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  • Coach Josh Skelton: Outwork Everybody – Building Newton Rams Football Culture and Chasing Championships – Episode 53

    Coach Josh Skelton: Outwork Everybody – Building Newton Rams Football Culture and Chasing Championships – Episode 53
    2025/08/13
    In Episode 53 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Newton High School Head Football Coach Josh Skelton for a deep dive into what it takes to lead a high school football powerhouse in Georgia’s toughest region. Skelton, now entering his third season as head coach, shares stories of his journey from volunteer to leader, his vision for the Rams’ culture, and how Newton High is preparing for a big 2025 season.This episode is a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and community connection. Whether you’re a Newton County local, a Georgia high school football fan, or simply someone who values the role sports play in shaping young lives, this conversation delivers insights, inspiration, and a whole lot of Rams pride.From Volunteer to Head RamCoach Skelton’s journey began in 2012 when he volunteered a few days a week for Newton High’s football program. Originally from DeKalb County and a graduate of Stevenson High School, Skelton moved to the area after college at Jacksonville State. His early years at Newton were spent learning the ropes, building relationships, and eventually serving as weight room coordinator, recruiting coordinator, and defensive coordinator.By the time he was named head coach, Skelton had already invested years into the program and the community. Now entering his third season at the helm, he’s guiding the Rams with the same values that got him here: hard work, accountability, and an unwavering belief in his players.The Changing Face of High School SportsHigh school sports in 2025 look very different from a decade ago. Skelton points to the rise of year-round specialization, elite travel teams, and the impact of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) rules as major shifts in the landscape. Gone are the days when three-sport athletes were the norm—now, families are making strategic decisions about where their children play, sometimes relocating for better athletic opportunities.For Skelton, adaptation is key. He’s proactive about bringing in speakers to educate players and parents on NIL, contracts, and financial literacy. While NIL hasn’t yet transformed high school sports at the same scale as college, he knows it’s coming and wants Newton athletes prepared for the opportunities—and pitfalls—ahead.Roster Breakdown: Young Talent, Veteran LeadershipThe 2025 Newton Rams are a young team, but they’re far from inexperienced.Quarterback: Four-year starter Deron Benson returns as a leader both on and off the field. An AP student with a sharp football mind, Benson is like a coach on the field—trusted to read defenses and make adjustments in real time.Running Back Corps: This might be Newton’s deepest position group. Headlined by Kevin Hartsfield—a nationally ranked RB with offers from Ohio State and Georgia—this room also includes senior Kaden Hambright, sophomore Tabian Thomas, and freshman Karter Lumpkin, son of NFL alum Kregg Lumpkin.Offensive Line: Anchored by veterans Corde Marks and DeMario Morgan, the line is one of the most experienced in recent years and should be a strength for the Rams’ offense.Defense: While the D-line lost key players, leaders like George Bell are stepping up. The secondary is loaded with juniors, including top-rated corner Omarion Wallace and all-state safety Braylon Miller.Skelton believes chemistry in the locker room—especially in the backfield—is the team’s secret weapon.Culture: #OutworkEverybodyIf there’s one phrase that defines Newton Rams football, it’s #OutworkEverybody. This isn’t just about lifting more weight or running more sprints—it’s about consistency in the classroom, respect in the community, and preparation for life after football.“We want to outwork people in the classroom, in the community, and in everything we do,” Skelton says. “When we approach game day, we want to feel like we’ve done absolutely everything possible to prepare.”Facilities and the Home Field AdvantageNewton High is on the verge of opening its own stadium—a long-awaited upgrade that will give the Rams their own home turf for the first time in decades. Skelton and his players drive past the construction site daily, watching the progress. While seniors won’t get to play in the new facility, the anticipation is energizing the program.The new stadium won’t match the size of Georgia’s most lavish high school venues, but for Skelton, the value is in ownership and pride. “When you can call it yours, that’s special,” he says.Rivalries and CommunityFew games in Georgia high school football rival the atmosphere of Newton vs. Eastside. Skelton describes it as a true rivalry where records don’t matter—just pride, preparation, and bragging rights. Players on both sides often grew up together, only to face off under the Friday night lights with the whole community watching.The tradition is so strong that it draws comparisons to South Georgia football towns...
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    43 分
  • Coach Spencer Fortson: Building Belief and a Winning Culture at Alcovy High School – Episode 51

    Coach Spencer Fortson: Building Belief and a Winning Culture at Alcovy High School – Episode 51
    2025/08/13
    In Episode 51 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Coach Spencer Fortson, head football coach of the Alcovy High School Tigers, for an in-depth, energetic, and inspiring conversation about building a winning football culture in South Newton County. From summer practices that were anything but easy, to a brand-new motto that’s shaping the entire Alcovy football community, Coach Fortson pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to lead a high school football program.Whether you’re a diehard Tiger fan, a Newton County football follower, or just someone who loves hearing about leadership, culture-building, and community, this episode delivers a game plan worth studying.From Newton to Alcovy: Coach Fortson’s JourneyCoach Spencer Fortson has been coaching for over 17 years, with experience at multiple levels, including time on staff at Newton High School before becoming Alcovy’s head coach. This year marks his fourth season leading the Tigers—a role that comes with both big challenges and big opportunities.Since stepping into the program, Fortson has made academic achievement, player accountability, and culture-building his top priorities. One of his proudest stats? Last year’s senior class graduated with an overall 3.12 GPA, up from around 2.2 when he first arrived.A Challenging Summer of PreparationThe Tigers’ summer was far from routine.Due to ongoing construction of new facilities at all three Newton County high schools, Alcovy was displaced from its home practice field all summer long. The team practiced at Indian Creek Middle School and Sharp Stadium, constantly adjusting to rain delays and field access challenges.Coach Fortson’s response? Stay positive, stay moving, and keep building the team’s chemistry. He introduced “Tiger Days” in July—extended practice days with extra team-building activities to reinforce camaraderie and belief.A Home Field Advantage, FinallyOne of the biggest developments for Alcovy—and Newton County football in general—is that each high school will soon have its own home stadium. For Alcovy, which is located 20–25 minutes from Sharp Stadium, this is huge.“When your home games are a 25-minute drive away, it’s hard to truly feel like it’s your home,” Fortson explains. “Now, with a stadium right in our backyard, our student body can go straight from class to the game. That’s going to change everything.”This move promises to boost community engagement, create a stronger home-field advantage, and deepen school spirit.The 2025 Motto: Believe!Every season, Coach Fortson picks a theme based on the previous year’s lessons. For 2025, the word is BELIEVE.The idea?Believe in each other.Believe in the process.Believe in the success they can achieve together.From the players to the coaching staff, student body, and community, Fortson wants everyone to share that belief and live it out every day.Key Players to WatchThis year’s Tigers bring a mix of seasoned seniors and promising underclassmen:Kaeden Booker – Senior leader and starter since his freshman year.Kendrick Henderson – Sophomore standout who plays both receiver and safety.Kavion Sutton – Senior with versatility at QB, receiver, and DB.Ayden Goddard – Former starting QB, now a utility player across multiple positions.Kenneth Trey Bryant – Junior QB stepping into a leadership role.Up front, the trenches are being rebuilt, but names like Jevontae Jones, Isaiah Clennon, and Justin Heywood will be critical to the team’s success.Building Beyond the FieldFor Coach Fortson, success isn’t just about wins and losses. His program focuses on producing positive young men who will go on to contribute to their community. That means:Year-round weight training and conditioning.Academic monitoring and accountability.In-house recruitment of students who should be playing football.Involving alumni and community leaders to grow the program’s reach.The Road AheadThe Tigers open the season on Thursday at 6 p.m. against Arabia Mountain High School, coached by Fortson’s longtime friend Kenneth Miller. The early part of the schedule is no cakewalk—Alcovy faces Newton, Eastside, and Rockdale before region play begins. But Fortson sees the tough non-region games as the perfect preparation for Region 8-5A competition.The long-term goal? Make the playoffs, but do it by focusing on one play at a time.Alcovy Tigers Schedule:Aug 14 - @ Arabia MountainAug 22 - NewtonAug 29 - @ EastsideSep 5 - RockdaleSep 19 - @ Winder Barrow*Sep 25 - Jackson Co*Oct 10 - @ Habersham Central*Oct 17 - Apalachee*Oct 24 - Clark Central*Oct 31 - @ Loganville*Follow Alcovy Tigers FootballTwitter: @AlcovyFootballInstagram: @AlcovyHighSchoolFBFacebook: Alcovy High SchoolImportant Links from This EpisodeThe Town Square Podcast: www.TheTownSquarePodcast.comListen to All Episodes: Podcast EpisodesDonate to Support the Show: Click HereSCB Construction ...
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    37 分
  • Coach Jay Cawthon: Bleeding Green and Building Culture at Eastside High School – Episode 52

    Coach Jay Cawthon: Bleeding Green and Building Culture at Eastside High School – Episode 52
    2025/08/13
    Welcome back to The Town Square Podcast, where local advocates for a better Newton County bring their different perspectives to the messy middle—a space where our aim is unity, not uniformity. I’m Trey Bailey, alongside my co-host Gabriel Stovall, and this week we’re talking high school football, team culture, and the power of tradition with a Newton County legend—Coach Jay Cawthon, head football coach of the Eastside High School Eagles.In this extended conversation, Coach Cawthon gives us an inside look at the upcoming season, the players to watch, the lessons learned from last year’s playoff run, and how Eastside football has built a standard that’s about much more than the scoreboard. Whether you’re a diehard Eagle fan, a Newton County sports follower, or just someone who loves hearing how leaders shape young lives, this episode is full of insights, laughs, and that small-town pride we love to celebrate.Summer Work, Year-Round CommitmentIf you think high school football is just a fall sport, Coach Cawthon will set the record straight. In Newton County—and especially at Eastside—football is a year-round commitment. After last season’s Elite Eight appearance, his players only got about a month off before workouts resumed on January 6th.But it’s not just about grinding every day. In fact, one of Coach Cawthon’s deliberate changes over the past few years has been balancing work with rest. June practices run just three days a week, allowing players time for family, summer jobs, and other sports. July ramps up to four days a week, and once the season starts, it’s full throttle. The approach keeps players fresh and focused for the long haul.Battling the Georgia Heat (and the Rain)This summer threw everything at the Eagles—40+ straight days of 90°+ heat, followed by over a week of nonstop rain. Add in Georgia’s infamous humidity, and the challenge isn’t just about perfecting plays—it’s about keeping players safe.That’s where the wet bulb temperature reading comes in. For those unfamiliar, it’s a safety metric that combines temperature and humidity to determine how dangerous outdoor activity might be. Coach Cawthon takes readings starting 90 minutes before practice and follows strict guidelines—if the wet bulb hits a certain level, practice moves indoors. It’s all about player safety first. As Cawthon puts it, “I don’t think losing one day outside is going to win or lose you a championship.”The 2025 Eastside Eagles – Players to WatchWhile Eastside lost several key players from last year’s roster, the cupboard is far from bare. Cawthon is excited to see young, homegrown players step up under the Friday night lights.Key Returning Players:Xavier Joseph – Star defensive end, App State commit, two-way player, early enrollee candidate.Payton Shaw – Three-year starting quarterback who got his first snaps as a freshman.Myles Mims & Tyler Solomon – Talented running backs in a deep rotation.Chase Jordan – Shifty wide receiver with experience and sure hands.Decorey Crumbley – Havoc-wreaking defensive lineman.Jameel McMichael – Returning linebacker ready to step into a leadership role.Rising Talents:Garrett Brooks – Promising wide receiver with a strong summer.Adrian Bird – Offensive tackle stepping into a big role.Cameron Griffith – Young talent with potential to surprise.Jonathan Gomez – Kicker who led the state in touchbacks last season.Haseen Camacho – Sophomore punter ready to prove himself.Coaching Staff Continuity and CultureOne of Eastside’s secrets to success? Stability on the coaching staff. Cawthon has been at the school for 21 years, with many assistants having decades of combined experience. Several are former Eastside players who’ve returned to give back to the program that shaped them.Cawthon credits this longevity to:Family-first scheduling (efficient use of time, no unnecessary late nights at the office).Opportunities for professional growth.A shared commitment to “The Standard.”The Standard – More Than FootballAt Eastside, “The Standard” isn’t just a slogan—it’s a way of life. It applies to the field, the classroom, and the community. From day one, players are taught that there’s a right way to do things, and that way doesn’t change for anyone. It’s about accountability, respect, and pride in wearing the green and white.And while “The Standard” is the official mantra, another unofficial nickname has fueled the team’s underdog mentality for years—“Little Old Eastside.” As the smallest high school in Newton County, Eastside often faces larger programs, but their track record of sending athletes to college (and even the NFL) proves that size isn’t everything.Looking Ahead – The 2025 SeasonThe Eagles’ schedule is no cupcake run. Non-region games include Newton, Hiram, Alcovy, and Archer, along with Flowery Branch and Madison County for homecoming. Region 6...
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    36 分
  • Christine Boggs: Faith, Free Healthcare, and a Future Dental Clinic - Episode 50

    Christine Boggs: Faith, Free Healthcare, and a Future Dental Clinic - Episode 50
    2025/07/29
    In Episode 50 of The Town Square Podcast, host Trey Bailey welcomes Christine Boggs, Executive Director of Willing Helpers Medical Clinic, for a heartfelt conversation that blends healthcare, faith, and community outreach. Christine shares how this small but mighty clinic is delivering more than $3.5 million worth of medical care each year to Newton County’s uninsured and low-income population — entirely free of charge.What Is Willing Helpers Medical Clinic?Willing Helpers is a nonprofit medical clinic that provides free primary care services to uninsured, low-income individuals living in Georgia. Founded in 2006 in the basement of Solid Rock Church, the clinic has grown into a well-established facility next to Piedmont Newton Hospital. Serving approximately 700 active patients and accepting 10 new applications per week, Willing Helpers has become a vital part of Newton County’s health landscape.Christine, who was originally brought on to manage the books, quickly stepped into leadership after realizing the clinic needed more structure and community visibility. Under her direction, the clinic has not only stabilized its operations but is preparing to expand into dental care.Who They ServeTo qualify for services at Willing Helpers, patients must: - Be uninsured - Have an income below 200% of the federal poverty level - Be a resident of GeorgiaThe clinic sees a wide range of patients, including the homeless population, immigrants, and individuals recently released from incarceration. Many face chronic illnesses like diabetes, hypertension, epilepsy, and heart disease.How the Clinic OperatesDespite having only six staff members, Willing Helpers works with more than 20 Piedmont Newton providers and multiple nursing students from schools like Emory, Georgia State, and Southern Crescent. The clinic is open Tuesday through Thursday and provides services including: - Chronic condition management - Blood work - Prescription assistance - Wound care - Mental health referrals - Nutritional counseling - Spiritual support and prayerChristine emphasizes that the clinic isn’t just about medicine—it’s about whole-body wellness: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual.Compassionate, Community-Driven CareOne standout theme of the episode is compassionate care. Christine believes deeply in creating space where patients feel seen, valued, and loved. Whether it’s providing wound care for a homeless diabetic patient or giving a newly released inmate a health screening and medication, every action taken at the clinic is rooted in dignity and service.The clinic also trains nursing students to practice “compassionate care” by understanding a patient’s full life context—not just their symptoms. As Christine puts it, “When you truly see someone, you’re more likely to have compassion for them.”Making Miracles HappenFrom unexpected five-figure checks arriving in the mail to medical equipment appearing just in time for a patient in need, Christine credits God’s provision as the unseen force keeping Willing Helpers thriving. Their ability to deliver millions of dollars worth of care on a shoestring budget is nothing short of miraculous.Coming Soon: Free Dental CareOne of the most exciting developments discussed in this episode is the clinic’s plan to launch a dental clinic. With most local ERs unable to address dental needs beyond prescriptions, Christine saw a gap in care that she felt called to fill. Within weeks of voicing this vision, she received donated equipment and support to make it happen.If you’re a dentist or dental hygienist looking to give back, Willing Helpers needs your help.The Georgia Baptist Mobile Dental Unit will be in Covington on August 8–9, providing cleanings, extractions, and fillings to those who qualify. Christine hopes this is just the beginning of a permanent dental clinic under the Willing Helpers banner.How to Get CarePatients should start by visiting WillingHelpersClinic.com to download an application and review eligibility guidelines. From there, they can call the clinic to schedule an eligibility appointment, get bloodwork, and be seen by a provider in as little as a week.How You Can SupportThere are several ways to get involved: - Donate: One-time and recurring donations can be made at WillingHelpersClinic.com- Volunteer: Medical professionals, students, and community members are welcome - Spread the Word: Awareness is a powerful tool—tell someone about Willing HelpersBy the Numbers· 700+ active patients· $3.5M in annual care provided· 20+ volunteer providers· 48% of patients have zero income· Countless lives changedChristine’s leadership has ushered in a new era for Willing Helpers Medical Clinic—one marked by growth, purpose, and relentless faith.Important Links from the Episode· Willing Helpers Medical Clinic: https://www.willinghelpersclinic.com· Become a ...
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    58 分
  • Mollie Melvin: Prevention, Partnership & the Power of Youth - Episode 49

    Mollie Melvin: Prevention, Partnership & the Power of Youth - Episode 49
    2025/07/22
    In this week’s conversation on The Town Square Podcast, Trey Bailey sits down with Mollie Melvin, Executive Director of the Newton Community Partnership, for a compelling deep dive into prevention work, community capacity building, and the vital role youth play in shaping Newton County’s future.Although co-host Gabriel Stovall was away covering a breaking story, Trey and Mollie held nothing back in this “messy middle” episode. They covered the roots of the Newton Community Partnership, the evolution of youth empowerment in our county, and the crucial and often unseen work that fuels early literacy, suicide prevention, mental health support, and inter-agency collaboration.What is the Newton Community Partnership?Originally founded in 1989 to tackle teen pregnancy, the Newton Community Partnership (or “the Partnership”) has evolved into Newton County’s official advocacy body for children and families. Mollie explains how the Partnership now focuses on prevention, coalition-building, and community capacity development. With just two paid staff members and a host of volunteers, the impact of their work is far-reaching and deeply rooted in collaboration.From supporting youth-led initiatives to helping seniors navigate online government applications, the Partnership shows up wherever there’s a gap—even when there’s no funding.“If one person is doing the work, you’re not going to make a difference. It takes partners pitching into the pot.” – Mollie MelvinYouth Action Team: Peer Power in ActionMollie shares stories of local teens involved in the Partnership’s Youth Action Team—a voluntary group of students committed to substance misuse prevention, suicide awareness, and peer-to-peer education. These youth aren’t just checking boxes for community service hours; they’re learning to lead, adapt content for age-appropriate audiences, and even forming campus organizations.One story highlights a student who, after engaging with the Youth Action Team, co-founded a suicide prevention club at Oxford College—a legacy in the making. These teens are tackling the hard stuff and connecting directly with families at community events.Prevention as a Tangled WebMollie illustrates how prevention work intersects with everything: mental health, substance use, early literacy, and economic stability. She likens the challenges to a plate of spaghetti—you can’t pull on one noodle without shifting the whole plate. Prevention isn’t about one-off programs; it’s about long-term resilience built through relationships, education, and layered support systems.“You can’t eat the whole elephant at once. But you can eat a forkful.”Early Literacy and the Birth-to-Work PipelineA significant portion of the conversation highlights early literacy as the foundation of workforce development. Mollie emphasizes the importance of reaching families before children enter school, with programs like the Dolly Parton Imagination Library and a revival of the Family Literacy Coalition.She explains how third-grade reading scores can predict long-term educational outcomes and societal impacts like dropout rates and incarceration. It all comes back to prevention: read, sing, talk to your baby.Mental Health, Suicide Prevention & Social MediaMollie and Trey also navigate the sensitive but necessary topic of suicide prevention. With alarming trends among both youth and adults, Mollie describes the QPR method (Question, Persuade, Refer) and the mental health training offered through community partnerships.She underscores the role of social media in both perpetuating isolation and offering a place for affirmation. Building empathy and real-world relationships are critical to helping young people cope, connect, and reach out.Partnership, Planning, and the Power of ConnectionMollie’s role often looks like the middle of the tangled web. She moves between agencies, committees, and community groups connecting people who might not otherwise talk to each other. Whether it’s the opioid task force, the Archway Partnership, or helping seniors fill out online applications, Mollie and the Partnership step in where systems fall short.She calls this community capacity building: helping others do their jobs better by filling in the gaps, brokering relationships, and finding funding when no one else can.“We’re not trying to compete with other agencies. We’re just trying to connect the dots.”The Biggest Challenge: Sustainable FundingDespite its wide reach and critical work, the Newton Community Partnership faces a precarious funding environment. Federal and state grant programs are in flux, private donations can be unpredictable, and prevention—by nature—is a hard thing to fund because success often looks invisible.But Mollie remains hopeful, driven by stories like the student speaker at Legion Field who could articulate the organization’s mission as a high school sophomore.“What we do has value. You don’t grab ...
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    1 時間 8 分
  • District Attorney Randy McGinley and Defense Attorney Kamau Mason: Inside the Fight Against Teen Gun Violence – Episode 48

    District Attorney Randy McGinley and Defense Attorney Kamau Mason: Inside the Fight Against Teen Gun Violence – Episode 48
    2025/07/15
    Welcome to Episode 48 of The Town Square Podcast — the place where Newton County’s most pressing conversations are brought to the table, and where unity, not uniformity, is the aim. In this landmark episode, co-host Trey Bailey sits down with two men who are usually on opposite sides of the courtroom: District Attorney Randy McGinley and Defense Attorney Kamau Mason. Together, they step into the “messy middle” to have a vulnerable and powerful conversation about one of the most urgent issues facing our community — the alarming rise in teen gun violence.What happens when a prosecutor and a defense attorney agree on something? Something special. Something meaningful. Something that might just change lives.A Rare Alliance in a Critical MomentMost days, McGinley and Mason meet in courtrooms — one prosecuting, the other defending. But today, they sit shoulder-to-shoulder, united by concern and conviction. Both men are sounding the alarm on a crisis that hits close to home: young people in Newton and Walton counties picking up guns, making life-altering decisions, and ending up in adult courtrooms far too young.Their conversation comes on the heels of a newly enacted Georgia law that expands the list of crimes for which children aged 13 to 16 can be tried as adults. And while both men understand the need for safety and accountability, they also express deep concern about how to intervene earlier — before a teenager ends up facing 20 years to life.“Who are the victims in youth gun violence cases? Other youth,” McGinley says. “We’ve got to break the cycle.”“Most of our kids aren’t evil,” Mason adds. “They’re making decisions in the dark — shaped by poverty, addiction, peer pressure, and lack of guidance.”This episode is an open, honest dialogue about solutions — from legislative reform to mentorship, community engagement, and stronger parental involvement.Meet the GuestsRandy McGinley, District Attorney of the Alcovy Judicial Circuit, has served Newton and Walton Counties since 2011. A graduate of Mercer Law and Georgia Tech, he handles over 6,000 criminal cases per year. A father of two, McGinley is deeply committed to public safety, justice, and community partnerships.Kamau Mason is a veteran defense attorney based in Lithonia, Georgia. A former educator with 17 years of teaching experience, Mason brings empathy and passion to every client he represents — especially minors. With a background in special education and deep ties to underserved communities, he sees every case as a chance for redemption.Their shared respect is palpable. And their perspectives, while different, form a powerful harmony.A Messy Middle Conversation That MattersFrom the jump, Trey opens the episode with a simple but powerful question: “What brings you joy today?”The answers are personal and revealing — a recent fishing trip with family, a milestone birthday, gratitude for the chance to work together despite being on opposing sides. These small windows into their lives set the stage for something bigger: a shared mission to prevent the next 13-year-old from throwing their life away with a gun.McGinley breaks down the technical details of the new Georgia law — how it shifts jurisdiction for crimes like aggravated assault with a firearm, attempted murder, and school-based terroristic acts into adult court.“This bill passed overwhelmingly — 45-9 in the Senate, 154-12 in the House,” he says. “It reflects how seriously lawmakers are taking this.”But Mason asks a critical question: “What happens to the humanity of these kids when we fast-track them into adult courts?”He advocates for appointing guardians ad litem — court-assigned advocates who can bridge the gap between home life and the courtroom. He recalls past cases where parents inadvertently harmed their child’s defense, simply by trying to help.“We’re not trying to exclude parents — we’re trying to protect them too,” Mason explains. “Sometimes the parent becomes a witness, or worse — an accessory.”Why Are Teens Picking Up Guns?The podcast dives deep into this question. Their answers are clear:Poverty: Many youth grow up in environments with limited resources, absent fathers, and few positive role models.Social Media: Disputes that once ended with a fistfight now escalate to gunfire because of public humiliation online.Cultural Modeling: From celebrities to political leaders, too many public figures glorify confrontation and disrespect.Lack of Purpose: Boys without a mission are vulnerable. As Mason says, “Every boy needs a mission. If a good man doesn’t give it to him, a bad man will.”“Boys are built for adventure,” Mason shares. “Our best coaches give them that mission. If we don’t, the streets will.”McGinley echoes this with a call for parental vigilance: “Your kid’s phone is your phone. Know what’s on it. Know who they’re texting.”Together, they make a compelling ...
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    1 時間 11 分
  • Ted Cummings: Chamber Chair Challenges Community to Find its Identity - Episode 47

    Ted Cummings: Chamber Chair Challenges Community to Find its Identity - Episode 47
    2025/07/01
    Welcome to the Messy MiddleIn Episode 47 of The Town Square Podcast, co-hosts Trey Bailey and Gabriel Stovall sit down with Ted Cummings, the Chairman of the Newton County Chamber of Commerce and the President and CEO of Onyx Media. This powerful and insightful episode peels back the layers of what it means to lead in a community that is still defining who it is and where it wants to go. Ted brings passion, purpose, and perspective as a community leader, entrepreneur, and advocate for public education, small businesses, and strategic development.But perhaps the quote that captures the essence of this entire conversation comes near the end:“Newton County needs to decide what the hell it wants to be when it grows up. It doesn’t have an identity.” – Ted CummingsFrom economic development to AV wizardry, public education to farming Jamaican produce in Georgia soil, Ted’s story is nothing short of remarkable. And his love for this county is clear.From Kingston to Covington: Ted Cummings’ JourneyBorn in Kingston, Jamaica, and raised partly in New York, Ted Cummings made his way to Newton County nearly 20 years ago. What began as a convenient bedroom community soon became the place where he would plant deep roots, grow his business, raise a family, and lead significant change.His company, Onyx Media, started reluctantly at the encouragement of Coca-Cola after a corporate contract fallout. But what began as a freelance gig turned into a full-fledged AV and media powerhouse. Today, Onyx services major corporate clients like Volkswagen, Coca-Cola, and Eli Lilly, handles high-end trade shows and automotive prep, and even builds out command and control centers for the Department of Defense.Leading with InnovationTed shared remarkable stories of quick-turnaround AV setups with military-grade precision, and of his methodical, excellence-driven leadership style. One story that stood out was the 3-hour setup for Eli Lilly’s East Regional Awards event at World of Coca-Cola. With only hours to prepare, Ted and his team flawlessly executed a setup involving two semi-trucks worth of AV and lighting equipment. His principle? Redundancy and preparation—if something fails, the audience should never know.Ted doesn’t just do events. He transforms them.The Vision for Newton CountyWhile Ted’s business accomplishments are extensive, what makes him a standout guest is his heart for the Newton County community. As Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce, he’s led the organization toward a more member-centric structure—one that is not just about paying dues, but about participating and leading. Much like a thriving church, Ted says, a chamber works best when its members are up front, involved, and invested.Under his leadership, the Chamber has adopted a strategic plan with two clear priorities:Public Education Advocacy: Not to take over the school system, but to be its champion. Ted wants businesses to highlight and support the good happening in local public schools.Community-Centered Collaboration and Growth: Ted believes that a strong, connected, and vibrant community fuels business success. If Newton County thrives, so will its businesses.Busting the East Side / West Side DivideOne of Ted’s most poignant observations is the long-standing divide in Newton County between East and West. He calls it out with clarity:“What are we, LA? East side? West side? It’s Newton County. That division has to stop.”Having lived on both sides of the county, Ted sees firsthand the different experiences, development levels, and biases. But he insists it doesn’t have to be that way. With courageous leadership, unity-focused decision-making, and a commitment to equity, Newton County can rise above the division and find its identity.Education and Workforce PipelineTed is passionate about the role public schools play in economic development. He lauds Newton County’s school system for the opportunities it provides and the close-knit community that surrounds it. He has served on multiple boards, including the Career Academy, and was PTO president at the STEM Academy.He supports the upcoming workforce framework being developed by the Newton County Chamber of Commerce, Newton County Schools, and the IDA. This initiative will create clear, effective pipelines from the classroom to the career field. As he puts it, internships and real-world exposure are essential:“We can show kids other career options. Just carrying tape and pushing gear at our company starts at $25/hour.”On Small Businesses and Economic GrowthTed also emphasizes how small businesses need to support one another. Instead of chasing the elusive “big contract,” local businesses should partner together, keep their dollars local, and build sustaining relationships.“There’s more money on the small level. Small businesses need to do business with each other.”He wants the Chamber to become more accessible, active in every corner of the county, and ...
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    1 時間 1 分
  • Mayor Fleeta Baggett: Straight Talk on Fireworks, Stormwater Fees, and the Future of Covington – Episode 46

    Mayor Fleeta Baggett: Straight Talk on Fireworks, Stormwater Fees, and the Future of Covington – Episode 46
    2025/06/24
    The Incomparable Mayor is BackIn Episode 46 of The Town Square Podcast, Mayor Fleeta Baggett returns for her second appearance and doesn’t hold back. From fireworks and stormwater fees to gun violence and government bureaucracy, the Mayor gives us the real story on what’s going on in Covington—and makes some breaking news while she’s at it: she’s running for re-election.If you want a dose of humor, humility, and hard truth from a leader who pulls no punches, this is the episode to hear.🎇 A New Spin on Covington’s July CelebrationAfter last year’s chaotic Fourth of July celebration, Covington is making a strategic pivot. Mayor Baggett breaks down how the city, after consulting with public safety officials from the GSP to Homeland Security, is moving the fireworks to the night of July 3rd.“It’s not going to be an all-day thing anymore,” she said. “We’re going to shut down the Square at 8 p.m., shoot fireworks around 9:45, and then folks head home. It’s about safety—and bringing it back to the locals.”This year’s event is meant to be more manageable, more secure, and more local-focused.💧 That Stormwater Fee ExplainedOne hot topic on social media recently has been the sudden appearance of a stormwater utility fee on residents’ bills. Mayor Baggett gets right into it.“It’s not a tax—it’s a utility fee,” she explains. “The stormwater infrastructure under our roads is aging and has been neglected for decades. If we don’t fix it now, we’re going to end up like Atlanta—with sinkholes and water spouts downtown.”The stormwater fee, based on the impervious surface area of your property, helps the city avoid massive emergency repair costs later. And no, the revenue from the fee doesn’t even come close to covering the full cost of the infrastructure work. But it’s a necessary start.🚒 New Fire Station & Emergency InfrastructureMayor Baggett confirms rumors about a new fire station being constructed on Highway 36, right across from Magnolia Heights.“It’ll have fire, police, and EMS bays—a fully multifunctional facility,” she shares. “We’re also putting in a new 911 center in the same area. These are critical needs for a growing Covington.”The episode includes an eye-opening conversation about the conditions of the current 911 center—cramped, outdated, and barely suitable for the kind of emergency coordination Newton County needs today.🏗️ Strategic Planning & Local VoicesCovington is launching Phase 2 of its downtown master plan, and Mayor Baggett wants local input. A kickoff event is happening at Legion Field on June 24th, followed by presence at summer events like Christmas in July and concerts on the Square.“This is for locals—not tourists,” she says. “We know what the tourists want. Now we need to hear from our citizens.”Residents can expect survey booths, feedback cards, and interactive opportunities to shape the future of downtown Covington.🔥 Breaking News: Mayor Baggett Is Running AgainAfter two intense years of learning the ropes and forming relationships across the state, Mayor Baggett announced her intention to seek a second term.“I just hate to see us fall behind the learning curve,” she said. “Now that I’ve got the connections and the knowledge, I want to use it to keep Covington moving forward.”🧠 Institutional Knowledge, Real Talk, and TeamworkThis episode also highlights the deep bench of Covington’s leadership—from department heads to city council members with strong professional backgrounds.Mayor Baggett emphasizes how important it is to understand how different parts of the city work—and how to get the right people in the room to get the job done.“You can’t just go hire a new person and hand them a book of institutional knowledge. That comes with time.”🔫 Teen Gun Violence: “You Can’t Fix Stupid”The conversation takes a serious turn when the topic shifts to youth gun violence. Mayor Baggett’s response?“You can’t fix stupid. We don’t have a gun problem—we have a society problem.”The Mayor goes on to point out that generational shifts, lack of home training, and social media have all played a role in creating a culture where consequences seem non-existent.She also hints at a future Town Square Podcast episode where District Attorney Randy McGinley and a local defense attorney will tackle the issue head-on.📞 The Power of Face-to-Face ConversationsOne of the most powerful moments of the episode? A story about a facility key and six months of back-and-forth emails. Mayor Baggett skipped the red tape, drove across town, asked for the key, and returned with it in hand.“How much of the problems in the world could be solved with just one conversation?”This theme echoes the podcast’s entire mission—creating unity through conversation, not division through silence.🎙️ Key Quote Moments“When you see it, it’s too late. The apartments you’re seeing now...
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