“Closer Look’s” second national PRX show examines Atlanta’s income inequality gap. While Georgia’s capital city is rooted in civil rights and it’s bustling with entertainment, sports, technology and culture, data reveals Atlanta is stalled when it comes to economic mobility. In fact, within the last decade, Atlanta has consistently remained atop or near the top for U.S. cities with the worst income inequality. On average, Atlanta’s poorest residents earn around $11,221 per year, while its richest earn around an average of $324,230 per year.

Now, the overarching question remains: What’s driving Atlanta’s income inequality? To find answers, show host Rose Scott examines the past, present and future of the city described by former Atlanta Mayor Ivan Allen in the 1960s as “The City Too Busy to Hate.” Scott talks with Atlantans about the southern city’s identity and its influence on everything from politics to hip-hop. Atlanta natives also share how and why they feel the city has failed to equip all of its residents with the needed tools and resources to become the beloved and equitable community envisioned by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

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Governor Brian Kemp expects Helene will be hurricane-strength once it reaches the Atlanta-area. It’s expected to reach Georgia in the overnight hours with the potential to cause flooding and spin off tornadoes. Authorities expect widespread power outages, quick and intense wind and heavy rain. The governors of Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas have all declared a state of emergency, and President Biden has approved Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp's request for a Federal Emergency Declaration. It will provide federal assistance for state and local response efforts. Georgia’s emergency management has activated hundreds of National Guard Personnel ahead of the arrival of the storm.

Rose checks in with Terri Badour, the executive director of the American Red Cross of Georgia's Greater Atlanta Chapter. She discusses how the Red Cross is responding. Supervising producer Tiffany Griffith gives updates on how the City of Atlanta is preparing, reports on the latest closures, and gives her perspective from the many hurricanes she has covered.

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Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump took center stage in their first presidential debate Tuesday night in Philadelphia. Reproductive rights, immigration, the Israel-Hamas war, and the economy were among some of the top issues discussed during the debate. Both sides are claiming victory, but “Closer Look,” show host Rose Scott gets debate analysis from Andra Gillespie, a political scientist at Emory University. Then, for more reaction to the debate, we hear from Scott Klug, a former Wisconsin congressman, Fred Hicks, an Atlanta-based political strategist and analyst, and GSU politics and policy professor Tammy Greer. They discuss the individual strategies of Trump and Harris during the presidential debate. They also discuss recent political polls and share what they think Democrats and Republicans must do to win the November election. Plus, Tim Franks, an award-winning veteran journalist and host of the BBC News’ flagship radio program, “Newshour” also talks with Scott about the presidential debate and the BBC’s approach to covering U.S. politics. 

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A federal program that helps 1 in 6 Georgia households pay for high-speed internet could soon end. Applications for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) are now closed as President Biden urges Congress to pass funding to extend the subsidy program. Rashad Robinson, the president of Color Of Change, discusses how Georgians could be impacted if the program ends.

Lastly, we will air WABE business reporter Marlon Hyde’s feature from the “Young Business” series. The story spotlights a young business owner who sells ‘stink-free’ socks online.  

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A federal report suggests grocery stores are making huge profits off what's being called "greedflation," the economic idea that businesses kept prices high well after pandemic-era demands cooled off. Dean Baker, a senior economist at the Center for Economic and Policy Research (CEPR), discusses “greedflation” and the latest inflation report, which shows a 3.5% increase since March 2023.

Plus, we air WABE Southside reporter DorMiya Vance's feature from the “Young Business” series. The story spotlights two Black women who opened an agriculture business that opened during the pandemic. 

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Lauren-Brooke a former prosecutor and the head of the criminal justice program at the Brennan Center for Justice, discusses the new book, "Excessive Punishment: How the Justice System Creates Mass Incarceration." The book contains essays from scholars, practitioners and activists— exploring why federal, state and local agencies are contributing to mass incarceration and preventing reform.

Lastly, we air WABE reporter Julien Virgin’s feature from the “Young Business” series. The story spotlights two local martial arts artists who founded the lifestyle clothing brand Certified Fighter.

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Crowds in Georgia and people across the U.S. are gearing up for the 2024 Great North American Eclipse. The eclipse’s path of totality stretches across 13 states. Georgia is not included in the path of totality, but Atlanta is expected to experience the effects of a partial eclipse. Show host Rose Scott talks with Georgia-based astronomy experts Dr. Jim Sowell, a physicist and an astronomy expert who serves as the director of the campus observatory at Georgia Tech, and Mark Lancaster, an astronomy instructor at the Fernbank Science Center. The guests, who have both traveled to Texas to get a closer look at the moon shadowing the sun, discuss the significance of the universe in action.

Lastly, Monday marks 50 years since Hank Aaron's record-breaking 715 home run. It’s when the baseball giant broke Babe Ruth’s all-time home run record. C.J. Stewart, an Atlanta native, a former Chicago Cubs outfielder, and the co-founder of LEAD Center, reflects on Arron’s life and legacy. 

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It’s been 56 years since the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Thursday’s special edition of "Closer Look with Rose Scott" focused on the life and legacy of King, specifically his efforts to lead with courage and integrity to inspire others to be moral leaders. First, we Revisit Rose’s conversation with Dr. King’s attorney, Michael W. Cody. During the interview, Cody reflects on representing King in Memphis in 1968. Rose then talks with Dr. Robert Michael Franklin, Jr., an author theologian and Emory University’s James T. and Berta R. Laney Professor in Moral Leadership. Dr. Franklin explains King’s approach to moral leadership and his commitment to nonviolence and social change. He also connects Dr. King’s 1967 speech, “What Is Your Blueprint,” to moral leadership and how all people can use courage to fight for justice and equity. Lastly, we hear an archival piece from Dr. Bernice King. She reflects on losing her father.

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Today's special edition of "Closer Look with Rose Scott" focuses on the years-long crisis and government collapse happening in Haiti. It’s estimated that at least 200 gangs are controlling large swathes of territory and municipalities, mostly in Port-au-Prince. Government officials have declared a state of emergency and issued a curfew. The accelerating crisis is cutting off food supplies, limiting access to healthcare and forcing people from their homes. We will hear from Ghislaine, an educator and founder of a school principal in Port-au-Prince. She talks about what life has been like in the city for the past three months. Rose also talks with several guests about what their respective organizations are doing to provide emergency resources amid the crisis and the urgent requests they have for U.S. government officials, Congress and United Nations leaders. Guests include:

Alan Seelinger, the executive director of the Atlanta-based organization Light from Light

Louis Wilkinson with Give To Haiti

Wallis Etienne with International Women of H.O.P.E., a first-generation Haitian-American, a U.S. federal contracts administrator

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Georgia Power and state regulators reached a tentative agreement last week to expand Georgia Power’s fossil fuel infrastructure and increase the company’s battery storage footprint. The agreement still needs approval from the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC). WABE climate reporter Emily Jones discusses her recent article that dives into the agreement and explains why some consumer and environmental advocates and customers have concerns. Jones also discusses why PSC elections won't be held this year and a lawsuit challenging the system the state uses to elect commissioners.

INSERT: The Sandersville Railroad company has been working to acquire portions of land in the city of Sparta in Hancock County, through eminent domain to construct a 4.5-mile rail spur to serve a nearby quarry. A hearing officer with the Georgia Public Service Commission ruled in favor of the railroad company. We revisit Rose’s conversation with Janet and Mark Smith and Ben Tarbutton, the president of Sandersville Railroad.

Plus, New York Times bestselling author Tiffany Jewell discusses her new book, "Everything I Learned about Racism I Learned in School." In the book, the longtime educator explores the inequities Black and Brown students face from preschool through college. 

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WABE politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali return to “Closer Look,” to provide a recap of the bills that passed and the bills that failed during the 2024 legislative session.

Plus, according to data from Georgia Tech, metro Atlanta reached nearly 8,000 eviction filings during December 2021. According to Zillow, at the end of 2021, rental prices skyrocketed nearly 20% in the Atlanta area. Peter Hepburn, an associate director at the Eviction Lab at Princeton University, discusses post-pandemic eviction filings.

Lastly, tributes are pouring in for the legendary actor Louis Gossett Jr. He died on Friday at the age of 87. Gossett was the first Black man to win a supporting actor Oscar and an Emmy winner for his role in the seminal TV miniseries “Roots,” We revisit Rose’s conversation with Gossett. During the conversation, he reflected on why he gave up a professional career in basketball to pursue acting full-time. 

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The Closer Look team heads to Stereo in the Inman Park neighborhood for the March installment of “Coffee Conversations.” Whether you are biking, walking, driving, or catching MARTA, getting around metro Atlanta is a major concern for people throughout the city. Rose talks with panelists about the current state of transit and mobility and what can be done to streamline commuting.

Guests include:

Caleb Wheelus, owner of Stereo

Janice Darling, Inman Park Neighborhood Association Traffic and Transportation Committee Chair and a volunteer for BeltLine Rail Now!

Hans Klein, an associate professor in the School of Public Policy at Georgia Tech

Charles Peterson, a Just Opportunity portfolio associate for Partnership for Southern Equity

Kenneth “the Bike Ninja” Florence, a member of Red, Bike and Green - Atlanta

Sagirah Jones, the program director for Propel ATL

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In honor of Women’s History Month, we spotlight the work of voting and women's rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer. We first hear from Dr. Pearl Dowe, an African American studies and political science professor, who serves as the vice provost for faculty affairs at Emory University, and Dr. Danielle Phillips-Cunningham, who teaches women's and African American labor histories at Rutgers University. The professors reflect on the life and legacy of Fannie Lou Hamer and talk about her fight for civil, human and women’s rights.

Rose then talks with award-winning actor Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, who is best known for her performance in films like “Origin”, “The Help” and “Ray.” Ellis-Taylor, who portrayed Hamer in the short film “Fannie,” explains why she views Fannie as a prophet and a freedom rights warrior.

The national nonprofit The Conservation Fundlaunched the Farms Fund program in 2021. Krisztian Varsa, the Georgia Farms Fund program manager, and Raphaela Ysrael, a farmer with Atlanta Harvest, talk with Rose about the program that aims to address food insecurity. They also discuss how the program works to protect threatened farms near cities by offering a new generation of diverse farmers and an affordable path to buy farmland.

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Roger Tutterow, a professor of economics at Kennesaw State University, joins “Closer Look,” to discuss the latest economic forecast and its impact on the 2024 presidential election.

Laura Judge, a volunteer with Moms Demand Action and Monisha Henley, the senior vice president of government affairs at Everytown for Gun Safety, discuss gun violence prevention following shooting at Apalachee High School.

Last year, Communities In Schools of Atlanta and Sandy Hook Promise partnered together for a pilot program aimed at helping Atlanta-area students lead an open dialogue about the warning signs before a mass shooting and how to address and prevent school violence. Frank Brown, the CEO of Communities In Schools of Atlanta, Crystal Garrant, the chief program officer of Sandy Hook Promise, and Jhakia, a local high school student who participated in the Atlanta pilot program, discuss the success of the program and ongoing efforts to promote school safety. 

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Keith Boykin, a New York Times–bestselling author, TV and Film producer and former CNN political commentator, discusses his new book, “Why Does Everything Have to Be About Race? 25 Arguments That Won’t Go Away.” 

INSERT: The three white men convicted of killing Ahmaud Arbery in 2020 will have their appeals heard by a federal court in Atlanta today. The trio was found guilty of federal hate crime charges just months after their murder trial. We’ll hear from Arbery’s family and their attorney.

Plus, Katie Giede is among a group of Conyers Waffle House employees who have joined a strike led by the Union of Southern Service Workers. The workers are calling for the Department of Labor to investigate the company’s “meal credit” policy, which takes $3 from each worker's shift - even if they don't eat a meal. Giede talks with Rose about the strike and the other changes employees are calling for. 

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Since 2021, the Hospital Price Transparency Rule has required hospitals to make their pricing information publicly available. This allows patients to shop around for the best price for their medical services. On today’s edition of "Closer Look with Rose Scott," we hear from an advocacy group that claims that of the 2000 hospitals that were reviewed nationwide, 36 hospitals in Georgia are reportedly not sharing their pricing information. We also hear a rebuttal from an association that claims hospitals in Georgia are compliant with the rule and calls the Patients Rights Advocate report “irresponsible.”

Guests include:

Cynthia Fisher, the founder and chairwoman of Patients Rights Advocate

Brad Dennison, the director of Healthcare Finance Policy at the Healthcare Financial Management Association

Shawn Stack, the director of Editorial and Policy Affairs at the Healthcare Financial Management Association

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Sine Die is just days away. WABE politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali return to “Closer Look,” to discuss proposed bills that have stalled and others that are advancing as the 2024 Georgia legislative session comes close to an end.

Insert: We revisit Rose’s conversation with Steve Davis, the assistant vice president of transportation strategy for Smart Growth America. He 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.

Atlanta is one of many cities dealing with the harms of inequitable interstate projects. On Monday during Mayor Andre Dickens’ State of the City address, he talked about his transportation plan, which involves the creation of a new MARTA train station at Murphy Crossing, the first of four additional in-fill stations. He also talked about the city receiving $157 million in federal funds for the Stitch project. Rose talks with A.J. Robinson, the president of Central Atlanta Progress and the Atlanta Downtown Improvement District, about the development project that aims to connect three areas within Downtown Atlanta. It involves creating approximately 14 acres of urban green space along with affordable housing options and transportation enhancements.

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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 the final day of the series, we continue with our interview from the South Atlanta microschool Pass Pod. The school’s founder discusses details about the school's curriculum and leadership changes that would allow her to focus on the business aspect of her school. Rose then talks with guests about the state of public HBCUs across the nation, the historic underfunding of HBCUs and what needs to happen from a policy standpoint to ensure HBCUs have equitable resources and funding to continue supporting students. Lastly, a representative from a national organization that advocates for schools discusses the state of public education and what can be done to make sure all students have strong academic outcomes.

Potential leadership changes that would allow her to focus on the business aspect of her school.

Guests include:

April Jackson, the founder of Pass Pod school and the co-founder of Black MicroSchools ATL

Lodriguez Murray, the senior vice president of public policy and government affairs for the United Negro College Fund

Daarel Burnette II, a senior editor at The Chronicle of Higher Education

Eric Duncan, EdTrust’s director of P-12 policy

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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.

On day four of the series, we continue with our interview from visiting Pass Pod. The founder of the South Atlanta micro-school talks about the Georgia Promise Scholarship Act and how she views her school as a modern-day freedom school, a place where Black children can learn about Black culture and contributions.

Rose then talks with guests associated with the Atlanta-based Freedom University about educating undocumented students in Georgia with a pathway to higher education, while also organizing students as activists to repeal certain immigration policies. We will also air WABE education reporter Juma Sei’s latest feature that spotlights how Marietta City Schools is working to improve literacy rates by changing how students learn to read. Lastly, two local educators discuss the national Black male teacher shortage.

Guests include:

April Jackson, the founder of Pass Pod school and the co-founder of Black MicroSchools ATL

Julius Cave, the program manager for The Literacy Lab’s Leading Men Fellowship in Atlanta

Zachary White, a senior fellow for the Leading Men Fellowship in Atlanta

Jabari Cain, an associate professor in the Bagwell College of Education and the director of the Call Me MISTER program at Kennesaw State

Dr. Laura Emiko Soltis, executive director and professor of human rights at Freedom University

Nayelly, an undocumented student, Freedom University alumna and a current student at Emory University

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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 three of the series, we continue with PART 3 of our conversation from Pass Pod school, which is part of the collective Black MicroSchools ATL. Supervising producer Tiffany Griffith speaks with a parent about the decision to withdraw her children from public school. Also, Rose talks with a student about the experience of attending Pass Pod school. A rural public schools superintendent then explains the unique challenges associated with his district. Lastly, educators at The Cottage School explain how they are providing a unique learning environment for special needs students that is not offered in public schools.

Guests include:

Amber, parent of two children who attend Pass Pod

I’Nique, 13, a student at Pass Pod

Allen Fort, superintendent of the Taliaferro County School District

Dr. Steven Palmer, Head of School at The Cottage School

Renee’ Kincaid, Elementary School teacher at The Cottage School

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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 Department

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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 

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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.

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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.

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Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson made history in June 2022, when she was sworn in as the first Black woman to serve on the nation’s high court. Now, the 116th Supreme Court justice is telling her story in a new memoir, “Lovely One.” Justice Jackson’s book tour recently stopped in Atlanta at the Atlanta Symphony Hall. That’s where “Closer Look,” show host Rose Scott and the Justice had a one-on-one conversation in front of a live audience. Justice Jackson reflected on her journey from Miami, Florida to the Supreme Court. She also talked about facing fear head-on, the power of mentorship and why her foundation is rooted in the love and support of her family.

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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. 

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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.  

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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.

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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 Equality

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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 resident

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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.  

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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. 

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Former U.S. Capitol Police officer Harry Dunn is being honored by the Fulton County Democratic Party with the Saving Democracy Award. While in Atlanta, he talks with show host Rose Scott about his experience responding to the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, the upcoming election, and the current state of democracy.

Plus, for “Closer Look’s,” series focusing on the work of independent and third-party groups amid the 2024 presidential election cycle, Scott talked with members of the Party for Socialism and Liberation, the Green Party and the Working Families Party.The full interviews can be found here and here. Now, we hear from GSU politics and policy professor Tammy Greer for an analysis of each party’s priorities and strategies.

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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 Georgia

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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. 

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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.

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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."

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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. 

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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. 

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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, LLP

Cory Isaacson, the legal director of the ACLU of Georgia

Maariya Sheikh, a Cobb County senior and member of the Georgia Youth Justice Coalition 

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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."

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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.

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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." 

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Four people are dead—two teachers and two students—and nine others were transported to local hospitals following a mass shooting at Apalachee High School in Barrow County, Georgia on Wednesday. Authorities say the 14-year-old suspect, who is in custody, will be charged with murder as an adult. Rose talks with WABE criminal justice reporter Chamian Cruz about the latest details in the ongoing investigation.

Plus, we revisit our series focusing on the work of independent and third-party groups amid the 2024 presidential election cycle. First, Rose talks with Gerald Green of the Party for Socialism and Liberation, Gloria Mattera, the media committee coordinator for the Green Party and Britney Whaley, the southeast regional director for the Working Families Party. The full interviews can be found here and here. 

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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.

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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 Dream

Haley Jones, a forward-guard for the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream

Leah Edmond, outside hitter of the Atlanta VIBE

Grace Cleveland, right-side hitter the Atlanta VIBE

Charles Edwards, a parent of a youth basketball player

McKenna, the daughter of Kelli and CJ Stewart, and a tennis coach

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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. 

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