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Volume 85 Issue 35
75 Blue Doors Launched Page 3
Roland Martin Honored Page 6
Gladys Knight at Wolf Creek Page 7
Sexual Trauma Conference Page 9
April 4 - 10, 2013
Atlanta educators’ ‘Perp Walks’ Draw National headlines
By ChARlOtte ROy ADW Managing Editor This week more than two dozen Atlanta Public Schools educators did mortifying “perp walks” to the Fulton County Jail to be booked, fingerprinted, photographed – and some put into orange jumpsuits. Thirty-five teachers and administrators made national headlines as they were indicted on criminal charges that include racketeering, theft by taking and making false statements about their BEVERLY HALL roles in an alleged plot to falsify students' standardized tests. The leader of the group, former Atlanta School Superintendent Beverly Hall, checked in late Tuesday afternoon, and was immediately released on $200,000 bond. Hall served as Atlanta's superintendent for more than a decade. She is alleged to have received nearly $500,000 in bonuses in addition to her salary before she retired in 2011. She was named Superintendent of the Year by the American Association of School Administrators in 2009 and credited with raising student test scores and graduation rates, particularly among the district's poor and minority students. But the award quickly lost its luster as her district became mired in the scandal. In 2011 a state investigation found cheating by 178 educators in 44 Atlanta schools. Educators gave answers to students or changed answers on tests after they were turned in, investigators said. Teachers who tried to report it faced retaliation, creating a culture of ``fear and intimidation.'' Page 3
General Assembly GOP Flexes Power: Redraws Districts in Fulton County
By ADW Staff The Georgia General Assembly adjourned the 2013 session last week with the Republicans having flexed their power to impose redistricting legislation on Fulton County. The GOP plan to redraw Fulton County Commission districts sailed through the Senate over the objections of Democrats who called it both racist and a power grab. “I think what we’ve done today represents the interests of the majority of people in Fulton County,” said Sen. Judson Hill (R-Marietta). Democrats, however, said the bills are about politics, not reform. “All of this is pursuing a narrow agenda to take a minority-majority county and strip power from the people of that county,” said Sen. Nan Orrock (D-Atlanta). That’s been a common Democratic theme as the General Assembly debated a series of Republican bills designed to reshape Fulton County. House Bill 171 eliminates an at-large county
commission seat and creates a new north Fulton district. It also places two incumbent Black Democrats in the same district. And though Democrats hold a 5-2 majority on the commission, the new districts could give Republicans a shot at a majority. “Today we helped the people of Fulton County have more people in districts, which means elected officials will be more closer to them,” said Sen. John Albers (R-Roswell). “And that’s always a more positive thing.” Democrats portrayed the plan as a racist attempt by White Republicans to seize power from Black Democrats. They plan to ask the U.S. Department of Justice, which reviews election changes in Georgia, to reject the redistricting plan. “If the Voting Rights Act means anything, it means you cannot dilute the right of African Americans to elect the candidate of their choice,” said Sen. Vincent Fort (D-Atlanta). In a final flurry of voting, the Assembly also addressed the
following legislation LOBBYING RULES: Leaders in the House and Senate reached a compromise on lobbying rules. Under the plan, lobbyist expenditures would be limited to $75. People would have to register as lobbyists if they are paid to influence government officials or if they accept more than $250 in reimbursements for their lobbying expenses. Both chambers approved the deal, sending it to the governor. Page 3
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April 4 - 10, 2013
Metro Boys & Girls Clubs launch ‘75 Blue Doors’ Project By ADW Staff During April, Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta (BGCMA) is launching the “75 Blue Doors” project to celebrate its 75th anniversary and illustrate how local clubs are “opening doors” for youth in and around Atlanta. The project, presented by Leadership Atlanta and WonderRoot, partners 25 artists with local Boys & Girls Clubs to create 75 individual art displays. Each piece of art is inspired by kids and teens at the club who are focused on achieving “Great Futures” and the dedicated staff members who are helping them get there. The city of Atlanta will serve as a living gallery for these works of art. While several doors will start their display April 1, the majority of artwork will hit public locations on April 7 to kick off national Boys & Girls Clubs
Week. Blue doors will be featured in prominent locations, such as Atlanta City Hall, the Fox Theatre, SunTrust Plaza, Atlanta History Center and Turner Field. Artwork will remain on display through April 30. Individuals can view a full gallery of the blue doors at www.75bluedoors.org, where they can vote for their favorite and give $75 to help shape futures and open doors for the youth in their communities. On this website, viewers can also read stories of the kids and staff who inspired the doors and check out biographies of the talented artists involved. BGCMA serves more than 3,400 kids each day providing an environment where youth feel safe and secure to dream, discover and develop their potential.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta unveiled the first of its “75 Blue Doors” on April 1 at the SunTrust Plaza Gardens Building. Bill Rogers (from left), chairman and CEO of SunTrust Bank; Patrick Jones, Leadership Atlanta; Jane Garver, artist; Zoe Williams, Boys & Girls Club teen; and Missy Dugan, president and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta were on hand for the event.
GOP Flexes Power: Redraws Districts in Fulton County Page 1 ABORtION: The Senate made a last-minute play to prohibit state employee health insurance from covering elective abortions, however, the issue did not reach a resolution. BUDGet: Lawmakers settled on a $41 billion state operating budget composed of state and federal money for the next fiscal year. The document cuts many state agencies, but includes new education spending and bonds
for new public projects. GUNS: House lawmakers earlier approved a more sweeping bill, one that would allow students with a license to carry a gun to take their firearms onto parts of public colleges and universities. Higher education leaders strongly opposed that plan, and the Senate backed a much less expansive proposal. Late Thursday, House leaders said the issue was dead for the year.
PRIVAte SChOOl SChOlARShIPS: Legislators agreed to raise the cap from $50 million to $58 million on a program that gives tax breaks to individuals and corporations who give money to third-party groups that, in turn, provide grants to private school students. Donors give directly to the organizations, then claim dollar-for-dollar tax credits that reduce their income tax liability to the state.
Alford. In announcing the indictment, Fulton County District Attorney Paul Howard used the story of an Atlanta third-grader to underscore the importance of the case, with teachers and administrators more focused on test scores than student improvement. He said the girl received the worst score in her reading class in 2006 and yet, when she took an assessment test, she passed with flying colors. The girl is now in ninth grade, reading at a fifth-grade level. City stakeholders – from parents to politicians -- have weighed in with statements, observations and advice. "I consider this one of the most important, one of the seminal developments in the history of American education law. It's the largest school teaching scandal yet recorded in the country," said Ron Carlson, professor of law emeritus at the University of Georgia. Morgan Cloud, a professor at Emory University School of Law, said prosecutors also will have to work to explain the racketeering law to jurors. "When we think of racketeers
we think of people who engage in murder and drug dealing and prostitution," Cloud said. "Everything falls back on Beverly Hall,” says parent Jude Poux, the site director of Sharon Lester Tennis Center in Piedmont Park. His daughter is a freshman at Grady High and has been a product of APS schools since early grade school. “She created the culture. She threatened people.” "The allegations in the indictment against former Atlanta Public Schools Superintendent Beverly Hall and other administrators and teachers are painful to read," said Mayor Kasim Reed. "This has been a very difficult process for our city's public schools.” Former Mayor Shirley Franklin expressed concern about what she believes is a developing “lynch mob mentality.” "Say a prayer for a fair trial for all those charged, she said in a recent blog. “Say a prayer for every family and child who has been touched by the scandal and say a prayer to calm the public lynching mob mentality that has begun.” ADW staff writer James Pressley contributed to this article.
‘Perp Walks’ Draw National headlines
Page 1 Most of the educators named in the special investigators' report resigned, retired, did not have their contracts renewed or appealed their dismissals and lost, according to Atlanta Public Schools spokesman Stephen
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COMMUNITY April 4 - 10, 2013
Student Non-Violence Seminar Wins National Recognition By ADW Staff
Holy Innocents Episcopal School junior Amber Abernathy has been named the Girl Talk winner of the national Julie Foudy Sports Leadership Academy's "Choose to Matter" contest. Amber’s project—“All Teens Against Violence”—was focused on educating teens about gun violence. After losing one of her own family members to gun violence, Amber felt compelled to speak out to middle school students about violence and to help inspire teens to rise above the problem. “I feel like it’s time to take a stand and be the person I’m called to be,” she explained. “Not just for me but to help other people.” The 17-year-old held a non-violence seminar for some 60 middle school students—most of whom were surrounded by gang activity or had been exposed to violent situations at home. She organized speakers to provide students with important information on how to live healthy lives away from violence, and she made “All Teens Against Violence” wristbands and goodie bags, so that her participants would have a constant reminder to say no to violence. “I also told them that your past doesn’t define who you are, or who you can be,” Amber added. Amber is the granddaughter of former Georgia State Rep. Joe Heckstall (D-East Point). In September of 2012, Quinn Keevon
AMBER ABERNATHY
Heckstall, the legislator’s 20-year-old nephew, was shot and killed while visiting his girlfriend at an apartment complex off Mount Zion Parkway in Jonesboro. No motive was uncovered for the shooting. For more information on Amber’s project and the Julie Foudy Sports Leadership Academy's "Choose to Matter" contest, go to the following website: http://www.juliefoudyleadership.com/2012%2 0contest/julie_foudy_2012_contest_grand_pri ze_winners_press_release.html.
Accreditation Priorities for Morris Brown College at Founders Day By ADW Staff
During the commemoration services for 132nd Observance of Founders Day held last week, Dr. Stanley Pritchett, president of Morris Brown College, gave an update on the school’s activities and projections for the future. “Our college is still in the business of educating our students. While we have critical financial challenges, we have much to be thankful for. There are approximately Pictured at the 132nd Founders Day 600 faithful alumni who give more than Observance are Kareef Groce, president $1 million annually to Morris Brown of the Morris Brown College Student College. Our Trustee Board Chairman Government Association and student Bishop Williams is leading an aggressive representative on the MBC Board of ‘turn-around’ plan for Morris Brown Trustees; and Amber King, Miss Morris College.” Brown College, 2012-13. Dr. Pritchett’s update for Morris Brown included the announcement that the College is here to stay.” college’s application for accreditation with Members of Morris Brown College’s Transnational Association of Christian 2013 graduating class, faculty, and alumni Colleges and Schools (TRACS) is moving participated in the observance. Faculty forward and a self-study process is ongoing. members in their academic regalia and But it was Kareef Groce, Student seniors in their caps and gowns marched into Government Association president, who drew Cunningham Auditorium at Hickman Student a standing ovation from the audience when Center to hear messages of congratulation for he said, “The good news is that the bad news their achievements and promises for the cannot stand the test of time. Morris Brown future of the College.
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BUSINESS
April 4 - 10, 2013
Roland Martin honored by Black Journalists Association Associated Press
The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) has announced that Roland S. Martin, nationally-syndicated columnist, television host, and radio and television commentator, is to receive the organization's Journalist of the Year award. It is one of NABJ's most coveted honors celebrating the accomplishments of Black journalists and those who support Blacks in the media. Martin was selected for the award by NABJ's board of directors. Martin currently is host and managing editor of TV One's “Washington Watch with Roland Martin,” and a senior analyst for “The Tom Joyner Morning Show.” He is also a nationally-syndicated columnist with Creators Syndicate and a contributor to CNN. "Roland Martin has had an enviable career as a multimedia journalist, becoming a respected and trusted voice in print, on air and online," said NABJ President Gregory Lee Jr. "He is unapologetic about his quest to provide well-rounded coverage of the African-American community, and to provide unique insights to diverse audiences across the many platforms on which he is asked to contribute on a regular basis." Martin will be honored with others at the association's Salute to Excellence Gala on Aug. 3 during NABJ's 38th Annual Convention and Career Fair in Orlando. Those who nominated Martin noted his important coverage of voter suppression, perhaps the biggest story of the 2012 presidential election. Earlier in his career, Martin was a radio talk show host for WVON-AM in Chicago. He is the former executive editor
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and general manager of The Chicago Defender, one of the nation's oldest Black newspapers. He was the founding news editor for Savoy Magazine, and the founding editor of BlackAmericaWeb.com. A published author, he has written three books: Listening to the Spirit Within: 50 Perspectives on Faith, Speak, Brother! A Black Man's View of America, and The First: President Barack Obama's Road to the White House as originally reported by Roland S. Martin. A lifetime member of the National Association of Black Journalists, Martin served as the organization's first national student representative, and as national secretary of the board from 2009 until 2011. Martin is a graduate of Texas A&M University and Louisiana Baptist University. He is married to the Rev. Jacquie Hood Martin. The couple resides in Washington, D.C.
Congressman David Scott to host 10th Annual Jobs Fair
Congressman David Scott will host his 10th Annual Jobs Fair on Friday, April 19 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Georgia International Convention Center. Job seekers who attend may obtain information and be considered for more than 1,600 positions with this year’s participating employers. Companies confirmed to participate include: AFLAC, AT&T, UPS, Lowe’s, Home Depot, CSX, Regions, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Comcast, Waffle House, Georgia Power, Alorica, Gate Gourmet, MACK 2, Regions Bank, Douglasville Police Department, City of Atlanta, and many others.
Scott will partner this year with the Georgia Department of Community Affairs’ HomeSafe program. Funded by the U.S. Treasury's Hardest Hit Fund, HomeSafe Georgia is a statewide unemployment mortgage payment assistance program to prevent foreclosures. The program may help homeowners by providing "bridge" mortgage assistance for up to 18 months to many Georgians who are unemployed or have seen a dramatic decrease in their income through no fault of their own. For more information about the 10th Annual Jobs Fair, including a complete list of participating employers, please call 770-432-5405 or visit www.house.gov/davidscott.
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ENTERTAINMENT
April 4 - 10, 2013
Singer India.Arie laughs Off Wolf Creek Amphitheater Skin-lightening talk Presents Gladys Knight live Compiled by ADW Staff
India.Arie is laughing off rumors that she may have lightened her skin. The R&B songstress is known for singing about being authentic and celebrating one's true self. But some accused India.Arie of lightening her skin when a publicity photo for her song ``Cocoa Butter'' released this week made it look as though she were several shades lighter than her dark brown complexion. But India.Arie took to Twitter recently to deny the accusations, saying she has no desire to bleach her skin because she loves herself and her brown skin ``more than ever.'' She also said that ``magnificent lighting'' is the cause for her ``glow.'' She added that she'd like to keep the conversation going, though,
Special to ADW
on the issue of racism and colorism in the Black community.
The Wolf Creek Amphitheater presents Gladys Knight, the “Empress of Soul” in concert at the Wolf Creek Amphitheater on Friday, May 3. The seven-time Grammy Award winner and former lead singer of the legendary group Gladys Knight and the Pips will grace the stage at Wolf Creek singing many of her most popular hits. Knight’s special guest for the evening will be Howard Hewett, singer/song writer and former lead vocalist of the hit R&B sensation Shalamar. This awesome night of entertainment kicks off the Wolf Creek Amphitheater 2013 Summer Concert Series. The evening will begin with the smooth sounds of well-known jazz trumpeter “Milkshake” Mayfield. Milkshake has performed on stages with national and international greats, such as Dizzy Gillespie and his mentor, Wynton Marsalis. Tickets are on sale now at www.ticketalternative.com (877-725-8849). Please visit the Wolf Creek Amphitheater
website for updates. The website address is www.wolfcreekamphitheater.com. The evening will be filled with music bringing back memories for many and simply captivating the concertgoers’ love for the best of R&B music. Wolf Creek Amphitheater is located at 3025 Merk Road, Atlanta, GA 30349. Patrons may enter the venue from the Enon Road entrance as well. Guests are allowed to bring their own food and beverages. Parking at the venue is $10.
Cartoon Network’s Shameik Moore Visits Atlanta Schools
By ADW Staff
Known for his starring role on the Cartoon Network’s “Incredible Crew,” the sketch comedy show created by Nick Cannon, 17-year-old Shameik Moore knows the importance of hard work, perseverance, and having an education. The teen comedian and singer has been working in television and film for the past three years, including appearances on “Tyler Perry’s House of Payne,” BET’s “Reed Between the Lines,” and a role in “Joyful Noise” with Queen Latifah and Kiki Palmer. He is also featured on the “Incredible Crew” soundtracks, volumes 1 and 2. He is currently in the studio, recording tracks for his debut album. “It is not always enough to have talent,” says Shameik. “You also have to have skills, which come from training and education. An education is as important to the success of a performer as it is for any other profession.” Shameik is sharing his experiences with other students by joining V-103's Lil Bankhead for the "Stop Playin' with School" Tour. With the tour, Shameik is speaking to students at Career Day events, urging young people to stay in school, while also speaking with them about all of the aspects of being a
professional actor and singer. At Criterion-References Competency Tests ( CRCT) Pep Rallies at elementary and middle schools in the Atlanta area, Shameik will be performing his single, "Rock Wit Me," to get students excited and pumped up for the tests. For more information, visit www.shameikmoore.com.
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FEATURES April 4 - 10, 2013 Vanessa lynn’s ‘Beyond the Chitlin' Circuit’ Guides Urban Playwrights www.ADWnews.com
By JAMeS PReSSley ADW Staff In 2012, Tyler Perry announced that his “Madea Gets a Job� stage tour would be his last. With Perry now focusing on films, it seemed that an era of upbeat and colorful urban plays was coming to an end. But not for successful “urban gospel� playwright Vanessa Lynn. “When Tyler Perry bust into the mainstream, more and more people realized they wanted to try playwriting,� said Lynn. “An enormous number of plays and DVDs from the urban gospel genre have come out as a result.� Lynn decided to aid and encourage these new writers with the release of her book, Beyond the Chitlin’ Circuit, The Ultimate Urban Playwrights Guide. The book covers topics ranging from Lynn’s creative process for writing a play to DVD production and distribution, to her own trials and tribulations before her rise on the theater scene. “The ‘chitlin circuit� is considered a negative term associated with buffoonery� said Lynn. “We’re trying to get past that to a more sophisticated and meaningful play style.� “I wrote my first play in 1995, and I was going to church, and it seemed that the youth in the church weren’t paying attention in services,� Lynn noted. “I wanted to do something that would send them a message and capture their attention.� Lynn was initially discouraged from presenting the play
to the public and put her work on the shelf. She went to work for corporate America and then started her own business. “My business came tumbling down in 2004. I lost everything and for the next two years, I focused on rebuilding my life,� Lynn added. “It was during that time that I was inspired to re-visit the play, so I put it out there.� Without a theater background, Lynn was looking for anybody to help with her specific genre of playwriting. She started a group on Facebook titled Urban Playwrights United, which eventually led to an annual conference. As the executive director and founder, Lynn has transformed Urban Playwrights United into the country’s number one hub for everything urban in theater. This year will mark the 4th annual conference, to be held Dec. 5-8 in Atlanta. “I decided to write the book for those who couldn’t make it to the conferences every year,� said Lynn. “I deal with hundreds and hundreds of playwrights, so I wanted to capture all of the information from the conferences, add some personal experiences and provide a guide. It’s not a technical book, it just a hands-on real look at do’s and don’ts.� Lynn’s latest play, “Boss Lady,� follows a female music mogul of the young Berry Gordy/Sean Combs type. The play chronicles the mogul’s life from childhood to adulthood in an action-packed, suspenseful emotional
journey. “Boss Lady� will premiere in Atlanta on April 13 at the Midtown Arts Cinema. Lynn’s next event will be her Success in Urban Theater Workshop and Book Signing April 20 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the D.A.P. Theater in Covington, Ga.
‘the Civil War and the Forging of Character’ lecture Series Speaker Slated By ADW Staff Dr. Ted Delaney is the next speaker in "The Civil War and the Forging of TED Character," a four-year lecture series DELANEY presented by The Lovett School in cooperation with the Atlanta History Center. The series was initiated to mark the sesquicentennial of the Civil War and the Battle of Atlanta. Its purpose is to bring to the Atlanta area speakers and scholars who can engage students, parents, faculty, alumni, and the community at large on critical matters of character and integrity as demonstrated during this defining period in our nation’s history. All lectures in this series are free and open to the public. Delaney will speak on "Frederick Douglass, Millennialism, and the Civil War" on Wednesday, April 10 at 6 p.m. at The Lovett School. DeLaney is presently writing the story of school desegregation in four Virginia counties, a result of an oral history project involving extensive interviews with former public school students, teachers, and administrators in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Brown v. Board of Education decision. His research and teaching interests include colonial North America, comparative slavery in the Western hemisphere, African-American history, civil rights, and gay and lesbian history. DeLaney received his Ph.D. from the College of William and Mary and his B.A. from Washington and Lee University, where he serves as the head of the History Department. To R.S.V.P., call 404-262-3032, ext. 1717.
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PRAISE
healing of the heart Ministries Offers Dialogue on Sexual trauma Associated Press
In recognition of National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, Healing of the Heart Ministries will host a conference offering discussion and dialogue for survivors and family members seeking help to handle sexual abuse crisis and conflicts stemming from homosexuality in the family. Themed Beyond Pain to Wholeness: Overcoming the Stigma, the conference takes place Saturday, April 6 at the Georgia International Convention Center from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The event organizers hope the conference will serve as training ground for mental health and counseling professionals, as well as pastors and church leaders, providing them with hands-on resources to confront and repair all areas of sexual conflict, trauma and abuse. "When we read the stories in the media or hear admonishments from the pulpit, we can lose sight that there's a face behind every story of sexual abuse and struggle," says event organizer Dr. Betty L. Mitchell. "This conference equips those on the front lines of mental health and ministry with current techniques and methods to better help our clients and congregants." For more than two decades, Mitchell has ministered to hundreds of men and women traumatized by the effects of sexual trauma. Mitchell holds her doctorate in Pastoral and Clinical Counseling along with a
April 4 - 10, 2013
DR. BETTY L. MITCHELL
Top row l-r: Dr. Teresa Hairston, Dr. Larry Earvin, Mr. John Deushane, Mr. Eddie Meyers, Hon. Betty Thompson, Bottom row l-r: Mrs. Monica Kaufman Pearson, Dr. Betty Clark, Ms. Lisa Williams, BeBe Winans, and Mr. Wellington Swindall (posthumously) (Not Pictured - Mrs. Elizabeth Littlejohn)
ItC’s Charter Day Celebration and Awards Gala Announced
By ADW Staff master's degree in education from Pepperdine University. She is a member of the National Christian Counselors Association and the Black Christian Council Association. Presented in partnership with Open Word Christian Ministries and the Georgia chapter of the American Psychiatric Nurses, the daylong event includes keynote speakers, a question-and-answer discussion and testimonials from survivors of sexual trauma.
The annual observance of the founding of the ecumenical consortium of six different seminaries chartered as The Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC) in 1958 will be held on Thursday, April 18. During the Charter Day and James H. Costen Awards Gala at 7 p.m. at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis, 11 honorees will receive ITC’s “Tribute to Excellence.” The 2013 honorees are: Religion, Dr. Teresa Hairston, founder and publisher of Gospel Today Magazine, as well as founder and chair of the Gospel Heritage Foundation; Education, Dr. Larry Earvin, president of Huston-Tillotson College in Austin, Texas; 2 Business Award Recipients - John Deushane, president and general manager of WXIA/WATL, Atlanta, and Eddie Meyers, regional president, PNC Bank Georgia; Government, the Hon. Betty Thompson, Representative of District 72 of the St. Louis
District in the Missouri House of Representatives; Civic and Community Affairs Award, Monica Kaufman Pearson, retired news anchor and journalist, WSB-TV; Inspiration Award, Dr. Betty Clark, retired principal, Atlanta Public Schools; Lifetime Service Award, Elizabeth Littlejohn, former vice president of Financial and Administrative Services at ITC; the Travelin’ Shoes Award, Lisa Williams, founder of Living Water for Girls; the Arts and Entertainment Award, Benjamin BeBe Winans, Grammy Award winning inspirational, R&B, and gospel artist; and the Visionary Award, Wellington Swindall (posthumously). For more information about the 55th Charter Day and 16th James H. Costen Awards Gala, go to www.itc.edu or call 404-527-7718.
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CLASSIFIED
April 4 - 10, 2013
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REQUEST FOR SEALED BID ADM-041113-CARPET ADVERTISEMENT for CARPET REPLACEMENT PROJECT The City of College Park is accepting Sealed Bids from qualified vendors for CARPET REPLACEMENT. Sealed bids will be received no later than Thursday, April 11, 2013 at 3:00 p.m. at the City of College Park Purchasing Department, 3667 Main Street, College Park Georgia, 30337 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Bids received after the above date and time, or in any other location other than the Purchasing Department will not be considered. A bid packet may be obtained from the City of College Park Purchasing Department, 3667 Main Street, College Park, Georgia 30337, or from www.collegeparkga.com. A Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting with Site Visit to follow will be held on Thursday, March 28 at 10:00am at City of College Park City Hall. Bids will not be accepted from any vendor not attending this meeting. Any question arising after the Pre-Bid Meeting and Site Visit will be accepted via email only at bgregory@collegeparkga.com until COB Wednesday, April 3. An Addendum listing all Q&A, clarifications, etc. will be posted on the City’s website on or about COB Friday, April 5. It is always the vendor’s responsibility to check the City’s website for any and all addenda. Any/all addenda must be signed and dated and made a part of bid packet. As a requirement of this bid, a five percent (5%) Bid Bond shall be submitted with bid. The successful bidder will be required to provide a Performance and Payment Bond in the amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the contract price. The City of College Park reserves the right to reject any or all bids based on past performance and to waive technicalities and informalities and re-advertise. All Minority, Woman and Small Businesses are strongly encouraged to apply. Only responsive bids that are determined to meet the requirements and criteria set forth by the City of College Park will be considered.
The City of College Park is accepting Sealed Bids from qualified vendors for STREET RESURFACING PROJECT - 2013 LOCAL MAINTENANCE AND IMPROVEMENT GRANT. Sealed proposals will be received no later than 10:00am, Thursday, May 2, 2013 at the City of College Park Purchasing Department, 3667 Main Street, College Park Georgia, 30337, at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Bids received after the above date and time, or in any other location other than the Purchasing Department will not be considered. A bid packet may be obtained from the City of College Park Purchasing Department, 3667 Main Street, College Park, Georgia 30337, or from www.collegeparkga.com. A Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting will be held at 10:00am, April 11, 2013 at the City of College Park City Hall. Questions arising AFTER the Pre-Bid Meeting will be accepted via email ONLY to bgregory@collegeparkga.com until COB April 17. An Addendum with all Q&A will be posted to the City’s website on or about COB Friday, April 19. It is always the vendor’s responsibility to check the City’s website for any/all addenda. A ten percent (10%) Bid Bond is required to be submitted with bid. Prospective bidders should also be aware that a Performance and Payment Bond for one hundred percent (100%) of contract amount will be required of the successful bidder. The City of College Park reserves the right to reject any or all bids based on past performance and to waive technicalities and informalities and re-advertise. All Minority, Woman and Small Businesses are strongly encouraged to apply. Only responsive proposals that are determined to meet the requirements and criteria set forth by the City of College Park will be considered _______________________________________________
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EMPLOYMENT Master Teacher – Sci&Tech: Fernbank Elementary Foundation in Atlanta, GA: Dev. & lead schoolwide sci&tech instr prog for K-5 science curriculum. Req Master’s or foreign equ.in Edu/Sci/Pol, Soc, or Cult Studies /rel & 2 yrs elem sch teaching exp. In lieu of Master’s or foreign equ.in Edu/Sci/Pol, Soc, or Cult Studies /rel & 2 yrs elem sch teaching exp will acc Bach or foreign equ in Edu/Sci/Pol, Soc, or Cult Studies /rel & 5 yrs prog post-bacc elem sch teaching exp. Also req 1 yr exp integrating Promethean Int Whiteboard technology AND following skills through edu or work exp: coord/manage after-school sci activities/clubs; grant writing AND GA certification. All exp may or may not be acq concurrently. To apply, cont Drew Schuler, schuleram@bellsouth.net or 157 Heaton Park Dr. Atlanta, GA, 30307.
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RFP/Part-time Grants Administrator Go to www.afcra.com _______________________________________________ TIBCO Software Inc. has an opening in Atlanta, GA for a Principal Consultant (Software Engineer) to deliver system architecture & hardware/software specification consulting project activities. Must have unrestricted U.S. work authorization. Mail resumes to Att: D. Dzapo, HR, Ref#AGA3, 3307 Hillview Ave., Palo Alto, CA 94304.
BIDS AND PROPOSALS
REQUEST FOR SEALED BID REC-050913-GCO ADVERTISEMENT for GOLF COURSE OPERATOR The City of College Park is accepting Sealed Bids from qualified vendors for COLLEGE PARK GOLF COURSE OPERATOR. Sealed proposals will be received no later than 10:00am, Thursday, May 9, 2013 at the City of College Park Purchasing Department, 3667 Main Street, College Park Georgia, 30337, at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Bids received after the above date and time, or in any other location other than the Purchasing Department will not be considered. A bid packet may be obtained from the City of College Park Purchasing Department, 3667 Main Street, College Park, Georgia 30337, or from www.collegeparkga.com. A Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting will be held at 10:00am, April 18, 2013 at the City of College Park City Hall. Questions arising AFTER the Pre-Bid Meeting will be accepted via email ONLY to bgregory@collegeparkga.com until COB April 23. An Addendum with all Q&A will be posted to the City’s website on or about COB Friday, April 26. It is always the vendor’s responsibility to check the City’s website for any/all addenda. The City of College Park reserves the right to reject any or all bids based on past performance and to waive technicalities and informalities and re-advertise. All Minority, Woman and Small Businesses are strongly encouraged to apply. Only responsive proposals that are determined to meet the requirements and criteria set forth by the City of College Park will be considered.
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Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. (ABI) wishes to advance design engineering work for the 5.9-mile Atlanta BeltLine East corridor and Atlanta Streetcar extensions and is seeking proposals from qualified firms, teams or consultants with demonstrated experience in planning, civil design and engineering, electric rail and overhead electrification systems, costing, traffic operations and engineering, parking analysis, tunnel engineering, and intermodal freight and rail yard planning and engineering to provide design engineering services to support the NEPA environmental documentation, New Starts analysis and other FTA Project Development phase services for the Atlanta BeltLine East corridor. Proposals are due April 29, 2013 at 3 pm EST. _______________________________________________ Advertisement For Bids That Open On Tuesday April 9, 2013 Sealed bids will be received by the department of procurement, city of atlanta, 55 trinity avenue, s. W., suite 1790, atlanta, georgia 30303, telephone number (404) 330-6204, no later than 1:59 p.m., (as verified by the bureau of national standards), Opening Date: Tuesday, April 9, 2013 For Bid No. 6510-Pl, Athletic Uniforms
Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. (ABI) wishes to advance Environmental Assessment work for the 5.9-mile Atlanta BeltLine East corridor and Atlanta Streetcar extensions and is seeking proposals from qualified firms, teams or consultants with demonstrated experience with the NEPA process, experience with environmental assessments, and preparation of federal New Starts applications. Proposals are due April 29, 2013 at 3 pm EST. ______________________________________________ Notice of Incorporation Notice is given that Articles of Incorporation which will incorporate “DENIM GARAGE, Incorporated, INCORPORATED,” will be delivered to the Secretary of State for filing in accordance with the Georgia Nonprofit Corporation Code (O.C.G.A. $14-3-202). The initial registered office of the corporation will be located at 2916 Brookfield Lane SW, Atlanta, Georgia 30331 and its initial reigstered agent at such address is JOSHUA C. LEWIS.
FOR RENT
Kasim Reed Mayor City Of Atlanta Advertisement For Bids That Open On Tuesday Sealed bids will be received by the department of procurement, city of atlanta, 55 trinity avenue, s. W., suite 1790, atlanta, georgia 30303, telephone number (404) 330-6204, no later than 1:59 p.m., (as verified by the bureau of national standards), Opening Date: Tuesday, April 9, 2013 For Bid No. 6454-Mt, Kid-Safe Wood Mulch For Play Ground Surfacing Material Kasim Reed Mayor City Of Atlanta Advertisement For Bids That Open On Tuesday Sealed bids will be received by the department of procurement, city of atlanta, 55 trinity avenue, s. W., suite 1790, atlanta, georgia 30303, telephone number (404) 330-6204, no later than 1:59 p.m., (as verified by the bureau of national standards), Opening Date: Tuesday, April 9, 2013 For Bid No. 6520-Pl, Service, Maintenance, Installation Equipment For Communication Equipment Kasim Reed Mayor City Of Atlanta Advertisement For Bids That Open On Tuesday Sealed bids will be received by the department of procurement, city of atlanta, 55 trinity avenue, s. W., suite 1790, atlanta, georgia 30303, telephone number (404) 330-6204, no later than 1:59 p.m., (as verified by the bureau of national standards), Opening Date: Tuesday, April 9, 2013 For Bid No. 6540-Ap, Lithium Based Runway Rubber Removal Kasim Reed Mayor City Of Atlanta
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REQUEST FOR SEALED BID #ST-050213-LMIG ADVERTISEMENT for 2013 LOCAL MAINTENANCE AND IMPROVEMENT GRANT STREET RESURFACING PROJECT
Apt for Rent Southwest near Marta. 1 Bdrm; 1 1/2 Baths; Den; furnished Kitchen and Sunroom. $450 @ month + deposit. Call 404-691-5656 . _______________________________________________ Property For Sale – 1921 Cummings Dr. S.W., Atlanta 30311 Contact trustee 404-353-6222. Best Offer/Highest Bidder Contact: Barbara Cullings P.O. Box 5043 Atlanta, GA 30302 (404) 353-6222
ADW
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VIEWPOINTS
NNPA SPOTLIGHT
BY MARIAN WRIGHT-EDELMAN
BY GEORGE E. CURRY
Supreme Court Determined to Kill Affirmative Action A decade after carefully ruling in two University of Michigan cases – striking down the undergraduate admissions procedures and upholding those implemented by the law school – the U.S. Supreme Court seems on course to strike down even the mildest form of affirmative action admissions in higher education. After oral arguments in a case brought by a White student who was denied admission to the University of Texas at Austin, the justices are expected to hand down a ruling in late June or early July. Rather than await the outcome of that case, last week the court accepted another challenge to affirmative action in Michigan, which will not be argued until the October term. The fact that the court accepted the Texas and Michigan cases, after higher education officials thought the matter was settled law, is a clear indication that the conservative-leaning court plans to eviscerate race- and gender-conscious college admissions programs, no matter how conservative or narrowly drawn. If the court had other intentions, it would have left lower court rulings favorable to affirmative action in the two cases stand. Fisher v. University of Texas at Austin, the case the court is expected to rule on in late June, was brought by Abigail Fisher, a 22-year-old White woman who was rejected for admission in the fall of 2008. Under the University of Texas admissions program, the top 10 percent of each high school graduating class was guaranteed admission to the state’s flagship university. When Fisher applied, 90 percent of the students were selected that way. The other 10 percent of applicants were admitted based on a variety of factors, including extracurricular activities, awards and honors, work experience, socioeconomic status, standardized test scores and race. Of all of those factors, Fisher decided to challenge admissions because the university considered race as one of many factors. “Race is only one modest factor among many others weighed; it is considered only in an individualized and contextual way… and admissions officers do not know an applicant’s race when they decide [who] to admit in UT’s process,” the university argued in its brief. University of Texas officials said if the modest affirmative action program had not been in place, Fisher still would not have qualified for admission. The district and appeals courts agreed, ruling against Fisher. But the Supreme Court decided to accept the case anyway. Even more surprising was the court’s decision to accept another Michigan case, Schulette v. Coalition to Defend Affirmative Action, while Fisher is still pending. In 2003, in Grutter v. Bollinger, the court ruled that when narrowly tailored, race can be lawfully used in combination with other factors as part of the University of Michigan Law School admissions process. In her written opinion, Justice Sandra Day O’Connor cited benefits of “obtaining the educational benefits that flow from a diverse student body.” O’Connor, who has since retired from the court, said she did not envision affirmative action in place forever. In fact, she suggested 25 years, without giving a reason why it would not be needed beyond that point. Now, just 10 years later – and despite this nation’s horrible history on race – the conservative majority on the court seem unwilling to leave affirmative action in place for another 15 years. George E. Curry, former editor-in-chief of Emerge magazine, is editor-in-chief of the National Newspaper Publishers Association News Service (NNPA.) He is a keynote speaker, moderator, and media coach. Curry can be reached through his website, www.georgecurry.com. You can also follow him at www.twitter.com/currygeorge.
ADWnews Founded August 5, 1928; Became Daily, March 12, 1932 W.A. Scott, II, Founder/Publisher, August 5, 1928 To February 7, 1934 C.A. Scott, Publisher February 7, 1934 to July 26, 1997 M. Alexis Scott, Publisher July 26, 1997 to Present Published every Thursday at N. Desert Drive, Suite 2 109A, Atlanta, Georgia 30344.
CHILDWATCH
April 4 - 10, 2013
the NRA is Afraid of the truth
Why is the National Rifle Association so afraid of the truth? There are many misconceptions about guns and gun violence swirling around in Americans’ minds—and in many cases, this misinformation is no accident. For years the NRA has blocked the truth and actively fought against and prevented research in the causes and costs of gun violence because they don’t want Americans to know the truth about guns, how to prevent gun violence, and how to make themselves and their children safer. Why else would they have Congress pull gun injury prevention research funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institutes of Health? Why have we put up so long with efforts to block all research on a huge public health threat that injures and kills tens of thousands of Americans every year? The NRA’s concerted campaign to hide the truth and block research is finally facing new scrutiny and opposition. President Obama’s proposed gun safety package would end the freeze on gun injury prevention research although the amounts requested are inadequate. Ignorance is not bliss or sensible or sound policy, and in the case of our national gun violence epidemic, ignorance is actually fatal. We need to make decisions based on the truth and counter the NRA misinformation that has been infecting our nation. It’s time to challenge and deflate NRA misinformation and recognize that it does not speak for most American gun owners or even the majority of its membership. For example, polling data shows that 85 percent of gun owners and 74 percent of NRA members support universal background checks—a policy position the NRA vehemently opposes. The NRA argues that background checks don’t work. The reality is that criminal background checks do work and making them universal at the federal level would make them far more effective. Since its implementation in 1994, the Brady Law, which instituted a federal background check requirement for sales through licensed dealers, has denied 2.1 million applications to purchase a firearm. But its impact has been limited by the ability of criminals to access firearms through private sales, since only sales by federally licensed dealers require a background check; unlicensed dealers, including those at gun shows and on the Internet and other private sales do not. An analysis by Mayors Against Illegal Guns reveals that states that don’t require background checks for handgun sales at gun shows export guns used to commit crimes 2.5 times more of ten than states that do. As much as 40 percent of gun sales may be occurring through these private sales, a loophole that common sense and the vast majority of Americans demand we fix. Please do your homework and decide for yourself. Educate yourself on what the NRA wants you to believe by reading the Children’s Defense Fund’s updated fact sheet “The Truth About Guns.” Marian Wright Edelman is president of the Children’s Defense Fund whose Leave No Child Behind® mission is to ensure every child a Healthy Start, a Head Start, a Fair Start, a Safe Start and a Moral Start in life and successful passage to adulthood with the help of caring families and communities. For more information go to www.childrensdefense.org.
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Rachel Humphries, club president, stands with her guests Sandra Mason, Roz Lewis, LaVerne Carter and Jennifer Dossman at the Utopian Literary Club’s 97th anniversary on March 30 at the Four Seasons.
Patsy Hilliard (right) stands with her guests Loretta Parham and Sadie Brown.
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AROUND TOWN
April 4 - 10, 2013
M. Alexis Scott stands with other media women Cynthia Tucker, Lisa Rayam, Angelique Proctor and Felicia Jeter Randolph.
Deborah Lum Patrick, (second from left) is joined by her sister Pamela Robinson, daughter Brianna Patrick and sister-in-law Debra Lum.
Olivia Boggs is joined by Sherry Palmer Smith, Estrelita Smith and Sharon Smith Badgett.
Ann Allison joins Billye Aaron, Irma Jean Thomas, and Felicia Jeter-Randolph at the annual celebration for friends.