First, with the loss of Atlanta Civic Circle, a reminder that local journalism, local podcasting, local "scrutinizers" are in short supply even in a big city, and this economy and constantly altering landscape in news and content delivery don't make it any easier.

That's why I chose to divulge that my personal income situation necessitates me taking a job that'll ensure a more stable income for me; but the hope is I'll be able to figure the schedule to keep doing this show. So with that ...

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Despite crime data showing violent crime is down both in Atlanta and where MARTA police has jurisdiction, two prominent incidents - a violent stabbing murder and a gang-related shooting - has passengers on edge and dubious right wing politicians looking to capitalize. Burt Jones, for example, has spouted off a time or two on social media - even tying Keisha Lance Bottoms to MARTA - while offering nothing to actually solve what ails MARTA. That's the GOP for you, though: never solutions, just band aids with badges.

AJC op/ed writer David Plazas wrote on the MARTA situation - from the standpoint of someone who enjoys using it frequently. Like the rest of us, he wants MARTA to succeed and to be better.

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Another situation where the city's mass transit needs are being awfully bungled: the Atlanta Beltline that now has autonomous vehicles connecting patrons to the southwest portion of the trail via "ATL Spoke." One problem: a study touting its use was biased according to a filed complaint.

Sara Gregory's thorough piece in the AJC offers a LOT of smoke that may well lead to a roaring fire of corruption.