Closer Look with Rose Scott

On today’s edition of "Closer Look with Rose Scott," we continue our weeklong series, “FAILING GRADE: Analysis of America's Public Education Crisis.” The series explores the current state of public education in Georgia and across the nation, from pre-K to higher-ed. For day two of the series, we continue with PART 2 our visit to Black MicroSchools ATL. Rose speaks with the co-founder April Jackson about the school which predominantly serves African American children and uses a curriculum that celebrates Black culture and contributions. Jackson explains why she values non-traditional education and gives insight into the sustainability of her school. Also, a professor breaks down a study that explores how young Black male students are disciplined as opposed to their white counterparts. Guests include:  April M. Jackson, the co-founder of Black Microschools ATL Calvin Zimmermann, an assistant professor of education in Notre Dame's Sociology DepartmentSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This year marks 70 years since the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in the Brown v. Board of Education. The historic decision outlawed segregation in schools across the nation. Fast forward to now, school systems are still facing multiple challenges and equity issues. On today’s edition of "Closer Look with Rose Scott," we begin our weeklong series, “FAILING GRADE: Analysis of America's Public Education Crisis.” The series explores the current state of education in Georgia and across the nation, from pre-K to higher-ed.  Guest include:  April M. Jackson, the co-founder of Black Microschools ATL U.S. Department of Education Secretary Dr. Miguel Cardona Kamau Bobb, the founding senior director of the Constellations Center for Equity in Computing at Georgia Tech Ed Chang, the executive director of redefinED atlanta Tiffany Fick, the director of School Quality and Advocacy at Equity in Education Lupita Quezada, a program coordinator for the Latino Community Fund Georgia See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click Here podcast host Dina Temple-Raston talks with Rose about a recent interview with the self-proclaimed leader of the LockBit ransomware group. He goes by the name LockBitSupp and is reportedly behind the recent Fulton County cyberattack.  Plus, WABE politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali return to “Closer Look.” First, Gringlas reports on breaking news. He discusses the latest following Fulton County Superior Judge Scott McAfee's ruling that allows District Attorney Fani Willis to continue prosecuting the Georgia election interference case only if special prosecutor Nathan Wade resigns. Bali then discusses the latest news happening at the state capitol as the 2024 Georgia legislative comes close to an end. Lastly, Rose sits down with Cindy Parlow Cone, the president of the United States Soccer. The former Hall-of-Famer and Olympian discusses why Atlanta could be the host city for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. She also discusses plans for a new state-of-the-art training facility in Fayette County, GA. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Timothy Fields, a senior associate dean of admissions at Emory University, and Shereem Herndon-Brown, the founder and chief education officer of Strategic Admissions Advice, discuss their new book, the second edition of “The Black Family’s Guide to College Admissions: A Conversation about Education, Parenting, and Race.” They also share how they hope their book will serve as a resource tool following the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent decision to end race-conscious admissions. Plus, Dr. Pearl Dowe is the vice provost for faculty affairs at Emory University and a political science and African American studies professor. She talks with Rose about her new book, “The Radical Imagination of Black Women: Ambition, Politics, and Power.” The book explores the political ambition of African American women and their efforts to seek public leadership despite facing multiple barriers. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee has dismissed some of the charges against former President Donald Trump and others in the 2020 Georgia election interference case. WABE politics reporter Sam Gringlas discusses the latest. Meanwhile, Fred Hicks, an Atlanta-based political strategist, and Tammy Greer, a clinical assistant professor at Georgia State University in the Department of Public Management and Policy, provide a recap of the Georgia primary. They also explain how both major political parties might campaign moving forward now that President Joe Biden and former President Trump have secured their respective parties' presidential nominations. Plus, the "Leave it Blank" campaign, from the Listen to Georgia Coalition, requested for Democratic primary voters to leave their ballot blank when they headed to the polls on Tuesday. The campaign was an attempt to put pressure on President Joe Biden for a permanent cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas War. Azka Mahmood, an advisory board member of the Council on American-Islamic Relations Action Georgia and a member of the Listen to Georgia Coalition, discusses the results of the campaign.  Lastly, Rivian has paused its plans to build a $5 billion manufacturing facility in Georgia. Larry Williams, the president and CEO of the Technology Association of Georgia, discusses how Rivian’s decision could impact the state’s economy and reputation as an electric vehicle and tech hub.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rivian Automotive is pausing the construction of its $5 billion manufacturing plant in Georgia. Rivian’s CEO Robert Scaringe says the company decided to halt plans for the factory to move production of new models to an Illinois facility. Tom Smith, a professor in the practice of finance at Emory University, gives his analysis of the potential economic impact of Rivian’s stalled development.  Plus, in celebration of National Impact Day of Service, the Black Family Wellness Expo is being held on March 16, at Greenbriar Mall. Dr. Nicole Martin Franks, who serves as a professor of Emergency Medicine at Emory University School of Medicine and the interim chief quality officer at Emory Healthcare, discusses the importance of specific annual health assessments and screenings.  Also, GBH News political reporter Saraya Wintersmith discusses her new podcast, “What Is Owed.” The podcast explores what reparations might look like in one of the oldest cities in America that enslaved Africans, Boston Massachusetts.  Lastly, attorney Giselle Carson, who practices business immigration and compliance at Marks Gray reveals how complex the United States’ immigration compliance process is to navigate and how an increase in processing fees is supposed to solve some problems.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Morehouse School of Medicine recently launched the Institute of Translational Genomic Medicine. Dr. Melissa Davis, who serves as the institute’s director, discusses how it will serve as a national hub for genetic information on people of African descent. Davis also discusses a new $25 million grant that she received to address cancer disparities in populations of African ancestry. Hip-hop producer Corey Dennard and environmentalist Michael Hawthorne Jr. are the co-creators of Klean Energy Kulture. Their mission is to make the clean energy lifestyle accessible to communities of color and the world by 2035. They argue that Black and Brown communities are suffering the brunt of environmental injustice. They talk with Rose about their efforts to bring swagger to fighting climate change. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Keisha Sean Waites is stepping down from her seat as the Post 3 At-Large member of the Atlanta City Council. Waites talks with Rose Scott about her decision to now run for the Fulton County Clerk of Superior and Magistrate Courts. She also discusses the highlights of her time in office, as well as her frustrations. Rose recently talked with organizers of the "Leave it Blank" campaign from the Listen to Georgia Coalition. The new coalition is asking for Democratic primary voters to leave their ballot blank when they head to the polls. Coalition representatives say it’s an attempt to put pressure on President Joe Biden for a permanent ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war. Now, GSU Clinical Assistant Professor Tammy Greer returns to “Closer Look,” to give political analysis on whether a protest vote can be effective. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Listen to Georgia Coalition is leading its own “Leave It Blank” Campaign for the Georgia Primary. Clara Green, an organizer with Jewish Voice for Peace Action and Georgia State Rep. Ruwa Romman discuss their effort to "warn President Biden that he must stop enabling the genocide in Gaza or risk losing the 2024 presidential election."Clark Atlanta University will host The Black Women and Public Policy in the South Symposium. Black women from several different sectors will gather to discuss issues that impact them and formulate possible solutions. Nykia Greene-Young, a Domestic Policy Coordinator & Adjunct Professor of Political Science previews Wednesday’s event.State Senator Sonya Halpern discusses SB 235, an effort to grow and support Historically Black Colleges and Universities by establishing a commission focused on innovation and economic prosperity.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Taylor Shelton, a geographer and an assistant professor at Georgia State University, discusses new research from GSU and Rutgers University that reveals three companies own more than 19,000 rental homes in metro Atlanta.  Plus, Wendell Griffen, a retired Arkansas Court of Appeals & Circuit Court Judge, discusses the potential impact of the Alabama Supreme Court’s recent ruling that frozen embryos can be considered children, therefore they are protected under Alabama’s Wrongful Death of a Minor Act.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday marked Crossover Day and there are only 12 more days left in the 2024 legislative session. Lawmakers have rushed to advance proposed bills in the State House and Senate. On today’s special edition of “Closer Look,” Rose talks with guests about some of the bills that are closer to becoming law, such as the Religious Liberty Bill, a measure opponents describe as anti-LGBTQ. Also advancing are pieces of legislation focused on first responders with PTSD, immigration and Georgia’s film tax credit. Guests will also discuss legislation that has struggled to advance, such as an effort to eliminate taxes on women’s menstrual products. Guest include:  WABE’s politics reporter Rahul Bali Gwinnett County Police Sergeant Ashley Wilson Claire Cox, the Chair of Georgia STOMP Jeff Graham, the executive director of Georgia EqualitySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Closer Look team heads to The Ke’nekt Cooperative in the historic Westview neighborhood in southwest Atlanta for the February installmentof “Coffee Conversations.”  Maynard Jackson, Atlanta’s first Black mayor, believed in community participation. In 1974, he established the Neighborhood Planning Units system. The NPU system consists of 25 citizen advisory councils that represent communities throughout Atlanta. Rose talks with panelists about the power of community as it relates to economic development, housing, transit, community safety, etc.  Guests include:                    Kiyomi Rollins, the co-founder of The Ke'nekt Cooperative Atlanta City Councilmember Jason Dozier  Rohit Malhotra, the executive director of the Center for Civic Innovation Terry Ross, the parliamentarian for NPU-T   Kyle Lamont, chair of NPU-S Mrs. Catherine, Westview legacy residentSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With time ticking away until Crossover Day, WABE’s politics reporter Rahul Bali gives an update on the latest bills to advance through the legislature, including sports betting. He also discussed the recent retirement announcement of Democratic Georgia State Senate Minority Leader Gloria Butler.                                                                                                Plus, the ATL Action for Racial Equity initiative was created to provide a blueprint for local companies aiming to create more equitable, diverse, and inclusive organizations. The initiative is now in its third year. Michael Baptiste, who serves as the Metro Atlanta Chamber's vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion, returns to “Closer Look” to discuss the results of the ATL Action for Racial Equity 2024 Assessment Report. Lastly, preparations are underway for the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup. According to the recently released schedule, Georgia’s capital city will host eight soccer matches, including a semifinal. The event is expected to draw massive crowds. Dan Corso, the president of the Atlanta Sports Council, discussed how Atlanta is gearing up for one of the largest sporting events in the world. He also shared how Atlanta is courting the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Crossover Day is fast approaching. WABE politics reporter Rahul Bali joins “Closer Look” to highlight some of the most notable bills, including legislation on the certificate of need, swatting, and whether white shrimp should be the official state crustacean.  Plus, We preview a snippet of Rose’s conversation with Cynthia Parlow Cone, the president of the United States Soccer Federation. The soccer executive discusses the possibility of Atlanta hosting the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.  Lastly, Georgia legislators are considering House Bill 1180, which would put new requirements in place for the state's film tax credit program. Ken Goldwasser is an Atlanta-based picture car coordinator for movie productions. He has worked for various studios, including Marvel and Tyler Perry. Goldwasser discusses his opposition to the bill. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The U.S. is on a mission to lead the world in the production of electric vehicles and batteries. This all comes as Georgia Governor Brian Kemp is pushing the Peach State to be a frontrunner, by becoming the electric mobility capital of the U.S. On today’s edition of “Closer Look,” Rose talks with guests about the current state of EV production and adoption in the U.S. and what’s being done to increase the EV workforce. Guests include:  Mark Phelan, an auto critic and columnist for the Detroit Free Press Jim Burness, and the CEO of National Car Charging Dr. Jessica Hutcheson, the vice president of learning and development for ChargerHelp! Jenny Taylor, the vice president of career services and the chief mission officer for Goodwill of North GeorgiaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The South Carolina Primary is happening this weekend. Polls suggest Former President Donald Trump is leading against Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley. Both candidates are on the campaign trail in the Palmetto State today ahead of voters going to the polls on Saturday. WABE politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali join “Closer Look” from South Carolina to discuss the latest and why Georgians are paying close attention to this race.  In honor of Black History Month, the Center for Studies on Africa and Its Diaspora (CSAD) at Georgia State University is hosting a global read-a-thon to celebrate literature from Africa and the African diaspora. Edvige Jean-François, who serves as the executive director of CSAD, talks more about the event and how it aims to unite readers and strengthen cross-cultural connections. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pen America reports nearly 6,000 books have been banned across the U.S. since 2021. On Thursday night, Charis Books & More is hosting a discussion on "Writing for Kids in an Age of Censorship.” Children’s author Laurel Snyder joins “Closer Look” to talk more about the criticism and backlash she’s received for her own work, and the ongoing challenges writers face as more books are banned across the U.S.  Plus, surveys show a growing amount of tipping fatigue among consumers. While the Pew Research Center found that 72% of U.S. adults believe tipping is expected in more places than five years ago, Bankrate.com reports 66% of people are not happy about it. Drew DeSilver, a senior writer and editor with the Pew Research Center, discusses tipping trends and negative consumer sentiment.Lastly, Rose talks with Emily Chan, the co-owner of JenChan's. Her business recently received blacklash for including a 4% employee health insurance surcharge on their customers' bills. Chan further explains the ongoing challenges small business owners are facing while trying to stay afloat during unsteady economic times.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Georgia State professor and generative AI expert Arun Rai offers insight and concerns regarding deepfake technology and the upcoming election. Plus, Georgia Deputy Attorney General John Fowler argued that owning a burner cell phone can be evidence of criminal intent in the ongoing Atlanta Public Safety Training Center RICO case. Samantha Hamilton, a project attorney at the University of Georgia First Amendment Law Clinic, discusses the constitutional implications of this argument.  Lastly, film directors Lisa Cortes and Diego Hurtado de Mendoz spotlight the journeys of the first Black astronauts for NASA's space program in their new National Geographic documentary, “The Space Race." See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After 16 years, the City of Duluth is under new leadership. Greg Whitlock, who was recently sworn in as mayor, talks with Rose about his top priorities, his plans to expand the city’s business core, and his overall vision for the city.  Plus, from a legal perspective, former DeKalb County District Attorney Gwen Keyes breaks down the strategy from both the defendants and the prosecution in the evidentiary hearing regarding Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis. At issue is whether a conflict of interest resulted from the personal relationship Willis had with special prosecutor Nathan Wade. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WABE politics reporter Sam Gringlas returns to “Closer Look” to discuss the latest details of the evidentiary hearing involving Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and Nathan Wade, the special prosecutor she hired for the 2020 Georgia election interference case.  Plus, as the 2024 Georgia legislative session continues, Andrea Young, the executive director of the ACLU of Georgia returns to the program. She discusses several bills lawmakers are considering that her organization considers to be “anti-LGBTQ”. Lastly, Georgia requires some utility companies to hold off disconnections for customers dealing with serious illness. However, many small electric providers are not required to adhere to that rule. A new ProPublica investigation looks at the impact of not having this regulation in place. Rose talks with ProPublica reporters Aliyya Swaby and Max Blau about their report. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Wednesday’s edition of "Closer Look with Rose Scott," we examine an ongoing conflict surrounding maps for the Cobb County Board of Education. This debate goes back to the 2020 U.S. Census when population data revealed how the county’s demographics have changed. More recently, a lawsuit was filed by residents, claiming that Black and Hispanic voters were “packed” into specific districts to dilute their vote and preserve a white majority on the school board. They also claimed that the typical process of redrawing the map was not followed. U.S. District Court Judge Eleanor Ross then ordered Georgia lawmakers to redraw the maps. The maps were redrawn and signed by Gov. Kemp in Jan. 2024, but Democratic lawmakers are still concerned about the current map and how it got in front of Judge Ross. Rose talks with several guests about the developing story. Guests include: Juma Sei, WABE’s education reporter Cobb County Board of Elections and Registration Chair Tori Silas  Ben Mathis, a managing partner with Freeman, Mathis & Gary, LLPCory Isaacson, the legal director of the ACLU of GeorgiaMaariya Sheikh, a Cobb County senior and member of the Georgia Youth Justice Coalition See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Senate Bill 333, which supports the creation of the City of Mulberry in Gwinnett County, awaits Governor Kemp’s signature. Rose recently interviewed Majority Leader Chuck Efstration, who sponsored House Bill 869, which is a duplicate bill of Senate Bill 333. Today, we hear from Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners Chair Nicole Love Hendrickson. She discusses the commissioners’ opposition to the proposed cityhood movement.  According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Americans paid nearly $9 Billion in overdraft fees in 2022. Brian Shearer, the senior advisor at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, discusses the challenges consumers are having with increasing overdraft and junk fees and what the federal government is doing to protect consumers.  Plus, funeral services are being held today for Dr. Gwendolyn Harris Middlebrooks, a civil rights activist and beloved educator. In her honor, we revisit a conversation Rose had with Middlebrooks and other members of the Atlanta Student Movement. During the discussion, Middlebrooks recalls her participation in sit-ins.   Lastly, Cecilia Marquez, an assistant professor of history at Duke University, discusses her book, "Making the Latino South: A History of Racial Formation."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s week six of the Georgia legislative session. WABE politics reporter Rahul Bali returns to “Closer Look” to provide an update following a medical emergency during a Senate hearing and the latest news happening at the Georgia State Capitol. Show host Rose Scott then talks with Democratic Representative Lisa Campbell about two bills some lawmakers are concerned about. Specifically, HB 501, which if passed, would loosen Georgia’s child labor laws, and SB 367, which aims to eliminate voter drop boxes across the state. Bali then gives an update regarding a bill that would limit deposits for housing and a bill aimed to crack down on swatting, a practice of alerting law enforcement or other first responders with false allegations of criminal or harmful activity at another person's address. Plus, Mary Anne Adams, the founder and executive director of ZAMI NOBLA, the National Organization of Black Lesbians on Aging, reflects on Audre Lorde’s writings and legacy and shares details about how ZAMI is celebrating what would’ve been Lorde’s 90th birthday through a hybrid read-a-thon.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Raphael Bostic, the president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, discusses inflation, interest rates and the current state of the U.S. economy. He also explains his economic outlook for 2024 and how the economy’s performance in 2023 exceeded his expectations.  Plus, Michele Norris is a Peabody Award-winning journalist, author, and former co-host of NPR's “All Things Considered.” She joins “Closer Look,” to discuss her new book, "Our Hidden Conversations: What Americans Really Think About Race And Identity." See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A study of data from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission found that Georgia ranks third highest in the nation for workplace discrimination. Retaliation, racial discrimination and sexual discrimination are the three most common types of discrimination cases faced in the state. Brad Dozier, the managing principal of the Dozier Law Group in Atlanta, explains how employment discrimination is defined, why it’s so common in Georgia and what employees can do to protect themselves.  Plus, according to the 2023 Official LDC U.S. Latino GDP Report, Georgia has witnessed a surprising surge in its Latino economy, growing at an annual rate of just over 7% between 2011 and 2021. Ana Valdez, the president and CEO of the Latino Donor Collaborative, discusses Latinos’ contribution to the U.S. economy and what their financial power could mean for the 2024 presidential election.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Keeping girls in sports is critical. Data suggests that girls in Georgia play sports at a far lower rate than boys (119k vs. 80k), despite the lifelong benefits. In honor of National Girls and Women in Sports Day, show host Rose Scott talks with several guests about the importance of female representation and participation in the world of sports, plus the impact athletics can have on a young girl’s life.  Guests include: Morgan Shaw Parker, the president and COO of the WNBA’s Atlanta DreamHaley Jones, a forward-guard for the WNBA’s Atlanta DreamLeah Edmond, outside hitter of the Atlanta VIBEGrace Cleveland, right-side hitter the Atlanta VIBECharles Edwards, a parent of a youth basketball playerMcKenna, the daughter of Kelli and CJ Stewart, and a tennis coachSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Georgia requires some utility companies to hold off on disconnections for customers dealing with serious and costly illnesses. However, many small electric providers are not required to adhere to that policy. A new ProPublica investigation looks at the impact of not having this regulation in place. Rose talks with ProPublica reporters Aliyya Swaby and Max Blau about their report. Plus, Senate Bill 63 awaits Georgia Governor Brian Kemp's signature, but civil and human rights groups are calling the legislation "regressive." They say its expansion of cash bail and extreme limits on bail funds hosted by charities, individuals, and organizations could lead to jail overcrowding. Tiffany Roberts, a public policy director at the Southern Center for Human Rights, discusses her organization’s concerns. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis has acknowledged her personal relationship with Special Prosecutor Nathan Wade. However, Willis argues that she should not be disqualified from the Georgia election interference case following her admission. Rose talks with WABE politics reporter Sam Gringlas, Edward Queen, an associate teaching professor at Emory University's Center for Ethics, and Fred Hicks, an Atlanta-based political strategist. The guests discuss the latest in the case, how it’s being perceived publicly and the potential impact the case could have on Democratic and Republican campaign strategies in the 2024 presidential election. Lastly, Marine Corps Veteran Raul Torres discusses the Atlanta Veterans Job Fair that’s being held Thurs., Feb, 8, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium from 11 am to 3 pm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has signed off on House Bill 30, which defines antisemitism. State Representative Becky Evans (D-Atlanta) voted “no” on the measure, citing concerns that HB 30 could suppress criticism of the Israeli government. After discovering racially insensitive yearbook photos from the 1960’s, Emory University tasked itself with honoring the enslaved people who built the original campus and the Indigenous people who owned the land. Dr. Anjulet Tucker, the Director of Presidential Initiatives at Emory discusses the multi-year projects to tell the story of the university’s past.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s edition of Closer Look with Rose Scott, Ken Zeff and Alfred “Shivy” Brooks are the newest members of the Atlanta Board of Education. They talk about the current state of K-12 public education.  The conversation continues with Ken Zeff, who is also the Executive Director for Learn4Life. He discusses the findings within their recent State of Education in Metro Atlanta Annual Report. Then, the Brennan Center for Justice recently released their analysis of local governments and school boards across Georgia’s 159 counties. It found severe underrepresentation for communities of color among elected leaders. Yurij Rudensky, a Senior Counsel for the Brennan Center for Justice breaks down the data. To discuss their advocacy work for communities of color are Aunna Dennis, the Executive Director for Common Cause Georgia and Karuna Ramachandran, the Redistricting Director for ProGeorgia.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Governor Brian Kemp is expected to sign House Bill 30, which defines antisemitism as criticism of the Israeli government and Zionism, into law on Wednesday. WABE politics reporter Rahul Bali returns to “Closer Look” to discuss the signing and the latest news happening at the Georgia State Capitol.  Plus, House Bill 869 and Senate Bill 333 are two proposed bills that are making their way through the Georgia General Assembly that support the creation of the City of Mulberry in Gwinnett County. Majority Leader Chuck Efstration represents House District 104 and sponsored House Bill 869. He joins the program to discuss the legislation that has been heavily opposed by Gwinnett County commissioners. Lastly, NPR’s Weekend Edition Sunday host Ayesha Rascoe discusses her new book, “HBCU Made: A Celebration of the Black College Experience.” The book is a collection of essays from alumni of historically Black colleges and universities, and how these schools shaped their lives.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Author and award-winning journalist Antonia Hylton discusses her new book, “Madness.” The book exposes the mistreatment and abuse of Black patients at Crownsville Hospital, a segregated mental asylum in Maryland, VA during the Jim Crow era. In the book, Hylton interviews former patients about their experiences and makes comparisons to the mental health system of today.   Plus, Steve Davis, the assistant vice president of transportation strategy for Smart Growth America, discusses his organization’s report “Divided by Design.” The report looks at historical data of how one built and one unbuilt highway in Atlanta and Washington D.C. have disproportionately impacted Black residents and what could be done today to address the harm caused by the highways.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matt Hurd, the executive director of Open Doors, discusses their ongoing effort to end homelessness in Atlanta. He also highlights the organization’s $6.7 million campaign to support their Open More Doors initiative, and their work to expand housing resources and services in surrounding metro Atlanta counties.  Plus, show host Rose Scott recently had conversations with two professional athletes about the importance of mentoring Black male youth. Now, leaders from Big Brothers, Big Sisters Metro Atlanta discuss their new, "Level Up," mentoring program, and the importance of mentorship in the post-pandemic era. Guests include: Kwame Johnson, the president and CEO at Big Brothers Big Sisters Metro AtlantaKara Stimpson, the chief impact officer at Big Brothers Big Sisters Metro AtlantaTrikelia Browning, the senior lead mentor at Big Brothers Big Sisters Metro AtlantaMakayla Marshall, a mentee in the "Level Up" mentoring program at Big Brothers Big Sisters Metro AtlantaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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The Closer Look team heads to Finca to Filter in the Old Fourth Ward for the January installment of “Coffee Conversations” Rose talks with panelists about the challenges and successes of operating a small business on or near Atlanta’s Beltline.  Guests include:  Kayla Bellman, the founder and owner of Finca to Filter District 2 Atlanta City Councilmember Amir Farokhi Juan Mendoza, the president of the Old Fourth Ward Business Association  Sarah Pierre, the owner 3 Parks Wine Shop Emily Chan, the co-owner of JenChan’s Lakeisha Jones, the owner of PinkPothos Johnny Martinez, the co-owner of Joystick GamebarSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Now that the Iowa caucus and the New Hampshire primary are over, what’s next? Fred Hicks, an Atlanta-based political strategist and analyst, Janelle King, the co-chair of Let’s Win for America Action, and Georgia State University political science professor Tammy Greer recap the latest. They also discuss specific voter demographics and the latest polling results here in Georgia between President Biden and Former President Donald Trump.  Plus, Dr. Mariel Buqué, an intergenerational trauma expert, a Columbia University–trained, trauma-informed psychologist, professor, and sound bath meditation healer, discusses her new book, “BREAK THE CYCLE: A Guide to Healing Intergenerational Trauma.” See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Deacon Johnny Hollman Sr., who was involved in a minor traffic accident, died on Aug. 10 after he was tased by Atlanta Police Officer Kiran Kimbrough. Officer Kimbrough has been terminated—but Hollman’s family and their attorneys are now demanding further accountability. Attorney Harold Spence discusses a new pending civil rights lawsuit against the City of Atlanta, Kimbrough and the tow truck driver who responded to the scene.  Plus, last week, Staci Fox, the president and CEO of the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute, gave an analysis of Governor Brian Kemp’s budget proposal and talked with Rose about the institute’s 2024 policy priorities. On Tuesday’s program, Kyle Wingfield, the president and CEO of the Georgia Public Policy Foundation, shares his organization’s legislative and budgetary priorities from a perspective of economic freedom, limited government and personal responsibility. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For a roundtable discussion show host Rose Scott talks with several local college presidents about several topics, including the current civil rights movement, the state of women’s rights, the upcoming election as it relates to students, and the recent resignation of Harvard’s president. Guest include: Dr. Helene Gayle, the president of Spelman College, Dr. Leocadia Zak, the president of Agnes Scott College, and Dr. Kathryn McClymond, the president of Oglethorpe University Plus, Rebecca Serna, the executive director of Propel ATL, and Rosalind Tucker, the managing director of Mobility Services at Atlanta Regional Commission, discuss the new Atlanta E-Bike Rebate Program. The program, that launches this spring, will offer up to $2,000 toward an e-bike for an income-qualifying resident. Smaller rebates will apply for residents above the income requirement. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephanie Fischer, the new president and CEO of the Georgia Restaurant Association, talks with show host Rose Scott about several topics, including the current state of restaurants in Georgia, her top priorities this legislative session and what GRA is doing to equip restaurant owners with tools and resources to remain resilient in a changing industry. Plus, Thursday marked one year since environmental activist Manuel Teran was shot and killed near the proposed site for the Atlanta Public Safety Training Center. WABE criminal justice reporter Chamian Cruz shares her latest reporting on the case. Lastly, Staci Fox, the president and CEO (GBPI), returns to “Closer Look,” to give an analysis of Governor Brian Kemp’s budget proposal and the institute’s 2024 policy priorities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Spelman College announced Thursday that the institution has received a $100 million donation from Spelman College Trustee Ronda Stryker and her husband, William Johnston, the chairman of Greenleaf Trust. The donation is the largest single gift that any HBCU has ever received. Juma Sei, WABE’s education reporter, returns to “Closer Look” to discuss the historic gift and its impact.Plus, Georgia is one of 22 states that taxes menstrual products. Now that Georgia lawmakers are back in session for the 2024 legislative session, activists are urging Georgia lawmakers to change the state’s tax code. Claire Cox, the Chair of Georgia STOMP, Rachel Goldberg Perlis, the Legislative committee chair for Georgia STOMP and Elle Knott, the advocacy program manager at YWCA of Greater Atlanta, talk with Rose about their renewed push to get lawmakers to act.Lastly, Don Moreland, the founder of Solar Crowdsource and the executive director of Georgia Solar Energy Association, discusses Solarize Gwinnett and Solarize Cobb. The two volunteer-led community campaigns are happening now to urge homeowners to switch to solar energy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Studies show Black male students who have a Black male teacher or mentor have better academic outcomes. Wednesday’s special edition of "Closer Look with Rose Scott" was a themed show that focused on the importance of mentoring young Black boys. Show host Rose talks with several guests, including former professional athletes who exemplify the transformative power of mentorship through their athletic-based programs.Guests include: CJ and Kelli Stewart are the co-founders of the L.E.A.D. Center For YouthTrevon Wilbourn and Jahliel Callahan, students currently enrolled in the L.E.A.D. Center For Youth's Ambassador programWalt Harris, a LaGrange native, a retired NFL Pro Bowler and the founder of the mentorship initiative Huddle 27See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WABE politics reporter Rahul Bali returns to “Closer Look” to recap the latest news from Georgia’s 2024 legislative session and to discuss some of the key takeaways from Governor Brian Kemp’s State of the State address. Plus, Dr. Michael Lomax, the president and CEO of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), discusses a new $100 million grant from Lilly Endowment Incorporation. It’s part of a bold $1 billion plan to support HBCUs and students.Lastly, Friday marks the ninth year that “Closer Look” has been on the airwaves. Rose and her former co-hosts, WABE’s Denis O’Hayer and Jim Burress, reflect on the past 9 years. They discuss how the daily news program has evolved and continues to serve people in Atlanta and beyond. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's special edition of "Closer Look with Rose Scott," we continue our series that focuses on how post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) impacts first responders. According to the Institutes of Health, more than 80% of first responders experience trauma on the job. However, in Georgia, if a first responder did not suffer physical injury, worker’s compensation is not available for PTSD. Show host Rose Scott talks with Georgia House Reps. Devan Seabaugh and Gregg Kennard about what HB451 could do to meet the mental health needs of first responders. She also speaks with Dr. Barbara Rothbaum about the symptoms and treatment options for PTSD.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's special edition of "Closer Look with Rose Scott," we begin a two-day series discussing a serious health risk among first responders: post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 1 in 3 police officers, firefighters and other emergency personnel are impacted by the disorder. Rose talks with several guests including advocates and first responders about how PSTD affects them and why they are supporting HB 451. The proposed bill would create an insurance program that provides worker’s compensation to first responders who experience trauma. Guests include:  Gwinnett County Police Sergeant Ashley Wilson Brandi Cook, the sister of Gwinnett Battalion Chief Chris Baggett Lyndsey Perry, a 15-year law enforcement veteran Butch Ayers, the executive director of the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police  David Eddins, the fire chief of the Waycross Fire Department and the past president of the Georgia Association of Fire ChiefsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andrea Wenzel, an associate professor at Temple University and former journalist, discusses her new book, “Antiracist Journalism: The Challenge of Creating Equitable Local News." Several news stories in Georgia made national headlines in 2023, including the ongoing efforts to build a police and fire training center in Atlanta, the Georgia election interference case, the passing of former first lady Rosalynn Carter and so much more. Rose talks with Americus Times-Recorder reporter Joshua Windus, Capital B Atlanta's criminal justice reporter Madeline Thigpen and Atlanta Community Press Collective editor Matt Scott about some of the top stories of 2023, the stories they’re following in 2024, and their approach to covering the news.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday marks the start of the 2024 legislative session. WABE politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali return to “Closer Look,” to discuss lawmakers’ priorities, proposed bills and debated issues that could potentially come up during the session. Plus, former Wisconsin Congressman Scott Klug and Fred Hicks, an Atlanta-based political strategist and analyst, provide an analysis of the 2024 presidential election, including the Republican and Democratic national strategies and Georgia’s importance and influence on the race for the White House.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s “Closer Look,” we look back on the most compelling conversations of 2023, as selected by show host Rose Scott. First, Zarickus Worthy and his daughter, Zymeriya discuss their self-published children’s book, “The Drills.” Lastly, we revisit “Closer Look’s” top conversation of the year. Civil rights icon Xernona Clayton, who was honored in 2023 with an 8-foot statue in downtown Atlanta, talks candidly with Rose about her life, her passion to help others and the importance of operating in excellence.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s “Closer Look,” we look back on the most compelling conversations of 2023, as selected by producer Daniel Rayzel. First, we revisit Rose’s conversation with Angela Davis. The civil rights activist discusses the progress of contemporary activism and her decision to return a proclamation from the City of Atlanta. Plus, Kat Albrecht, an assistant professor in the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology at Georgia State University, talks with Rose about the "Serial Effect." Lastly, Claire Dunning, an assistant professor in the School of Public Policy at the University of Maryland and the author of "Nonprofit Neighborhoods: An Urban History of Inequality and the American State," explains the "nonprofit industrial complex.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s “Closer Look ,” we look back on the most compelling conversations of 2023, as selected by producer LaShawn Hudson. Hip-hop turned 50 in 2023. In honor of the musical milestone, “Closer Look” launched its Hip-hop @ 50 series. We revisit Rose’s conversation with Jeezy. In a two-part conversation, the Grammy-nominated recording artist, entrepreneur and author, discusses his new book, “Adversity For Sale,” the power of faith and what led him to pursue a career in music. We also return to Rose’s conversation with Lana Michele Moorer, better known by her stage name MC Lyte. The pioneering emcee talks about her love for music and reflects on her journey to create a name for herself in a male-dominated industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s “Closer Look,” we look back on the most compelling conversations of 2023, as selected by Supervising Producer Tiffany Griffith. In our first conversation, Show Host Rose Scott speaks with parents about raising transgender and genderfluid children. She also talks with a psychotherapist about the impacts Georgia’s SB 140 measure could have on LGBTQ youth. Then, Rose speaks with NASA Astronaut Victor Glover, who will make a historic voyage to the moon this year as the first person of color on a lunar mission. He discusses his journey to becoming an astronaut and how he pushes for more diversity at NASA.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.