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GeorgiaRadio.com Continues Conversations with Local Authors: J.D. "Doug" Porter Discusses His Latest Book

GEORGIA RADIO - We're thrilled to continue our series of conversations with local Georgia authors, celebrating the rich tapestry of voices that make up our literary community. This week, Matt Jolley sits down with J.D. "Doug" Porter, a retired manager of parks, zoos, and museums who has seamlessly transitioned into the literary world with his latest book, "Roaming, Rambling, and Reminiscing: Musings from a South Georgia Mule Wagon."

After a remarkable forty-year career dedicated to wildlife and education, Doug retired only to find himself in an unexpected yet fitting role: a part-time mule wagon driver at a quail hunting plantation in South Georgia. This unique job, driving mules and observing hunters amid the serene pine forests, provided Doug with ample time for reflection. It was during these quiet moments, accompanied by cantankerous mules and a lively cocker spaniel, that Doug began to pen his thoughts, eventually leading to a series of newspaper articles and ultimately, his latest book.

"Roaming, Rambling, and Reminiscing" offers readers a profound glimpse into Doug's contemplations on a lifetime spent with the non-human animals that share our planet. His insights are both reflective and engaging, capturing the essence of his experiences from the vantage point of a mule wagon.

In addition to his non-fiction work, Doug is also a talented fiction writer. His debut novel, "The Menagerie, A Zoo Story," explores the lives of animals in zoos and the complex dynamics of their care. His subsequent works, "The Dogcatcher and The Fox" and "Lessons from the Zoo, Ten Animals That Changed My Life," delve into historical fiction and memoir, respectively, each underscoring his deep connection to and passion for animal welfare.

Doug's forthcoming novel promises to be another captivating exploration, this time focusing on our working animal partners such as elephants, horses, and his old friends, the mules. These animals, once indispensable for their roles in transportation, agriculture, and entertainment, faced an uncertain future with the advent of mechanization in the early 20th century. Through his storytelling, Doug aims to give these animals a voice, encouraging readers to consider the intricate relationships humans share with the creatures that depend on us.

"I don’t pretend to know their stories," Doug says, "but I am compelled to give them a voice."

Doug's fictional worlds challenge us to reflect on our complex and often contradictory relationship with animals, prompting us to think deeply about what it means to coexist on this planet. His work is a testament to the enduring bond between humans and animals, and his stories invite us to explore this connection in all its multifaceted dimensions.

Doug's publications include:

Roaming, Rambling, and Reminiscing: Musings from a South Georgia Mule Wagon (Non-Fiction, 2024)
Lessons from the Zoo, Ten Animals That Changed My Life (Non-Fiction, Memoir, 2020)
The Dogcatcher and The Fox (Historical Fiction, 2020)
The Menagerie, A Zoo Story (Historical Fiction, 2012)


Tune in to GeorgiaRadio.com to hear more from Doug as he shares insights from his latest book and discusses his fascinating journey from managing zoos to storytelling from a mule wagon.

QUICK LINK: https://jdporterbooks.com/

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GEORGIA RADIO - In an exciting blend of history and craftsmanship, Michael Brown from the Fairbanks Company in Rome, Georgia, is spearheading an ambitious project to recreate "The Goatman" Chess McCartney's iconic wagon. This historical endeavor aims to pay tribute to a beloved local legend whose memory continues to captivate the hearts of Georgians.

Michael Brown and his dedicated team are undertaking this project with the assistance of local students, striving to produce a museum-quality replica of the wagon that McCartney, famously known as "The Goatman," was most frequently photographed in. Notably, the original wagon was crafted by the Fairbanks Company itself, adding a layer of historical significance and personal connection to the recreation efforts.

Chess McCartney, a fixture of American folklore, became a legendary figure throughout the mid-20th century as he traveled the country with his herd of goats, spreading tales and captivating audiences. His rustic, goat-drawn wagon became a symbol of his wandering spirit and unique lifestyle, leaving an indelible mark on those who encountered him.

The revival of McCartney's wagon is not just a mechanical reconstruction; it is a journey into the past, preserving the essence of an era and the spirit of a man who embraced simplicity and adventure. The project serves as an educational platform, engaging local students in the meticulous process of historical restoration, thereby fostering a deeper appreciation for craftsmanship and regional history.

Michael Brown will join Matt Jolley on GeorgiaRadio.com for an in-depth discussion about what it takes to bring this Georgia icon back to life. During the interview, listeners can expect to hear about the intricate details involved in the wagon's reconstruction, the historical research underpinning the project, and the collaborative efforts between Fairbanks Company and the students.

Take a listen to this fascinating conversation and discover how the legacy of "The Goatman" Chess McCartney is being meticulously revived by a community passionate about preserving its history.

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GEORGIA RADIO - Georgia State Deer Biologist and Supervisor of the Georgia Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP), Charlie Killmaster, joined host Matt Jolley to delve into the benefits of DMAP for landowners and hunters. The discussion highlighted how DMAP, a program widely implemented across southeastern states, offers a scientifically grounded, flexible approach to deer management on private lands.

Killmaster explained that DMAP provides a tailored solution to site-specific deer management issues by enabling data collection and analysis at the individual property level. This method allows for more nuanced management strategies that are responsive to the unique needs of each property, as opposed to a one-size-fits-all approach.

One of the key advantages of DMAP, according to Killmaster, is its ability to balance simplified hunting regulations across large geographic areas while addressing the desires of hunters, such as reduced doe bag limits. This strategy ensures that properties with casual management practices are safeguarded against over-harvest, while those with more intensive management needs can benefit from science-based flexibility.

"DMAP offers landowners and hunters a valuable tool for managing deer populations effectively and sustainably," Killmaster told Jolley. "By tailoring management practices to specific properties, we can ensure healthier deer populations and better hunting experiences."

Killmaster's appearance on GeorgiaRadio.com shed light on the critical role of DMAP in contemporary wildlife management, emphasizing its importance in promoting sustainable hunting and conservation practices across Georgia and beyond.

QUICK LINK: https://georgiawildlife.com/DMAP



#georgiadmap #deermanagement #wildlife #hunting #georgiadnr #georgiahunting #georgiawildlife

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Georgia Radio Celebrates Local Authors for Summer Reading: Spotlight on Deidre deLaughter

GEORGIA RADIO - As we kick off the summer reading season, Georgia Radio is thrilled to continue our celebration of local authors. Today, we shine the spotlight on Deidre deLaughter, a remarkable writer whose novels explore deep and personal themes with a Southern touch.

Deidre deLaughter's journey into writing began with a transformative conversation with her friend, Terry Kay. This pivotal moment came after Deidre’s ex-husband was arrested on state and federal charges, and she discovered he was a sexual predator. Kay suggested she channel her experience into writing, which led to the creation of her debut novel, Reawakening Rebekah: The Gift of the CLAMOR Girls. Although the story is fiction, it draws heavily from the grim reality Deidre faced, offering readers a poignant and gripping narrative.

In 2020, Deidre completed the first draft of her second novel, A Rose in Little Five Points. This story is set in Atlanta's iconic Little Five Points neighborhood, spanning from the mid-1970s to the 1990s. The novel follows protagonist Meredith Fields as she navigates the crumbling foundations of her life. Through heartaches and self-doubt, Meredith's evolution into a more authentic self is greatly influenced by her relationship with Magda, her crotchety elderly neighbor. The symbolic gift of a rose bush from Magda plays a crucial role in Meredith's journey, despite her initial struggles to even keep an aloe plant alive.

Deidre is not only a talented writer but also a proud mother of three grown daughters and a grandmother to one grandchild and seven four-legged companions. Her stories, deeply rooted in personal experiences and enriched by her Southern heritage, offer readers both entertainment and profound life lessons.

To hear more about Deidre deLaughter’s powerful story and insights into her writing, click the link in this article to listen to our full podcast interview.

Stay tuned to Georgia Radio for more features on local authors and their contributions to our vibrant literary landscape. Happy summer reading!

QUICK LINK: https://read.amazon.com/kp/embed?asin=B07BTHDRD8&preview=newtab&linkCode=kpe&ref_=cm_sw_r_kb_dp_4RM067K954VJXVBFA1ZS

QUICK LINK: https://read.amazon.com/kp/embed?asin=B0CM1J4C9C&preview=newtab&linkCode=kpe&ref_=cm_sw_r_kb_dp_D769ADC18C7KVPQKRP8C

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Local Georgia Authors Celebrated: Randy Farmer Discusses Latest Book with Georgia Radio's Matt Jolley

GEORGIA RADIO - The vibrant literary scene of Georgia continues to flourish as local authors take center stage, with Randy Farmer being the latest to captivate Georgia Radio audiences with his intriguing narrative. Farmer, a seasoned author whose roots trace back to Texas, recently engaged in a stimulating conversation with Georgia Radio's Matt Jolley, shedding light on his latest book and its profound ties to the American South and, notably, Georgia.

Residing in Atlanta since early 2019 before relocating back to his native Texas in mid-2024, Farmer's journey is deeply intertwined with the rich history and culture of the Southern states. Drawing inspiration from his lineage, which boasts a lineage of early Texas settlers, Farmer embarked on a decades-long quest fueled by a family heirloom and a curiosity for the clandestine.

This curiosity served as the impetus for over 25 years of exhaustive research, culminating in Farmer's exploration of the enigmatic Knights of the Golden Circle, a secretive organization that left an indelible mark on American history.

While Farmer's latest book may appear to center on Texas, he says that the influence of the Knights of the Golden Circle extended far beyond state lines. In their engaging dialogue, Farmer and Jolley delved into the intricate web of historical events and characters that populate Farmer's narrative, offering audiences a fascinating glimpse into a lesser-known aspect of Southern history. Farmer's meticulous research and compelling storytelling were lauded by Jolley, underscoring the importance of celebrating local authors who illuminate the hidden corners of regional history.

As the celebration of local Georgia authors continues, Farmer's latest work stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling in the American South, inviting readers to embark on a journey through time and uncover the untold stories that shape our collective identity.

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GEORGIA RADIO - Local elections are going on all across the Peach State, but one man, who's not on social media, or backed by big money is running in Carroll County. He recently spoke to a group of young farmers, and it was there our own Matt Jolley heard him speak. "I was really curious how someone could run a campaign in 2024 and not be personally active on social media. So I reached out and asked him." Said Jolley. Mark Johnson quickly answered back (via telephone), and said his campaign strategy is meeting people in person.

In the digital age, Mark Johnson is trying to run his campaign the old fashioned way-- door to door, handshake to handshake. As for his online stuff, his daughter is handling that. He's a resident of the Lowell community, is stepping into the spotlight to share his vision for the county's future. Johnson, deeply rooted in West Georgia, discussed his candidacy on Georgia Radio with host Matt Jolley, highlighting his commitment to preserving the county's charm and safeguarding it against over-development.

A descendant of a long-standing family in the Roopville, Lowell, and Whitesburg area, Johnson's ties to Carroll County trace back to 1830. His family's legacy includes the establishment of three churches, several local businesses, and service with the historic Carroll Rangers, underscoring his deep connection to the community's heritage and values.

Despite spending his formative years on his grandparents' farm in Lowell, Johnson's appreciation for Carrollton's pristine environment and close-knit community drew him back after six years away. His decision to purchase and preserve his family's farm reflects his dedication to conserving the county's rural character for future generations.

Married to his wife, Natalie, for 37 years, Johnson is a proud father of three children and grandfather to eight grandchildren. His commitment to Carroll County extends beyond his own family, driven by a desire to ensure that future generations can relish the same quality of life and sense of belonging that he experienced growing up.

Johnson articulates his vision for responsible development that respects Carroll County's natural beauty and cherished traditions. "The wheel of progress won’t stop," Johnson emphasizes, "but it should be steered in a direction that retains what makes it beautiful."

As voters prepare to cast their ballots this May, Johnson presents himself as a steadfast advocate for the community's values and aspirations. With a pledge to protect Carroll County's unique identity and heritage, he positions himself as a candidate ready to lead with integrity and foresight.



QUICK LINK: https://www.markjohnsonforcarrollcounty.com

QUICK LINK: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557071433547

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