Macon It

This special edition of Macon It, hosted by Chris Floore, takes you behind the scenes of one of the biggest projects in Macon-Bibb's history, the new Macon Arena.
Chris is joined by Will Christenbury of MFA Project Management and David Aiello of OVG to explore the vision and intentional design behind the arena as the community looks ahead to its groundbreaking. From architecture inspired by the Ocmulgee River and Macon's musical legacy to fan experience, flexibility, and community gathering spaces, every detail was designed with purpose. Learn how this next-generation venue will honor Macon's past while creating new opportunities for concerts, sporting events, conventions, and unforgettable memories for decades to come.

In this episode of Macon It, we're turning up the volume with a conversation about one of Macon's most beloved traditions, Bragg Jam. Joining us are current Bragg Jam President Olivia Walter, and former board members Everett Verner and Sean Pritchard. 
Together, we dive into the history of Bragg Jam, how it has evolved from a memorial concert into one of Macon's signature events, and what it takes to bring a citywide concert crawl to life. We also share behind-the-scenes stories, favorite memories, and why Bragg Jam continues to be a driving force for live music, local businesses, and Macon's creative culture.
Whether you're a longtime Bragg Jam fan or thinking about attending for the first time, this episode is your backstage pass to the people and passion behind the music.

In this episode of Macon It, we sit down with the CEO of Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia Krystal Crawford to talk about the impact Girl Scouts has on young girls across our community. While many people know Girl Scouts for their famous cookies, Krystal shares how the organization is about so much more — from building confidence and leadership skills to encouraging service, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement.
We talk about how Girl Scouts are preparing the next generation of leaders, empowering girls to make a difference in their communities, and creating opportunities that help them grow into strong, capable change-makers. It's a conversation about leadership, service, and the lasting impact of investing in our youth.

In this episode of Macon It, we sit down with Macon-Bibb County's Chief Information Officer, Tekquell Watson, to learn more about the person leading technology and innovation for our local government. A U.S. Air Force veteran with more than 25 years of experience in information technology, cybersecurity, and public service, Tekquell shares her journey to Macon and her vision for the future.
We also pull back the curtain on the County's Information Technology Department and the team that keeps everything running behind the scenes. From cybersecurity and digital services to smart city initiatives and improving government accessibility, Tekquell explains why technology plays such a critical role in serving our community and how Macon-Bibb is using innovation to build a more connected future.

In this episode of Macon It, we sit down with Bill Causey, a longtime public servant and one of the driving forces behind many of Macon’s most beloved green spaces and trails. Even in retirement from Macon-Bibb County, Bill is still hard at work advocating for projects that connect people to nature, and to each other.
From helping pave roads and shape Macon’s water drainage systems early in his career to spearheading the growth of the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail, Bill has spent decades helping shape the way our community moves, gathers, and grows. We talk about the vision behind Macon’s trail system, the importance of public greenspace, and why creating pathways through the community is about much more than recreation, it’s about connection.
 

In this episode of Macon It, we sit down with Sherita Sims Jones, Director of Budget and Grants for Macon-Bibb County, during one of the most important times of the year…budget season. As she prepares to present the FY27 budget, Sherita gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how the county plans, prioritizes, and funds the services that keep our community running.
We also dive into the critical role grants play in supporting programs across Macon-Bibb and how strategic funding helps bring projects to life. Beyond the numbers, Sherita shares the passion and positivity she brings to her work every day, proving that even budgets can be about people, purpose, and progress.

In this episode of Macon It, we sit down with Dr. Henry Ficklin, Macon-Bibb County’s Community Affairs Executive Director, a role that truly touches every corner of the community. From reading proclamations and connecting with residents to leading the Council of Clergy and helping guide conversations that matter, Dr. Ficklin is at the heart of community engagement.
We also talk about his work investing in the next generation through the Georgia Civic Awareness Program for Students (GCAPS), the County’s intern program, and the Youth Council. Whether it’s uplifting voices, building bridges, or creating opportunities, Dr. Ficklin’s work is all about making sure everyone in Macon-Bibb has a seat at the table.

In this episode of Macon It, we bring you Mayor Lester Miller’s full State of the Community Address, delivered at this year's Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce event. This annual address highlights the progress, priorities, and vision shaping Macon-Bibb County.
From major projects and community investments to the momentum driving our city forward, Mayor Miller reflects on where we are and where we’re headed next. It’s a comprehensive look at the state of our community, and a reminder of what’s possible when we continue moving forward together.

In this episode of Macon It, we sit down with Wanzina Jackson, Director of Economic and Community Development for Macon-Bibb County, to talk about the work that’s helping transform lives across our community. With more than 20 years of service to Macon, Wanzina shares how the ECD department partners with organizations to support low- to moderate-income households through housing, resources, and opportunity.
As we celebrate National Community Development Week (April 6–10), we also take time to recognize and thank the organizations that make Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) projects possible. Their work, alongside Macon-Bibb County, helps create stronger neighborhoods, expand opportunity, and improve quality of life across our community.

In this episode of Macon It, we sit down with Jerry Battle, Macon-Bibb County’s new Neighborhood Program Coordinator, to talk about his role as a boots-on-the-ground connector between residents and local government. Jerry shares how he’s working directly with neighborhoods to listen, build trust, and make sure every voice is heard.
We discuss the importance of neighborhood pride, how stronger communication leads to real results, and what this new role means for the future of community engagement across Macon-Bibb. It’s a conversation about meeting people where they are and building a stronger Macon… together.