Difference Makers with @SavannahOpinion

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Book Nation of Dreamers' Dream Smith joins the latest episode of the Difference Makers podcast to discuss combatting illiteracy in West Savannah with her organization's lending libraries, the hurdles parents and kids have with reading books, a few upcoming events to help cultivate the community in her neighborhood again and the role of the parent in getting kids reading again. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Emmaus House director Ariana Berksteiner joins the latest episode of the Difference Makers podcast to discuss getting into the nonprofit world, learning the nuances of homelessness, how the Emmaus House works to help homeless individuals in Chatham County daily along with drives and fundraisers and how a livable wage could solve many issues in the county. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Seimitsu IT & Fiber Broadband provider president Sam Cook joins the latest episode of the Difference Makers podcast to discuss his company and the future of fiber internet in the Savannah-area, what to know about cyber security, how he started his business and growing up in America after coming over from Japan. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Savannah State president Kimberly Ballard-Washington joins the latest episode of the Difference Makers podcast to discuss her decision to take on the permanent role at SSU after working as the interim president, what she hopes to accomplish while at the institution, enrollment at SSU and the future of HBCUs in general.  Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Chatham Emergency Management Agency's hurricane preparedness champion, Chelsea Sawyer, breaks down evacuation protocol and reminisces about her days as a competitive cheerleader in the latest episode of the Difference Makers podcast. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Savannah Police Chief Roy Minter is the latest Difference Maker. He talks about growing up in Detroit, what led him to enter law enforcement, what sparked his interest in coming to Savannah, some of the community initiatives the Savannah Police Department are doing and addresses calls for police reform and race and policing around the country. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority The MPC's executive director, Melanie Wilson, shares how playing in the school band shaper her life and local development plans from the Historic District to New Hampstead. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Bishop Stephen Parkes addresses his faith journey, the 'blight' of the priest sexual abuse scandal on the Catholic church on this week's episode. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority If there is one spot that people even outside of Savannah will recognize from pictures, it's the oaks along Wormsloe State Historic Site. The drive has become an iconic part of many Savannah visits and has a long line of history to go with it. Craig Barrow III, a descendant of Wormsloe founder and one of Savannah's original settlers, Noble Jones, is this week's Difference Maker. He talks about the history of the land, what his family has done to preserve the grounds, his dealing with Jimmy Carter and the Supreme Court and how they hope to preserve the oaks. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority From it's Olympic roots, the Savannah Sailing Center has been working to get locals on the water for decades. Spearheaded by the iconic Mr. Mac, the center is now entering a new stage in its existence as a new grant could expand their facilities and programs and change the landscape of the sailing community for Coastal Georgia. Savannah Sailing Center treasurer Debbie Tillman and secretary Carrie Rohde are this week's Difference Makers and talk about the past, present and future of the center. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Now more than ever, parents are understanding what it takes to keep kids educated and a lot of the limitations in place to make that happen. The COVID-19 pandemic has been difficult for so many, but it has also brought to light a lot of ways we could improve the systems we have. At the forefront of that for education locally is Parent University's Michael O'Neal. He is our latest Savannah Difference Maker. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Coming up next week is an infamous, sad day in Savannah's history. The Weeping Time requires more examination and historical perspective so one of the leaders of that, Kwesi J. DeGraft-Hanson, joins the Difference Makers podcast to talk about his history studying the history of slavery and the importance of remembering the Weeping Time in Coastal Georgia. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer xxx Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority African American professionals are underrepresented in science fields, and schools, educators and STEM-related organizations across the country are collaborating to address the shortage. Karla-Sue Marriott, a biomedical researcher at Savanah State University and the founder of the school's forensics science program, is our latest Difference Maker. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (7:50): The spark in interest in going into the science field (10:25): Growing up in the Caribbean (14:10): The COVID-19 vaccines (19:00): Speed of the creation of the vaccines (21:40): What could change in terms of how people think about the vaccines? (25:25): Hurdles we have to overcome with misinformation (28:00): How COVID-19 and the pandemic could change the future creations of vaccines and medicine (31:35): Her work getting under-represented groups interested in studying science (39:29): Savannah State's forensic science department Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Ossabaw Island lost a piece of its soul recently with the death of the island’s matriarch and protector, Sandy West. But West’s legacy and the magic of Ossabaw will endure. One of those charged with preserving Ossabaw for future generations, Elizabeth DuBose, executive director of the Ossabaw Island Foundation, is our latest Difference Maker. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (5:05): History of the Torrey-West House (9:35): History of Ossabaw Island Sandy West showed love for Ossabaw by protecting island as a natural treasure (SMN, Jan. 23, 2021) (16:05): The Ossabaw Island Foundation (23:25): Level of involvement by Sandy West late in her life (25:30): Who was Sandy West Sandy West, matriarch of Ossabaw Island, dies on her 108th birthday (SMN, Jan. 17, 2021) (31:10): What's next for Ossabaw Island (35:00): Sea turtles on Ossabaw Island Sea turtles nest at a brisk pace on Georgia coast (SMN, July 9, 2020) (38:15): Importance of keeping the island exclusive to education The magic of Sandy West, Ossabaw Island and the number 108 (SMN, Jan. 20, 2021) (44:00): How the island has evolved over the year topographically Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Georgia Southern Athletic Director Jared Benko is our latest Difference Maker and discusses managing an athletic department during a pandemic, his plans to do more in Savannah and at the Armstrong campus and the Eagles' place on the college athletics landscape. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (5:10): Influences growing up and at UGA (12:10): Path to his role as athletic director at a Division 1 school (15:33): What an athletic director does that people don't realize (22:10): Reflection on challenges of 2020 football season with pandemic (28:50): Changes in finances due to COVID pandemic (36:50): Evolution of the Georgia Southern athletics program (42:30): Future of Georgia Southern sports and Savannah (47:05): Thoughts on Knight Commission's findings on future of NCAA football Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority As he leaves his post of eight years as County Chairman, Al Scott is our Difference Maker for this week. He discusses growing up in Savannah, what got him into politics, how Georgia politics have changed since he first took office and what he hopes to see in Chatham County in the coming years. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (8:20): Getting into politics (14:00): Going to the Georgia House of Representatives (23:10): Georgia General Assembly: Then vs. Now (27:30): Coming back to Savannah (32:15): The evolution of the Georgia Ports Authority (39:39): Moving back to local government (51:00): What should the focus be in Chatham County for the next 20 years? (56:10): Future of incorporation efforts Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Make-A-Wish Georgia's Meghan Lowe is the guest on the Difference Makers podcast. The local development director of the organization that grants wishes to critically ill children discusses the foundation's work. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority The non-profit organization’s leader discusses feeding tens of thousands of needy Savannah-area residents during the holiday season. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Creative Coast Executive Director Jennifer Bonnett joins the latest episode of the Difference podcast to discuss what it will take to make our area the country’s next innovation hub. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (9:20): Getting into computers and technology (13:55): Learning while working in tech businesses (17:37): Lessons in problem solving (25:00): What is happening at SEDA and The Creative Coast (38:35): What does it take to get the critical tech mass in Savannah? (43:00): Logistics Technology Corridor Savannah becomes official state stop for logistics technology corridor (SMN, June 22, 2018) Savannah Logistics Technology Innovation Corridor expands (SMN, April 11, 2019) Creative Coast director: Initiative seeks to make Savannah a logistics technology corridor (SMN, Sept. 2, 2020) (49:26): What do you envision coming out of the corridor? Logistics Technology Corridor looks to state for future growth (SMN, Jan. 11, 2020) Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority SCAD Savannah Film Festival’s Christina Routhier joins the latest episode of the Difference Makers podcast to discuss the history and reasons for success of world’s largest university-run film festival as well as what to expect from the virtual version that starts Saturday. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (8:15): Working at the Trustees Theater (11:15): Roles at SCAD (17:11): Development of the SCAD Savannah Film Festival From the Archives: SCAD Savannah Film Festival (SMN) (25:14): 2020 SCAD Savannah Film Festival With virtual platform, SCAD Savannah Film Festival promises look at year’s best movies (SMN, Oct. 21, 2020) (31:50): Live component of the 2020 festival (36:30): What the festival experience will be like online for patrons OPINION: SCAD Savannah Film Festival courts community with virtual event (SMN, Sept. 15, 2020) (39:10): Lessons learned from festivals that went virtual before (42:35): Highlights for you of the 2020 festival Do Savannah's 2020 festival coverage (46:55): What you will miss about the in-person, theatrical experience Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Elections Board Chairman Tom Mahoney and Registars Board Chairman Colin McRae joins the latest episode of the Difference Makers podcast to discuss absentee balloting, Georgia’s new voting system and everything else voters need to know about the elections process. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (7:30): Advice on preparing to vote Savannah Morning News Election 2020 (11:15): Absentee ballot information First wave of Chatham County absentee ballots are mailed. Here’s how to make sure your vote counts. (SMN, Sept. 22, 2020) Here’s where you can drop off your completed absentee ballot in Chatham County next week (SMN, Sept. 29, 2020) Georgia absentee ballot requests so far: 5 times more than 2016 totals (SMN, Oct. 1, 2020) (21:50): Early voting Satellite office, online portal and Saturday early voting -- how Chatham County residents can get to the polls before November (SMN, Aug. 28, 2020) (24:50): Difference between Board of Elections and Board of Registars (30:00): State vs. county responsibilities with elections Georgia secretary of state faces backlash over double-voting claims (SMN, Sept. 10, 2020) (33:00): What does the process look like? (48:20): In-person voting (52:40): Experience or feedback with the new voting machines in Georgia Here’s how Georgia’s new voting machines work (SMN, Dec. 19, 2019) Editorial: Voting system demo buoys confidence (SMN, Jan. 9, 2020) Chatham County voters report issues with machines, long lines; polling time extended to 9 p.m. (SMN, June 9, 2020) (56:00): When the results for the 2020 election will happen Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority A continuation of our conversation with Richard Kessler. In this portion, he goes in depth into the making of the new Plant Riverside District. He is joined by architect Christian Sottile. Listen to part one here: https://omny.fm/shows/from-the-newsroom-savannah-now/difference-makers-episode-59-savannah-native-richa#sharing Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority From selling okra on his bicycle to helping build Days Inn into one of the country's most successful roadside hotel chains to creating the Plant Riverside District, Savannah native Richard Kessler is an American business icon. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority The host of GPB’s “Political Rewind” joins the latest episode of the Difference podcast to discuss the influences on his life and career, the story behind the evolution of his popular daily radio show, and what he expects at election day nears. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (11:00): Growing up in Chicago and becoming fascinated with politics (14:21): Getting into journalism (17:28): Coming down South to Atlanta (25:43): Joining GPB and starting Political Rewind (29:53): Future of GPB and journalism in the digital age (36:15): 2020 election and its impacts in Georgia Sen. Loeffler talks ‘draining the swamp,’ platform at Savannah campaign stop (SMN, Aug. 31, 2020) Rep. Collins touts ‘conservative record’ at Savannah campaign stop (SMN, Sept. 2, 2020) (42:21): The politicians that stood out to him while covering their tenures Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority The data researcher and "storm whisperer" behind Enki Research joins the Difference Makers podcast to talk about modeling storms and natural disasters, and what people shouldn't be (and should be) worried about. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (11:26): Fear of the beach (16:43): Going to Georgia Tech and finding a career (21:28): How has data research/modeling evolved over time Enki Research (26:25): How to present crucial information without involving an agenda Saturday Q&A, hazards researcher Chuck Watson: Troubled by Hurricane Dorian stress levels (SMN, Sept. 6, 2019) Expert: Hyperfocus on hurricane’s every move can be counterproductive (SMN, Sept. 6, 2019) (32:15): Are we worried about the wrong things? Watson: Producers at The Weather Channel missed point about Savannah hurricane (SMN, Jan. 17, 2007) (36:45): Parsing through the COVID-19 data and making sense of the pandemic Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority The founder and CEO of the uber-popular Savannah-based convenience store chain joins the Difference Makers podcast to talk about starting and growing his brand and strategies for business success. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (12:05): Getting into the business and opening his first store in Midway (15:30): Lessons learned from that first store (18:10): Timeline of the store growth and move into Savannah (20:50): Developing the Parker's store concept (26:10): Work between Parker's and Georgia Southern University Greg Parker donates $5 million to Georgia Southern University (SMN, Nov. 13, 2018) Georgia Southern celebrates Parker donation (SMN, March 8, 2019) (33:55): What you learned about business and leadership from your peers (38:31): Keys for businesses trying to weather the COVID-19 pandemic Beacon Views, Greg Parker: Essential Workers are Invaluable (Beacon Magazine, July 8, 2020) Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority From the streets of West Savannah to the classrooms of Beach High School and Spelman College, and then the newsrooms of the Miami Herald, Washington Post and USA Today, to say that Wanda Lloyd is a journalism icon is an understatement. Now with a new memoir out, Lloyd joins the Difference Makers podcast to discuss growing up in Savannah, joining the journalism field, her experiences of being a Black female in the news industry, returning home to teach at Savannah State and where she sees the future of journalism going. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (4:22): Growing up in West Savannah (16:53): Getting into journalism in high school and college (22:42): Joining the journalism field (27:35): Moving through the journalism world with jobs at Miami Herald, Washington Post and USA Today Beach High graduate inducted into NABJ Hall of Fame (SMN, Aug. 17, 2019) (30:31): Diversity in newsrooms Well, Lit: Savannah author champions media diversity in ‘Coming Full Circle’(Do Savannah, Jan. 22, 2020) JANE FISHMAN: Savannah native Wanda Lloyd talks about another look at the racial divide(SMN, June 6, 2020) (37:07): Reaction to the current cultural climate with the death of George Floyd and the corresponding protests Wanda S. Lloyd column: A call for a conversation about race (SMN, June 4, 2018) (42:00): What the future of journalism looks like "Coming Full Circle" by Wanda Lloyd Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam. See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority While the pandemic has made it difficult for the tourism industry globally, people like Michael Owens of the Tourism Leadership Council are trying their best to right the ship locally to help with Savannah jobs and the economy. But before the pandemic, Owens was one of the figureheads bringing Savannah's tourism and growth to where it is today. On this episode of Difference Makers, Owens talks about his youth in Savannah, coming back, what he has seen through the explosion of tourism in town and what he expects to follow this pandemic. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (7:00): Downtown Savannah in the 1980s (18:14): Coming back to Savannah and his current work (26:20): Looking at the explosion of tourism in Savannah and what caused it Editorial: Kudos to Savannah’s tourism industry (SMN, June 3, 2019) (35:10): The effects of the pandemic on tourism in Savannah and what's next Savannah occupancy rates at historic lows, hospitality industry facing mass layoffs amid COVID-19 pandemic (SMN, March 25, 2020) How Savannah’s conventions industry lost millions wake of COVID-19 pandemic (SMN, June 18, 2020) Analysis: The local impact in the Savannah metro area of a global pandemic (Beacon, July 7, 2020) Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority The coronavirus pandemic has thrust Dr. Lawton Davis to the forefront of many minds in Chatham and its neighboring counties as he leads the Coastal Health District in its fight against COVID-19. On this episode of Difference Makers, Dr. Davis talks about his upbringing in Georgia, getting into the medical field, shifting from general practitioner to his current role and what he has learned (and what comes ahead) with the coronavirus pandemic. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (8:27): Shifting from education to the medical field (12:45): What does the health director do and how does the job compare to working with patients (18:50): His message now as we are in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic (22:13): What people should be thinking of as they assess the virus ’We are worse off now than when we started’: Savannah might require face masks in public places due to recent COVID-19 case hike (SMN, June 22, 2020) (28:07): Testing and where people can find it in Chatham County Coastal Health District - COVID-19 testing Free local COVID-19 tests from public health: What you need to know (SMN, May 27, 2020) COVID-19 test demand strains supply in Chatham County (SMN, June 23, 2020) (31:18): Hurricane season in the middle of a pandemic Chatham officials grapple with hurricane evacuation plans amid COVID-19 challenges (SMN, June 14, 2020) OPINION: Hurricane season is upon us, and we must prepare now (SMN, June 16, 2020) (36:53): Looking back at lessons learned from the initial reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority The Savannah Morning News and SavannahNow.com have been undergoing a number of changes over the past few years (including the starting of podcasts like this one), but the most prominent change has been the hiring of Rana Cash as the news director. Cash will also be the Georgia director for the Augusta Chronicle and Athens Banner-Herald, but primarily will be focused on delivering quality journalism on Savannah and her communities. On this episode of Difference Makers, Cash discusses her news philosophy, growing up in Florida, her background in covering sports, what she hopes to accomplish at SMN and the change from print to digital in journalism. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (10:00): Her interest in sports early on (17:45): What she learned from covering sports at various papers (24:45): What she wants to bring to the Savannah Morning News Rana Cash named Savannah Morning News news director, USA TODAY Network Georgia executive editor (May 19, 2020; SMN) (29:30): The shift from print to digital, and what it means overall (33:00): How to help the public re-discover the value of news (36:00): Establishing trust in the community (39:48): First order of business in Savannah Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Not long after his boots hit the ground in England, Scott Loehr was hooked on history. That Anglo-born passion has festered into a long-term career for the Floridian as he has made a home in Pooler at the famous Museum of the Mighty Eighth as its president and CEO. Loehr joins this episode of Difference Makers to talk about garnering a passion for history in his younger years, what led him to the Mighty Eighth in the first place, how the museum is reacting to the coronavirus pandemic and the importance of remembering the men and women who fought in World War II as we just pass the 75th anniversary of D-Day. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (9:14): Getting a strong interest in history during a trip to England (20:20): Work leading him to the Mighty Eighth After 6 year restoration, Mighty Eighth Museum dedicates its B-17 (SMN, Jan. 28, 2015) Pooler’s Mighty Eighth Museum celebrates 10 years with B-17 (SMN, Jan. 16, 2019) (27:06): Evolution of the museum since he started there (33:04): Re-opening the museum following its closure due to COVID-19 Pooler’s Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum to reopen on Memorial Day (SMN, May 21, 2020) (45:24): Importance of learning the history at the museum and the 75th anniversary of D-Day Mighty Eighth Museum celebrates 76th anniversary of its Eighth Air Force (SMN, Jan. 28, 2018) Viewpoints, Eric Hogan: D-Day marks anniversary of when freedom and democracy triumphed over tyranny and repression (SMN, June 1, 2019) Savannah area to commemorate 75th anniversary of D-Day (SMN, June 2, 2019) Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Known affectionately by her kids as "BBO," Bernadette Ball-Oliver has grown up through the Savannah-Chatham Public School System, first as a student at Beach High School then as a teacher and administrators, and now as the executive director of high schools. But no previous year could prepare her for 2020 where many of the crowning moments of the year for graduating students had to be shifted due to the coronavirus pandemic. On this week's episode, Ball-Oliver talks about coming up through the local school system, the challenges of being in high school compared to other grades, what they decided to do in order to celebrate the class of 2020 while abiding by CDC guidelines and the impact the year will have on education moving forward. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (9:42): Starting her education career in SCCPSS (13:37): Watching the evolution of the school system through her career (16:49): High school students compared to other grades and her experience with them (23:43): Class of 2020 experience this year Savannah high school seniors end year with curbside graduation (SMN, April 27, 2020) Windsor Forest seniors receive caps and gowns curbside (SMN, April 28, 2020) Savannah Early College, Savannah High graduates celebrate year with curbside pickup (SMN, April 29, 2020) (32:24): Virtual graduations and celebrating this year's seniors amidst the pandemic (37:31): How will the experience of 2020 change education moving forward OPINION, Voices, Schools superintendent: Pandemic can’t overshadow Class of 2020′s accomplishments (SMN, April 25, 2020) (46:28): The effect on high school sports and their seniors Area high school athletes, coaches trying to make best of situation (SMN, April 1, 2020) Savannah Arts girls tennis team looks back as what could have been (SMN, May 1, 2020) Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Having become transfixed with Savannah on many visits, Jamie Credle turned her own affection for Savannah through a series of trips into becoming one of the focal points of other visitors' excursions to the Hostess City. Joining the Davenport House Museum in the early 2000s, Credle has helped shepherd the house into the 21st century with new education and outreach programs. Now, as the house looks to celebrate its 200th anniversary, Credle gives a peek into the history of the family, the house itself and historic preservation in Savannah while also looking at how things will change following the coronavirus pandemic and its effects on Savannah tourism. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (9:00): Joining America's Second Harvest of Coastal Georgia (13:56): Growth of Second Harvest in the Savannah region Frank Callen Boys & Girls Club finds alternative ways to help children (SMN, April 15, 2020) (18:55): The food bank's food spending and how the market has changed during to the coronavirus pandemic Kroger donating 1,449 cases of pasta to America’s Second Harvest of Coastal Georgia (SMN, April 23, 2020) (27:00): What changes the pandemic has brought to people's lives that Second Harvest has helped with America’s Second Harvest expanding Grab & Go meals program in region (SMN, April 10, 2020) Savannah community, businesses step up to donate to United Way’s COVID-19 fund (SMN, April 10, 2020) Second Harvest feeds Savannah workers affected by COVID-19 outbreak (SMN, April 16, 2020) Grab & Go kids’ meals available in Port Wentworth (SMN, April 29, 2020) (32:00): What the future holds and what statistics are saying about the need for Second Harvest in the coming months BUNNY IN THE CITY: Community giving continues during pandemic (SMN, April 25, 2020) Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Having become transfixed with Savannah on many visits, Jamie Credle turned her own affection for Savannah through a series of trips into becoming one of the focal points of other visitors' excursions to the Hostess City. Joining the Davenport House Museum in the early 2000s, Credle has helped shepherd the house into the 21st century with new education and outreach programs. Now, as the house looks to celebrate its 200th anniversary, Credle gives a peek into the history of the family, the house itself and historic preservation in Savannah while also looking at how things will change following the coronavirus pandemic and its effects on Savannah tourism. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (3:25): Davenport House's rise to prominence in the 1820s and beyond (10:22): Davenport House history after the family leaves (14:58): The threat of demolition to the house in the 1950s and the birth of historic preservation in Savannah World premiere opera tells story of Anna Hunter, leader of Savannah’s historic preservation movement (Oct. 26, 2017, DoSavannah.com) (19:16): Importance of saving the Davenport House to Savannah From the Archives: Davenport House (SMN) (23:00): Coming to Savannah and finding a home with the Davenport (27:53): The museum's focus on educating its patrons and how they have shaped that Savannah’s curse: Yellow fever returns through Davenport House Museum’s annual living history program (Oct. 1, 2018, SMN) Enjoy 19th century holidays at Davenport House (Dec. 14, 2019, SMN) Davenport House Museum shares colonial tea experience (Feb. 29, 2020, SMN) (32:26): How the museum has shifted to encompass the entire history of the house Savannah museums: Interpreting slavery a path to ending inequality (Feb. 24, 2018, SMN) Viewpoints: Telling the story of slavery from the slaves’ perspectives (Mar. 25, 2018, SMN) (37:25): How COVID-19 is impacting the 200th anniversary and museum-going in general (45:34): What Savannah tourism could look like following the coronavirus pandemic Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Most people may know Mark Murphy's writing before they know his face or voice as the local physician has garnered as much admiration for his writing as his health work. Now in the midst of a global pandemic, Murphy has taken to combining both health and writing to craft his "Journal of a Plague Year" as he documents his work through the COVID-19 crisis. On this episode of Difference Makers, Murphy discusses coming to Savannah, gaining a passion for writing, meeting his wife and what people should be aware of and learn from with the coronavirus outbreak. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (8:40): Interest in writing, medicine (11:54): Going to the University of Georgia Mark Murphy column: An ode to college football (SMN, Sept. 1, 2019) Mark Murphy column: Why I love college football (SMN, Nov. 9, 2019) (15:10): Return to Savannah and his relationship with his wife Mark Murphy column: Reflections on three decades as a physician (SMN, Aug. 17, 2019) (20:51): What sparked a return to writing (23:44): Shifting from writing columns to writing novels (30:28): "Journal of a Plague Year" Journal of the Plague Year: Savannah physician chronicles fight with coronavirus (SMN, March 21, 2020) Mark Murphy column: A Journal of the Plague Year, week two (SMN, March 28, 2020) (33:24): The inside view of how the country has responded to COVID-19 (37:22): Local healthcare response (40:46): Lessons we need to learn coming out of this outbreak Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority When many people think of Savannah, they think of a scoop of Leopold's Ice Cream. The brand has become synonymous with the Hostess City and is a reason why Stratton Leopold felt he needed to revive it when he came back to Savannah after a long career in the film industry. On this week's episode of Difference Makers, Leopold talks about his family's history in Savannah, growing up in the city, his time in the film industry, the evolution of the store and what he sees in the future for Leopold's Ice Cream and the film scene in Savannah. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (11:16): His decision to chase different ventures after high school (13:50): First taste of the entertainment industry (22:53): Returning to Savannah and Leopold's Savannah native serves up mega-star hits and multi-scoop cones (SMN, Aug. 24, 2007) Leopold’s Ice Cream: A family affair (SMN, Mar. 25, 2010) (30:41): Celebrating 100 years of Leopold's Leopold’s Ice Cream celebrates 100 years (SMN, Aug. 10, 2019) The Secret Life of Sweets in Savannah: Leopold’s Ice Cream releases book looking at past 100 years (DoSavannah, Feb. 13, 2020) (35:26): Restoration of the original shop Leopold’s ice cream sign restored ‘like new’ (SMN, Dec. 9, 2012) Leopold’s Ice Cream opens at Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SMN, Nov. 17, 2017) (40:26): Experience in the film industry and where it is headed (48:08): Savannah and its film roots Direct spending by film/TV industry at record high for Savannah (SMN, Dec. 19, 2018) SCAD dean column: Why film loves Savannah (SMN, Dec. 15, 2019) Film industry gives $266M boost to local economy in 2019 (SMN, Jan. 18, 2020) (51:33): The future of film in Savannah Georgia’s anti-abortion law leaves local film industry workers in uncertainty, wondering what comes next (SMN, July 6, 2019) Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Being an adjutant for the Savannah St. Patrick's Day is in the family blood for Jay Burke and he is wearing his sash with pride in his second year in the role. On this episode of Difference Makers, Burke, along with his father, Jim, discuss their family history with the parade, what people can expect this year, what an adjutant does to ensure the safety and fun for families coming to see the parade and their fondest memories of the special day for Irish families in Savannah. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (6:50): Importance of the Savannah St. Patrick's Day Parade to the Burke family (10:55): The role of the adjutant in the parade (16:14): Evolution of the parade route and what to look for From the Archives: Savannah St. Patrick’s Day 1950s and 1960s (SMN) From the Archives: Savannah St. Patrick’s Day 1970s and 1980s (SMN) (20:43): The role of the adjutant vs. the executive staff for the parade (25:59): 2020 Savannah St. Patrick's Day Grand Marshal Savannah meets St. Patrick’s Day Grand Marshal Mike Roush at investiture ceremony (SMN, March 1, 2020) (27:25): 2020 Savannah St. Patrick's Day Parade City lays out plans for Savannah St. Patrick’s Day festivities (SMN, Feb. 11, 2020) (34:43): Do's and Don'ts at the parade (37:36): Evolution of the parade and what you are always excited for Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Kayne Lanahan didn't expect to see the massive growth for Savannah Stopover, but in the 10 years of the festival's existence, it has become a staple of the cultural calendar. On this episode of Difference Makers, Lanahan discusses coming up in New York City, coming to Savannah and developing the music festival, what 10 years of Stopover has looked like and where music festivals have gone today that differs from 10-20 years ago. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (9:58): Music blog and coming up in New York City (11:00): Beginning of Stopover and the nature of touring bands (20:30): Reflecting on 10 years of Stopover (24:00): 2020 Savannah Stopover Music Festival (35:00): Savannah's music scene and the difference between Stopover and the Savannah Music Festival (39:15): How music festivals have changed (41:00): Economic impact of the festival Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority From a life of museums and entertainment in the nation's capitol to the bustling squares of Savannah on Festival Saturday, Erika Dongre has found her niche in the Hostess City. Dongre took over the post of executive director of the Savannah Book Festival late last year, but has been around the festival since she moved to the Savannah area and has seen it flourish into a nationally-known event. On this episode, Dongre sits down with host Adam Van Brimmer to discuss growing up in Washington D.C., what led her to Savannah and the book festival, what this year's festival is offering and the process of picking books and bringing in authors that fans of the festival may not have realized. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (9:58): Experience working in D.C. museums (14:37): Joining the Savannah Book Festival team (18:00): Taking over as executive director of the Book Festival Savannah Book Festival announces retirement of executive director (SMN, March 25, 2019) (19:12): 2020 Savannah Book Festival Jami Attenberg’s latest, André Aciman’s ‘Call Me By Your Name’ follow-up among first 2020 Savannah Book Festival announcements (DoSavannah, Oct. 1, 2019) ‘The Joy of Cooking’ duo named closing authors for 2020 Savannah Book Festival (DoSavannah, Dec. 6, 2019) (28:04): How the festival accumulates submissions, selections and picks the line-up (32:28): The author experience in Savannah (36:07): What separates the Savannah Book Festival from similar events (39:56): Future of the festival Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Coming from Savannah's Eastside, Don Waters has been through much of the University System of Georgia as a student with stops at Armstrong State University and the University of Georgia in Athens. While he is technically retired, Waters has cemented himself as a difference maker in the university system after finishing his term as chairman at the end of 2019. On this episode of Difference Makers, Waters talks about growing up in Savannah, returning home, his work with former Mayor Malcolm Maclean and the missions for Georgia Southern and Savannah State. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (9:42): Returning to Savannah (11:29): Working with former Savannah Mayor Malcolm Maclean Georgia Historical Society unveils marker recognizing former Savannah mayor for civil rights efforts (SMN, Nov. 27, 2017) Tom Barton: Former Savannah mayor gets overdue recognition (SMN, Nov. 28, 2017) (19:06): Joining the Board of Regents and his priorities as chairman last year Savannah businessman Don Waters elected Regents chairman (SMN, Nov. 13, 2018) (26:37): Missions, directives and segments of the University System of Georgia (34:12): Mission for Georgia Southern University, responding to consolidation with Armstrong State Growth promised as Armstrong, Georgia Southern merger made official (SMN, Jan. 10, 2017) Armstrong, Georgia Southern consolidation finalized by Georgia Board of Regents (SMN, Dec. 12, 2017) (42:41): Future of Savannah State University SSU merger rumors, decline in student enrollment addressed during NAACP meeting (SMN, July 28, 2019) Editorial: SSU’s downsizing more like a rightsizing (SMN, Aug. 17, 2019) Savannah State enrollment drops, state regents name new chair (SMN, Nov. 12, 2019) (48:15): Misconceptions about college enrollment (55:26): Future of early education and public schooling Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority From the farm and baseball field in Twin City to the medical field in Savannah, Sen. Ben Watson has done a lot prior to jumping into the political field. As he settles into the 2020 Georgia General Assembly session, Sen. Watson is now leading the charge on a number of legislative committees and becoming a head voice among the Senate. On this episode of Difference Makers, he talks about his upbringing in Twin City, his move to Savannah to pursue his medical practice, what he expects for this year's legislative session and some larger political thoughts on the upcoming election cycle. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (10:49): Future of Georgia medicine Commute: Dr. Brooks Keel discusses how the Medical College of Georgia plans to help rural towns (SMN, Sept. 11, 2019) (14:14): Moving into a career in politics (17:58): Challenges with the first campaign and acclimating to political life (21:12): Life working in the Georgia Capitol (26:48): Look ahead to 2020 session Teacher raises 2020 state budget Medicaid waivers (40:03): Voting machine change in Georgia Here's how Georgia's new voting machines work (SMN, Dec. 11, 2019) Editorial: Voting system demo buoys confidence (SMN, Jan. 9, 2020) (42:47): Thoughts on partisan riff in US politics and whether that could affect state elections in 2020 (52:06): Gambling Legalized gambling still work in progress for General Assembly (SMN, Dec. 21, 2019) Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority While his roots may be laid in Brooklyn, Van Johnson is Savannah at his core. The mayor-elect journeyed to the Hostess City to attend college at Savannah State, and chased his passion for civic service back to Savannah when he was looking for work -- developing into various community initiatives and a seat on the city council for over a decade. Now in his new role, he expects to help move the city forward at a critical point in its history. On this episode, he talks about his upbringing in Brooklyn and how that city has changed, his choice to return to Savannah, what the last few weeks after the runoff have been and what he hopes to accomplish over this four year term. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (13:56): Coming to Savannah State from Brooklyn (19:13): Returning to Savannah and finding work (25:04): What the weeks following the runoff have been like Savannah mayoral, District 6 runoff candidates face off one more time (SMN, Dec. 1, 2019) Van Johnson elected as mayor (SMN, Dec. 3, 2019) (33:05): Challenges for the new council (40:24): What's next for the council after swearing in ceremony (45:07): What does he hope to accomplish over the next four years? (52:05): How can we bridge the race/class gap in Savannah? Savannah mayoral candidate apologizes for attending meeting that barred non-black reporters (SMN, March 29, 2019) (56:52): What can the new council do to build on what the previous council did with affordable housing and poverty in the city? Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Journeying to Coastal Georgia from the mountains of East Tennessee, Brad Harmon has found a place for himself at Savannah's longest-running law firm, HunterMaclean. Building on 140 years of history, the firm continues to grow and thrive, influencing many parts of the city with people such as Harmon leading the charge. On this episode of Difference Makers, Harmon talks about growing up in the shadow of Dolly Parton in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., going from the University of Tennessee to Mercer University where he met his eventual wife and their move to Savannah. He also look at the changes in law around the city, what the most recent election means for firms such as his and the prospect of artificial intelligence in the law practice. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (10:30): Coming to Savannah and starting his career (13:46): Starting at HunterMaclean and rising up the ranks (15:00): Managing partner role at HunterMaclean (20:42): 140 year history of HunterMaclean HunterMaclean celebrates 140 years (SMN, Oct. 19, 2019) (25:47): HunterMaclean today 23 HunterMaclean attorneys listed in Best Lawyers (SMN, Aug. 29, 2018) (29:05): How HunterMaclean has built a reputation for their work Hunter Maclean senior attorneys look at service, strengths, community (SMN, June 2, 2018) (38:18): Impact of government change on a law firm (41:52): Artificial intelligence in the law practice How Artificial Intelligence Is Changing Law Firms and the Law (Law Practice Today, April 12, 2019) Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode previously aired on Dec. 7, 2018. To describe the Salvation Army as a calling for Maj. Paul Egan would be an understatement, a more fitting term would be a destiny. Beginning young and growing through the organization, Egan, and his wife Karen, have called many cities home while working with the Salvation Army and their latest is Savannah — a place close to Egan's heart as he was born in Hinesville and grew up in Beaufort. On this episode of Difference Makers, he discusses joining the Salvation Army, how he met Karen, his many stops before coming to the Hostess City, stories from the trail and what he and his organization are doing to help the people of Savannah during this holiday season. Click here to volunteer to help The Salvation Army of Savannah (4:31): Decision to join The Salvation Army (8:52): Cities the Egan family has been designated to (12:18): Making the move to Savannah Savannah's Salvation Army commanding officer moving to lead Asheville branch (SMN, Jun. 16, 2018) The Salvation Army of Savannah (14:39): Red Kettle Campaign (23:36): Women's Auxiliary of Savannah (27:36): History of The Salvation Army (36:00): Homelessness in Savannah Savannah residents, officials talk homelessness at forum (SMN, June 13, 2018) Savannah's homeless talk challenges for getting out of poverty (SMN, Aug. 4, 2018) Letters to the editor: Make homelessness a SPLOST project (SMN, Dec. 3, 2018) Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Tim Jordan may not have the name recognition nationally that someone like Shannon Sharpe or Pervis Ellison, but he has made as much of an impact with the local community. Coming to Savannah to play football at Savannah State, Jordan has found a home in the city and has championed countless students and garnered over 500 wins in his coaching career. On this episode of Difference Makers, Jordan discusses deciding to come to Savannah, his athletic career, some of the best ball players he has seen come through the city and what he does to coach and mentor his players. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (10:15): Coming to Savannah for school (15:23): Joining the staff at Savannah High School Photos: Tim Jordan through the years at Savannah High (SMN, Dec. 14, 2018) (22:06): Best basketball player he has seen in Savannah NBA's Kwame Brown gives back (SMN, June 16, 2011) Savannah Hall of Fame 2016 class includes former basketball star Pervis Ellison (SMN, April 19, 2016) (27:12): Jordan's coaching style and the coaches he has influenced Utaff Gordon takes over as Johnson basketball coach (SMN, June 20, 2012) A day to remember for Jenkins' Bakari Bryant (SMN, March 8, 2015) (35:00): Mentoring kids today (38:09): Changes in coaching high school sports, and just prep sports in general, since he started Savannah High boys basketball coach Tim Jordan earns 500th career victory (SMN, Dec. 14, 2018) (52:46): 2019 season in Savannah Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority The initial path wasn't aimed at the military, but Sgt. Anthony Kingdom made his way to the Marines after some stops in school, machinery and even McDonald's. While he didn't view himself a military man at first, Sgt. Kingdom has thrived in the role, including earning consideration for a larger post with the National Color Guard. Locally, he is working this year as the coordinator for Savannah's Toys for Tots campaign, and on this episode of Difference Makers, speaks about his upbringing, what they have seen with this year's campaign and seeing the joy in a child's face when they receive a toy. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (13:27): Deciding to join the U.S. Marine Corp. (20:54): Participating in the color guard during the 2019 Veterans Day Parade Honoring those who serve at 2019 Savannah Veterans Day Parade (SMN, Nov. 12, 2019) Spotted®: 2019 SavannahVeterans Day Parade (SMN) (25:04): Becoming affiliated with Toys for Tots (30:02): This year's Toys for Tots drive in Savannah (34:46): Origins of Toys for Tots and how it has grown (38:26): Advice for helping with this year's drive Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority It's hard to escape a love of food when you hail from New Orleans, but Jan Gourley has taken those roots and helped to cultivate the culinary scene in Savannah. Founding the Savannah Food & Wine Festival in 2013, Gourley and the people behind the festival have been one of the linchpins in bringing Savannah's food scene to the attention of the nation and the world with a festival that is the desire of locals and visitors alike each year. On this episode of Difference Makers, Gourley speaks about the origins of the festival, what they wanted to accomplish by bringing an event like this to Savannah, how this festival differs from others and marketing in the digital age. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (7:36): Working in real estate advertising during the 2008 market crash and moving to Hilton Head (11:12): Beginning the festival in Savannah Michael Owens: Food & Wine Festival achieves goal to liven quiet months (SMN, Nov. 9, 2018) (14:13): The first Savannah Food & Wine Festival and how the plan has shifted Savannah food and wine festival to debut in November (SMN, May 20, 2013) Stars align for first Savannah Food and Wine Festival (SMN, Nov. 9, 2013) (23:04): 2019 festival events Dine Savannah: Six degrees of preparation: Annual James Beard Foundation dinner features sextet of local chefs to highlight Food & Wine Festival (Do Savannah, Oct. 30, 2019) Savannah’s culinary Dames make their debut at Food and Wine Fest’s ‘Talk and Taste’ event (Do Savannah, Oct. 30, 2019) (31:44): Chef treatment at food and wine festivals and how the Savannah one is different The Festival Industrial Complex: How food festivals hurt the chefs they’re meant to help (LA Times, Oct. 14, 2019) (35:18): The explosion of food and wine festivals and what their appeal is Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority Nobody is prepared for the day when they are told they have cancer, but it was even more of a surprise to Margie Singleton as she had done all of the steps leading up to the diagnosis as she was instructed. Unfortunately for her, breast density recognition lagged in the state of Georgia, and her annual mammogram didn't catch the tumor found in her breast. Singleton is a fighter though — and after fighting off cancer, she moved her fight to the Georgia Capitol where she shepherded "Margie's Law" in 2019 that helped women not have to deal with the uncertainty she did when she was first diagnosed. On this episode of Difference Makers, Singleton talks about her cancer diagnosis and what effect it had on her, her family and their friends as well as the fight to the Capitol to get the law passed and what is next for her and the Margie's Army Foundation. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (7:39): Margie's cancer diagnosis story (11:42): Learning about breast density and what women need to know prior to getting a mammogram SoftVue 3D mammogram trials look at dense breast solution (SMN, Sept. 29, 2018) Pink: Get to know your breast density (SMN, Sept. 25, 2019) (15:04): Learning more about her own case and what was next for her fight (19:41): How the diagnosis affected her family and friends (27:43): Presenting Margie's Law to Rep. Hitchens and beginning the process (32:45): Working the bill through the Georgia legislation LISTEN: Rep. Bill Hitchens - Key Issues for 2019 session (SMN, Jan. 15, 2019) (37:12): Watching the bill turn into law after Gov. Kemp signed it Margie's Law makes mammogram reports more useful (SMN, Oct. 3, 2019) (41:50): What's next for Margie's Army after the legislation passed (45:09): Upcoming events and ways to get involved with the Margie's Army Foundation Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority The intersection of art and policy has always been apart of Dare Dukes' life, which made him a natural to fill in his current role with the Deep Center — an organization specializing in giving Savannah's youth a voice and developing their skills to make an impact in their community. As the organization grows, Dukes seeks to instill even more of a voice in each of the kids going through the program. On this episode, he speaks to his background in music and writing, what led him and his wife to Savannah, his fascination with the Deep Center, what changed once he got involved and what they are trying to do in order to help Savannah's youth rise past the ceilings above them. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (10:43): Moving to Savannah and getting familiar with Deep (13:28): Mission of the Deep Center and what they strive to impart on kids (18:26): Elevating his role at Deep and beginning to expand the programs (22:57): White House visit in 2015 with Deep writer (27:31): Upcoming events and initiatives  (37:05): Why develop speaking skills as much as reading? (43:10): How does the work with kids inspire the staff? Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority A connection to home seems to be what keeps Quentin Marlin here in Savannah even with multiple offers to leave. He has parlayed that connection into a number of community organizations and a partnership at Ellis, Painter, Ratterree & Adams where he serves as an attorney. Marlin also sits on a number of boards, including the Savannah Economic Development Authority, Second Harvest and the Chatham County Zoning Board of Appeals. On this week's episode of Difference Makers, Marlin speaks with Adam about his life leading up to the law profession, which includes a stint in the service following September 11, and why he has stuck around Savannah. He also discusses the work he does around the city and what is next for Savannah as it seeks to expand. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer 7:51): Entering the service after September 11 and his post-service work (13:03): Working in politics with Jack Kingston (18:22): Going to law school and beginning his work in the field Generation Next: Quentin Marlin (SMN, Jan. 19, 2015) (22:04): Legal trends coming up in Savannah with judge seat changes and working on the state's appointment board Chatham County Judge Michael Karpf to retire after 40 years; son Benjamin takes bench as court reshuffles (SMN, Dec. 25, 2018) Gov. Kemp names two Savannah attorneys for Judicial NominatingCommission (SMN, Feb. 8, 2019) Chatham County Superior Court Judge James F. Bass Jr. to retire at end of current term; two seek to replace him (SMN, Aug. 1, 2019) (27:22): Changes in banking and real estate during his time working in the field (31:02): Community service work Touring Bethesda Academy: A Trip through History (SMN) America's Second Harvest of Coastal Georgia hosting drive-thru food distribution for low income families on Thursday (SMN, May 20, 2019) (35:11): Work on the Chatham County Zoning Board of Appeals (39:36): Economic development and leadership futures in Savannah Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.

This episode is brought to you by the Savannah Economic Development Authority To say that Meg Heap is a worker is an understatement. Keeping a steady work ethic since she was 15, Heap has made her way around the state and finally back to her home in Savannah as the Chatham County District Attorney after stops in Statesboro and Cherokee County. Now settled in Savannah, Heap has focused on assisting victims and bringing efficiency and stability to the DA office. In this episode of Difference Makers, she talks about her choice to become a prosecutor even though it was less lucrative than other professions in her field, her appointment to the position, some programs they have instituted in the county and how her team deals with stress. Podcast listeners: Get digital SMN subscription by clicking here for a special offer (10:34): Choice to become a prosecutor (14:06): Moving from a rural county court to a more urban one (19:40): Leaving and then eventually returning to the DA office Chatham County District Attorney Meg Heap named state DA of the year (SMN, July 21, 2019) (23:14): Establishing efficiency in the DA office (26:50): Programs directed at helping at-risk youth in Chatham County DA Heap sets new program for Savannah domestic violence victims (SMN, Apr. 15, 2018) (34:30): Family Justice Center December opening planned for Savannah's Family Justice Center (SMN, Aug. 17, 2019) (38:43): Dealing with stress in the job (44:03): Managing relationships with judges Make sure to follow The Commute podcast for daily news briefs from Adam.