|
The Peach: Where It's Been and Where It Might Go
I started the Political Peach News last January because I had some things to say. Certain issues were not getting the media coverage they deserved, and important aspects of other issues were not being discussed. I also wanted to connect the dots or take a “balcony” view of some topics. I regard articles in the Peach as opinion pieces or op-eds that are lightly reported. I freely admit that I have an opinion and a point of view. More importantly, the Peach is a way to amplify issues and voices from Georgia progressive groups and individuals. I write about, interview and quote progressive activists and organization leaders who are not often quoted or even noticed by mainstream media.
This year the Peach has highlighted some significant statewide and local policy battles, including redistricting, the voter suppression bill SB 202, the proposed mine near the Okefenokee Swamp, and the Atlanta police training facility. It also addressed a few topics that were getting less attention, such as the race won by Athens-Clarke District Attorney Deborah Gonzales, and the problem with long probation sentences in our state. You can see the entire list here. A few of these topics deserve small follow ups or second looks.
Plans for the Atlanta police training facility, discussed in Will Atlanta Give Away the Farm, are moving ahead. An advisory committee has been formed and has met a few times. Saporta Report writer John Ruch has been staying on top of the planning process. His latest article and earlier ones, highlight problems. Aja Arnold at Mainline Zine is also doing good reporting on this issue with several articles and podcasts. We will watch what the newly elected members of the City Council have to say about this $90 million project that was strongly opposed by many neighborhood residents and progressive activists. Also it’s interesting to understand more about the role of police foundations around the country. This report from the Color of Change outlines some disturbing anti-democratic aspects of these foundations, including the one in Atlanta.
Regarding Black Farmers in Georgia, a recent article from The Nation Magazine reports the stunningly pervasive history of racism across the South by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Georgia, of course, is mentioned.
My Transportation in Atlanta article, among other things, highlighted the MARTA bus system. MARTA has recently launched a review of the design of the entire bus network and is asking for public comment about whether to have more buses on fewer routes, or to maintain more routes with fewer buses. MARTA will host a virtual hearing December 7, and more are scheduled next year. This link provides details and a way to click through to a survey to voice your opinion..
Next year the Peach may include a different look and format. Possible topics include ideas to reverse Georgia’s rural decline, policies to reduce student debt, and zoning proposals in Atlanta to increase density yet preserve neighborhood character. I expect to closely follow some issues in the next session of the Georgia Legislature. The Peach will continue the bi-weekly Monday schedule. You can follow me on Twitter for commentary and links to articles between issues of the Peach. During these next weeks, I especially encourage you to send me your thoughts on topics for the Peach and ideas to improve the Peach: anything from possible guest writers to a different font. My inbox is always open. Thanks always for your readership, comments and support during this past year. I hope you stick with the Peach and spread it far and wide in the New Year.
|
