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 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 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!