to Know He Cares" 15:18 Pornography's Impact on Kids & Consent 17:36 Modeling Healthy Relationships for Kids 20:37 Domestic Violence and the Church 23:36 Why Women Need Men Less (and What Men Must Offer) 24:59 "Why Didn't She Leave?" — The Wrong Question 25:52 The Anger Scale: Proving Violence Is a Choice 29:38 The Link Between DV, Mass Shooters & Cop Killers 30:53 Can Abusive Men Actually Change? 32:12 Substance Abuse & Batterer Intervention Programs 34:23 MAGA, "My Body My Choice" & Cultural Backsliding 36:22 The Mike Tyson Example & Excusing Abusers 38:17 "Hurt People Hurt People" — Childhood Abuse Cycles 40:57 When Abusers Snap: Real Case Stories 43:01 Post-Separation Murders & Guns 45:22 Red Flags When Starting a New Relationship 46:24 Googling New Partners & Early Warning Signs 50:57 Love Bombing 51:52 Resources: National Hotline & SafeNest 52:16 Closing Bible Verse & Sign-Off

Amy Sharma, PhD, is Executive Director of Science for Georgia, a nonprofit that bridges the gap between scientists and the public through training, outreach, and advocating for the responsible use of science in public policy. Currently she is working with a coalition of coalitions focused on mitigating the negative impacts of the data center expansion on the health, wellbeing, water, energy, and the environment. Her career spans industry, academia, and government—including VP of Product at Prediko (acquired by United Technologies Corp), leadership roles at GTRI, faculty at the University of Western Australia, a AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellowship at the National Science Foundation, and a microprocessor designer for IBM. She earned her PhD in Biomedical Engineering from Duke University and enjoys jobs with overly long titles, translating technical ideas for non-scientists, science stand-up comedy, and sewing. 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 at www.Janiceallenjackson.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 Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast Timestamp - 00:00:00 – Intro & welcome 00:01:53 – Subscribe / show info (YouTube, Facebook, SoundCloud, Spotify, Apple Podcasts) 00:02:46 – Guest introduction & topic framing 00:04:08 – Amy describes Science for Georgia 00:05:40 – Amy's career path to the role 00:06:55 – What is a data center? 00:08:57 – Will data centers be here forever? 00:11:10 – Obsolescence & adaptive reuse of data center buildings 00:13:23 – Is it true economic development? 00:15:53 – Complementary businesses nearby? 00:16:19 – The AOC brown water story 00:20:50 – Water scarcity, drought, and ethics 00:23:47 – Noise concerns near residences 00:26:27 – Distance from residential areas & mitigations 00:27:23 – Communities getting it right? Model ordinances 00:30:59 – Riverkeeper partnership 00:32:14 – Strategic locations: power and water access 00:34:32 – GMA (Georgia Municipal Association) partnership 00:36:33 – UGA and Science for Georgia's role as an information resource 00:39:11 – Website info (scienceforgeorgia.org) 00:39:52 – Closing thoughts: transparency and getting involved locally 00:41:17 – Final question on safe distance 00:41:37 – Follow-up: safe distance answer revealed (1–6 mile buffer) 00:43:16 – Final reflections: trade-offs and zoning 00:44:22 – Sign-off / Bible verse and outro

Dave Martin is the host and producer of The Good Government Show. For the past five years, he has talked with mayors, county commissioners, and leaders across federal and local government about projects, public service, and how government works for all of us. Before launching the show, Dave worked as a producer for CBS News, Fox News Channel, local New York City television news, and as a newspaper reporter. 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 at www.Janiceallenjackson.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 Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

In this episode, Janice Allen Jackson breaks down the recent Augusta mayoral runoff election, examining the results, voter turnout, campaign strategies, and the key factors that shaped the outcome. Was this election more about Garnett Johnson losing support, or Steve Kendrick building a winning coalition? Tune in for insight and analysis on what the results mean for Augusta moving forward. Youtube include the disclaimer- 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 at www.Janiceallenjackson.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 Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

Traci knows that honor cannot stop at ceremony—it must be reflected in how government shows up for families long after the speeches are over. That lived experience defines her mission: to bring our respect H.O.M.E. For Traci, “home” is not a slogan. It is what families are supposed to feel—safety, dignity, opportunity, and trust that the systems meant to serve them actually work. As a mother raising children shaped by sacrifice, she understands both the human cost of government failure and the discipline required to fix it. Throughout her career, Traci has worked across economic development, food security, healthcare access, education, and community infrastructure—bringing together government, nonprofits, faith institutions, and the private sector to deliver real outcomes. She has built coalitions, managed complex initiatives, and helped stabilize systems that families rely on every day. Ceretta Smith is a proud Army Veteran, mother, wife, faith leader, grandmother, small business owner, and former Councilwoman in the City of Grovetown. She is proud to call Grovetown home for the past twenty years, where she lives with her husband, Retired Sergeant First Class Sterling Vandolph Smith. At her small business, she is committed to molding and developing future leaders of the workforce. It’s here that she teaches the values of compassionate leadership, guided by the adage: "People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care." Before running her own business, she spent decades serving her country in various roles. She proudly served as a medic in the Army for nearly a decade, where she helped wounded soldiers recover in hospitals, clinics, and worked in a field unit in Germany. She then continued to serve by working for the Federal Government for another twenty-five years. Through her work, she became a Labor, Civil, Human Rights Activist, serving as: the Women’s and Fair Practices Coordinator, Chief Steward, Legislative Political Coordinator, Local President, Georgia State Council President and the National Fair Practices Coordinator for the largest Federal Government Union, the American Federation of Government Employees. Ceretta holds a Bachelor Degree in the Arts, a Master’s Degree in Guidance and Counseling, four Associate Degree’s, one being in Criminal Justice and a Doctorate of Ministry with an emphasis in Organizational Leadership. She is a Certified Human Rights Consultant, Certified HISCoach Life Coach, a Certified Paracletos Counselor, a Christian Recording Artist, a Published Author, a Certified DISC Behavioral Analyst, a Certified Myers-Briggs Practitioner and a Faith Leader in her community that travels nationally and internationally. Join us for an important conversation on leadership, service, advocacy, family, and community impact. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page at www.Janiceallenjackson.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 Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

Traci knows that honor cannot stop at ceremony—it must be reflected in how government shows up for families long after the speeches are over. That lived experience defines her mission: to bring our respect H.O.M.E. For Traci, “home” is not a slogan. It is what families are supposed to feel—safety, dignity, opportunity, and trust that the systems meant to serve them actually work. As a mother raising children shaped by sacrifice, she understands both the human cost of government failure and the discipline required to fix it. Throughout her career, Traci has worked across economic development, food security, healthcare access, education, and community infrastructure—bringing together government, nonprofits, faith institutions, and the private sector to deliver real outcomes. She has built coalitions, managed complex initiatives, and helped stabilize systems that families rely on every day. Ceretta Smith is a proud Army Veteran, mother, wife, faith leader, grandmother, small business owner, and former Councilwoman in the City of Grovetown. She is proud to call Grovetown home for the past twenty years, where she lives with her husband, Retired Sergeant First Class Sterling Vandolph Smith. At her small business, she is committed to molding and developing future leaders of the workforce. It’s here that she teaches the values of compassionate leadership, guided by the adage: "People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care." Before running her own business, she spent decades serving her country in various roles. She proudly served as a medic in the Army for nearly a decade, where she helped wounded soldiers recover in hospitals, clinics, and worked in a field unit in Germany. She then continued to serve by working for the Federal Government for another twenty-five years. Through her work, she became a Labor, Civil, Human Rights Activist, serving as: the Women’s and Fair Practices Coordinator, Chief Steward, Legislative Political Coordinator, Local President, Georgia State Council President and the National Fair Practices Coordinator for the largest Federal Government Union, the American Federation of Government Employees. Ceretta holds a Bachelor Degree in the Arts, a Master’s Degree in Guidance and Counseling, four Associate Degree’s, one being in Criminal Justice and a Doctorate of Ministry with an emphasis in Organizational Leadership. She is a Certified Human Rights Consultant, Certified HISCoach Life Coach, a Certified Paracletos Counselor, a Christian Recording Artist, a Published Author, a Certified DISC Behavioral Analyst, a Certified Myers-Briggs Practitioner and a Faith Leader in her community that travels nationally and internationally. 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 at www.Janiceallenjackson.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 Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

Garnett Johnson is the 85th Mayor of the City of Augusta and a small business owner. An Augusta native, he is proud graduate of George P. Butler High School and Augusta University with a degree in Business Administration. Appointed by Governor Brian Kemp, Garnett serves on the Georgia Department of Economic Development Board. Representing Augusta, he serves as the Third Vice President of the Georgia Municipal Association and is a former chairman of the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce. He is engaged locally as a member of the Augusta Exchange Club, is a 2015 Leadership Augusta graduate, and a 2020 Leadership Georgia graduate. Born and raised in East Augusta, Mayor Johnson is honored to lead the city he loves. He is passionate about moving Augusta Forward by prioritizing growth, action, results and being transparent and accountable to Augusta residents. Garnett is married to Toni Seals-Johnson. They have two daughters and are members of Good Shepherd Baptist Church. Steven Brian Kendrick is a lifelong Augustan who has spent more than 20 years serving the community through public service, economic development, and leadership initiatives. A Magna Cum Laude graduate of Florida A&M University, he earned both a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and an MBA. Kendrick served 13 years as Richmond County Tax Commissioner and currently serves as Chief Deputy in the office. In addition to his public service, Kendrick has worked as a business professor at Paine College, Augusta University, and University of Phoenix. He is also a licensed broker, agent, and real estate instructor with experience in the private sector through the pharmaceutical industry and his family business, Augusta Blueprint. Kendrick has played a key role in shaping Augusta’s economic and community development landscape, serving as Chairman of the Augusta Economic Development Authority and Chairman Emeritus of the Augusta Land Bank Authority. He is also a founding board member of the HUB Augusta Collaborative and the founder of the E3 Leadership Foundation, which focuses on youth leadership development through programs such as Project Impact. In addition, he has helped lead and support leadership programs in the community including Youth Leadership Augusta and the HUB Youth Leadership Academy. As a candidate, Kendrick’s platform centers on BUILDING stronger communities, GROWING economic opportunity, UNITING leadership across Augusta, and LEADING the region toward a more prosperous future. 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 at www.Janiceallenjackson.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 Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

Meet Dana Barrett, Fulton County Commissioner and Democratic candidate for Georgia Secretary of State. Dana Barrett is a Fulton County Commissioner and Democratic candidate for Georgia Secretary of State. As a Fulton County Commissioner representing Georgia's largest county, Barrett has been on the front lines of the fight to protect free, fair, and secure elections. She faced fines and the threat of jail time for refusing to seat MAGA election deniers on the county elections board—a fight she ultimately won in the Georgia Court of Appeals. She is running for Secretary of State to ensure that every eligible Georgia voter can vote without fear or interference. Barrett brings a rare combination of technology expertise and public service experience to this race. A former tech executive, she started her career as a self-taught programmer and worked her way up to Vice President of Technology. In 2022, Barrett, a proud single mom and breast cancer survivor, beat a longtime Republican incumbent to win her seat on the Fulton County Commission. 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 at www.Janiceallenjackson.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 Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

Toni Dean is the programs manager at the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History and Conference Center in Augusta, GA. She has a communications background, having worked in radio, print and television. She spent several years in television as a production manager for two national broadcasts, PBS NewsHour (The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer), Washington DC, and Good Morning America, ABC News, New York. Toni serves on the board for Shiloh Community Center and is a member of the Augusta African American Historical Society. She has also served as a grant review panel for Augusta’s Community Foundation and the United Way of Augusta. Toni serves as a historian at her church and she is a video producer who has produced historical video pieces for local churches in Augusta. Toni is a native of Augusta and alumnus of John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School.. 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 at www.Janiceallenjackson.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 Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

In this episode, we recap the 2026 election across the CSRA and take a closer look at the races and decisions that shaped this election cycle. We discuss major mayoral races, district-by-district outcomes, and examine voter turnout and what the level of participation may reveal about community engagement across the region. We also talk about what these election results could mean moving forward and highlight upcoming runoff elections, including what voters should know and what to watch as the next phase of local elections unfolds. Join us for insight, discussion, and a recap of the moments that mattered across the CSRA. 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 at www.Janiceallenjackson.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 Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

Tamika Bean ,community leader, entrepreneur, and lifelong public servant dedicated to serving the people of South Augusta. With over two decades of experience in public service, small business ownership, youth mentorship, public health, and community outreach, Tamika has built her life around one mission: showing up for the people who need it most. From owning and operating her salon business for more than 25 years to creating the COSMO Mentor program for youth through the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice, Tamika has focused on creating opportunities, building confidence, and strengthening communities. She has also served in public health initiatives alongside Johns Hopkins University and Emory University, worked in Augusta-Richmond County government operations, and continues to lead recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. A woman of faith, a mother, grandmother, mentor, and advocate, Tamika Bean is now running for Augusta-Richmond County Commission District 6, bringing real leadership, compassion, and experience to the communities she serves. 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 at www.Janiceallenjackson.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 Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

In this episode we feature Michael Cioffi and Evett Williams, candidates for District 8, Augusta–Richmond County Commission. Michael Cioffi is a lifelong Augusta resident and candidate for District 8. He and his wife built their first home in South Richmond County at age 21 and have spent more than 30 years raising a family and building their life in the community. He is a graduate of Augusta University with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting and has spent 38 years working with a local building supply company, where he serves as General Manager. His experience in small business, operations, and long-term management has shaped his focus on fiscal responsibility, accountability, and practical leadership. He also serves as Vice Chairman of the Augusta Aviation Commission and is committed to responsible spending, essential services, and transparent communication with residents. Evett Williams is a proven servant leader, community advocate, and experienced professional also running for District 8 Commissioner. With nearly four decades in South Augusta, she brings deep community roots and a strong record of service.She is a Cum Laude graduate of the Medical College of Georgia with a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology and holds a Master of Theology degree. Her professional background spans nonprofit leadership, education, workforce development, healthcare, construction, real estate, veteran services, and marketing. She currently serves as Marketing Director for the Paralyzed Veterans of America, Southeastern Chapter.Evett also serves on the Augusta-Richmond County Board of Zoning Appeals (Past Chairman) and the Family YMCA Metro Board of Directors. She is a graduate of Leadership Augusta and Leadership Georgia and serves as an Elder at Christian City of Praise. 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 at www.Janiceallenjackson.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 Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

Tori Branum is a Marine veteran and firearms instructor running for Congress in Georgia’s 12th District. After serving her country, she’s now focused on securing the border, strengthening national security, supporting veterans and farmers, and bringing accountability to Washington. Chris Stephens was raised in the rural South and built his career in public service as a 911 dispatcher and police officer. Now a former small business owner and nonprofit leader, he brings a practical, solutions-focused approach centered on service, fairness, and community. Traci George is a Gold Star family member and mother of three whose leadership is shaped by service and sacrifice. Through her work across economic development, healthcare, education, and community infrastructure, she has built coalitions and led initiatives focused on creating real outcomes for families and strengthening the systems they rely on. Bri Woodson is a Georgia native, community advocate, and recovery mentor who has turned personal adversity into purpose. Through her work creating second-chance programs and connecting people to resources, she is focused on mental health, education, and economic opportunity. Ceretta Smith is an Army veteran, former Grovetown councilwoman, and small business owner with decades of service in the military and federal government. She is also a labor and human rights advocate who has led at multiple levels while mentoring future leaders. 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 at www.Janiceallenjackson.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 Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast