In Episode 30 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Travis Moore, the newly elected East Ward, Post 2 representative on the Covington City Council. A lifelong Covington resident, Moore brings a deep-rooted connection to his community and a unique perspective to his role as council member. From his background in public safety and real estate to his passion for preserving the small-town feel of Covington while navigating its rapid growth, Moore shares insights into his vision for the city's future. He emphasizes the importance of responsible development and transparency, particularly through his social media platforms where he keeps residents informed about local government activities.

In this conversation, Moore discusses the challenges and opportunities facing Covington, including the impact of short-term rentals, the film industry, and infrastructure needs. He opens up about his concerns regarding "irresponsible growth" and how he plans to balance development with the preservation of Covington’s charm. Moore also shares his top priorities for the city, including improving public services and supporting community-driven initiatives. This episode offers an engaging look at the issues that matter most to Covington residents and how one of their new council members is working to shape the city's future.

In Episode 29 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Dr. Tavarez Holston, the president of Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC), for a conversation about the importance of technical education in today’s workforce. Dr. Holston discusses the unique role of technical colleges, the most popular and in-demand degree programs at GPTC, and how the college collaborates with local businesses to ensure its offerings meet regional workforce needs. He also shares insights into the new CDL training center, which is poised to help students quickly enter the workforce with skills in high demand, particularly in the trucking industry.

The episode also touches on Dr. Holston’s leadership style, his passion for woodworking as a way to manage the pressures of his role, and the college’s ongoing commitment to workforce development. He emphasizes GPTC’s mission to equip students with the skills they need to succeed in today’s job market, as well as his excitement for upcoming initiatives and programs at the college. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how Georgia Piedmont Technical College is shaping the future of education and creating opportunities for local communities in DeKalb, Newton, and Rockdale counties.

In this bonus episode of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey engage in a candid and respectful conversation about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). They delve into the historical context of the US Constitution and the founding fathers while examining the ongoing challenges of racism in America. With passion and cordiality, Gabriel and Trey explore how DEI is often used as a shorthand for focusing on "black and brown people" and the ways it has been both helpful and, at times, misused. Their goal is to meet in the messy middle—where different perspectives can be shared and common ground can be found.

This episode offers listeners an opportunity to reflect on the complexities of DEI and how we can engage with its initiatives in a way that promotes unity without demanding uniformity. As always, The Town Square Podcast encourages open dialogue, understanding, and respect for diverse opinions. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that challenges the way we think about inclusion and the ways forward for a more cohesive society.

In Episode 27 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Stan Edwards, District 1 Commissioner for Newton County, Georgia. A lifelong resident of the county, Stan brings nearly 9 years of experience on the Board of Commissioners and a deep commitment to his community. During the conversation, Stan discusses his approach to policymaking, focusing on the needs of current residents rather than future growth, and shares his thoughts on controversial issues like the Save Our Homes Act (HB 581) and Governor Kemp’s Tort Reform initiative. His perspective on balancing development with the preservation of community values offers a refreshing take on leadership.

The interview also covers Stan’s vision for District 1 and Newton County’s future, touching on successes, challenges, and his dedication to ensuring thoughtful, sustainable growth. With candid reflections on his personal experiences and mistakes made in his early public service, Stan’s story is one of humility, integrity, and a clear plan for navigating the county’s evolving needs. Tune in for an insightful conversation on the pressing issues facing Newton County today and Stan’s long-term goals for its future.

In Episode 26 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey interview Maurice Carter and Nancy Schulz, two dedicated advocates for sustainability and climate action in Newton County. Maurice, co-founder of Sustainable Newton, has led the organization since 2018, working to inspire local residents and businesses to take action against climate change. Nancy, a former Newton County Commissioner and passionate environmental advocate, has dedicated her post-retirement years to advancing sustainability efforts in the community. Together, they share their personal journeys, explain why climate change is an urgent issue, and discuss the impactful initiatives Sustainable Newton is spearheading to create lasting change in the region.

Maurice and Nancy also emphasize the importance of local engagement and collaboration with businesses and governments to address environmental concerns. They highlight the challenges of overcoming skepticism around climate change and provide actionable ways for individuals to contribute to sustainability efforts. With an eye toward the future, they share their vision for upcoming projects and how citizens can get involved. This episode is an inspiring call to action for those looking to make a difference in their community and help shape a greener, more sustainable future for Newton County.

In Episode 25 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with District 5 Commissioner LeAnne Long for a no-nonsense conversation about her bold vision for Newton County. A self-proclaimed conservative with a strong personality, LeAnne is committed to open communication and tackling the issues head-on. She discusses her reasons for running, the importance of balanced growth, and her concerns about the 2023 Comprehensive Land Use Plan and the Future Land Use Map. LeAnne also shares her thoughts on property tax reform, with a special focus on tax relief for senior citizens. Tune in for a straight-talking, insightful discussion on the future of Newton County.

In Episode 24 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Pastor Justin Adams of New Life Praise Center and Minister Nytravious “Nytro” Smith of James Paschal Missionary Baptist Church for a spirited and inspirational conversation about the state of the church and faith in Newton County. The episode explores the incredible growth of New Life Praise Center, from its humble beginnings to a thriving congregation of over 1,000 attendees, and the ways Minister Nytro is helping revitalize the congregation at James Paschal. Together, these leaders discuss church growth, outreach, and the importance of embracing diversity in the modern church.

The conversation also highlights the significance of unity among local faith leaders and their collaborative efforts to serve the community. Both churches are deeply engaged in partnerships with schools and nonprofits, working to support the people of Newton County. With the holiday season approaching, the pastors share how they are reaching out to families and creating opportunities to make a difference during this special time of year. Tune in to hear how these dynamic leaders are impacting faith and community in Newton County.

In this episode of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey chat with Jeffrey Burke, UGA Archway Professional for Newton County. Jeffrey discusses his work in bringing local government, leaders, and citizens together to tackle key community issues: education, workforce development, government collaboration, health & wellness, and housing.

Through partnerships with UGA students and passionate workgroups, Jeffrey is helping make bold ideas a reality. Tune in to hear how thinking outside the box can create "magic" in Newton County!

In this heartwarming episode of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey are joined by US Special Olympian Cole Goering and his dedicated coach, LaTrelle Cawthon. Coach Cawthon, who also serves as the Adapted Physical Education Teacher and Special Olympics Coordinator for Newton County Schools, shares her passion for supporting athletes with special needs. Together, they discuss Cole’s inspiring journey to the 2025 Special Olympics Winter Games in Turin, Italy, where he will compete as a member of the US Alpine Skiing team. This conversation is a powerful reminder of determination, community, and the importance of support in achieving big dreams.

Listeners will also hear about Cole’s upcoming role as a Grand Marshal for the Lion’s Club Covington Christmas Parade on Dec. 7th, and how they can support him through the Cakes & Cookies for Cole fundraiser at the Mistletoe Market later that evening. With a goal of raising $20,000 to cover the costs of Cole's trip, Gabriel and Trey urge everyone to donate to Cole's GoFundMe page and help make this Special Olympian’s dream a reality. Don't miss this uplifting conversation and the opportunity to contribute to a worthy cause!

"In this episode of The Town Square Podcast, Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Representative Tim Fleming, who represents District 114, covering much of Newton County, Morgan County, and parts of Walton County. Fleming offers insights into the recent local elections, discussing the victories of LeAnne Long and Stan Edwards, as well as the surprising defeat of long-time Coroner Tommy Davis by newcomer Kimberly Griggs. He also shares his perspective on the broader national political landscape, from the Presidential election results to the Republican party's momentum in Congress.

Fleming emphasizes the importance of bipartisanship in government, revealing how he collaborates with both Republicans and Democrats to pass meaningful legislation for the people of Georgia. The conversation also delves into local issues like population growth, transportation challenges, and affordable housing, as Fleming discusses potential solutions to ensure the continued prosperity of his district. Tune in to hear a thoughtful, in-depth discussion about Georgia’s future and the path forward for Newton County."

Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Shamica Tucker, Executive Director of the Covington Housing Authority, as she busts myths and shares surprising truths about affordable housing in Newton County. Shamica explains why the Housing Authority is far more than just 'government housing' and how it works to provide safe, affordable homes for families in need. She also sheds light on the surprising number of residents who are employed full-time and challenges the notion that more subsidized housing leads to more poverty. Plus, hear her thoughts on the future of the Alcovy Community and efforts to combat concentrated poverty. Tune in to Episode 20 of The Town Square Podcast for an inspiring and informative discussion!

In this episode of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Harold Cooper, Newton County's County Manager. With a rich background in public service, Mr. Cooper shares insights into his role, emphasizing his Three "P's" of Leadership: People, Purpose, and Processes. He addresses challenges facing the county while highlighting his commitment to enhancing residents' quality of life. "No matter the resources, we will remain fiscally responsible and dedicated to serving our community." Tune in for an inspiring conversation!

As a leader known for her candidness and approachable style, Fleeta doesn’t shy away from discussing challenging topics, making for an engaging dialogue. Throughout the episode, we dive into the concept of next-level leadership, exploring what it means to lead with authenticity and purpose in today’s fast-paced world. Fleeta’s self-professed “loose tongue” leads to some memorable moments, as she shares her honest thoughts on local governance and the pressing issues facing the community.

One of the highlights of our conversation revolves around the recent firework debacle that ignited tensions on The Square. Fleeta details her perspective on the drama surrounding the divided City Council and her veto of a controversial decision, shedding light on the current state of affairs. With metaphorical fireworks flying around the discussion, the episode is packed with insights into how local politics can often mirror personal passions and community values.

Taking office in January 2024, Mayor Patterson brings a wealth of experience to his role, having previously served on the Planning & Zoning Committee and the City Council. With deep family roots in Porterdale, he is passionate about guiding the city toward sustainable growth while enhancing its local culture. During this engaging conversation, Patterson shares his commitment to rebuilding trust and transparency within the local government.

Listeners will appreciate Mayor Patterson's candid reflections on the importance of community trust as he sets out to establish a new standard of accountability. He acknowledges that Porterdale still grapples with challenges, including pockets of poverty that need addressing. The mayor believes that a revitalized downtown, filled with excellent restaurants, shops, and entertainment options, will be key to providing the necessary resources to lift the community as a whole.

With over 600 members representing more than 20,000 employees, Debbie describes the Chamber as a "concierge service for local businesses." She explains that the Chamber is not a government entity but is entirely membership-based. This gives the Chamber freedom to advocate for business-friendly policies and initiatives, ultimately helping both businesses and the broader community to thrive. 

Debbie stresses how essential it is for Newton County to have a vibrant local Chamber of Commerce. By supporting businesses, the Chamber plays a key role in the overall health and vitality of the community, fostering job creation and local economic growth.

In the latest episode of The Town Square Podcast, co-hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with an iconic figure in Newton County—Mike Hopkins, the Executive Director for the Newton County Water and Sewerage Authority. With an incredible 27 years of service in this role, Mike has been instrumental in guiding our community through transformative growth, all while preserving the small-town charm that makes Newton County so special. His leadership and long-term vision have positioned the county for sustainable development, particularly in innovative projects like the Stanton Springs business park. Here, cutting-edge technology meets eco-conscious planning with the creation of a massive recycle and reuse station—an achievement Mike and his team are incredibly proud of.

While Mike is undoubtedly passionate about his role at the Water and Sewerage Authority, his heart truly lies with The Miracle League, an organization that gives children with special needs the opportunity to play baseball. Mike has been an integral part of bringing the national annual Miracle League All-Star Game to Newton County, an event that’s just around the corner.

In Episode 14 of The Town Square Podcast, Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Carl Green, the new District Athletic Director for Newton County Schools. Green, a self-described “city-country-boy,” shares how he’s just as comfortable navigating downtown Atlanta as he is bow hunting in Newton County. This dynamic personality sets the tone for a lively discussion about his vision for the future of athletics in Newton County.

A major part of Green’s plan is creating systems and processes to ensure Newton County athletics reach their full potential. He’s particularly focused on shoring up the branding of local high school athletic departments, aiming for a uniform approach that still allows each school its own creativity. Green wants people to know when they’re up against a Newton County School team, no matter if it’s Eastside, Alcovy, or Newton, that they’re up for an elite fight with tons of school and community spirit, and excellent sportsmanship.

In Episode 13 of The Town Square Podcast, although Gabriel Stovall is absent due to car trouble, Trey Bailey takes the reins and delivers an informative conversation with Lindsey Perrin, the new CEO of Piedmont Newton Hospital. Lindsey is new to Newton County, and her fresh perspective on both the healthcare system and the community offers unique insights into the pros and cons of local life.

Since joining Piedmont Newton, Lindsey has overseen tremendous growth. In her first year, the hospital has experienced a 26.6% increase in outpatient procedures, an 18% rise in newborn deliveries, and a 20% boost in admissions—all signs that the community places immense trust in the hospital’s quality care. But Lindsey’s impact doesn’t stop there. She’s played a key role in recruiting much-needed physicians to the area, including cardiologists, a neurologist, an endocrinologist, and more. These additions are helping to fill critical gaps in healthcare accessibility for Newton County and beyond.

In this raw and angst-filled discussion, Gabriel and Trey confront the harsh realities surrounding school violence. They don’t hold back, even delving into the controversial topic of gun control measures. While they aren’t claiming to have all the answers, they make one thing clear: it’s time for action. The era of "thoughts and prayers" as the sole response to these tragedies needs to end. What’s required now are hard conversations that lead to real solutions.

This episode doesn’t shy away from the tough questions or the painful realities. Gabriel and Trey’s honest reflections will resonate with anyone who cares about the future of our schools and the safety of our children. Listen in as they challenge us all to engage in dialogue that sparks change.

In Episode 11 of The Town Square Podcast, Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey are joined by Serra Hall, the Executive Director of the Newton County Industrial Development Authority (IDA), for a candid conversation about the future of our community.

This conversation is packed with insights and might stir up mixed feelings within the community, but it’s an essential listen for anyone interested in the economic future of Newton County. Tune in to get a full understanding of the work being done and what’s on the horizon for our area.