Closer Look with Rose Scott

The Atlanta Regional Commission recently released its 2025 Regional Commuter Survey. The detailed survey aims to take a deep dive into how people across the 20-county Atlanta region get to work and how those patterns are changing over time. Johann Weber, a program administrator for the Atlanta Regional Commission, joins Closer Look to discuss the goal of the report and some of its key findings. Closer Look’s Piloting the Journey series continues with four-time Olympic Medalist Dominique Dawes. She opened up about her childhood experiences in the sport and how they shape the environment she and her husband are committed to creating at the Dominique Dawes Gymnastics Academy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The DeKalb County School District recently updated its list of potential school closures after facing strong pushback from area residents. Jim Bass has been reporting on the district for Decaturish and joined Closer Look for an update. He says DCSD has room for about 110,000 students but only has around 90,000 currently enrolled. Residents will still have to review other plans even after the district agrees on what buildings to shutter or repurpose. Also on today’s program, WBUR’s veteran journalist Meghna Chakrabarti has hosted On Point. In a conversation with Closer Look host Rose Scott, Chakrabarti reflected on the current state of credible news and public media.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over 50 years ago, Keiko Guest caught a transformative performance of Swan Lake at the Louisville Ballet. She enrolled in classes the next day and has been dancing ever since. On today’s “Closer Look” with Rose Scott, Guest shares how she continues to inspire younger generations as part of our “Piloting the Journey” series. Plus, Marketplace Morning Report’s David Brancaccio talks about the state of public media and how he and his wife are recovering after losing their home in the Eaton fire.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s Closer Look with Rose Scott, we continue our Women’s History Month Series, “Piloting the Journey” with Dr. Mary Parker. She has broken the glass ceiling in the security services industry, and through her foundation, she’s uplifting underserved communities in Atlanta’s south side. Then, a new Associated Press report finds old school hobbies and crafts are gaining interest among young people who want less time on their phones. We hear from Atlanta Craft Club Founder Lexi Bynum, and Jen Singh and Rachel Herzog, the co-owners of Garage Door Studio. They discuss the growing number of people who are looking for a creative outlet instead of looking at their phones. Lastly, When Everything Changed is a new 30‑minute series featuring award‑winning WABE journalists Jim Burress, Lisa Rayam, and Rose Scott. Described as intimate conversations with notable figures reflecting on pivotal moments that shaped their lives, the series is filmed across Georgia in locations that offer a more in-depth and special environment than a traditional one‑on‑one interview. We speak to senior producer for WABE TV Alphonso Whitfield, about the series.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Food prices are up. Energy costs are rising. The most recent labor market report revealed that employers cut 92,000 jobs in February, and the unemployment rate climbed to 4.4%. Tom Smith, professor in the Practice of Finance and academic director of the Master of Finance program at Emory University, and Karen Leff, an Atlanta-based founder of Leff Organizing—Financial and Residential, joined Closer Look with Rose Scott to discuss how inflation is affecting consumers and influencing spending habits. Listeners also shared how inflation is affecting their everyday lives, which bills or expenses have been hardest to cover this year, and how they are stretching their dollars.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 in 6 children in the U.S. between the ages of 3 and 17 have been diagnosed with a developmental disability. Data also shows more than 226,000 families in Georgia are caring for a loved one with an intellectual or developmental disability. For decades, the nonprofit Parent to Parent of Georgia has provided statewide resources, free one-on-one support and training to families through its free Supporting Parent Program. Latoya Palmer-Addy, the CEO of Parent to Parent of Georgia, and Marshall Seal, a Supporting Parent volunteer, talked more about the services, trainings and impact of the program in Georgia. With two weeks left in the current Georgia Legislative Session, WABE politics reporter Rahul Bali says this is often when tensions can rise. He joined Closer Look with Rose Scott to provide an update on legislation already advancing to Governor Brian Kemp, as well as bills being reshaped as they move between chambers. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Since October 2024, people in South Cobb have been able to reserve on-demand transit through the CobbLinc Go pilot program. The public transit, two-year program, provides "curb to curb" service for passengers over 26 square miles across Austell, Powder Springs, and southwestern Marietta. It’s similar to requesting an Uber or Lyft, but at a cost of $2.50 per ride. Drew Raessler, who serves as the director of the Cobb County Department of Transportation, joins "Closer Look" to discuss the success and challenges of the program and to provide an update about the possibility of expanding the program to other cities in Cobb County. Also on today’s “Closer Look,” The performances of Echoes of the Storm: 20 Years After Katrina recalls the tragedy and resilience of those impacted by the massive Category 5 hurricane. The Apollo Theater, the National Black Arts Festival, and Spelman College collaborated to produce the six 10-minute plays. Leatrice Ellzy, president and CEO of the National Black Arts Festival, and Aku Kadogo, a senior instructor in Spelman’s theater department, spoke with “Closer Look” host Rose Scott about the production.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s Closer Look, host Rose Scott speaks to Atlanta-based immigration attorney Sarah Owings and Mildred Pierre, the fiancé of Rodney Taylor, a Gwinnett County barber and double amputee. Taylor has remained in a Georgia immigration detention center since January 2025. Pierre and Owings say authorities have made it difficult for Taylor to access necessary medical care while detained in what they describe as unsanitary conditions at Stewart Detention Center in Lumpkin. They share the latest news about Taylor facing deportation. Plus, for "Closer Look's" Women's History Month series, "Piloting the Journey," Dr. Kitty Carter-Wicker reflects on the profound impact that her family continues to have on her life and career. The Morehouse School of Medicine alum currently serves as professor of family medicine at her alma mater and the medical director of the Atlanta University Center Consortium's Student Health and Wellness Center. She shares details about navigating the ups and downs of her more than three-decade career in the medical field. Carter-Wicker also explains why one of the greatest life lessons she learned over the course of her career is empathy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A map created by Science for Georgia, a science advocacy nonprofit, conservatively estimates around 100 data centers in Georgia. But the exact number is difficult to pin down because the state government doesn’t maintain its own public database, which also makes it hard to track any economic impacts. The organization’s executive director, Dr. Amy Sharma also joins Closer Look to warn about SB 410, a bill being considered by the Georgia Legislature that she says does not do enough to protect consumers from the costs of data centers. Atlanta-based campaign strategist and demographer Fred Hicks joins Closer Look host Rose Scott for a post-qualifying update on the Georgia governor’s race. Sixteen candidates qualified for the May 19th primary to represent the Republican, Democratic, and Libertarian Parties in the November election. Hicks shares how money, advertisements and endorsements are showing the strength of the campaigns.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In recent years, a pair of deadly school shootings has led to landmark legal cases in America. The November 2021 shooting at a Michigan high school and the September 2024 shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia, placed the blame on the accused teenagers, as well as their parents. On today’s “Closer Look,” host Rose Scott is joined by Attorneys Gil Deitch and Andy Rogers. The law firm is representing the family of Christian Angulo, one of the fatal victims of the Apalachee High School shooting. They addressed listeners’ comments and questions about the extent of a parent’s responsibility for a child’s criminal behavior. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s only three weeks left until state lawmakers shout, “Sine Die” to mark the end of the 2026 legislative session. On today’s “Closer Look,” host Rose Scott speaks with Georgia State Senator Kim Jackson and WABE Politics Reporter Rahul Bali about the bills that have the potential to become law this session. They also discuss the elections and most pressing issues that could have the greatest political impact on Georgia in 2026 and the years ahead.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s Closer Look, host Rose Scott Councilmember Byron Amos joined the program to discuss his opposition to a 15-acre property that’s meant to provide support and shelter to Atlanta’s unhoused community. Amos argues the site was intended to provide economic opportunity to the city’s westside. Then, Scott was in conversation with Chef Ron Hsu, owner of the Michelin star rated restaurant, Lazy Betty. Chef Hsu is out with a new cookbook, “Down South + East.” He shares the cultural experiences and flavors that inspired his restaurant and cookbook. Scott also speaks with Poet and author Dr. Joshua Bennett about his new book, “WE (The People of the United States).” As America approaches its 250th anniversary, Bennett explores themes of identity, creativity, and the ways African Americans have shaped every aspect of American life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We revisit “Closer Look” host Rose Scott’s conversation with Dr. Louis W. Sullivan. His dedication to medicine and public health includes serving as the 17th United States Secretary of Health and Human Services and the founding president and dean of the Morehouse School of Medicine. He discusses his journey which put him alongside global leaders like Nelson Mandela, President George H. W. Bush, and several other notables. After an eight-year hiatus, Grammy-winning artist Miguel is bringing a myriad of life experiences to his new music and multi-city tour, which recently kicked off at the Coca-Cola Roxy. During his stop in Atlanta, the singer, songwriter and producer spoke with “Closer Look” producer LaShawn Hudson about his bilingual album, “CAOS,” and how he put to music his experience with divorce, a new partner, becoming a father, his Black and Latino culture, as well as current tension in the U.S. surrounding immigration. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WABE continues to follow the latest involving a controversial land swap between DeKalb County and a movie studio company that has yet to meet any of the promises made in an agreement. WABE environment reporter Marisa Mecke shares her reporting and what’s next for the site. “Closer Look” host Rose Scott also speaks with PALS Atlanta Executive Director Thomas Lázaro and Jim Marks, who goes by the stage name, Bubba D. Licious. They discuss two major milestones for the local nonprofit which puts its efforts towards helping pet owners in need.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is defending the joint military actions by the U.S. and Israel against Iran, saying, “We are punching them while they're down, which is exactly how it should be.” Since the first strikes in late February, Operation Epic Fury has expanded into a regional war, resulting in multiple fatalities, including Iranian schoolgirls and six U.S. Troops. On Thursday’s “Closer Look,” Rose Scott hosts a conversation about the conflict with Georgia State University political science professors Dan Altman and Jelena Subotic, and hears reaction from Atlanta-area listeners. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp and other state leaders have touted the Peach State as one of the best places to do business. However, some lawmakers and advocacy groups say in order for that to be fully true, Georgia must do right by its workforce. As Georgia lawmakers are convening at the state capitol for the 2026 legislative session, State Representative Dewey McClain of Lawrenceville and Ogechi Oparah, the organizing manager representing 9to5 Georgia, are among those prioritizing several labor-related proposed bills: HB1318, HB394, HB395 and HB 1118. Also on today’s “Closer Look with Rose Scott,” the Atlanta People's Campaign will host its third assembly on Saturday, March 14. The aim is to have neighbors meet neighbors, discuss problems in their communities, and invoke change. Organizer Mshairi Siyanda joined Host Rose Scott on Wednesday's "Closer Look" to discuss the upcoming gathering and her hope for community-focused solutions. Movements like this became important to Siyanda after growing up in an Atlanta neighborhood that struggled economically, and after experiencing uncomfortable and changing local attitudes about Black wealth after the 1996 Olympics. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

According to the “Beyond the Bedside: The State of Nursing in 2025” report, 65% of nurses say they’re experiencing high levels of stress and burnout. The study also found that only 60% of nurses would choose their profession again, and 67% of student nurses are concerned about managing their workload. Short staffing, inadequate pay, lack of leadership support, and patient abuse are listed as the top stressors. On Tuesday’s “Closer Look,” Host Rose Scott speaks with Dr. Lisa Herbert, Obstetrician-Gynecologist Dr. Kristin Oates and Primary Care Physician Dhaval Desai about their personal experience with stress and burnout, how it can impact patients, plus solutions for the wellbeing of patients and the medical workers who care for them. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The family of Arben Pilici has filed a lawsuit against DeKalb County after he suffocated during a 2024 welfare check at his home. On today's “Closer Look,” we hear from two of the attorneys representing the family and learn more about DeKalb’s Mobile Crisis Unit and the type of police restraint that led to Pilici’s death. Also, two Georgia Democratic lawmakers are resisting Immigration and Customs Enforcement's ongoing efforts to establish large-scale ICE detention centers in Georgia. “Closer Look” host Rose Scott talks with Georgia State Senator Jaha Howard, who has introduced Senate Bill 517 and Senate Bill 549. We also hear from South Fulton Councilmember Helen Zenobia Willis, who recently introduced a resolution to ban warehouses in South Fulton.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Student success is directly linked to literacy. According to the latest data from the Georgia Council on Literacy, 62% of third-graders are not reading on grade level. The findings come as state lawmakers consider the Georgia Early Literacy Act of 2026, which aims to improve literacy through several approaches and strategies. “Closer Look’s” February installment of “Coffee Conversations was held at The Ke'next Cooperative located in the Westview neighborhood. Host Rose Scott talked with several guests, including children’s book authors. They discussed community-center resources and programs geared toward improving literacy rates in Georgia and read excerpts from children’s books. Guests included: Kiyomi Rollins, the owner of The Ke’nekt Cooperative Gayle Hunter Holloman, the executive director of Fulton County Library System Caroline Ahmann, owner of the Beloved Books Bookmobile Dr. Nicola Chin, a pediatrician at Morehouse Healthcare and a Reach Out and Read Clinician Alex Ryan, the founder of Alex in Wonderland, LLC, and the author and creator of “Zina Bina Learns the Value of Money” Dr. Breanna J. McDaniel, an educator, speaker and author of the book “Go Forth and Tell” Shelly Anand, an author of “Laxmi’s Mooch” Reem Faruqi, an award-winning author of “Lailah's Lunchbox”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Student success is directly linked to literacy. According to the latest data from the Georgia Council on Literacy, 62% of third-graders are not reading on grade level. The findings come as state lawmakers consider the Georgia Early Literacy Act of 2026, which aims to improve literacy through several approaches and strategies. “Closer Look’s” February installment of “Coffee Conversations was held at The Ke’nekt Cooperative, located in the Westview neighborhood. Host Rose Scott talked with several guests, including children’s book authors. They discussed community-center resources and programs geared toward improving literacy rates in Georgia and read excerpts from children’s books. Guests included: Kiyomi Rollins, the owner of The Ke’nekt Cooperative Gayle Hunter Holloman, the executive director of Fulton County Library System Caroline Ahmann, owner of the Beloved Books Bookmobile Allyson Eads, a community engagement librarian for the Cobb County Public Library System Dr. Nicola Chin, a pediatrician at Morehouse Healthcare and a Reach Out and Read Clinician Alex Ryan, the founder of Alex in Wonderland, LLC, and the author and creator of “Zina Bina Learns the Value of Money” Dr. Breanna J. McDaniel, an educator, speaker and author of the book “Go Forth and Tell” Shelly Anand, an author of “Laxmi’s Mooch” Reem Faruqi, an award-winning author of “Lailah's Lunchbox”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Atlanta City Councilmember Wayne Martin says there are plenty of nights when he still thinks about what it felt like to go from homelessness to finally having a place to call home. He remembers lying down at night and thinking about all the different beds he slept in as a child, including the time his family lived in hotels before entering a shelter. That lived experience, he says, has shaped every job he’s held and ultimately pushed him to run for office, and now work as a councilmember. On today’s Closer Look, Martin shares what issues he wants to address as the representative for District 11. Carrollton, Georgia, is quite different from the city of Atlanta, but for newly elected Atlanta councilmember Thomas Worthy, moving from his small southern hometown to Georgia’s capital was pivotal. “I think I am an absolute beneficiary of the opportunity that this city offers.” Worthy calls Atlanta an opportunity machine and says it’s one of the reasons he wanted to serve the city that has given so much to his career and has been a great place for him and his wife and to raise their three children. Worthy represents District 7, which consists mostly of north Atlanta. His main priorities include a check on “basic blocking and tackling” of city services, which include infrastructure and zoning issues. Worthy explained more about what he’s focusing on for his constituents on today’s Closer Look.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are many ways to describe Donald Trump’s second term, especially given how many of his policies and executive orders related to education and other areas have been tied up in federal courts. Legal challenges seem to follow nearly every move. Still, one recent court development hasn’t received much attention from major news outlets. Some have called it a “win for academic freedom,” but Dr. Beverly Daniel Tatum sees it as more complicated than that. Also on today’s “Closer Look with Rose Scott,” Emory University’s Dr. Crystal R. Sanders and Dr. Karida L. Brown discuss the life and legacy of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the founder of what would eventually become Black History Month. They share his dangerous pursuit of accurately telling the story of contributions made by African descended people.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Thursday’s edition of “Closer Look,” host Rose Scott welcomed Atlanta City Councilmember Kelsea Bond to the program. New to their office as the District 2 representative, Bond discussed how they want to push for the issues they campaigned on: addressing housing affordability, increasing taxes on the wealthy, police reform and public transit expansion. Also on the show, the team behind the WABE-TV docuseries, (re)Defining History, which returns for its second season. Over four episodes, the program delves into the history of Atlanta, the South, and its forgotten figures, places and moments. “Closer Look” previews some of the topics, such as anecdotal stories about Atlanta’s own baseball great, Henry “Hank” Aaron and Atlanta’s first private black-owned hospital, the William A. Harris Memorial Hospital, which was built in 1928.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been nearly 200 years since the founding of the first African Institute in the United States. Since that time, historically Black colleges and universities continue to influence society and impact diverse students of every race and cultural background. On Wednesday’s “Closer Look with Rose Scott,” we spoke to Chicago PBS News Anchor Brandis Friedman about her new documentary, “Opportunity, Access & Uplift: The Evolving Legacy of HBCUs.” Following the Trump Administration’s repeal of the Environmental Protection Agency’s 2009 Endangerment Finding, “Closer Look,” is joined by Diamond Spratling, the founder and executive director of Girl + Environment. Through her work, she raises awareness about what’s harming the environment, plus trains and teaches Black and Brown women to advocate for climate solutions. She shares how President Trump’s actions could harm vulnerable communities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s “Closer Look,” we share tributes to the late Rev. Jesse Jackson, and a prior interview host Rose Scott did with the civil rights champion from WABE’s ATL68 series. Jackson also dedicated his life to founding the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, working as a global humanitarian, running for president twice, and as part of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s inner circle. Jackson, known for his famous words, “Keep hope alive!” died Tuesday. He was 84. Scott also talks with Gerald Griggs, a civil rights attorney and past president of the Georgia NAACP, who shares his memories about Jackson. Also, Atlanta’s Zoning Review Board recently overruled a vote by a Kirkwood area neighborhood planning unit. The NPU had voted against a proposal for a 47-unit apartment building for unhoused seniors, which would include mental health services. However, the Board chose to move forward with the project, which would be located in a currently vacant lot located at 88 Howard St. NE. The property is owned by Turner Monumental AME Church, who is pursuing the development. Sean Keenan has followed the project for Atlanta Civic Circle and shares the latest with “Closer Look.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Monday’s edition of “Closer Look,” Fulton County Chairman Robb Pitts talked with host Rose Scott about the timeline of events around the FBI raid and seizure of the county’s election records. He also shared his thoughts about the unsealed warrant affidavit used by the FBI, which supports already disproven claims of election fraud in Fulton County. We also learn about how the newly formed Georgia chapter of a faith-led group is pushing back against Christian nationalism. Christians Against Christian Nationalism are among those evangelicals who are becoming more outspoken and denouncing the beliefs, which often includes underlying racism.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The sale is complete for a Walton County, Ga. industrial warehouse that will become a new detention center for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Local officials confirmed the purchase of the rural warehouse, located approximately 40 miles east of Atlanta. But Social Circle city officials say they’re against it, and Gareth Fenley, a local organizer with Indivisible Boldly Blue, shares on “Closer Look” how she plans to fight it. Plus, Atlanta area hospitals say their staff and resources are ready to respond to the 300,000 FIFA World Cup visitors expected here this summer. Preparations have been ongoing for months in advance, including a training simulation involving two patients who entered the U.S. with an infectious disease. Doctors from Grady Hospital, Piedmont Hospital and the Emory University School of Medicine join the program to discuss their plan to keep residents and visitors healthy during the games. Then, a new ProPublica report is linking a conservative researcher to the seizure of Fulton County’s election records. The author tells us about Kevin Moncla, who has long accused Fulton County of election fraud.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, more than 11,000 children and teens are in Georgia's foster care system. Data also reveals more than 500 youth transition out of the foster care system, many needing assistance, housing, and resources as they adjust to adulthood. Allison Ashe, the CEO and president of Wellroot Family Services, talks with “Closer Look” host Rose Scott about the work of Wellroot and the expansion of their newly renovated apartment community, The Oaks. She also discussed details about Wellroot's 2026 Reaching Teens Summit, slated for February 26-27 at the North Georgia Conference United Methodist Center. Plus, a long list of Republicans and Democrats is vying for Georgia’s top elected office, and we are months away from the gubernatorial primary. In an effort to run an effective campaign, candidates spend money on advertisements, canvassing, and more. We hear from Atlanta-based political strategist Fred Hicks, who says people vote with their dollars. Hicks broke down campaign spending and fundraising, as well as how much money each candidate has raised so far, and the three measures used to track a candidate’s overall campaign dollars.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While leaders like Malcolm X became symbols of the Black nationalist movement, a new book is celebrating the life and work of a lesser-known icon. Dr. Ashley Farmer tells that story in her new book, “Queen Mother: Black Nationalism, Reparations, and the Untold Story of Audley Moore.” Then, the Reverend and Georgia State Senator Kim Jackson joins “Closer Look with Rose Scott” for a conversation about the three bills she’s backing to locally prevent the aggressive immigration tactics the world has witnessed in Minnesota. The measures would require agents wear identification and prohibit face coverings and masks, require a legitimate warrant for an arrest, and allow people who feel their rights have been violated to sue ICE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With only a few weeks left to his time in office, Dr. Raphael Bostic reflects on his time as the 15th president and chief executive officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta. In front of a live “Closer Look” audience, Bostic shared what it took to oversee the economic wellbeing of all or most of Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee and Louisiana – a region that is far from a monolith. Speaking with host Rose Scott, he dispels any suspicion that he’s leaving because of the Trump Administration’s economic policies, evaluates whether he accomplished what he came to office to do, discusses how the bank addresses economic disparities, and shares what a happy retirement looks like to him. Bostic also took questions from the live audience, which included business school students from Emory University. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s “Closer Look,” first, we hear from WABE politics reporter Rahul Bali. He discusses the latest political news in Georgia, including Georgia Republican Barry Loudermilk’s decision not to run for reelection, what it could mean for Democrats in Georgia, as well as how it could impact the midterm elections. He also talks more about the 2026 Georgia Amended Fiscal Year Budget and several bills he’s following, including Senate Bill 433, that would allow Georgia drivers to have specialty license plates to inform law enforcement officers that someone in the car has a developmental disability. Plus, as part of “Closer Look’s” extended coverage following National School Choice Week, we hear from Bonnie Holliday, the president and CEO of the Georgia Charter Schools Association. She discusses school choice and her organization’s work to support Georgia charter schools. Lastly, for decades, the Atlanta-based Carter Center has monitored elections across the world. But as President Donald Trump continues to call for greater federal control in elections, The Carter Center is keeping an eye on potential election interference for this year’s midterms in the U.S. We hear from Paige Alexander, the CEO of The Carter Center.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Questions have arisen about transparency when it comes to city leaders and light rail for the Eastside Atlanta Beltline. This, after a recent Atlanta Journal-Constitution article revealed an alleged secret vote stopped work on the $800 Million project. According to AJC Transportation Reporter Sara Gregory, even city council members were surprised to learn about the vote. Was the public truly left in the dark? The issue is debated on Wednesday’s “Closer Look” with light rail advocate Matthew Rao, the Chairperson for BeltLine Rail Now and opponent Dr. Hans Klein, Associate Professor of Public Policy at Georgia Tech and President of the Board of Directors for Better Atlanta Transit. TheDream.US is now accepting applications for a scholarship to benefit students regardless of their immigration status. On Wednesday’s edition of “Closer Look,” DACA recipient Indira Islas and Hyein Lee, the COO of TheDream.US shared the application process and how it has benefited students who migrated to the U.S. Plus, they reflect on the ongoing immigration raids happening under the Trump administration and how some TheDream.US scholarship recipients have been detained and deported.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s “Closer Look with Rose Scott,” we focus on immigration from a policy perspective. First, we speak to U.S. Corporate Immigration Attorney Giselle Carson. She discusses President Trump’s sudden immigration ban on 75 countries, consisting of applicants from Latin America and the Caribbean, the Balkans, and several countries in South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Attorney Carson also provides her perspective on a recently filed lawsuit against the immigration ban. The conversation continues with Adriana Heffley, the Director of Legal Services for the Georgia Asylum and Immigration Network. Heffley highlights how some of the asylum seekers she works with have been detained by Immigration agents. She also mentions how actions by ICE have scared some immigrants into hiding and not seeking help for issues such as domestic violence. We learn what GAIN is attempting to do to protect immigrants and those seeking asylum in Georgia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s "Closer Look," host Rose Scott spoke to Brian King, the Executive Vice President for U.S. Programs with the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. He claims Georgia is not allocating allotted funds towards preventing tobacco use in the state. He also says, with the second lowest tobacco tax in the nation, Georgia is minimizing its effort to stop kids and adults from smoking. He said these taxpayer-funded programs could reduce health care costs for consumers and generate millions of dollars in revenue. Then, a conversation with Stuart Jefferies, a Georgia State University professor of physics and astronomy. Along with his students, they’re teaming up with international space scientists to explore the universe for signs of life on other planets. Right now, they’re constructing the tool that will help them do it, the ExoPlanet Life Finder. The telescope will be able to study other star systems from 30 million light years away. That’s 176,358,761,195,508,231,926 miles from our blue planet. We also revisit an interview with NASA Captain Astronaut Victor Glover, Jr. He spoke with “Closer Look” about his expected historic voyage around the moon.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s “Closer Look with Rose Scott,” we remember scholar, trailblazer, civil rights activist, mentor, revolutionary, colleague, shero - Dr. Gloria Wade-Gayles. Playwright and poet Pearl Cleage and Marla Frederick, Spelman alumna and Dean of the Harvard Divinity School, join the program to share how the beloved professor influenced her students and highlighted the experiences of Black Women in American culture. Also, sometimes the best option for your child’s education might be right around the corner from your home and you wouldn’t even know it. That’s where GeorgiaCAN steps him. We speak to a parent and two officials from GeorgiaCAN about how they’re connecting families with the best education options for children. They also tell us about the upcoming 2026 Atlanta School Choice Expo.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donovan Head, who serves as the executive director of the State Charter Schools Commission of Georgia, is clearing up some misconceptions about charter schools, as he sees it. He says charter schools are free, public schools that are required to adhere to federal and state educational standards. He joined “Closer Look” to explain the process of how charter schools are developed. Show host Rose Scott was also joined by Dr. Jameson Brewer from the University of North Georgia and Dr. Carrie Sampson, an Associate Professor at Arizona State University. They shared their critiques of the current charter school system and offered ways it could further benefit students and their families.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Historian and researcher Dr. Karcheik Sims-Alvarado has developed a theorem she describes as a starting point for translating the harm of slavery into monetary value. Sims-Alvarado, an assistant professor of Africana Studies and the Director of Public History and the chair of the Fulton County Reparations Task Force, plus Dr. Amanda Meng, the secretary of the task force and a Georgia Tech professor, led the research effort that culminated in a 650-page Harm Report. The professors discussed their findings in detail on today's "Closer Look with Rose Scott."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From Friday through Monday, the storm, dubbed Winter Storm Fern, is expected to impact millions of people across the U.S. in more than 30 states, including Georgia. To prepare, Gov. Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency for Georgia on Thursday morning. On today’s “Closer Look,” we speak with local officials about how they’re bracing the state for the storm. Also on today’s show, an official with the ACLU of Louisiana says agents with Immigration and Customs Enforcement endangered the life of a pregnant woman who was deported to Colombia while allegedly in medical distress. Nora Ahmed, the Legal Director at the ACLU of Louisiana, tells Host Rose Scott about 21-year-old Daniela Buitrago, who came to the U.S. in November 2025 with her family, to flee persecution in Colombia. However, she was just flown back to her home country from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, while reportedly experiencing severe pain.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s “Closer Look with Rose Scott,” an open records request by Atlanta Journal-Constitution Transportation Reporter Sara Gregory revealed a “secret vote” that was not known to the public and members of the Atlanta City Council. What she discovered was a May 2025 vote by officials from MARTA, Atlanta Beltline, Inc., and the City of Atlanta to halt light rail construction on Atlanta's Eastside Beltline. Gregory joins the show to share how she learned of the vote. Also on the program, we’re joined by the new mayor of South Fulton, Carmalitha Gumbs. She shares her priorities for the first year of her administration, which includes economic development and searching for a new police chief. Finally, we speak with the leaders of Food Well Alliance, a nonprofit that helps connect local growers with area communities, to support them socially, economically, and environmentally. Executive Director Kate Conner and Sarah Brown, Senior Manager of Policy and Planning join the program to share the latest local Food System Plan award recipients.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s a new chapter for Peter Hubbard, one of two Democrats elected to Georgia’s Public Service Commission, flipping long-held Republican seats. A longtime clean-energy advocate, Hubbard told “Closer Look” host Rose Scott he’s committed to working across political lines. He’s also closely watching the rapid growth of data centers in Georgia, questioning their true economic benefits, workforce impact, and tax incentives. He then raised concerns about their strain on energy infrastructure, noise pollution, e-waste, and the higher costs often passed on to residential customers. For weeks, immigration agents with the Department of Homeland Security have confronted communities in Minnesota - resulting in arrests, school closures, injuries, and the killing of Minneapolis resident Renee Good. The State of Minnesota, along with the cities of St. Paul and Minneapolis recently announced a lawsuit against DHS for its actions. On today’s “Closer Look,” Anthony Michael Kreis, associate professor of law at Georgia State University, provides his legal analysis about what hurdles the lawsuit might face.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday marks what would have been Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s 97th birthday. Ahead of the federal holiday, as various events get underway and people around the world are commemorating the life and legacy of the civil rights giant, President Donald Trump has threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act in Minnesota. This comes as ongoing protests continue after an ICE agent shot and killed Renee Good last week, and another federal agent shot a Venezuelan man in the leg on Wednesday. Today’s program connects King’s moral leadership ideology to the current state of American politics. First, we revisit “Closer Look” program host Rose Scott’s interview with Dr. Robert Michael Franklin Jr., an author, theologian and Emory University’s James T. and Berta R. Laney Professor in Moral Leadership. During the discussion, Professor Franklin reflects on the life and legacy of Dr. King, specifically his efforts to lead with courage, nonviolence and integrity. He also explains how King used his influence to inspire others to be moral leaders. We then hear from Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock. He discusses the ongoing protests happening in Minneapolis. He also reflects on Dr. King’s life and legacy and the intersection of moral leadership and politics. Warnock then talked about the importance of combating the fear and despair that he says the Trump administration is intentionally trying to spread.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new report from Georgia State University reveals more than 4,600 people, 1,635 children in DeKalb County are without stable housing—many living in extended-stay hotels and paying more than average rental costs. The release of the study comes as Governor Brian Kemp announced a $50 million initiative addressing homelessness in Georgia. For a special themed show focusing on homelessness in DeKalb County, “Closer Look” program host Rose Scott talked with co-leaders from Georgia State University’s Center on Health and Homelessness, who co-authored the study. Scott then talked with leaders of two local organizations working to address homelessness in DeKalb County. Guests included: Shannon Self-Brown, a distinguished university professor in the School of Public Health April Ballard, an assistant professor in the School of Public Health Greg White, the executive director of A Home for Everyone in DeKalb Andrea Brantley, the executive director of Family Promise of North Fulton/DeKalb Wanda Hunter, the program manager for Family Promise of North Fulton/DeKalb Lastly, civil rights activist Claudette Colvin has died. She died on Tuesday at the age of 86. At the age of 15, back on March 2, 1955, Colvin was arrested and charged for refusing to give up her seat on a segregated public bus to a white person, despite already being seated in the back of the bus, in the area designated for Black people. Ashley Roseboro of the Claudette Colvin Foundation talks more about Colvin’s life and legacy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.