Making Democracy Work

This week, host Erika Brame speaks with Richard Von Glahn, policy director for Missouri Jobs with Justice.

Today’s discussion explores the mission of this state and national program, and how people in Soutwest Missouri can get involved.

This week, host Debbie Good speaks with Phyllis Ferguson, North Side Advocate and former Zone One City Councilwoman.

“I like to call them ‘problem’ properties rather than nuisance.  A nuisance is something we learn to live with, a problem is something with a solution,” explains Ferguson.

Today’s discussion explores measures the City is taking to address these properties, and what neighborhood residents can do to be a part of the solution.

This week, host Lisa Langley speaks with Springfield city clerk Anita Cotter, and Cora Scott, director of public information and civic engagement for City of Springfield.

“If you have a passion, we probably have a board or commission for you,” Scott says.  The City currently has more than 25 standing boards and commissions, providing numerous opportunities for residents to get involved.

This week, host Hue-Ping Chin speaks with Dr. Regina Waters, president of Hospice Foundation of the Ozarks.

Today’s discussion explores the mission of the Hospice Foundation, along with grant opportunities for area non-profits, education and resources related to end-of-life care. 

This week, host Leslie Carrier speaks with program creator Arlen Diamond, director of broadcast services for Ozarks Public Broadcasting from 1978-2010.

Today’s discussion celebrates the ongoing shared mission of the League of Women Voters of SW Missouri and Ozarks Public Radio. We reflect on the conception of this program in the early 80’s, and explore the evolution into what has become Making Democracy Work, now celebrating over 2000 episodes.

This week, host Linda Regan speaks with Dr. Grenita Lathan, new superintendent for Springfield Public Schools.

Today’s discussion explores what drew Dr. Lathan to SPS, as she shares her vision for increasing connection between school with the greater community.

This week, host Maggie Castrey speaks with Gwen Marshall, Equity and Diversity Specialist with Springfield Public Schools and coordinator of Black History Summer Academy.

Today’s discussion talks about the history and mission of the academy, and more about this year’s program “Hidden Gems-The Next Generation.”  The program taking place June 14-18th from 6:00-8:00pm is free and open to the public. Registration is required by the end of May.

This week, host Erika Brame speaks with Ben Shantz, associate with Spencer Fane and Law Day chair with the Springfield Metropolitan Bar Association.

Today’s discussion talks about the history of Law Day which has been observed since 1950.  This year’s theme “Advancing the Rule of Law Now” explores our collective systems of laws and incorporates activities for folks to learn more and engage.

This week, host Debbie Good speaks with Lisa Gateley, loan technician with the City of Springfield.

Today’s discussion explores the Hope Loan program for Springfield residents.  In conjunction with the City Development Block Grant, or CDGB, this program provides funds to qualified residents needing assistance to maintain or repair homes.

This week, host Lisa Langley speaks with Denise Lieberman, General Counsel and director of Missouri Voter Protection Coalition.

Today’s discussion explores voter legislation occurring in many states throughout the country following the 2020 presidential election. Lieberman speaks about current bills the coalition is following through the Missouri Legislature potentially impacting voters.

This week, host HuePing Chin speaks with Jenny Filmore Edwards, public administrator for Springfield-Greene County Park Board.

Today’s discussion explores the Park Board’s continued efforts to navigate guidelines for public safety throughout the pandemic. Edwards reports park attendance has nearly doubled over the past year, as open spaces provide opportunity for increased interaction.

This week, host Leslie Carrier speaks with Adam Bodendieck, director of homeless services Community Partnership of the Ozarks O’Reilly Center for Hope.

Today’s discussion explores the mission and “one-stop-shop” services the center provides for the homeless and home insecure.    

This week, host Linda Regan speaks with Missouri State University President Cliff Smart.

Today’s discussion continues exploration of initiatives designed to benefit faculty, staff and students geared toward tackling racism on campus. 

This week, host Erika Brame speaks with Kane Sheek, Community Organizer with Missouri chapter of the Sierra Club.

Today’s discussion explores the potential impact of a few bills currently moving through the Missouri Legislature.  Sheek also talks about the Ready 100 Program, encouraging Springfield to move toward fully renewable energy by 2035.

This week, host Maggie Castrey speaks with Richard Ollis, Springfield City Council Member and a founder of the Restore SGF project.

Today’s discussion explores the mission and implementation of this project, geared toward rehabilitating historic neighborhoods and increasing homeownership throughout the community.