Atlanta Daily World Digital Edition 11-29-12 by Atlanta Daily World

November 29 - December 5, 2012

Volume 85 Issue 18

ADW ATLANTA DAILY WORLD Powered by Real Times Media

www.adwnews.com

Atlanta Small Businesses See Rosy Future BRIAN GREEN

MELANIE FEW-HARRISON

MICHAEL DAVIS

Black Business Owners Agree

By AtlAntA DAily WorlD StAff

Officials Break Ground for Porche Headquarters Special to the Daily World Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, Gov. Nathan Deal, Porsche President and Chief Executive Officer Detlev von Platen and numerous dignitaries recently broke ground for Porsche North America’s new headquarters at Aerotropolis Atlanta. The 26.4-acre complex will employ 400 workers and create 100 new jobs. Aerotropolis Atlanta is a planned mixed-use development in Hapeville, on the site of the former Ford Atlanta Assembly Plant. The site is directly adjacent to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. Porsche’s expansion and new location, announced in May 2011, will consolidate U.S.based Porsche employees from Porsche Cars North America, as well as the company’s financial, business and consulting arms. The site will encompass not only the company’s U.S. headquarters, but the Porsche Technical Training

Center, as well as the Porsche Customer and Driving Experience Center, featuring a 1.6mile test track and handling circuit. The company anticipates beginning operations in the first quarter of 2014. “This world-class facility underscores our commitment to customers and dealers in the United States, which remains the single largest market for Porsche vehicles,” said von Platen. “Today’s ceremony symbolized Porsche putting down permanent roots here in Atlanta, a city we have proudly called home since 1998.” The company chose Aerotropolis Atlanta after a global search for the best location to grow and showcase its brand. Proximity to the customer base represented by Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport was a key factor in Porsche’s selection of the Aerotropolis site.

A majority of Atlanta's small business owners anticipate that their revenue will increase next year according to a recent bank study -- and many African-American small business owners agree. Melanie Few-Harrison, president and owner of Results Marketing & Media Inc. fully expects to see growth in her company in 2013, as does Michael Davis, owner/ operator of Cartridge World in Camp Creek Market Place, and Brian A.M. Green of F&G Event Production & Management. “My company is expecting a slow but steady climb that will allow us to hire new consultants and increase our bottom line as the economy continues to improve,” says Few-Harrison. The study also finds that while a majority expects their staffing needs to remain consistent, one-third plan to hire more employees. These findings are the result of the 2012 Bank of America Small Business Report, a semi-annual study focusing on the concerns, aspirations and viewpoints of small business owners across the country. The survey, which included an oversampling of small business owners across the Atlanta market, also found that a majority of Atlanta's small business owners are planning on sustaining or growing their businesses, with more than one-third (36 percent) planning to hire more employees, while 50 percent expect their staffing needs will remain consistent.

The survey revealed 58 percent of Atlanta business owners surveyed anticipate that revenue will increase in 2013, while only seven percent expect revenue to decline. However, the report also indicates uncertainty among these business owners on the economy with only 42 percent confident that their local economy will improve over the next 12 months. Other findings the survey revealed include the following: the Significance of Atlanta's local economy More than half (53 percent) reported that the majority of their customers come from their local community, compared to 36 percent who indicated that their customers come primarily from outside their local community but within the U.S. FewHarrison, whose business is a faith-based entertainment consulting agency, agrees that “the local community is definitely a driver in the success of most small businesses.” “Small businesses can tailor their services and marketing activities to the community, which in turn creates a loyal customer base,” she adds. Black friday has little impact on bottom line The survey also found that Black Friday has little, if any, impact on Atlanta small business owners, with 76 percent also saying Cyber Monday is overhyped. Green notes, "These two days are about moving product for the holidays and is primarily geared toward the larger retailers. They have the dollars for the major Page 3

INSIDE ADW Follow us @adwnews

News................ 3 Business.......... 5 Education......... 6 Health.............. 7 Praise............... 8 Features........... 10

Sports.............. 11 Entertainment.. 12 Classified......... 13 Viewpoints....... 14 Aroundtown..... 16

Facebook.com/ADWnews

www.ADWnews.com

ADWnews

www.ADWnews.com

November 29 - December 5, 2012

NEWS ADWnews

November 29 - December 5, 2012

African Queen Mothers Visit Atlanta Special to the Daily World From fairy tales to beauty pageants, queens hold an iconic status in culture. Ironically, the knowledge of Africa’s present-day queens is non-existent. In order to raise awareness of their role and status, a delegation of Ghanaian queens stopped in Atlanta recently. The honored guests were a group of four: Nana Ama Amissah, III, Paramount Queen of Mankessim and President of the Queens Association of the Central Region of Ghana, and three association Paramount Queen Mothers. In Africa, queen mothers are female chiefs. They settle community disputes and lead traditional ceremonies. Queen mothers share equal power with chiefs and their bloodline determines the next royal heir. When Ghana gained its independence in 1957, the National House of Chiefs was established to represent Ghana’s different regions. The government did not recognize the queens and they were left behind in the villages. After decades of fighting, the National House of Chiefs finally announced the inclusion of 20 queen mothers in the summer of 2010. “Today, the queen mothers are re-connecting and returning their women’s voice to African society,” said Cynthia Hewitt, Morehouse Associate Professor of Sociology, and close friend of the queens. During their stay, the queens gave a series of talks around the Atlanta University Center. They urged Morehouse, Spelman, and Clark Atlanta students to take advantage of the unique opportunities that their institutions offer and visit the motherland. Morehouse first established a relationship with the kings and queens of Ghana through the Morehouse Pan-African

Global Experience (MPAGE). MPAGE is a study abroad program that brings students to the motherland each summer. The program offers fully-accredited courses with specific global and African themes led by

program director Dr. Cynthia Hewitt. To learn about MPAGE’s trip to Ghana last summer and their first encounter with the queens, visit mpage1867.wordpress.com.

Women and the Media: Freedom Unsung Awardees Page 15 Several panel members said it’s more important than ever for women in media to provide a framework and context for reporting these kinds of stories so they are about issues and not personal attacks. This is exactly what it will take to make things better. As women in media, we can make it better, said Carole Jenkins, founding president of The Women’s Media Center. I agree. Our voices get stronger all the time. Former Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin, who was also co-host and is chair of the board of the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, closed out the program by urging the mostly women present to “let your voices be heard.” It’s important to speak out and help shape public policies that affect our lives, she said. For more information about the Women’s Solidarity Society, contact the office at 404-991-6975 or nberry@civilandhumanrights.org. M. Alexis Scott is publisher of the Atlanta Daily World.

ADWnews Published weekly at 3485 N. Desert Drive Suite 2109 Atlanta, Georgia 30344-8125. Periodicals Postage Paid at Atlanta Mailing Offices. Publication Number 017255 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Atlanta Daily World, 3485 N. Desert Drive Suite 2109 Atlanta, Georgia 30344-8125. Subscriptions: One Year: $52 Two Years: $85 Forms of Payment: Check, Money Order, American Express, MasterCard, VISA

Facebook.com/ADWnews

To Be Announced Unsung heroes who have made significant contributions to Atlanta will be honored at a special event held on Friday, Dec. 7 at 6 p.m. at Georgia Tech’s historic Academy of Medicine, located at 875 West Peachtree Street. Ford Motor Company partnered with the National Center for Civil and Human Rights (NCCHR) to find and recognize winners of the Ford Freedom Unsung Award in cities across

the United States. Twenty-five Atlanta awardees, selected from more than 177 nominations, will be announced. “These distinguished Americans have dedicated their lives to improving the community where they live and the world at large,” says Jim Vella, president of the Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services. Award categories include Community, Education, Military, Youth and Organization.

Atlanta Small Businesses Owners See Rosy Future Page 1 advertising campaigns, and the staff and the flexibility to open their doors at extreme hours." Larger Business: asset or adversary? Davis’ company is a specialty retailer of ink and toner print cartridges providing refilled and remanufactured printer cartridges. His business is seven doors down from mega office retailer Staples, which he views as an asset. "Being close to a major retailer like Staples actually has its benefits," says Davis. "I'm within walking distance, which offers customers a convenient option, plus I'm able to adjust pricing or run specials at any time, and I have more face time with customers, which builds trust and keeps them coming back." Only one in four (25 percent) respondents views larger businesses as their biggest competitors. Seventy-nine percent indicate they have larger businesses as customers, and 29 percent say that larger businesses motivate them to become better small business owners. From a competitive perspective, Atlanta small business owners also cited similar factors as Davis that drive

customers to choose them over larger businesses, including customer service (81 percent), quality (72 percent) and reliability/trust (70 percent). More than one in three (35 percent) Atlanta small business owners believe their customers choose them because they are local. Who small business owners turn to for financial guidance Forty percent of Atlanta small business owners describe themselves as “very savvy” regarding financial matters. When seeking advice, they tap into a broad network for help, including accountants/bookkeepers (71 percent), financial advisors (60 percent), their banker (50 percent) and other small business owners (48 percent). However, Davis offers a different view. "Small business owners are turning away from traditional funding methods to non-traditional methods, such as crowd-funding and sites like Kiva.com, which connects thousands of people to borrowers and partner institutions around the world, working together to create opportunity. I believe this is the future for financing a small business."

www.ADWnews.com

ADWnews NEWS

New Report Finds Some Georgia Cities Unfriendly to Gays

November 29 - December 5, 2012

Special to the Daily World

A new report on lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) equality in America’s cities by the Human Rights Campaign has found that some Georgia cities are not as friendly to gays as they could be. Decatur, Avondale Estates and North Druid Hills all scored very low marks for protection, inclusion and positive policies toward LGBT citizens. This surprises Decatur City Commissioner Kecia Cunningham, who is gay. "This information does not seem to be reflective of who we are as a community,” she said. Cunningham has been a city commissioner since 1999. The Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest LGBT civil rights organization, rated 137 cities across the nation. The Municipal Equality Index (MEI), the first-ever rating system of LGBT inclusion in municipal law, found that the average score for cities in Georgia is 33 out of 100 points, which falls below the national average. Atlanta scored 82 points, Avondale Estates scored eight, Decatur scored 27, and North Druid Hills scored 15. Key findings from the MEI create a snapshot of LGBT equality in 137 municipalities of varying sizes drawn from

every state in the nation – these include the 50 state capitals, the 50 most populous cities in the country, and the 25 large, 25 mid-size, and 25 small municipalities with the highest proportion of same-sex couples. • Eleven of the 137 cities surveyed earned a perfect score of 100 points – these cities came from both coasts and in between, were of varying sizes, and not all are in states with favorable laws for LGBT people; • A quarter of the cities rated scored over 80 points; • 45 percent of cites surveyed obtained a score of 60 or higher; • Nearly a third of cities scored between 40 and 60 points, showing good intentions on behalf of municipal governments but also opportunity for improvement; and • Just under a quarter of the cities scored less than 20 points, including eight cities that scored under 10 points and three that scored zero. The MEI rates cities based on 47 criteria falling under six broad categories: • Non-discrimination laws; • Relationship recognition;

West End Fire Station Revamped

• The municipality’s employment practices; • Inclusiveness of city services; • Law enforcement; and • Municipal leadership. The full report, including long form scorecards for every city and a searchable database, is available online at www.hrc.org/mei.

View Digital Copy Online! www.ADWnews.com

Special Photo

Mayor Kasim Reed was recently presented with a drawing of historic Fire Station No. 7 at a meeting of the West End Merchant Coalition (WEMC). The mayor announced the re-opening of the station, which is located at 535 Whitehall Street, as an emergency dispatch and community center. The station was closed in 2008 by Mayor Shirley Franklin, who cited the city's budget deficit as the reason. However, the merchant's association made a commitment to the community to raise funds for Fire Station #7's restoration. Pictured here are Councilwoman Cleta Winslow (from left), Jeffery Robinson (JW Robinson and Associates) Mayor Reed, Joseph Robinson (JW Robinson and Associates), and Charles Williams, WEMC president.

www.ADWnews.com

November 29 - December 5, 2012

BUSINESS ADWnews

Networking Events Planned at ATL Hot Spots Special to the Daily World The Atlanta Social Exchange (ASE), in partnership with Andrews Entertainment District, is hosting two exclusive, upscale business networking events this Dec. 5 and 6 at Czar Ice Bar and Prohibition respectively. Atlanta area professionals are invited to join a small group of corporate level professionals, business owners, and entrepreneurs to meet and mingle while enjoying two completely different experiences; one at a 1920’s cigar bar, Prohibition, and another at an Ice Bar, Czar Ice Bar. On Dec. 5, an event will be held Czar Ice Bar, one of Atlanta’s newest hot spots. This evening will feature complimentary hors d’oeuvres, including a seasonal sushi selection from sushi chef, Saito Saito. A selection of drinks will be offered at the from among the bar’s more than 300 vodkas from around the world. A cash bar and Chinese Auction will be available, along with branded ASE take home glasses. There is a 75 person cap to this event.

Facebook.com/ADWnews

On Dec. 6, patrons can join The Atlanta Social Exchange at Prohibition, a 1920’s cigar bar with a speakeasy, underground vibe. Signature vintage prohibition cocktails will be served, along with a cash bar, Chinese Auction, and complimentary hors d’oeuvres. Fresh cigars will be rolled, on the spot, with Scotch and cigar pairing advice from experts. This event will close at 40 guests. At both events The Atlanta Social Exchange will be partnering with The Atlanta Community Food Bank. Guests are asked to bring non-perishable food items to support the Food Bank’s mission to provide food to those in need. The early bird rate is $35 for each event for those registering before Dec. 4. Sign up before Dec. 4 and get both events for the low rate of $55. Prices will increase after this early bird ticketing price expires. Both Czar Ice Bar and Prohibition are located at 56 East Andrews Atlanta, GA 30305. To register visit AtlantaSocialExchange.com.

Students get Scholarships from Atlanta MBA Chapter The National Black MBA Association Atlanta Chapter (NBMBAA) recently presented $20,000 in scholarships at their annual luncheon to students working toward degrees in Business Administration. Keynote speaker, film producer Will Packer, encouraged the students to follow their dreams, reach for the stars, and control their own destiny. Pictured here are scholarship winners Rachel Stewart, McIntosh High School (from left); Lauren Hawkins, Spelman College; Uriyah Robinson, MBA candidate, Georgia Tech; Shernika Dunner, Clark Atlanta University MBA candidate; Marcus Bellamy, Georgia Tech Ph.D. candidate; NBMBAA president Charmaine Ward and speaker Will Packer; as well as additional scholarship winners April Payton, Emory University MBA candidate; Bryant Johnson, Georgia State University; Chloe Castleberry, Holy Spirit Prep; Gregory Payne, University of Georgia MBA candidate; and Thomas Cox, Morehouse College.

www.ADWnews.com

ADWnews EDUCATION

Sun Life gives $110,000 to Nonprofits and Students Special to the Daily World

The U.S. business group of Sun Life Financial Inc. has announced Atlanta’s Sun Life Rising Star Award recipients, providing $110,000 in grants and scholarships to two community organizations -- Fugees Family and Andrew and Walter Young Family YMCA -- as well as to an exemplary student nominated by each organization, including Tucker High School’s Lewis Makor, and D.M. Therrell High School’s Ce'Darius Glaze. Sun Life Regional Group Manager Kevin Kuzon and Sun Life Voluntary Benefits Practice Leader Michael Otis surprised the students with their scholarships at a special pre-show ceremony at TOTEM by Cirque du Soleil. Before taking in the show, the students, their families and nonprofit representatives enjoyed an exclusive experience with VIP ROUGE, where they participated in performance workshops led by world-renowned performers from TOTEM. The Sun Life Rising Star Awards program recognizes nonprofits that redress low high school graduation rates and honors outstanding students who have overcome significant obstacles to succeed. The program also promotes financial literacy as a means to achieve life-long financial wellness and stability. Each winning organization receives a $50,000 grant and selects an exemplary student they work with to

www.ADWnews.com

November 29 - December 5, 2012

New Initiative to Increase Minority Dental Students Special to the Daily World

Special Photo

receive a $5,000 college scholarship. Since the program’s inception, Sun Life has granted nearly $3 million to 54 students and 47 nonprofit organizations across the country. This year, Sun Life expanded the program to seven cities from five in 2011, and will award grants and scholarships to students and nonprofits in Atlanta, Boston, and Chicago.

The Georgia Health Sciences University College if Dental Medicine is one of 11 dental schools chosen to participate in a yearlong minority student recruitment and retention campaign. The American Dental Education Association (ADEA), The Voice of Dental Education, in partnership with the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, has introduced a training program dedicated to increasing low-income and underrepresented minority students at dental schools. Supported by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF), the ADEA/ Pacific Dugoni Dental Pipeline NLI aims to create a diverse workforce of dentists who understand the oral healthcare needs of patients from underserved populations. Each participating institution will receive $12,000, and a three-day training course about Dental Pipeline best practices, advocacy, and leadership. Additional support and resources include peer mentor match-ups, access to various online courses, and fundraising and development tutorials. More information regarding the ADEA/ Pacific Dugoni Dental Pipeline National Learning Institute can be found at http://www.adea.org/PipelineNLI.

November 29 - December 5, 2012

Community Relations Director Named at Autumn Leaves Special to the Daily World

DIVINE TAYLOR

Autumn Leaves of Sugarloaf, an Alzheimer’s and memory care community under construction in Metro Atlanta, has named Divine Taylor community relations director. Taylor will expand her focus as the company develops an additional five or more Alzheimer’s and memory care communities in the Atlanta area. Taylor, who earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in communications from Bowie State University,brings more than 10 years of experience in sales. “This is a great opportunity to mirror my real estate background and marry it with my regional and national sales experience in building teams,” said Taylor. “The fact that my grandmother had Alzheimer’s has led me to develop a passion for helping seniors and generating awareness about Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, I volunteer for a senior organization where I live, and I believe in making a difference in seniors’ lives.”

Free Online Alzheimer’s Training Sessions Available

Special to the Daily World

Free training sessions geared to helping friends and family members manage Alzheimer’s disease symptoms and behaviors are available online from Home Instead Inc. at the Web site www.helpforalzheimersfamilies.com. The recently launched Alzheimer's CARE: Changing Aging Through Research and Education program is a first-ofits-kind training program that addresses current and future needs by offering family members a fresh approach to Alzheimer’s care. The approach encourages mental engagement to help relatives remain safely at home and in familiar surroundings as long as possible, and family members learn to immerse themselves in the mindsets of their loved ones to help manage difficult behaviors associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

Approximately 80 percent of Alzheimer’s home care is provided by family members. The Alzheimer’s CARE program, based on input from renowned aging and dementia experts, offers them a much-needed resource for coping with challenges presented by the disease while maintaining their loved one’s dignity and helping them live more fulfilling lives. “As the Baby Boomer population continues to age, it is essential for current and future caregivers to be educated and prepared on how to manage behaviors associated with Alzheimer’s disease,” said Jeff Huber, president and chief operating officer of Home Instead Inc. “We hope that by reaching such a wide audience, more family caregivers will be equipped with the proper knowledge and tools to face the everyday challenges of the disease.”

New Book Addresses the Challenges Of Aging Parents Special to the Daily World With more than 72 million “baby boomers” currently in America, this means many families are, or will be, facing the administration of a parent’s care. When the dust settled after two horrifically intense years of managing her mother’s care, caregivers, and finances, Faye Levow was determined to create a comprehensive resource so that no one would ever again be lost in the whirlwind of dealing with unprepared, aging parents. Her upcoming book, OMG! My Parents Are Getting OLD! (Launch Pad Publishing Inc.) is the result of that determination. OMG! My Parents Are Getting OLD! is a resource for families forced to deal with the mountain of information and red tape that faces them. With over 44 million family caregivers caring for aging family members in our society today, it’s a given that there is a tremendous need for such a resource. The

Facebook.com/ADWnews

HEALTH ADWnews 10 Holiday Warning Signs Your Senior Is In Trouble Special to the Daily World The holiday season may be one of the few times local families get together and realize their elderly loved ones are in deep trouble and need immediate help. Adult children who don’t live nearby often come home to holiday heartbreak with deteriorating relatives they aren’t prepared to handle. That’s why Senior Helpers, one of the largest in-home senior care companies with caregivers Atlanta, advises families with the “10 Holiday Warning Signs Seniors Need Help.” • Poor eating habits resulting in weight loss, no appetite, or missed meals. • Neglected hygiene -- wearing dirty clothes, body odor, neglected nails and teeth. • Neglected home -- it’s not as clean or sanitary as you remember growing up. • Inappropriate behavior -- acting loud, quiet, paranoid, or making phone calls at all hours. • Changed relationship patterns that friends or neighbors have noticed. • Burns or injuries resulting from weakness, forgetfulness, or misuse of alcohol or medications. • Decreased participation in activities, such as attending the senior center, book club, or church. • Scorched pots and pans showing forgetfulness for dinner cooking on the stove. • Unopened mail, newspaper piles, missed appointments. • Mishandled finances such as losing money, paying bills twice, or hiding money. “When family members get together, it’s great to finally recognize and see firsthand that their elderly loved ones may have a problem,” says Peter Ross, CEO of Senior Helpers. “But conflict often surfaces when family members have to agree on a solution, especially when the senior has dementia or Alzheimer’s and family members don’t know how to handle it. That’s why Senior Helpers offers a Holiday Family Meeting Guide to discuss the major sticking points. As part of that plan, we strongly encourage the family to hire a trained caregiver to get elderly loved ones the proper care.” To learn more about how to care for your senior loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s through the Senior Gems program, visit www.seniorhelpers.com.

practical information in this book hopes to make the transition easier and less complicated for both seniors and younger family members. Full of 20/20 hindsight for family members and parents, the book has a comprehensive resource section (fully indexed), with readable chapters containing expertise from over 50 professionals who work with seniors on a daily basis in everything from finance, probate, senior living, insurance, veterans benefits, dementia, medical care, locating caregivers, hospice, funerals, and much more. Levow shares dramatic, true stories of caregivers, theft, finances, and family gone awry from more than 70 family caregivers who have actually “been there and done it.” For more information visit: www.OMGMyParents- AreGettingOld.com and www.LaunchPadPublishing.com.

www.ADWnews.com

ADWnews PRAISE

Annual Holiday Jazz Vespers at First Church

Special to the Daily World Celebrate “the reason for the season” at the Annual Holiday Jazz Vespers performance in the newly-restored sanctuary of the historic First Congregational Church on Friday, Dec. 7 and Saturday, Dec. 8 at 8 p.m. Enjoy an evening of holiday music with vocalists Kathleen Bertrand and Alex Lattimore; musicians Dwight Andrews, Che Marshall, Moffett Morris, Gary Motley; and the Atlanta Jazz Chorus. The Jazz Vespers Program has become one of the signature ministries of First Congregational Church, located at 105 Courtland Street in downtown Atlanta. A favorite among jazz enthusiasts and holiday concert goers, the event celebrates both the spirit of jazz and the season of advent. The Atlanta Jazz Chorus and the First

Church Community Development Corporation again sponsor this year’s holiday concert—The First Church CDC, a non-profit organization created in 1999, serves to extend and broaden the outreach efforts of First Congregational Church (United Church of Christ) into the Atlanta community. Proceeds will benefit the First Church CDC and the First Church (UCC) efforts to continue current programs and develop additional programs and activities that promote community well-being. For the first time, the Holiday Jazz Vespers will be presented on two nights. Ticket prices are $25 for general seating. Purchase tickets through Ticket Alternative by phone at 877-725-8849, or online at www.ticketalternative.com/Venues/1455.as px. To purchase student tickets with ID, call 404-659-6255.

A Memorial Service recently was held for Joy San Walker Brown at Spelman College, who was remembered for “living well, loving much, and laughing often.” She died last month after a brief bout with cancer. She was the wife of the late Dr. Calvin A. Brown Jr., her college sweetheart at Morehouse. A graduate of Spelman College in 1952, the deceased pursued a career in community service and raised two daughters, Dr. JoiSanne Brown and Dr. SannaGai Brown. She was remembered for being funny, positive, loyal, graceful, and stylish by Dr. Bess Jones, and life-long friend and bridge partner; Anne Allison. Her sister, Lena Gilmore of Houston,Texas; Jettie Burnett of the Atlanta Chapter of The Links; Danielle Simmons of the National Alumni Association of Spelman College, and Dr. Beverly

Tatum, president of Spelman, all praised Brown for her grace and love for her community and for Spelman College. The deceased is also survived by a son-in-law, LeRome Richmond; brothers, Paul D. Walker of Augusta, Ga.; Phillip C. Turner of Texas and Lee Vernon Cochran of Washington, D.C., and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, god-children and friends. The family requested that donations be made to Spelman College in honor of the deceased, who enjoyed a “well-lived life.”

November 29 - December 5, 2012

‘Sisters In Faith’ Bible to be Released Special to the Daily World Thomas Nelson, a world-leading Christian publisher, is preparing to release a new Bible that will provide African-American women with an inspiring new tool to help bring their Sunday morning experiences into their everyday lives. The Sisters in Faith Holy Bible: Encouraging and Empowering African-American Women with God's Truth is expected to address the concerns of today's Christian women who are seeking God's wisdom and guidance in every area of their busy and complex lives. The Bible will be available everywhere Jan. 1, 2013. This Bible will offer a unique African-American perspective, thanks to executive editors Michele Clark Jenkins and Stephanie Perry Moore. Michele and Stephanie are the co-founders of Sisters in Faith, an entity established to create meaningful products that encourage and empower African-American women with God's truth. "African-American women have a different history and a different presence from any other demographic," said Jenkins. "Their history is characterized by strength in the face of instability; making ‘a way’ out of ‘no way’ and self-definition in the face of a lost identity. Most are looking to cut a new path. The Sisters in Faith Bible is designed to speak directly to the specific needs of this group of women." "African-American women have long suffered and long loved the Lord in such a way that being Christian and being an African-American woman is synonymous," adds Moore. "But very few Christian products reveal the African-American woman's voice to the body of Christ and almost none have been created to speak directly to her in a way that relates to her life and her struggle." Jenkins is the senior director of the Public Policy Consulting Group for Griffin & Strong P.C. and also specializes in entertainment contracts and business development. She is the author of numerous faith-based books and co-editor of several Bible projects. Moore also has served as co-editor for several Bible projects and is the author of over 50 young adult, inspirational fiction books and four adult titles. For additional information, visit www.thomasnelsoncorporate.com.

Memorial Service Held at Spelman For Joy San Brown

www.ADWnews.com

November 29 - December 5, 2012

Facebook.com/ADWnews

ADWnews

www.ADWnews.com

ADWnews FEATURES

Reaching New Heights at Mt. Kilimanjaro

November 29 - December 5, 2012

Executive Coach Keith Millner Proves he has What it Takes to Achieve a Dream

By Kenya King Special to the Daily World Growing up on a tobacco farm where excuses were reviled and self-accountability was compulsory gave Keith Millner the tenacity needed to follow through on his goal to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest freestanding mountain in the world. Climbing more than 19,000 feet in Tanzania, Millner braved the altitude and terrain of Africa’s tallest peak to get a glimpse of the snowcaps, which he had learned may inevitably dissolve within the next few decades due to global warming. Millner’s ambitious approach to living is not bound to the norm, yet he doesn’t consider himself a daredevil. “People just limit themselves to various life experiences, and just to be able to say ‘hey, I’m no different than anybody else. It’s just something I decided to do and I went and did it. You can too,’” said Millner. “It doesn’t have to be climbing a mountain, it could be learning a new skill. It could be learning a new language, anything that’s related to growing.” His climb was nearly three years in the making and began a “bucket list” quest in celebrating his 50th birthday. After months

of preparation and searching for friends and colleagues to journey with him, finally, with sheer doggedness he trekked with like-minded strangers committed to the same goal. Even after discovering everyone in his group had withdrawn from the trip, discontinuing was not an option. “Persistence and perseverance just comes with being a winner,” he stated.“Most people give up before they reach the finish line… I’ve just learned that over the years, if you just keep going, you’ll win more than you’ll lose because you’ll just outlast everybody.” Millner said he also decided to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro because it was accessible, didn’t require any specialized skills and was safe for most healthy people. While Millner made it up the mountain unscathed, high altitudes in mountainous areas can cause some individuals pulmonary and cerebral edema, which can lead to death. To prepare for his “once in a lifetime” expedition, Millner trained as if a marathon runner and ran five to 10 miles a day. Equally, he worked to develop his leg strength and focused especially to boost his cardiovascular endurance.

Mountain Climbing Tips at Wikihow.com Mountain climbing is viewed by some as an extreme sport, while for others it is simply an exhilarating pastime that offers the ultimate challenge of strength, endurance, and sacrifice. It can be highly dangerous, even fatal, especially when the climber is out of his or her depth, or simply gets overwhelmed by weather, terrain, ice, or other dangers of the mountain. Inexperience, poor planning, and inadequate equipment can all contribute to injury or death, so knowing to do what’s right really matters. Despite all the negatives, when done right, mountain climbing is an exciting, invigorating and rewarding experience. For an overview beginner's guide and outline of the initial basics, visit www.wikihow.com/Climb-a-Mountain. Getting to Mt. Kilimanjaro took fourand-a-half days to hike up and a day-and-ahalf to travel down. In route to the mountaintop, the conveniences of heat, running water, and electricity were nonexistent. Each day was embedded with “battling the cold,” sleep deprivation and lingering night times. The seven-hour time difference made him intensely nocturnal, but meditation, prayer and iPod-tunes helped to saturate some of his idle time, which spanned from 7 p.m. at sundown to 6 a.m. in the morning. In addition to climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, his excursion in Tanzania included touring “the cradle of civilization” at Oldupai Gorge, sightseeing in Zanzibar near the Indian Ocean, taking an exotic safari and visiting with the people of the Massai tribes. Having befriended a Massai Prince, Millner said he marveled at the Massai’s understanding of modern society while maintaining their unique entrepreneurial lifestyle and cultural devotion. Through it all, Millner’s mantra encapsulates his resolve – “If you’re not living on the edge, you’re taking too much space!” he said. “For me living on the edge is just a motto to continue to motivate me and encourage me to not settle for what’s right in front of me, to avail myself to opportunities that a lot of people have but

www.ADWnews.com

they choose not to act on.” From conquering Mt. Kilimanjaro, Milner reaped an unexpected benefit– “My self-confidence grew exponentially,” he said. He offered some advice for goal-setting and trusted ways to accomplish them. First, “allow yourself to dream” and “embrace the things that you’re very interested in,” he said.“You’ve got to have passionate dreams and goals because that passion will survive the ups and downs of your economic ability to pursue it, your familiar obligations, your work obligations; if you’re really passionate about it, you won’t let it go.” Secondly, he advocates writing down goals in order to visualize them each day. “You have to document it,” he stressed. “Documenting your dreams has been proven to be extremely powerful and reaffirming because when you can see it, it’s a constant reminder that this is something that’s in my life to do and to achieve.” A former athlete, Millner also underscored the importance of preparation. “In the sports world you learn that if you want to win, you have to prepare,” he stated. “And if you prepare properly, then you improve your chances of getting the outcome that you want.”

SPORTS ADWnews Analysis: Falcons Continue Hawks, United Way Serve 300 Families Winning, Despite Woes For Thanksgiving November 29 - December 5, 2012

By DEITRA P. JOhNsON ADWnews.com Give the Atlanta Falcons credit. Even with uncharacteristic kicking difficulties, running game problems and sporadic quarterback woes, Atlanta still remains the best team in the league at winning close games. Comparisons can be drawn between the Falcons and the Energizer bunny…that is, they keep going, and going and going. First, it was kicker Matt Bryant who went into a temporary slump. It was a just slight blemish on his record – missing two field goals in one game against Dallas in Week Nine, tying his missed attempts from all of last season. He did manage to rebound, however, accounting for five combined field goals against the New Orleans Saints and the Arizona Cardinals in the following weeks. And then there were the ground game struggles. Atlanta’s running attack, usually led by Michael Turner, was all but stifled in their only loss of the season against those same division rival Saints on Nov. 11 in which Turner gained only 15 yards all day and third-string back Jacquizz Rodgers led the Falcons with a mere 29 yards on the ground. Turner came out of his slump just in time to score a touchdown in the fourth quarter to squelch a Tampa Bay comeback on last Sunday in a game that swayed with momentum shifts. Turner's TD answered a 10-point Bucs rally as Tampa Bay (6-5) saw their four-game winning streak end. With the victory, the Falcons placed a stranglehold on the division, with a four-game lead with five games to play. And then there was quarterback Matt Ryan. Atlanta has managed to squeak by in both of its last two games, first by defeating the Cards on Nov. 18 by a slim four-point margin, 23-19,

despite quarterback Ryan’s five interceptions and no passing TD. The Associated Press’ cited STATS LLC is reporting that Ryan became the first quarterback since Green Bay’s Bart Starr (1967) to win a game despite throwing five interceptions with no touchdowns. “You can’t worry about it,” said Ryan, following the Arizona matchup. “Part of playing this position is knowing there are going to be times when you make mistakes, when you fall flat on your face.” And yet again – by their slimmest margin all season – the Falcons skimmed past the Buccaneers in a 24-23 decision on Nov. 25, improving to a 10-1 record only equaled by the Houston Texans of the AFC South. This time, the Falcons defense helped savor the win, despite a few exciting offensive plays. In fact, Atlanta has only had three decisive wins all season – Week One against the Chiefs (40-24), Week Three against the Chargers (27-3) and Week Eight vs. the Eagles (30-17). Since 2008, the Falcons have been one of the best in the NFL when it comes to close contests. In games decided by eight points or less, including their last four contests, and in games determined by a field goal or less, Atlanta is 13-6 during the span. Tampa Bay gave the Falcons their latest challenge, and by whatever means necessary, Atlanta pulled it out. It remains to be seen if the Falcons can mount a full attack, firing from all cylinders, to get a little breathing room with just six games remaining in the regular season, including against the visiting Saints next Thursday (Nov. 28). Dan Beeson contributed to this article.

Photo By J. Boxley AtlantaHawks.com

Atlanta Hawks center Al Horford (from left), head coach Larry Drew and guard Jeff Teague were among team players, cheerleaders and staff who teamed with United Way to serve Thanksgiving meals to over 300 families at Clarkson Community Center last week. In addition to receiving a Thanksgiving meal, each family will take home a food basket courtesy of Kroger. The community center is located within United Way’s DeKalb County Opportunity Zone, which has among the highest poverty rates in the county and represents the largest resettlement of refugees in Georgia.

Fans Skeptical of Proposed New Falcons Stadium By AmAl YAmusAh www.ADWnews.com Atlantans filled the seats in Morehouse College’s Sale Hall Auditorium recently to fervently express their concerns about a proposed new Falcon’s stadium. The main issue was the estimated $300 million cost of the stadium which would be raised through an increase in Georgia’s hotel and motel tax. Many taxpayers said that the tax increase would be a waste of taxpayers’ dollars. The crowd addressed panelists including Dr. Benjamin Flowers, an associate professor of architecture at Georgia Tech; Wyc Orr, a member of the Common Cause Georgia Board and Frank Poe, executive director of the Georgia World Congress Center. They were forced to play defense. Those advocated for the stadium maintained that taxpayers should expect to pay only 1/3 of the cost of the proposed stadium, a

Facebook.com/ADWnews

far cry from the 100 percent they paid in the building of the Georgia Dome 20 years ago. “The public sector will own 100 percent of the new stadium for 30 cents on the dollar,” Poe said. He added that the public-private partnership between the Falcons and taxpayers could spell huge returns for both parties, in the form of millions of dollars in annual revenue. The panel members encouraged Atlantans to take this potential partnership seriously. “It is important for both Atlanta and Georgia taxpayers to engage in the process and make sure their voices are heard,” Common Cause Georgia Board Member Wyc Orr said. “Our goal was to give the public an update on negotiations between the Georgia World Congress Center, a public authority, and the Atlanta Falcons, a private entity, but certainly one that highly values and needs the public trust.”

www.ADWnews.com

ADWnews ENTERTAINMENT

November 29 - December 5, 2012

‘Totem’ Lead Singer Hopes to inspire Audience By TARiN HARRiS www.ADWnews.com “Totem” takes audiences on a mesmerizing journey of the human species under the blue and yellow Big Top located at Atlantic Station through Dec. 30. The show follows the human evolution from their original amphibian state to our ultimate desire to fly. The cast of “Totem” comprises 52 artists from 17 countries. Written and directed by Robert Lepage, “Totem” explores the ties that bind man to other species somewhere between science and legend – his dreams and his infinite potential come together during the show.

Helping to bring the show’s infinite potential to life is lead female singer Esi Acquaah-Harrison. “‘Totem’ is not like any other Cirque du Soleil show,” said Esi. “It gives good quality entertainment while leaving you inspired.” Born in Ghana, Esi started her career in the UK. She auditioned and joined Cirque du Soleil in January 2010. “As a singer it has been fulfilling as I am able to sing through my vocal range including some notes that I had not tried before ‘Totem.’” Esi said as a young girl in Ghana, she often dreamed she would sing in front of audiences one day, but the “Totem” production surpasses her wildest dreams. “I had no idea that I would be on a tour like ‘Totem.’ The most common thing to think of in Ghana was to finish your education with a good degree and take on a profession like, accountancy, law, teaching, [or] medicine.” “Doing a job that I love to do, which is sing, is one of the best parts about being in ‘Totem,’” she continued, noting that she tries to enjoy the show in a new way every day. “As a Christian I believe that God has given me my voice as a gift to share with others. I spend a few minutes

Library to Screen Documentary ‘Food, Clothing and Shelter’

ESI ACQUAAHbefore each show, HARRISON praying for his blessing and, I also pray that those who will see the show will be inspired by my contribution,” she said. She hopes that her attitude helps make each of her “Totem” performances fresh for audiences as well. Cirque du Soleil has brought delight to spectators in more than 300 cities in over 40 countries on six continents. For more information about Cirque du Soleil’s “Totem” and ticket information, visit cirquedusoleil.com.

‘The ROOT 100’ Premieres on ASPiRE Cable Network Special to the Daily World Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed will be among a group of achievers featured on a new TV series debuting on ASPiRE cable network beginning Dec. 5. The network has announced the world premiere of “The Root 100.” Hosted by Emmywinning journalist and CNN Anchor Suzanne Malveaux, the program is based on content from TheRoot.com's fourth annual list of the 100 most influential African-American innovators of the next generation. The eightepisode series airs Wednesdays at 8 p.m. “The Root 100” explores the lives and groundbreaking accomplishments of these dy-

Special to the Daily World

namic men and women. It features first-hand interviews and video profiles of 24 of the list's honorees. Each one-hour episode features profiles of three honorees, woven together by a common theme. In revealing conversations with Omar Wasow, contributing editor to The Root and creator of “The Root 100” ranking system, the subjects discuss intimate moments, turning points in their lives and their aspirations to affect change. Through these inspirational stories, the series provides insight into what it really takes to pursue one's passion and achieve success with meaning and purpose.

Special Photo The Auburn Avenue Research Library will host a screening of “Food, Clothing, and Shelter,” a documentary by local filmmaker, Ebrima Ba on Saturday, Dec. 1, at 3 p.m. The film examines how local communities in urban Atlanta are turning to African skills, tradition, and knowledge to find alternative ways to meet basic needs. Also documented are communities of color that provide for themselves through urban gardening, handmade clothing, selling

handmade goods, and collective living. This event will be followed by a post screening community discussion facilitated by the filmmaker, Ebrima Ba. The screening and discussion will take place in the Heritage Education Center Auditorium on the Library’s Fourth Floor. The library is located at 101 Auburn Avenue, NE, Atlanta, GA 30303-2503. All programs are free and open to the public. For additional information, call AARL at 404-730-4001, ext. 100.

www.ADWnews.com

CLASSIFIED ADWnews

November 29 - December 5, 2012 HOW TO PLAce A cLAssiFieD AD

ONLINE: www.atlantadailyworld.com MAIL: ATLANTA DAiLY WOrLD 34845 N. Desert Drive Building 2, suite 109 Atlanta, GA 30344

E-MAIL: classified@atlantadailyworld.com TELEPHONE: 404-761-1114 PAYMENT: cash. check or credit card DEADLINE: every Tuesday, 12:00 pm (noon) RATES: Open classified Advertising rates $12.10 per line (26-28 characters per line) Minimum Ad charge $12.10 All rates listed above apply only to line ads.

DISPLAY ADS: contact 404-761-1114 or classified@atlantadailyworld.com

BiDs AND PrOPOsALs

eMPLOYMeNT

_______________________________________________

Western Summit/Civil Works Construction Joint Venture Requests bids from Certified AABE/FBE Subcontractors and Suppliers for the following project: Peachtree creek south Fork relief storage and Pumping stations, Fc-6260

sr. APPLicATiON DeveLOPer

All quotes with required documentation must be received by: November 29, 2012 @ 5pm MsT/7pm esT Submit To: Western Summit/Civil Works Construction JV c/o: Western Summit Constructors, Inc. 9780 Mt. Pyramid Court, Suite 100 Englewood, CO 80112 (303) 298-9500 ext. 0331 / Fax (303) 325-0304 Contact: John East Bonding may be required. Specific Crafts, Trades and Materials include but are not limited to: Sitework, Concrete, Metals, Wood & Plastics, Thermal & Moisture Protection, Doors & Windows, Finishes, Specialties, Equipment, Conveying Systems, Mechanical, Electrical, & Instrumentation, Public Relations and Quality Control Material Testing. Western Summit/Civil Works Construction Joint Venture intends to negotiate with qualified AABE/FBE firms and will, at its sole discretion, assist in obtaining bonds, lines of credit and insurance. Western Summit/Civil Works Construction Joint Venture is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

CBS Corporate Services Inc. has an opening for sr. Application Developer in Atlanta, GA. Duties include: Develop, design, & modify computer applications software. Create technical design & define the requirements of applications. Apply online at cbscareers.com or send resume to CBSITJobs@cbs.com. Must reference job # 6485.15. EOE. _______________________________________________ iNTerNAL AUDiTOr McKesson Corp. seeks internal Auditor-compliance in Alpharetta, GA. Lead finance, operation, compliance audits based on understanding of risks. Ability to travel 50% at minimum (nat’l & int’l). Mail resume to: McKesson, Attn: L. Datta, 5995 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta, GA 30005. ref code: 63503 _______________________________________________ TecHNicAL Cisco Systems, Inc. is accepting resumes for the following positions in Lawrenceville, GA: software engineer (ref#: Lv5): Responsible for the definition, design, development, test, debugging, release, enhancement or maintenance of networking software.

_______________________________________________

ADW

BiD-POWer-011013-sPcc sYsTeM ADverTiseMeNT for cONsTrUcTiON of sPiLL PreveNTiON cONTrOL AND cOUNTerMeAsUres sYsTeM

Please mail resumes with reference number to Cisco Systems, Inc., Attn: J51W, 170 W. Tasman Drive, Mail Stop: SJC 5/1/4, San Jose, CA 95134. No phone calls please. Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship. EOE. www.cisco.com

The City of College Park is accepting sealed Bids from qualified vendors for cONsTrUcTiON of sPiLL PreveNTiON cONTrOL AND cOUNTerMeAsUres sYsTeM. Sealed proposals will be received no later than 3:00pm on Thursday, January 10, 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.

_______________________________________________

services _______________________________________________ ALL iN cUsTOMs

The Atlanta Daily World Published every Thursday

SUBSCRIBE FOR 2 YEARS AND SAVE! rATes: MAIL SUBSCRIPTION RATES 1 Year for $52 2 Years for $85 (circle one) PAYMeNT: Check, Money Order, American Express, MasterCard or VISA creDiT cArD#:______________________ NAMe: ____________________________ ADDress: __________________________ ciTY: ___________ sTATe:___ ZiP:_______

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 is scheduled for Monday, December 10 at 2:00pm at City of College Park City Hall. Bids will not be accepted from any vendor not attending Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting. Questions will be accepted after PreBid and Site Visit via email only to bgregory@collegeparkga.com beginning Tuesday, December 11 until COB Friday, December 14. An Addendum listing all Q&A, clarifications, etc. will be posted on the City’s website on or about Thursday, December 20. It is always the vendor’s responsibility to check the City’s website for any and all addenda. A Bid Bond of ten percent (10%) shall be submitted with bid. A Performance Bond and a 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.

Welcoming all MOTORCYCLES and SCOOTERS and all RIDERS and RENEGADES We perform in/out OIL CHANGES, TUNE-UPS, and TIRE REPAIR. ALL iN cUsTOMs 529 Gresham Ave se Atlanta, GA 30316 (770) 912-1343 $10 DiscOUNT - WiTH THe MeNTiON OF THis AD _______________________________________________ McKenzie Home renovation Specializing in Electrical * Plumbing * Roofing * Replacement Windows * Doors * Flooring * Painting * Tiling * Welding * Sheetrock * Aluminum Siding * Fencing * Vinyl Siding *Concrete Driveway/Sidewalk * Gutters Please Call (862) 224-8127 _______________________________________________ sHeLLMAr Tree service Complete tree removal, trimming, and stump grindling. (912) 222-5216 ______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

PHONe: ____________________________ e-MAiL: ____________________________ cLiP AND MAiL: ATLANTA DAILY WORLD 34845 N. Desert Drive Building 2, Suite 109 Atlanta, GA 30344

Facebook.com/ADWnews

We.seW.iT.ALL

FOr reNT _______________________________________________ FUrNisHeD rOOM (404) 758-6902 _______________________________________________ 1 BDrM - 4 rM apt., sW address Bonus: Sunroom $475 (404) 691-5656 _______________________________________________

We Sew & Custom Upholster It All! We Upholster Auto as well as Furniture, Custom Make Window Treatments, and Embroidery. Call or email for a quote: (770) 670-0568 or wesewitall@gmail.com _______________________________________________

www.ADWnews.com

ADWnews VIEWPOINTS

November 29 - December 5, 2012

NNPA SPOTLIGHT

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

BY GEORGE E. CURRY

BY JULIANNE MALVEAUX

A ‘Perverse’ Move by the National Black Chamber of Commerce I have enjoyed an excellent relationship with the National Black Chamber of Commerce over the years. I have conducted media training sessions at national conventions, spoken at functions sponsored by state and local affiliates, and enjoyed a friendship with many of its top officers, including president and co-founder Harry C. Alford. That’s why I was stunned and mystified when, in the course of researching a challenge to Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, to learn that the group had filed a friend-of-the-court petition with the U.S. Supreme Court supporting an objection filed by Shelby County, Ala. In short, Shelby County – after losing at the federal district and appeals court level – appealed to the Supreme Court, hoping to overturn the provision of the Voting Rights Act that requires jurisdictions with a proven history of discrimination in elections to get pre-clearance from the Justice Department before implementing changes in voting laws that might adversely impact Black voters. The court is expected to issue a ruling next summer. In its petition, the National Black Chamber of Commerce said, “Section 5 is no longer necessary to combat widespread and persistent discrimination in voting and now, perversely [my emphasis], serves as an impediment to racial neutrality in voting and to the empowerment of state and local officials who represent minority constituencies.” Perverse? Nothing is more perverse than a Black business group, with no direct interest in a case, favoring the elimination of a major tool that helps remove the last vestiges of discrimination against AfricanAmerican voters and officeholders. I placed a call to Alford to ask why the National Black Chamber of Commerce decided to align itself with right-wing groups that routinely oppose affirmative action, the Voting Rights Act, and any other legislation that seeks to level the playing field for African-Americans and other people of color. Alford said he filed the brief out of concern for Black lawmakers, many elected after passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. He asserted that the cumbersome pre-clearance process is a burden on Black elected officials. But there is only one problem with Alford’s position – no reputable national organization representing Black elected officials have called for an end to Section 5 or any other provision of the Voting Rights Act. Not the Congressional Black Caucus. Not the National Black Caucus of State Legislators. Not the National Conference of Black Mayors. Not the National Organization of Black County Officials. I told Alfred even if he believes what he was saying, there are ways for jurisdictions covered by Section 5 to “bail out” of the pre-clearance requirement. In fact, I told him, 46 jurisdictions had done just that and two more cases are pending. So if any official wants to be exempted, all they need to do is show they have not run discriminatory voting operations for the past 10 years. After having assured me earlier that he had read the voting law, Alford said evidently he had “not read far enough” because he was unaware of that bail out provision. It’s perverse for Alford to challenge the provision of an important law that he was not thoroughly familiar with. Finally, the National Black Chamber of Commerce (not to be confused with its rival U.S. Black Chamber) asserted in its petition: “The Chamber rejects the assumption underlying Congress’s reauthorization of Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act that the exceptional circumstances which justified close federal oversight of the electoral practices in many states and localities in 1965 and 1975 persist today.” Evidently, that was another perverse instance of Alford not reading far enough into the public record. Congress renewed Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act in 1970, 1975, 1982 and for another 25 years in 2006. In its petition, the Justice Department noted, “based on its exhaustive review of the record, the [lower] court confirmed that Congress had found ample evidence of a history and ongoing pattern of purposeful, state-sponsored voting discrimination in covered jurisdictions.” The petition explained, “Congress concluded that ‘without the continuation of the [VRA’s] protections, racial and language minority citizens will be deprived of the opportunity to exercise their right to vote, or will have their votes diluted, undermining the significant gains made by minorities in the last 40 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 Web site, www.georgecurry.com. You can also follow him at www.twitter.com/currygeorge.

www.ADWnews.com

Not all Public Policy is Created Equal Discussions of the fiscal cliff also include discussions about ways to change Social Security and Medicare benefits in order to save money. One of the proposals is to raise the Social Security retirement age to 70. After all, some argue, there is nothing magic about 65 or 67, so why not push the rate up to 70? The difference is the kind of work we do. I can’t imagine that I will ever stop talking and writing, advanced age notwithstanding. However, someone who is waiting tables, working in a nursing home, or doing private household work might not want, but need, to slow it down after 65, or maybe even earlier. Some people take their Social Security payments earlier, although they are lower, at age 62. Tired, and with sometimes broken bodies, they’d rather take less money than keep working. Consider the construction worker who has not moved up into management. Will he (or in 10 percent of cases, she) still want to wield a hammer, climb onto roofs, or do other heavy work? Raising the Social Security retirement age hurts these people. These folk are also hurt because their life expectancy is also lower. People with less education have shorter life expectancies than those who are more highly educated. African Americans have lower life expectancy rates than Whites, (although this gap is closing. Thus, people who have paid into the system, but they will get less out of when they live shorter lives. Again, those at the bottom are disadvantaged by public policy that seems race and class neutral. Why the gap in life expectancy? Part has to do with higher rates of smoking among less educated (which propels obesity), and the lack of health insurance, especially among those with lower incomes and less education. Obamacare partly solves the insurance problems, but those living in an unreal time warp seem to think Mitt Romney won the election and they are acting accordingly by attempting to repeal health care reform. Most of us got the memo about the dangers of smoking, but women who lack a high school diploma are more likely than others to smoke. Indeed, among women the levels of smoking have risen, while smoking rates had declined among men. Researchers who study these issues suggest that women are smoking more because of the many pressures women face, including being part of the “sandwich generation” juggling both elder care and child care. I was talking to an elder whose smoking habit spans more than 50 years, and when we talked about the issue, she responded that she was over 70, still living, and wasn’t about to change. We talked a bit about stress and ways that smoking is a tension-tamer for her. I suggested she try yoga, and she just about laughed me out of the room. The health insurance gap between those who are highly educated and less well educated is growing. Among working age adults without a high school diploma, 43 percent have no health insurance, up from 35 percent a decade ago. On the other hand, only 10 percent of those with a college education lacked health insurance. While Americans do not like to talk about class, poor and working class people do less well in our society than others. For example, attempting to eliminate funding for Planned Parenthood has a greater impact on poor women without health insurance than others whose contraceptive needs are covered by their insurance. Yet the right wing attempts to characterize Planned Parenthood as an abortion center, not a place that offers education on contraception, breast cancer, and other health issues. Extending the Bush tax cuts for the wealth certainly has a disproportionate impact on the poor and working class, but there are hidden attacks on the poorest in our nation. Raising the Social Security retirement age, eliminating Planned Parenthood, and attacking Obamacare are all implicit attacks on the poor. The class status of our federal elected officials (with median wealth of more than $750,000 excluding the value of their home, compared to just $20,000 for the average person) suggests that Congress just doesn’t get it. But we elect these people. What does that say about us? Julianne Malveaux is a Washington, D.C.-based economist and writer. She is president emerita of Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, N.C.

November 29 - December 5, 2012

VIEWPOINTS ADWnews

GUEST COMMENTARY

MY PART OF THE WORLD

BY DR. JOHN BARGE

BY M. ALEXIS SCOTT

Build a Stronger Educational and Financial Foundation for Georgia’s Children With the holiday season upon us, most Georgians are thinking about celebrations with family and friends, holiday break and, of course, gifts. This holiday season, I am encouraging Georgia parents and grandparents to give the most important gift you can to your children — the gift of education. In the early years of a child’s life, this gift involves reading with your children, playing with them and encouraging a love of learning. As they go through school, Georgia’s teachers will work hand-in-hand with you to build upon the foundation you have established to prepare your children for success. The Georgia Department of Education is working to put all students on a pathway to college and careers, no matter what they choose to do after high school graduation. We are supporting teachers in their pursuit of continuous improvement of their craft and uniting business, community and state leaders behind a common goal of improving public education in Georgia. We want to make education work for all Georgians. As we strive to prepare Georgia’s children for college, the work force and life, I encourage families to also think about establishing a strong financial foundation for children to ensure their education can continue after high school graduation. We want every child in Georgia to have the opportunity to achieve their dreams, and in today’s competitive, global job market, education is one of the most important tools we can give them. It’s been a busy year with many changes for Georgia’s public schools, from the implementation of the Common Core Georgia Performance Standards to the continued roll out of the state’s new teacher and leader evaluation system. We want to challenge our students and elevate our teaching methods to meet the demands of the 21st century economy. We want to not only test knowledge, but teach students how to apply it in real-world situations. We are also working hard to get our new College and Career Ready Performance Index ready. The index will let teachers put their focus back on the child in the classroom instead of just worrying about the test – because there’s so much more to accountability than a test score. We want to put the focus back on the children, which will ultimately lead to improved student achievement and more students pursuing their passions in life. While the thought of saving for a college education can seem overwhelming, remember that you don’t have to save the entire amount. The dream of a college education for your children is within reach — the key is to start early and save regularly. Saving small amounts over time can provide children with the financial foundation they need to supplement scholarships, grants, loans and other financial aid. Even if your child is in high school, any amount you save today will make a difference tomorrow. There are many gifts you can give to a child or loved one, but how man y of them can help make that child’s dreams come true? When you open Georgia’s Path2College 529 Plan for someone or contribute to an existing Path2College 529 Plan account, you help build a foundation that can shape the dream of higher education and open the door to a world of opportunities. It only takes $25 to open or contribute to an account, and on www.Path2College529.com, gift givers can simply click on Give a Gift and start making a child’s college dreams become reality. It doesn’t have to be limited to the holidays: There are certificates for Christmas, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, birthdays, new babies and many more. So this holiday season, as you fight the crowds in the stores to find that perfect gift, please remember that while the gift of an education is not something we can wrap up and put under the tree, it is one of the most valuable gifts we can give to the children in our lives. By working together to build strong intellectual and financial foundations, we can help students of all backgrounds and ability levels achieve their dreams.

Facebook.com/ADWnews

Women and the Media: Are We There Yet? The portrayal of women and so-called women’s issues by the media was the focus of a panel Tuesday, Nov. 27, sponsored by the National Center for Civil and Human Rights and its Women’s Solidarity Society. The breakfast program at the Ritz Carlton Hotel downtown was called “The Unbiased Truth: Compelling the Media to Tell Our Story.” As a member of the panel, I had an opportunity to participate in a discussion with Desiree Rogers, CEO of Johnson Publishing Company and former White House Social Secretary in the first Obama Administration; Carol Jenkins, former broadcast journalist and founding president of The Women’s Media Center; Soledad O’Brien, anchor for the CNN morning show, “Starting Point,” and special correspondent for CNN/US; Abby Disney, filmmaker and co-founder and co-president with her husband Pierre Hauser of the Daphne Foundation in New York; Geneva Overholser, director of the School of Journalism at the USC Annenberg School of Communication; and Dyllan McGee, executive producer at unhardt McGee Productions, where she produced Skip Gates’ genealogy specials for PBS, “African American Lives.” The program was part of the efforts by the National Center for Civil and Human Rights to raise awareness and funds to support a permanent exhibit on women and girls issues at the Center, which is scheduled to open in 2014. So far, $640,000 of the $1 million goal has been raised, according to eborah Richardson, executive vice president of the Center. The panel of women weighed in on the progress that has been made in addressing women’s concerns and the portrayal of women in the media, as well as noting that there is still much more progress needed. CNN anchor Soledad O’Brien said she thinks after 50 years we might be mid-way toward the goal of equity for women in media. “That’s why it seems ugly,” she said. “When you’re in the middle it looks ugly.” USC’s Journalism School Director Geneva Overholser said she doesn’t think we’re gotten to the middle yet. “I’m optimistic, but I don’t think we’ve reached the middle yet.” Documentary producer Dyllan McGee said her latest project is a film on the Women’s Movement of the 1960s and 1970s. She said she is talking with individual women who were involved, not only in leadership, but in all aspects. “We have to tell our stories,” she said. Abby Disney recalled her efforts to produce her first feature-length documentary called “Pray the Devil Back to Hell.” It is the story of the women of Liberia and their efforts to bring peace to their nation after decades of a destructive civil war. She said they were told about stories of women who stripped their clothes off rather than be moved from their protest. While media was present, there was no evidence. The videotape had been used to prop open a window and was nearly destroyed when it was finally discovered. “Only about 60 seconds was left, but it was exactly what we needed,” she said. The panel was moderated by Monica Pearson, former WSB-TV anchorwoman. Her questions prompted panel members to talk about the need for more women in charge of media decisions. I added that we need women deciding who covers what, how it gets covered and in what context. Panel members talked about the impact of women’s response to the efforts to limit abortion rights and access to contraceptives by some politicians during the recent Presidential and Congressional campaigns. The attack by conservative radio talk shows on the young law school student who spoke out in support of contraceptives resulted in losses for the candidates proposing these restrictive measures.

Page 3

www.ADWnews.com

ADWnews AROUNDTOWN

November 29 - December 5, 2012

Soledad O’Brien (right), CNN anchor and special correspondent, stands with Latonda Henderson, international fellow at the United Nation Alliance of Civilizations, at the Women’s Empowerment Breakfast on Nov. 27 at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel.

Lisa Borders (from left), president of Grady Health Foundation; Cheryl Lomax, senior vice president, Bank of America, and Abby Disney, filmmaker and philanthropist, enjoy the breakfast.

Valerie Jackson (left), widow of Maynard Jackson and Monica Pearson, WSB-TV’s former top anchorwoman, greet each at the breakfast hosted by the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.

Deborah Richardson (left), executive vice president, National Center for Civil and Human Rights, stands with Sheryl Gripper, founding executive director of the BronzeLens Film Festival at the recent Women Superstars luncheon at the Marriott Marquis.

Jennifer Holiday (left), enjoys her table host Alice Cannon at the BronzeLens Women Superstars luncheon.

Cecilia Houston-Torrence (right), community involvement banking officer for the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta, enjoys the BronzeLens luncheon with Marilyn Jennings.

Come save where making shopping a pleasure is part of the deal. Even when you’re shopping on a budget, you don’t have to give up the experience you deserve. At Publix, you’ll find hundreds of items on sale every day, while you still enjoy the service you can’t quite put a price on. Go to publix.com/save right now to make plans to save this week.

LOVE TO SHOP HERE. LOVE TO SAVEHERE.