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Lonnie Wimberly – A retired Command Sergeant Major with 30 years of distinguished service in the U.S. Army, Wimberly enlisted in 1972 and rose through the ranks to senior leadership. He served as Fort Gordon’s Garrison Command Sergeant Major, overseeing major activations, redeployments, and combat operations with zero casualties, and was awarded a second Legion of Merit upon retirement. He earned degrees from Fayetteville State University, National-Louis University, and Brenau University. A longtime Augusta resident, he helped establish the Walton Farms Neighborhood Association and remains active in the Richmond County Neighborhood Associations Alliance, continuing his commitment to community development. Alvin Mason – Born in Lansing, Michigan, Mason served honorably in the U.S. Army from 1984 to 2004, holding key leadership roles including Protocol Non-Commissioned Officer in Korea. After his military career, he opened BBQ restaurants in Augusta and entered public service, being elected to the Augusta-Richmond County Commission in 2007 and later serving as Mayor Pro Tem. He has also served as Interim Commissioner and was re-elected in 2022. With advanced degrees and experience managing over $500 million in contracts at Fort Gordon, Mason brings more than 37 years of public service. He has overseen over $750 million in local infrastructure projects, supported major economic development efforts, and continues to focus on growth, transportation, and community improvements across District 4. DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and opinions regarding this tragedy belong solely to her. These are not to malign any profession, organization, anyone, or anything. Local Matters does not endorse candidates. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page at www.Janiceallenjackson.com Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LocalMattersPodcastofGeorgia Subscribe on Youtube: Local Matters Podcast of Georgia youtube.com/@localmatterspodcastofgeorg3624 Twitter: twitter.com/JAJAndAssocLLC Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

Meet both candidates. Attorney Alexia Davis Payne has spent her legal career serving Burke and Richmond Counties. Originally from Texas, she attended Baylor University on an academic and athletic scholarship before earning her juris doctor from Tulane University. Since 2006, she has served the citizens of Augusta both in and out of the courtroom. She is the current president of the Augusta Conference of African American Attorneys and a past president of the Augusta Bar Association. She has served on the Boys and Girls Club Board for over a decade, supported literacy initiatives, and helped expand the Georgia Bar High School Mock Trial program. In 2018, she co-founded the law firm Davis, Chapman, and Wilder, LLC after more than a decade with the Public Defender’s Office. Judge Ashley Wright grew up in Augusta, Georgia, and returned home after graduating from Mercer Law School to serve in the Augusta Judicial Circuit. She spent 12 years as an Assistant District Attorney before being appointed District Attorney, where she prosecuted felony and misdemeanor cases across multiple counties. In 2017, she was appointed to the Superior Court bench, where she now presides over criminal, civil, and domestic cases, including Drug Treatment Court. She is also active in community outreach, including hosting The First Step, a program focused on recovery and support resources. She is a graduate of Leadership Augusta and Leadership Georgia and has served on numerous local and state boards supporting education, service, and community development. DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and opinions regarding this tragedy belong solely to her. These are not to malign any profession, organization, anyone, or anything. Local Matters does not endorse candidates. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page at www.Janiceallenjackson.com Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LocalMattersPodcastofGeorgia Subscribe on Youtube: Local Matters Podcast of Georgia youtube.com/@localmatterspodcastofgeorg3624 Twitter: twitter.com/JAJAndAssocLLC Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

Our Augusta mayor candidate special brings together three voices shaping the future of the city: Eric Gaines, Dr. Lori Myles, and Steven Brian Kendrick. Eric Gaines is a U.S. military veteran, real estate investor, father of two, and community advocate focused on transparency, accountability, and addressing the economic challenges facing local residents. Dr. Lori Myles is a native of Memphis, Tennessee, and a 38-year educator, businesswoman, author, and community advocate. A graduate of Paine College with a doctorate in Administration, Organizational Leadership, and Supervision, she champions being a “Voice for the Voiceless” and advocates for equitable growth in Augusta. Steven Brian Kendrick is a lifelong Augustan with more than 20 years of experience in public service and economic development. A former Richmond County Tax Commissioner and current Chief Deputy, his platform centers on building stronger communities, growing economic opportunity, and uniting leadership across Augusta. DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and opinions regarding this tragedy belong solely to her. These are not to malign any profession, organization, anyone, or anything. Local Matters does not endorse candidates. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page at www.Janiceallenjackson.com Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LocalMattersPodcastofGeorgia Subscribe on Youtube: Local Matters Podcast of Georgia youtube.com/@localmatterspodcastofgeorg3624 Twitter: twitter.com/JAJAndAssocLLC Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

Stacy Pulliam is a dedicated mom of six, follower of Christ, business owner, and Augusta Richmond County District 2 Commissioner. She is Finance Committee Chair, serves on the Public Safety Committee, and is an ex officio member of Destination Augusta and the Augusta Arts Council. Stacy is the owner of Jhani Realty, recognized nationally for her referral-based business, and she founded DyeVerCity, a multicultural salon empowering women in business and personal growth. She collaborates with nonprofits throughout Augusta and lives by the mantra, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” Corey Johnson Sr. is a former two-term Augusta-Richmond County Commissioner and former Mayor Pro-Tem. He served as chairman of the Public Service and Engineering Committees and was Vice President of the Georgia Municipal Association’s 7th District. Corey owns First Choice Home Inspections & Construction, LLC, is a certified podcast producer, and serves on several local boards. A lifelong Augusta resident, he is married with five sons, a sports fan, and passionate about serving his community. Watch the episode now—you don’t want to miss it! To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page at www.Janiceallenjackson.com Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LocalMattersPodcastofGeorgia Subscribe on Youtube: Local Matters Podcast of Georgia youtube.com/@localmatterspodcastofgeorg3624 Twitter: twitter.com/JAJAndAssocLLC Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

Meet Angelia Pressley. For over 20 years, she has worked at the intersection of business and sustainability, partnering with leading organizations like The Kroger Company, Publix, Ford Motor Company, Coca-Cola and State Farm, bringing a strong understanding of both environmental impact and the bottom line. She provides clients with data-driven insights, strategic communication and community engagement, helping them navigate crisis management, media relations and build public trust. Angelia is also a professor at Clark Atlanta University, where she teaches students about emerging careers, the economy and practical skills like research, data analytics and AI. She holds a degree in English and Advertising from Flagler College and a Master’s from The George Washington University, along with an entrepreneurship certification from Spelman College. She serves on several community boards and founded the Welcome to South Cobb Festival to bring people together and celebrate local green spaces. Family is central to her life, and she enjoys cycling, hiking and traveling, and is guided by her faith with a strong belief in justice, mercy and faithfulness. Look out for our new episode tomorrow. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page at www.Janiceallenjackson.com DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and opinions regarding this tragedy belong solely to her. These are not to malign any profession, organization, anyone, or anything. Local Matters does not endorse candidates. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page at www.Janiceallenjackson.com Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LocalMattersPodcastofGeorgia Subscribe on Youtube: Local Matters Podcast of Georgia youtube.com/@localmatterspodcastofgeorg3624 Twitter: twitter.com/JAJAndAssocLLC Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

Inside the District 10 Race, get an exclusive look at the candidates shaping the future of Augusta’s District 10. From community priorities to leadership visions, we dive into what drives these leaders and how they plan to make a difference. Ben Hasan is a proud native of Augusta. He is married with four kids, 12 grandkids, and two great-grandkids. A former Augusta Commissioner, he has hosted Comcast Community Concerns, co-owned Urban Pro Weekly, hosted Can We Talk on the radio, co-founded PEP, a school for delinquent students, and owned two clothing boutiques in the Laney-Walker Blvd area. Wayne Guilfoyle is a lifelong Augustan and the current District 10 Commissioner. First elected in 2010, he is known for his hands-on, results-driven leadership. He has focused on infrastructure, economic development, stormwater management, and strengthening neighborhoods, always emphasizing collaboration and accessibility. DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and opinions regarding this tragedy belong solely to her. These are not to malign any profession, organization, anyone, or anything. Local Matters does not endorse candidates. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page at www.Janiceallenjackson.com Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LocalMattersPodcastofGeorgia Subscribe on Youtube: Local Matters Podcast of Georgia youtube.com/@localmatterspodcastofgeorg3624 Twitter: twitter.com/JAJAndAssocLLC Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

Chad Peace of the Independent Voter Project joins us to talk about how systemic reform can result in less political polarization. We tackle the issue of whether party labels are helpful or hurtful for voters, and whether younger voters want to engage in a partisan process. We also talk about the significance of Georgia on the national political stage. Learn more at https://independentvoterproject.org/.

Titus Nichols, Army Reservist, attorney, and Morehouse graduate, is running for Georgia State House District 34. We discussed how our legislature can address a variety of issues to make life more affordable. Topics include Medicaid Expansion, child care subsidies, the growing threat of corporate landlords, and how data centers affect our power bills. Learn more about Nichols at titus4ga.com.

Karin Parham is the CEO and founder of the Freedom to Read Coalition of Columbia County, where she works to protect intellectual freedom and ensure public access to diverse literature in local libraries and schools. A former U.S. Army officer, she brings a strong background in leadership, organization, and public service to her advocacy work. In addition to leading the Coalition, Karin serves as Treasurer of the Columbia County Democratic Committee. She also writes The Columbia County Observer and has published opinion columns in The Augusta Press. A lifelong reader, she believes that access to books and information is a fundamental right and a cornerstone of a healthy democracy. Youtube include the disclaimer- DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and opinions regarding this tragedy belong solely to her. These are not to malign any profession, organization, anyone, or anything. Local Matters does not endorse candidates. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page at www.Janiceallenjackson.com Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LocalMattersPodcastofGeorgia Subscribe on Youtube: Local Matters Podcast of Georgia youtube.com/@localmatterspodcastofgeorg3624 Twitter: twitter.com/JAJAndAssocLLC Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

Thomas McAdams is a lifelong resident of Augusta who has witnessed the community’s growth firsthand. A devoted husband, father of five with another on the way, and spiritual mentor to many, he serves as Chief Administrative Officer for a local Christian service center, helping strengthen communication and community life. With leadership experience across hospitality, retail, sales, office management, and ministry, he is known for building unified, high-performing teams while prioritizing faith and family. LaFawn Pinkney Mealings is a candidate for State House District 130 and a seasoned labor relations and organizational leadership professional. With an MBA, global HR certifications, and over a decade advocating for fair wages and workplace accountability, her work centers on people, policy, and problem-solving. She is also deeply engaged in community service, supporting workforce development, child advocacy, and initiatives that strengthen community well-being. Youtube include the disclaimer- DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and opinions regarding this tragedy belong solely to her. These are not to malign any profession, organization, anyone, or anything. Local Matters does not endorse candidates. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page at www.Janiceallenjackson.com Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LocalMattersPodcastofGeorgia Subscribe on Youtube: Local Matters Podcast of Georgia youtube.com/@localmatterspodcastofgeorg3624 Twitter: twitter.com/JAJAndAssocLLC Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

Karen L. Gordon is a media entrepreneur, urban agriculture advocate, and community builder with over 20 years of experience in media, arts, and economic development. She is the Publisher of Urban Pro Weekly, highlighting Black business, politics, arts, and community issues in Augusta, Georgia, and Co-Founder/CEO of Growing Augusta: Arts, Agriculture, & Agency, where she leads initiatives focused on food access, urban agriculture, and community development. Her work consistently centers on equity, cultural preservation, and community empowerment. David Carson is a Navy veteran and cybersecurity professional running as the Republican candidate for Georgia House District 130. After eight years in the Navy, he became a cybersecurity instructor at Cyber Schoolhouse at Fort Eisenhower. His campaign focuses on holding data centers accountable for tax incentives and creating pathways for students and veterans to access high-tech careers. Rep. Sheila C. Nelson is a longtime public servant, former postal leader, and current Georgia State Representative. A Richmond County graduate and medical lab technician by training, she spent 34 years with the U.S. Postal Service, often serving as the first African American Postmaster in several locations. Elected in 2016 as the first woman to represent her district, she remains active in community service, civic organizations, and church leadership. DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and opinions regarding this tragedy belong solely to her. These are not to malign any profession, organization, anyone, or anything. Local Matters does not endorse candidates. To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page at www.Janiceallenjackson.com Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/LocalMattersPodcastofGeorgia Subscribe on Youtube: Local Matters Podcast of Georgia youtube.com/@localmatterspodcastofgeorg3624 Twitter: twitter.com/JAJAndAssocLLC Local Matters Podcast: Soundcloud: @localmatterspodcast Spotify: @localmatterspodcast Apple Podcasts: @localmatterspodcast

Don't ignore Rural Georgia! with Keith McCants by Local Matters by Janice Allen Jackson

Clennon L. King is a journalist, historian, and documentary filmmaker. He is also a descendant of influential Georgians who shaped the history and politics of our state. He discusses how Albany became the hub of southwest Georgia, how blacks gained influence, and how the region's past shapes what he considers its bright future. Learn more about Mr. King and his fascinating work at https://augustinemonica.com.

Dr. Marc-Antonie Cooper is Assistant City Manager of South Fulton, GA and a career public servant. He has added the title of author, as he just released "Unabridged: The Paradox of Public Leadership."We touch on why public service is not easy, how it tests your patience, and more importantly, how perilous it can be when a few people can decide to terminate your employment out of nowhere. You can find the book on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/UNABRIDGED-Paradox-Leadership-Marc-Antonie-Cooper-ebook/dp/B0FNBKZXH2

State Senator Harold Jones joins us to discuss what is in store for the Georgia Legislature, and more broadly, Georgia elections in the ever critical year of 2026. We discuss the process to replace legislators who step down, the proposal to eliminate the state income tax, voting rights, healthcare, and whether the state will do anything about the proliferation of data centers. He also discusses why he is supporting former State Senator Jason Esteves for Governor.