Closer Look with Rose Scott

On today’s “Closer Look with Rose Scott,” we catch up with NPR Congressional Reporter and WABE alum Sam Gringlas. He’s currently following Democratic Incumbent Jon Ossoff and his effort to reclaim his U.S. Senate seat this November. Polling data currently has Ossoff leading his Republican opponent, Mike Collins, but there are still several miles on the campaign trail until the midterm election. Gringlas shares his firsthand look at how voters are reacting during Senator Ossoff’s campaign stops. Atlanta is widely known as the city in a forest, but that forest is depleting. Of the city’s more than 84,000 acres, almost 40,000 acres are covered by its tree canopy. However, that latest assessment by Georgia Tech shows Atlanta has lost a quarter of an acre of trees every day between 2008 and 2023. The city had a goal of reaching 50% canopy coverage, but Atlanta moved further away from that goal in the latest assessment, now dropping to 45.7% tree coverage. Officials from Trees Atlanta and Georgia Tech provide more details on the data, and what’s leading to the disappearing canopy. With the concern of mainstream AI systems disseminating misinformation, a new artificial intelligence platform is promising to provide accurate information. AiSHA pulls its information from Black History, culture, and trusted journalism sources to avoid biases. We speak to the founder and CEO of Onyx Impact, Esosa Osa, about how her new AI assistant and chatbot will provide something different, including most sustainability friendly usage.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new report from Virginia State University reveals disparities related to education level, employment and household wealth for Black men and boys in America. On today’s “Closer Look with Rose Scott,” Dr. Wes Bellamy joins us to examine the findings and hear solutions to closing these economic related gaps. Bellamy is the executive director of the John Mercer Langston Institute for African American Political Leadership and an associate professor of political science and public administration at VSU. Also, the midterm elections are fast approaching, and the Brennan Center for Justice is closely monitoring potential changes impacting the nation's election systems. Wendy Weiser, the Brennan Center’s vice president for democracy, says this is due to the Trump Administration's messaging regarding sending ICE and other federal agents to polling sites to monitor and possibly intimidate voters. On today’s show, Weiser reveals the laws and safeguards that are in place to prevent unlawful disruptions, and shares what citizens should do to protect their right to vote. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s “Closer Look with Rose Scott,” we learn how the Savannah-based nonprofit, Deep Center, is helping youth find their voice through writing. We hear from the Director of Youth Literacy and a Writing Fellow about their Young Author Project – how their work is improving literacy rates and inspire a younger generation to become published authors. Plus, they’re putting a call out for creative mentors. We also speak with Kathleen Bertrand, Executive Producer of the BronzeLens Film Festival. Since 2010, the festival has served as a platform for filmmakers of color, showcasing cinematic talent not only from Atlanta but from across the globe. Now an OSCAR-qualifying festival in the short film category, BronzeLens returns over two weekends in late August, offering industry education opportunities and celebrating standout independent projects from around the world.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s “Closer Look with Rose Scott,” with about two months until early voting begins, we update the latest on the race to the November midterm election. We examine how top-of-the-ticket races can help or hurt down-ballot candidates. And those down-ballot candidates are stretching their campaign funds to get as much attention as they can. We also learn how the summer months are for candidates to test their messaging, but after Labor Day, campaigns kick into high gear. WABE Politics Reporter Rahul Bali and Atlanta based campaign strategist and demographer Fred Hicks contribute to the conversation. In the late 1980’s, after the Blaxploitation era had ended, “Riverbend” emerged briefly before being pulled from circulation for its perceived controversy. Shot in Georgia, and featuring Steve James and Margaret Avery, the film tells the story of three Vietnam soldiers after they escape a corrupt military prosecution and enter a small Georgia town, which is under the grip of a racist sheriff. They join Black residents in a fight for protection and self-determination. Today, the footage and sound have been digitally restored, and the film is receiving renewed interest. “Riverbend” will have its Atlanta premiere at the Plaza Theatre at 6pm EST on Saturday, August 15. To discuss the film’s revival, we’re joined by award-winning actress Margaret Avery and Michael Dennis, the founder or Reel Black Renaissance, and Restoration Executive Producer for "Riverbend."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The current war against Iran started when the U.S. and Israel launched coordinated airstrikes against targeted military and government regions in Iran. To which, part of Iran's retaliation included blocking the Strait of Hormuz. In February, President Donald Trump said the war in Iran would be swift, and on several occasions, the administration has declared the war a success. But months later, the war persists and America’s gas prices have risen to an average over $4. It’s a conflict that goes back decades – and at one point, the United States and Iran were even allies. On today’s Feedback Friday edition of “Closer Look with Rose Scott,” we ask our listeners: Should the U.S. withdraw from the war in Iran or is there a solution that could end it? We’re joined by experts from Georgia Tech and Emory University to discuss the United States war strategy and challenges within international laws of armed conflict. We also look back on the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty of 1968 and examine its success as to the promise of total global disarmament.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The very public disagreement between the Atlanta Mayor’s office and the Fulton County Commission continues. Last week Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens sent the commission a letter regarding a recent majority vote to "commit approximately $1.3 billion" toward a new Fulton County Jail. The harshly worded letter to the board threatened to end an agreement in which 700 detainees were housed at the Atlanta City Detention Center and is also calling for the board to be more responsive and collaborative towards the city's Neighborhood Reinvestment Initiative. On today’s Closer Look with Rose Scott, we hear from Fulton County Commissioner Dana Barrett. She believes the county should find a way to work with Mayor Dickens but thinks his letter does not tell the full story. Then, we meet a nonprofit that’s attempting to help immigrants amid the Trump Administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement. Of the 169 million people in the American workforce, more than 32 million are immigrants -- more than 8 million of which are undocumented. Many of those workers have become the target of the Trump Administration's aggressive immigration enforcement. Still, as the U.S. Constitution states, they have fundamental rights within the United States, regardless of their citizenship or immigration status. The Sur Legal Collaborative has made it their mission to defend immigrant workers and make sure they know their rights. Chamblee is the latest city in Georgia to pause new data center developments. The northern DeKalb County city has adopted a 180-day moratorium that halts the acceptance of any related applications. Jimmy Furst, Chamblee At-Large Councilmember, joins the show and shares the “major concerns” Chamblee residents have about data centers and the proactive approach city lawmakers are taking. He shares how their fast-growing urban community can’t afford the massive water consumption, heat, and noise that data centers produce and they need to further understand their impact before accepting any applications.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this edition of “Closer Look,” we revisit our segment on researchers at Georgia State University who reviewed more than 250,000 property records in the City of Atlanta. Among their findings, rental properties in historically Black, lower-income neighborhoods are mostly locally owned and for landlords in whiter, more affluent neighborhoods. Meanwhile, the landlords who own rentals in these neighborhoods largely live outside of the region and even outside the state of Georgia. What does this reveal about the city's divide in property values and who is benefiting from this divide? We'll take a deeper dive in the study with the co-authors. Rev., Dr. C.T. Vivian was a civil rights champion and a man whose lifelong work was heavily connected to his faith. And it was also consistent in his sermons. Now comes a new book: ‘Your Soul Is Required: The Theology and Sermons of C.T. Vivian', a collection of sermons that are a reminder of what Vivian stood for and as why he's placed among the impactful figures of the civil rights. ‘Your Soul Is Required: The Theology and Sermons of C.T. Vivian' compiles Vivian's wisdom alongside commentaries written by contemporary scholars and preachers to explore the depth of his theology. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Finding a decent place to stay for Atlanta’s unhoused population is already a challenge with affordable housing shortages, poverty, and a lack of shelters. Without shelter, some of Atlanta’s unhoused population resides in a homeless encampment in a West End neighborhood that has raised some concern for other residents. But what makes this issue more complex is that the encampment is on private property. As Atlanta City Councilmember Jason Dozier explained on “Closer Look with Rose Scott,” the courts would have to get involved if they attempted to remove a homeless encampment from private property. Also, Atlanta is often referred to as the city in a forest. Being surrounded by trees means it's important to be aware of how healthy they are and when they need to be removed. Decaying and dead trees can be a safety hazard or an environmental and climate issue, but they can also be very expensive to cut down. Some Georgia homeowners are increasingly given an ultimatum by their insurance company to remove trees deemed a risk or lose their homeowners’ insurance coverage. That's where a new program from the Georgia Arborist Association can provide assistance. We discuss the eligibility requirements and application process for the program with Georgia Arborist Association executive director Jessie McClellan. She also gives us a diagnosis on some of the trees outside the WABE Studios.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Federal safety officials say we're in the peak time of year for pediatric hot car deaths -- when fatalities usually climb sharply in July and August. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says as of the end of July, 17 children have died in the U.S. due to pediatric vehicular heat stroke. Among them is a tragedy that occurred outside Northside Gwinnett Hospital just last week. On today’s Closer Look with Rose Scott, we speak to NHTSA Administrator Jonathan Morrison. He explained the three common ways a child can be trapped and overheated in a car, and offers multiple ways for parents, guardians, and other caretakers to remind themselves and not forget about a child in the backseat. We also welcome back to the show, Kristi Swartz, a contributing writer for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. She recently published an article that discussed a nonbinding promise between the White House and several big tech companies. The agreement states the tech giants will pay electricity costs in areas where data centers are being built. With the agreement being largely symbolic, some Georgians are still concerned how they’ll be impacted, even with Georgia Power promising to freeze electricity rates through 2028. Swartz also shares the latest news on data centers coming to Georgia and residents’ efforts to attempt to stop them.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new dispute has emerged over the problem-plagued Fulton County Jail. Months ago, the Fulton County Board of Commissioners – by a majority – voted on a resolution to commit approximately $1.3 Billion towards a new jail. Now, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens sent a harshly worded letter to the county lawmakers on Thursday. In the letter, Mayor Dickens criticized the commission for paying for a new jail and not supporting his tax extension proposal. He acknowledged Fulton County "desperately needs humane detention facilities,” but says the $1.3 Billion for a new jail is “the wrong answer.” Dickens also argued it would drain tax revenue away from local communities, and he threatened to stop housing 700 Fulton County detainees in the city’s detention center. Fulton County Commissioner District 5 Commissioner Marvin Arrington, Jr. joined “Closer Look” to respond to the mayor’s letter, saying he immediately reached out to Dickens. Arrington believes the letter is mostly critical of the board's vote to not support Atlanta’s plan to extend its tax allocation district needed for the Mayor's Neighborhood Reinvestment Initiative. Arrington did not agree with fellow commissioners and wanted to table the vote in lieu of more time to fully understand the NRI. Arrington also points out why he disagrees with Dickens’ assessment of how the county chooses to spend its tax dollars – calling the mayor’s comments, “side seat driving.” On today’s program, Arrington gave Host Rose Scott further insight into the process and reason of the county’s decision to replace the “inhumane” Fulton County Jail. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners have put a moratorium on new data center applications through 2027. In the meantime, the county lawmakers are developing new regulations. However, Commissioner Ted Terry expressed his skepticism about the benefits of the quickly wide spreading technology hubs. Joining today’s Closer Look with Rose Scott, Terry said he wants a long-term impact study before he decides whether more data centers are right for DeKalb County. Also on today’s Closer Look, the Trump Administration has reportedly withheld $65 million from law offices across the country that represent unaccompanied minors. Without the federal government honoring its contract to fund the program, it’s due to expire July 31. Without a lawyer, children reportedly have a less than 10% chance of staying in the U.S. and immigration judges are nearly 100 times less likely to grant relief to a child. To tell us what’s at risk for the children, we’re joined by Jennifer Podkul, the Chief of Global Policy and Advocacy for Kids in Need of Defense. Also, part of the conversation is Jennifer Anzardo Valdes, the Director of Children's Legal Services at the International Rescue Committee.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s Closer Look with Rose Scott, we follow-up on our 2025 series about health insurance companies using artificial intelligence to deny insurance claims at high rates and the legal battle that’s following it. In recent years, companies like Claimable have given patients an AI tool of their own to fight for their prescribed care. We speak to Dr. Warris Bokhari, Co-Founder and CEO of Claimable, about why he believes this service is needed, his own personal battles with insurance companies, Claimable’s success rate, and whether we’re entering an “AI arms race.” Also on today’s program, as a new school year prepares to begin, we speak to Angira Sceusi, Executive Director of RedefinED Atlanta. She shares the issues they’re advocating for to ensure every student in the metro Atlanta area has access to a high-quality public education. One of the top issues, is preparing local students for their careers or college education after they graduate from public school.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Following the loss of two major hospitals in south Fulton County, multiple stakeholders have worked together in recent years to bring a fully operating hospital to the area. Phase one of Grady South is already completed, with a stand-alone emergency department in Union City. But there’s more work to be done for "a medical office building offering imaging services, a surgery center, specialty clinics, pharmacy services, rehabilitation, and a full floor dedicated to pediatric care provided by Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta." Fulton County Commissioner Marvin Arrington Jr. joins “Closer Look” to discuss what it took to get the center approved. Plus, as he prepares to leave the commission, he'll reflect on his time in office including accomplishments and ongoing challenges for the county, as well as his next chapter. Also, Angela Stanley is Georgia’s new State Librarian and Vice Chancellor of Public Libraries for the University System of Georgia. We'll hear her vision re: strategic leadership for the nationally recognized Georgia Public Library Service (GPLS) and the Georgia Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (GLS), charting the future of library services statewide.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

President Donald Trump returned to Georgia for an event in Cobb County on Wednesday. While the subject was Trump Accounts, WABE Politics Reporter Rahul Bali says it amounted to just a few minutes of the hours long rally. The event at Wheeler High School in Marietta, was also attended by notable Republicans, including gubernatorial candidate Rick Jackson. Bali provides a full recap of the event. Then, “Closer Look” continues its conversation focusing on the Democratic Socialists – their recent electoral victories and what influence they could have on the upcoming midterm election. We also examine their complex relationship with the Democratic party and analyze the DSA’s overlapping goals and divisions on strategy. We hear from Emory University Political Science Professor Andra Gillespie and Political strategist and Author of "Socialism and the Democratic Party" Blake Ashby.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In its nearly 180-year history, the American Medical Association has committed to being "a physicians’ powerful ally in patient care." Whether in the operating room or the halls of Congress, the AMA says its mission is to remove obstacles and take the lead for the betterment of public health. Soon, leading the AMA will become the responsibility of a board-certified physician who has many ties to Atlanta. On this edition of Closer Look, Atlanta Internist Dr. Sandra Fryhofer talks about how changes to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention under current U.S Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is detrimental to the nation's top public health agency. Plus, Dr. Fryhofer speaks to specific issues the AMA addresses including Medicaid and Medicare, Artificial Intelligence in healthcare, physician shortages and combating mis-health-information. Guest: Atlanta Internist Dr. Sandra Fryhofer, President-Elect of the American Medical Association. Just over 70 years ago, the polio epidemic was at its height in the United States. Cases averaged at about 45,000 each year...until Doctor Jones Salk led the development of a vaccine. Although Salk's was the first polio vaccine, Dr. Albert Sabin in the 1960's developed an oral vaccine which would replace Salk’s. Another difference was Salk's vaccine contained a killed virus and Sabin's a live virus to combat the disease. Now comes a new biography detailing much more about Dr. Sabin. "Albert Sabin: The Life of a Polio Vaccine Pioneer" is authored by an epidemiologist and Global Health Chronicles oral historian who worked for more than 25 years at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Guest: Karen Torghele.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The U.S Supreme Court has ruled in favor of the Trump Administration in ending Temporary Protected Status for hundreds of thousands of Haitians and Syrians in the country which potentially could lead to deportations. The International Rescue Committee is trying to counter this setback. Hans Van de Weerd is the IRC Senior Vice President of Resettlement, Asylum and Integration. He shares insight on the current plight of those impacted and how misinformation is shaping perception of TPS holders. It's awful and the symptoms include explosive diarrhea. The current cyclosporiasis outbreak has been identified in more than half of the United States, but it's not exactly clear as to its origin other than lettuce. Jodie Guest, professor and senior vice chair in the department of epidemiology at Emory University's Rollins School of Public Health talks about keeping your household safe and how the Centers for Disease Control under the Trump administration was forced to cut back on its surveillance network for several pathogens, including cyclospora. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

President Donald Trump delivered a national address Thursday night focused primarily on claims of widespread election fraud. The president cited what he calls "brand new and irrefutable" evidence to support his claim. What sort of impact could this have on this year’s midterms? We get analysis from a roundtable of guests: Fred Hicks, Atlanta-based campaign strategist and demographer; Julianne Thompson, founder and president of Mainstreet Network Strategies and a longtime public affairs & government relations professional; and WABE politics reporter Rahul Bali. Plus, El Ponce owner Rosa Thurnher talks about the origins of her Mexican restaurant – and what the future holds for the Ponce de Leon Ave staple.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As America turns 2-hundred and 50 years old, today's edition of Closer Look with Rose Scott examines this milestone and the intersection with reproductive rights. Plus, how the Atlanta based Feminist Center for Reproductive Liberation continues its into advocacy now in its 50 yr. Co-founder Lynn Thogersen recalls the early years of the center which was previously called Feminist Women’s Health Center which began with a $250 dollar loan from her mother. Executive Director Kwajelyn Jackson, now the executive director of the Feminist Center for Reproductive Liberation, talks about navigating thru the pandemic, Georgia's restrictive abortion ban and current funding challenges. Plus, it's called The Okra Project, a Black trans led mutual aid nonprofit, helping Black trans people in areas such as healthcare and safe housing. Advocacy groups also report disproportionate acts of discrimination and incarceration against the trans community, especially Black trans individuals. That's where The Okra Project is stepping in to offer support to the Black trans community. Gabrielle Inès Souza, the Executive Director of The Okra Project, shares how the organization offers vary resources and relies on a network of partners. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last November, Zohran Mamdani did what many considered impossible: he won the mayor’s office of a major U.S. city as a Democratic Socialists of America candidate. And in Atlanta, Kelsea Bond recently became the first DSA member elected to the City Council. The DSA, while not an official political party, has also picked up momentum elsewhere. Over the past several months, DSA candidates or candidates aligned with the organization secured primary wins in New York, Colorado, and Washington, D.C. Two years ago, Georgia House District 42 Representative Gabriel Sanchez became the first Democratic Socialist elected to the state legislature. The gains are small but notable. So, what does this shift mean for voters, for the political system, and for the possibility of more DSA candidates rising to prominence in a battleground Southern state like Georgia? Ashik Siddique and Megan Romer, the National Co‑Chairs of the Democratic Socialists of America, join the show to discuss how the organization is defining itself in this moment, the messaging strategies they believe resonate, and the challenges of still needing the Democratic Party designation to appear on most ballots. Smaller nonprofits face distinct challenges in today’s shifting philanthropic landscape, and many are struggling to stay afloat. This episode of Closer Look with Rose Scott explores the realities of under‑funded nonprofits and how a local effort, the Nonprofit Sector Sustainability Fund, is attempting to address those gaps through a targeted funding initiative. Ayana Gabriel Turner, Vice President of Community Impact at the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta, explains the needs facing smaller nonprofits and how the NSSF ultimately selected 12 organizations from more than 200 applicants. Dr. Bambie Hayes‑Brown, CEO of Georgia Advancing Communities Together, Inc., one of the twelve awardees, shares how this funding will strengthen her organization’s mission and expand its impact.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Atlanta voters overwhelmingly approved the “More MARTA” half‑penny sales tax in 2016, creating a first‑of‑its‑kind partnership between MARTA and the City of Atlanta. The 40‑year, $2.7 billion program was designed to expand transit and meet the city’s growing transportation needs. Now, the Atlanta City Council has unanimously backed a resolution authorizing Mayor Andre Dickens to renegotiate that agreement. It’s the first major legislative move from newly elected Councilmember Thomas Worthy. Worthy says the biggest change he wants is a formal role for the council. In his words, the council is where “the public comes down to express their concerns…their frustrations,” and members represent the taxpayers funding the More MARTA program. He argues council oversight is essential to honoring that responsibility. He's also pushing for additional updates to the agreement and is optimistic MARTA will be willing to adopt.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's been a decline in theological schools due to enrollment drops, financial crises and even some closures. The Atlanta-based Gammon Theological Seminary, one of the nation’s most prominent Black schools of theology, has received its accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), which is being called "a major win for the theological institution." Rose speaks with the Rev. Dr. Candace Lewis, the first woman elected President and CEO in the Seminary’s 143-year history, about her vision for the institution and reflects on the current state of seminaries. A Continued Mission: Atlanta Non-Profit Desires More Resources for Helping Unhoused Atlanta's Policing Alternatives and Diversion Initiative (PAD) recently launched an awareness campaign for their supportive services during the World Cup. PAD has been operating in Atlanta for several years ... dispatching care coordinators instead of police ... when callers request support for mental health crises, signs of extreme poverty and more. PAD expanded services specifically for the World Cup, and now officials share why those services will have to cease, but other services will continue. Plus, PAD's deputy director, Denise White and Muhammad Hafeez, director of community engagement share what care coordinators are seeing while being dispatched around the city.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For years, Georgia saw a robust cityhood movement: between 2000 and 2022, ten new cities were incorporated across metro Atlanta. Among them is Mableton, Cobb County’s newest and largest city at nearly 80,000 residents. Mayor Michael Owens shares the city’s 2045 strategic plan and addresses concerns about how the city might fund its own police department. Also, the “We Care, Child Care” sweepstakes is back in its 12th year and offering a $1,529 contribution to support your child’s future education fund. Bethany Whetzel, treasury program director at Georgia’s Office of the State Treasurer, shares how parents and grandparents can enter ahead of the July 31 deadline.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newly published research at Georgia State University found that rental properties in historically Black, lower-income neighborhoods are mostly locally owned by absentee landlords in whiter, more affluent neighborhoods. But the rental properties in those more affluent neighborhoods are largely owned by landlords outside of the region and even the state of Georgia. Taylor Shelton, is an associate professor in the department of geosciences and Ryan Pardue, is a doctoral student in the Urban Studies Institute at the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies. Both Shelton and Pardue collaborated on the GSU study and discussed it on this edition of “Closer Look.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recent racist incidents directed at athletes in the WNBA and the World Cup have renewed conversations on how athletic associations and other governing bodies should address racial abuse. In a wide‑ranging conversation on “Closer Look with Rose Scott,” a roundtable of guests discussed confronting racism in sports from the professional ranks to youth leagues. The roundtable featured: -- Dr. Edwin Moses, Olympic champion and one of the most dominant 400‑meter hurdlers in history, who later became a leading voice in anti‑doping reform as chair of the United States Olympic Committee’s substance abuse, research and education committee and now serves as chairman of the United States Anti-Doping Agency. -- Dr. Deborah Stroman, a former University of Virginia basketball player and coach turned leadership strategist, known for helping organizations navigate equity challenges and build stronger teams. -- Al Vivian, longtime diversity and equity consultant and trusted advisor to C‑suite leaders across three continents. -- C.J. Stewart, former Chicago Cubs outfielder, author of Living to L.E.A.D., and co-founder of Atlanta’s L.E.A.D. Center for Youth, which empowers at‑risk young people to lead in their communities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Georgia’s midterm election is less than four months away. In November, voters across the state will decide on several key federal, statewide and local races. As a part of “Closer Look’s 'Their Voice, Your Vote" series, host Rose Scott is joined by a panel of guests, both Republicans and Democrats, who provide analysis about the latest on the race to the midterms. Guests included: Fred Hicks, an Atlanta-based campaign strategist and demographer Saba Long, a political communications strategist Cory J. Ruth, the founder and CEO of the political consultant and strategy firm Mergence Global Julianne Thompson, the founder and president of Mainstreet Network StrategiesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

July 4th marks 250 years of America as an independent nation. We're a nation founded on principles centered around democracy, equality, separation of powers, plus checks and balances. On the eve of the country’s semiquincentennial, scholars and activists warn democratic norms are eroding due to the Trump Administration’s rapid changes to existing voting rights legislation, the expansion of executive powers and more. But does this moment feel like a pivot because of President Donald Trump’s actions, or an extension of the country’s overlooked history? In today’s special on WABE, we examine what is to be celebrated, especially at this moment of our nation’s history? In this episode, “Closer Look” presents “Spacious Skies: Sentiment and Reflection On America's Birthday.” We welcome guests back from our 2024 special, Georgia State University historians, Dr. Jody Noll and Professor John McMillian. Plus, a conversation with a prominent civil rights activist who represents one of the three lifetimes that make up the age of the country. We spoke with former Atlanta Student Movement leader Charles Black.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For a special call-in show on Thursday’s edition of “Closer Look,” host Rose Scott is joined by Georgia State University Constitutional law professor Tanya Washington. The longtime professor and law scholar talks with Scott about the layered goals, founding principles, and the framework of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States. Throughout the conversation “Closer Look” listeners shared reflections about America at 250, many highlighting the progress, as well as the persistent ongoing challenges.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donna Hyland is retiring. The visionary pediatric healthcare leader has dedicated the last 40 years of her professional career to prioritizing and determining how best to meet the healthcare needs of children. But now it’s a new chapter for the trained accountant who has served as the CEO of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta since 2008. Hyland joins “Closer Look” to discuss the successes and challenges of her career and to talk more about what’s next for her in retirement. Then, Head of Meredyth Cole shares the impact she’s seen at The Lovett School since placing a ban on cell phones for students during the school year. Their rule went into place a year before Governor Brian Kemp signed the requirement for students in kindergarten through 8th grade. Now, starting in the 2027 – 2028 school year, the so-called “bell-to-bell” rule will also apply to high school students. In addition to sharing how she’s seen focus, sleep and socializing improve, Cole also shares how The Lovett School addresses the concern of how parents and students can communicate during an emergency.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Erica Payton fell in love with the game of golf when she was about three or four years old. It’s in her DNA. The lifelong golf player was recently named the head coach of Clark Atlanta University’s first-ever women’s golf team, the school’s 11th NCAA varsity sport. This new opportunity comes as data reveals a growing number of women and girls are playing golf, a 45% increase since 2020, according to the National Golf Foundation. As a featured guest on “Closer Look,” Payton talks with host Rose Scott about her passion for the sport, why she accepted the coaching job at CAU and her top priorities ahead of the inaugural season. Also on today’s show, we meet two young Atlanta entrepreneurs who are participating in the city’s Youth Entrepreneurship Accelerator Program through Showcase Atlanta. We meet Devin Mitchell, the founder and CEO of SOKA, a soccer streetwear brand and Jase Kurtz, who is the founder of Jase’s Lemonade. Joined by Kelsey Maynor, the Director of Small Business for Showcase Atlanta, we learn about the mentorship, funding, and vending opportunities they’re receiving through the program and how they’re watching their businesses grow. Maynor also encouraged anyone who is interested in the program to visit the city’s website for the Youth Entrepreneurship Accelerator Program.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Thursday’s Closer Look with Rose Scott, Supervising Producer Tiffany Griffith introduces you to Elliot Hefty. After enduring several transphobic attacks, he left the U.S. in 2025 to seek asylum in The Netherlands. He’s one of the 45% of transgender Americans who wish to leave the country or have already made plans to. We also hear from officials with The Williams Institute at UCLA, Rainbow Railroad, and the Human Rights Campaign about how life has become unsafe for the trans community in America, and how many are attempting to escape it. Then, we’re joined by Emory University Economist Tom Smith and Decatur City Manager Andrea Arnold as they discuss the economic impact of the World Cup on Atlanta’s neighboring city. We learn that Decatur could see anywhere from $6 million to $142 million in economic activity as they host watch parties and introduce visitors to local dining, shopping, and entertainment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s Closer Look with Rose Scott, we receive an update from Atlanta Housing President & CEO Terri M. Lee about how her organization is helping the city meet its goal of creating 20,000 affordable housing units by 2030. But she points out the cost of home construction is skyrocketing and additional funding is needed. Then, we learn about a collaboration between the dance organization, AileyCamp, and Atlanta Utopian Academy for the Arts. They tell us about their mission to empowering youth through the arts, education, and community.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Closer Look continues with its analysis of the Fulton County Reparations Task Force’s Harm Report. The eye-opening, over 600-page report details the harms suffered by Black people who were enslaved or lived during the Jim Crow era. Today, we’re also joined by WABE reporter DorMiya Vance for a discussion about what reparations Fulton County might owe for massacre and mass incarceration. Click here to read the full report. Guests: Dr. Karcheik Sims-Alvarado - Assistant Professor of Africana Studies and the Director of Public History and Historic Preservation at Morehouse College and chair of the Fulton Reparations Task Force Dr. Amanda Meng - Georgia Tech research scientist who also serves as the task force secretary and representing Fulton County District 3 Ann Hill Bond - member Task Force Research Committee John Wright - researcher WABE reporter DorMiya VanceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday, June 22 began a two-part series focusing on the Fulton County Reparations Task Force’s Harm Report. The eye-opening, over 600-page report details the harms suffered by Black people who were enslaved or lived during the Jim Crow era. Among the findings were as much as $900 billion in today’s dollars in stolen labor over a decade of slavery in Fulton County. Click here to read the full report. Guests: Dr. Karcheik Sims-Alvarado - Assistant Professor of Africana Studies and the Director of Public History and Historic Preservation at Morehouse College and chair of the Fulton Reparations Task Force Dr. Amanda Meng - Georgia Tech research scientist who also serves as the task force secretary and representing Fulton County District 3 Ann Hill Bond - member Task Force Research Committee John Wright - researcherSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday marks the 161st anniversary of Juneteenth. This year, on Juneteenth, “Closer Look” hosted its annual live community event at Roosevelt Hall in the historic Atlanta University Center neighborhood. The theme of the program was We Who Remain: Black Legacy & America at 250. The conversation, led by host Rose Scott, examined how Black history is preserved, remembered and carried forward. Guest included: Dr. Kendra A. King Momon, professor of politics and Associate Provost for Academic Affairs at Oglethorpe University Dr. Joy Angela DeGruy, researcher, scholar, author, and Provost's Distinguished Visiting Scholar at Morehouse College Illya E. Davis, professor of philosophy, director of Freshmen & Seniors' Academic Success, director of the Morehouse Accelerated Academic Program (MAAP), and director of the Morehouse College Presidential Ambassadors See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s Closer Look, we hear from our political panel about Georgia’s runoff election results and what it means as we look ahead to the November midterm races. Rick Jackson is now the GOP nominee for Georgia governor and will face Democrat Keisha Lance Bottoms, the former mayor of Atlanta. The U.S. Senate race is between Mike Collins, a Trump endorsed candidate, and incumbent Democrat Jon Ossoff. Devin Barrington Ward, a progressive community organizer and managing director of the Black Futurist Group; Fred Hicks, an Atlanta‑based campaign strategist; and Saba Long, an Atlanta‑based communications strategist, joined host Rose Scott to break down Tuesday night’s outcome.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ahead of Atlanta’s hosting of its first FIFA World Cup 2026 match, “Closer Look” host Rose Scott met with Atlanta Soccer in the Streetsexecutive director Kaseem Ladipo at the organization’s mini pitch in East Point. Ladipo discusses the history and mission of Soccer in the Streets, efforts to elevate street soccer on a global scale, and how the organization is preparing local youth to participate in the world’s biggest sporting event. Plus, the Otis Redding Center for the Arts recently celebrated its first anniversary. The Macon-based creative hub continues the philanthropic legacy of legendary soul singer Otis Redding. “Closer Look” producer LaShawn Hudson recently toured the facility and spoke with Otis Redding Foundation leaders Zelma Redding and Karla Redding-Andrews, as well as Otis Redding Foundation All-Star Sara Mazanec. They discussed the center’s signature summer camps and year-round music education and arts programming.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A 2026 Deloitte summer travel survey reveals vacation plans are down across all income levels, and travel is at its lowest among consumers since at least 2022. In addition, a new report from Georgia Institute of Technology also suggests high gas prices aren't going away anytime soon amid the global energy crisis. For a call-in show on Thursday’s edition of “Closer Look,” host Rose Scott is joined by Georgia Tech professors Daniel Matisoff from the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School of Public Policy and Bobby Harris from the School of Economics. Callers shared how their summer plans have been affected by inflation and other everyday expenses.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A newly published investigation by the Atlanta Community Press Collective reveals public funds were used to pay consultants promoting Mayor Andres Dickens’ Neighborhood Reinvestment Initiative, including over $100,000 from the city’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund. On Wednesday's edition of "Closer Look," Councilmember Matt Westmoreland, who chairs the Community Development and Human Services Committee, discusses how the situation raises concerns about ethics in transparency. Plus, on the heels of Juneteenth and America's 250th mark, we hear from Deborah Van Trece, an Atlanta-based chef and restaurateur, Tiffanie Barriere, an internationally acclaimed mixologist, and Adrian Miller, a James Beard Award-winning author. They discuss the intersection of history, food and Juneteenth.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s Closer Look with Rose Scott, we start by speaking with Atlanta-based racial justice leader Dr. Catherine Meeks. In her new book, Bridging the Rivers of Difference: A Proclamation of Unity in Resistance, asks: Why do communities facing similar struggles remain divided, and what would it take to build true unity? Then, we follow that discussion with author and former U.S. attorney Barbara McQuade. In The Fix: Saving America from the Corruption of a Mob-Style Government, she compares actions under the Trump Administration to what she’s seen when prosecuting high-level criminals. She gives her view on threats to American democracy, and how it can be fixed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s “Closer Look with Rose Scott,” with the Trump Administration cutting SNAP benefits, food pantries across the Atlanta metro area are preparing for growing demand on their donations. Santiago Marquez, who serves as the CEO of the Latin American Association, shares that a lot of Latino families are in need, but many don’t seek help due to fear or lack of information about available resources. Then, we have an in-depth discussion about the impact of data centers on communities in the Atlanta metro area. We hear about their mass consumption of water, high energy usage, and concerns about how a data center will alter a normally quiet rural community.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s “Closer Look with Rose Scott,” the two Democrats vying for Fulton County’s top seat met at WABE’s studio for a debate. The pair clashed over multiple issues, including the Fulton County Jail, their voting records, property taxes, reparations, and arts funding. Hear where Fulton County Commission Chair Robb Pitts and former Fulton County District 4 Commissioner Mo Ivory stand on the issues before the Tuesday, June 16th runoff election.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s Closer Look with Rose Scott, we hear from a panel of Native Americans who reflect on what the 250th anniversary of the nation means to them as descendants of the country’s original inhabitants. Then, we revisit our interview with legendary soul singer Peabo Bryson, who died Tuesday in Marietta at the age of 75. Known as “The Voice of Love,” Bryson was a two-time Grammy winner. Lastly, we speak with the organizers of the Men Having Babies conference. The event returns to Atlanta to assist men, including those in the LGBTQ+ community, about how to navigate the adoption and surrogacy process, while tackling the legal challenges and high costs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.