Adw march16 by Atlanta Daily World

Volume 89 • Issue 32

www.AtlantaDailyWorld.com

I had to make my own living and my own opportunity! Don’t sit down and wait for the opportunities to com. You have to get up and make them. -Madam C.J. Walker

March16-22, 2017

Atlanta’s Streetcar debacle

March 16-22, 2017

COVER STORY

www.AtlantaDailyWorld.com

The Atlanta Streetcar: No desire to ride

By Roz Edward When the City of Atlanta, the Atlanta business community and the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority decided to revive a mode of transportation that had not been see in Atlanta since 1949 and bring to fruition a critical transit project that would connect the metro area and the greater region, the Atlanta Streetcar seemed an ideal solution to incorporate the nostaligia of a by-gone era and improve efficiency for the ninth largest transit system in the country. Georgia is the only state in the nation that does not provide funding for transit operations. The $98 million, four-car car system on a regional level, was intended to provide connectivity and circulation for the core of the Downtown area of Atlanta, improving accessibility and making it possible to conveniently travel from key destinations and event venues without a car and connecting tourists, residents, students and workers to attractions, jobs and public amenities. From a national perspective, the streetcar links the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site on the east side of Downtown Atlanta to Centennial Olympic Park on the west, via historic Auburn Avenue, the birthplace of our nation’s civil rights movement. Located within an Economically Distressed Area, the project was supposed to serve as a catalyst for new pedestrian-oriented development, support mixed-use projects, and reinforce existing land use and zoning plans. It would also reconnect the eastern and western sections of Downtown Atlanta, which were effectively separated by the construction of Interstate 75/85. After the Federal Transit Authority delayed the project for seven months due to for ongoing safety concerns — such as inadequate signage and pavement markings the Atlanta street car became operational on Dec. 30, 2015. “We were focused on getting this right. Now we’re ready to go,” Reed said during the Atlanta Streetcar launch in December. But the 2.7-mile loop around downtown, from Centennial Olympic Park to the King Center.

ADW | 2

has fallen far short of delivering on the expectation of transportation officials, residents and visitors to Atlanta. The project touted that the overall benefits of would exceed the $98 million dollar price tag by a factor of 2.56. But advocates of the Atlanta Streetcar project grossly overestimated rail transit ridership and underestimated rail construction costs and operating expenses. Reports indicate that ridership plummeted by 62 percent in each of the first three months of 2016 and continues to fall at an alarming rate. The streetcar is also averaging less than 30,000 rides per month at the $1 fare rate. “We made a very expensive mistake when we built the Atlanta Streetcar, said former councilwoman Cathy Woolard. “We didn’t have studies about how much ridership would be need to support it. And that fact has born itself out by the lack of ridership we are seeing today.”

Conversely —and perhaps coincidentally — on Monday March 6, the same day that the Atlanta City Council passed a resolution to explore the feasibility of single-transportation focused-transportation department, MARTA announced that it had received superior ratings on a recent consumer survey. The multimodal transit system received high marks for bus/rail safety, cleanliness, service reliability and for MARTA front-line employees such as bus operators, station attendants, and police personnel were also favorably ranked by customers.

Based on a 10-point scale, MARTA customers and visitors were asked to share their opinions about system conditions, information and communications, convenience, comfort and security. The Office of Research & Analysis revealed that 81 percent of the survey respondents said that they were either satisfied or very satisfied with MARTA. “These results demonstrate clear and compelling evidence that MARTA and our employees continue to elevate standards and are committed to routine excellence on a daily basis,” said MARTA GM/CEO Keith T. Parker. “Our priority is to provide a safe, efficient transit system that is both responsive to and reflective of the communities it serves.” The Atlanta City Council resolution authored by Councilmember Andre Dickens requesting that the Commissioner of Public Works/Deputy Chief Operating Officer conduct a feasibility study regarding creating a single transportation-focused department, an Atlanta Department of Transportation (DOT) within the City of Atlanta that will design, operate, manage and maintain the City of Atlanta’s transportation system and transit projects and infrastructure. “After decades of traffic, mobility and connectivity being some of Atlanta’s top issues, I thought an Atlanta DOT would be a comprehensive way in which to provide a coordinated approach to making a difference in how we all move around the city we love,” said Dickens. “Currently, the City’s transportation needs are not clearly consolidated under any single Department of the City.” The City seeks to explore and evaluate best practices and successful organizational models, resource allocations, reporting structures, and scope of responsibility to most effectively and efficiently leverage and enhance its resources and focus its efforts around transportation coordination, improvements, funding, planning, design, development, construction, and improvements in the City of Atlanta and in support of Regional Transportation improvement efforts. “One of the most efficient things that we can do is take the streetcar out of the [hands] of the second floor at city hall. The mayor’s office should not be running a transit system. That ought to be done by the agency that has the most experience and the most proven record in doing transit, and that is MARTA, said mayoral candidate, Georgia State Sen. Vince Forte. “Marta runs 95 percent of all transit trips on any given day in the region. We need to let MART do transit … not politicians, Fort said adding it is absolutely critical to marinating the confidence of the citizens who voted for that half-penny transit tax.” Candidate Keisha Lance Bottoms – characterized the Atlanta streetcar as a “disaster” and said the project was ill-advised. The Public Works Commissioner/Deputy COO will provide the results of the feasibility study to the Transportation Committee no later than June 30, 2017. “We’ve got three transit systems here: the streetcar, the BeltLine and MARTA. Then we’re going to hand over all transit to MARTA. We’re going to make a difference from day one,” concluded Atlanta City Council president and mayoral candidate Ceasar Mitchell.

Atlanta Daily World

Founded August 5 1928; Became Daily, March 12, 1932 W.A. Scott, II, Founder/Publisher August 5, 1928 to February 7, 1934 Published weekly at 100 Hartsfield Centre Parkway Suite 500 Atlanta, Georgia 30354 Periodicals Postage Paid at Atlanta Mailing Offices. Publication Number 017255 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Atlanta Daily World, 100 Hartsfield Centre Parkway Suite 500 Atlanta, Georgia 30354 Subscriptions: One Year: $52 Two Years: $85 Forms of Payment: Check, Money Order, VISA American Express, MasterCard MEMBER: Associated Press Atlanta Business League Central Atlanta Progress Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce National Newspaper Publishers Website: www.AtlantaDailyWorld.com Lorraine Cochran General Manager lcochran@realtimesmedia.com

Roz Edward

Managing Editor redward@realtimesmedia.com

Juan Sifuentes

Graphic Designer jsifuentes@realtimesmedia.com

Atlanta Daily World is powered by Real Times Media The Atlanta Daily World is not responsible for unsolicited photos, manuscripts, etc., unless return is requested with postage. Address all correspondence to and make checks payable to Atlanta Daily World, rather than to individuals.

www.AtlantaDailyWorld.com

NEWS

Raphael Bostic tapped to head Atlanta Federal Reserve Bank By MARTIN CRUTSINGER AP Economics Writer WASHINGTON (AP) -- Raphael W. Bostic, a former Obama administration housing official, has been selected as the new president of Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, becoming the first African-American to head one of the Fed’s 12 regional banks. The Atlanta Fed announced the selection Monday. It said that Bostic, 50, currently a professor of public policy at the University of Southern California, will take over in June. He succeeds Dennis Lockhart, who retired last month. During the Obama administration, Bostic served from 2009 to 2012 as an assistant secretary for policy at the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The Atlanta Fed covers Georgia, Alabama, Florida and portions of Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee. Fed Up, a coalition of community groups and labor unions that has been pushing for more diversity among Fed policymakers, hailed

the selection of Bostic. “He is an exceptionally well-qualified economist and public servant who has dedicated his career to studying and combating racial, economic and social inequality,” Shawn Sebastian, co-director of the Fed Up coalition, said in a statement. Bostic, who received a doctorate in economics from Stanford, worked for the Federal Reserve board in Washington from 1995 to 2001 before leaving to become a professor at USC’s School of Policy, Planning and Development. His research focused in the areas of home ownership, housing finance and neighborhood change. As president of the Atlanta Fed, Bostic will participate in interest-rate decisions made by the Federal Open Market Committee, composed of the Fed’s 12 regional presidents, who vote on a rotating basis, and the seven members of the Fed’s board in Washington. While no African-American had served as a regional Fed bank president, three African-Americans have served on the Fed’s seven-member board in the Fed’s 103-year history.

March 16-22, 2017

Fulton County youth commissioners kickoff ‘Not Even Once’ drug prevention tour ADW reports Fulton County Youth Commissioners want to persuade other young people to avoid drug possession, usage and trafficking. FCYT launched the “Not Even Once” (N.E.O.) Drug Prevention School Tour on Wednesday, March 15. The tour, which will continue until the end of the school year will involve visits to 15 schools, which will include a minimum of two school visits per Fulton County Commission District. The N.E.O. initiative focuses on informing other youth of the dangers and consequences of drug usage, possession and trafficking. Youth Commissioners will facilitate workshops in conjunction with Reginald Crossley, a certified drug prevention and intervention specialist. Students will be guided through a professional drug kit, which offers real-life visuals of various drugs. Workshops also include multi-media simulations and other hands-on activities, ensuring information retention through peer learning and other evidence based methods. Student participants will also learn about the health effects of drug use on the human body,

through visual animation of the brain’s limbic system, which depicts how drug use affects emotions. All participants will receive the Fulton County Youth Commission’s new “N.E.O. Drug Prevention Guide”. The Fulton County Youth Commission is a program of the Aging and Youth Services Department and is supported by the Board Commissioners. Youth Commissioners are selected from every Fulton County Commission District. Currently, 28 youth are serving on the Youth Commission. The Fulton County Youth Commission is a leadership program designed to help get tomorrow’s leaders involved today. Youth Commissioners address the many issues presently facing youth through the influences of government mandates, policies and legislation. Students learn how local government handles youth issues, they make suggestions for the best solutions, but most importantly, Youth Commissioners help facilitate change. For more information, contact Youth Commission Coordinator Reginald Crossley at 404612-7386 or Reginald.Crossley@fultoncountyga.gov.

Advocates call for paper ballots in Georgia Mayor Kasim Reed to participate in South amid FBI review by Southwest Conference By KATHLEEN FOODY Associated Press

Panel discussion will focus on smart cities and innovation Roz Edward, ADW Managing Editor The City of Atlanta announced today that Mayor Kasim Reed will participate in the South by Southwest (SXSW) 2017 Conference in Austin, Texas. Mayor Reed will join other elected officials and more than 50,000 leaders and participants representing the business, government, music, film and entertainment sectors. On Friday, March 10, Mayor Reed will serve as a panelist for an opening technology session, “Wireless Network Innovation: Smart City Foundation,” focusing on best practices for establishing smart cities in the United States. Mayor Reed will join Kathleen Grillo, Verizon Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel of Public Policy and Government Affairs, Howard Wright, Intel Vice President of Platform Engineering Group and Director of Business Development in the Communication and Devices Group, and Joe Kochan, US Ignite Chief Operating Officer and Co-Founder. Chelsea Collier, founder of Digi.City, will serve as the moderator. “The City of Atlanta is a national leader in smart city innovation because of the strength of our partnerships with the State of Georgia, our colleges and universities and the private sector,” said Mayor Reed. “We are fully committed to combining our infrastructure and transportation assets with next generation technologies to become more competitive and more efficient. I look forward to this important conversation with key stakeholders in the technology com-

munity, exploring how collaboration between policymakers and industry is essential to cultivating an environment that leverages 21st century innovation.” Panelists will discuss smart city innovation, the power of wireless connectivity in establishing smart cities and key challenges that must be addressed in partnership by the public and private sectors. Mayor Reed will also discuss the City of Atlanta’s smart city initiatives. Under Mayor Reed’s leadership, the City of Atlanta has prioritized an innovation and technology agenda that will improve local safety, infrastructure and transportation operations. As part of the AT&T Smart Cities initiative, the City of Atlanta, the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) and the Georgia Department of Transportation are gearing up to offer a self-driving vehicle demonstration pilot program on North Avenue, one of the city’s most important and busy streets. North Avenue connects Georgia Tech with Midtown Atlanta, Ponce City Market, the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Freedom Park. The pilot program, expected to launch in fall 2017, is a critical step to introducing autonomous vehicles to the city. Over the past 30 years, SXSW has become the premier destination to discover game-changing new technologies, films and artists while networking with some of the brightest minds in the world. Follow along with the panel discussion on social media using the hashtag #DigiCityAtSX.

ATLANTA (AP) -- A group of technology experts said Tuesday that Georgia’s top elections officials should stop using electronic voting machines as the FBI reviews a suspected data breach. Secretary of State Brian Kemp and Kennesaw State University this month confirmed a federal investigation focused on the school’s Center for Election Systems. The center tests and certifies Georgia’s voting machines and electronic polling books used to check in voters at polling locations. Employees also format ballots for every election held in the state. The center isn’t part of Kemp’s office or connected to its networks, including Georgia’s database of registered voters maintained by the secretary of state’s office. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution first reported the investigation into the suspected cyberattack. In a letter to Kemp on Tuesday, 20 technology experts and computer science professors affiliated with the national Verified Voting organization said paper ballots will preserve voters’ confidence in the results of an upcoming special election to fill Georgia’s 6th District congressional seat. The letter said using equipment maintained by the center while it is the focus of a criminal investigation “can raise deep concerns.” The vacant seat was formerly held by Republican Tom Price, who now serves as secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Georgia law requires a so-called “jungle primary” in special congressional elections, and more than a dozen candidates will compete on the same ballot in the April 18 election. The top

two vote-getters, regardless of party, go to a June 20 runoff. Verified Voting, which closely tracks voting systems used throughout the U.S., and other advocacy groups have long expressed concern with Georgia’s reliance on voting machines. Barbara Simons, chairwoman of the nonpartisan organization’s board, said paper ballots allow voters to ensure their choices are correct and create a trail if there are any questions about the results. It also lets officials do a hand count of the physical ballots, she said. “Under the circumstances, the only prudent thing to do is make sure voting is done in a secure fashion,” Simons said. “This should not be a partisan issue. Republicans and Democrats both care about secure elections.” Kemp’s spokeswoman declined comment Tuesday. A spokesman for the U.S. attorney’s office in Atlanta said he had no new information about the investigation. According to the Pew Research Center, nearly half of registered voters in the U.S. live in areas that use “optical-scan ballots,” which require voters to fill in bubbles or make other marks on paper ballots that are read by scanners. Georgia election officials from both political parties have staunchly defended the state’s electronic voting technology since its statewide rollout in 2002. Officials have argued that the machines aren’t connected to the internet or networks and counties use locks and other security measures to prevent any direct interference that could affect an election’s outcome. Officials also frequently cite the role of Kennesaw State’s Center for Election Systems, which tests each machine and other equipment before it can be used in an election.

3 | ADW

March 16-22, 2017

BUSINESS

www.AtlantaDailyWorld.com

Small Business Week in Georgia celebrates UGA’s economic vitality efforts By Christopher James After four decades of teaching, Marta Collier is making a business out of her passion for children’s books by black authors, with help from the University of Georgia Small Business Development Center. “Starting up a business is more than having a notion,” said Collier, a schoolteacher and college professor. “Many fail because they don’t have the support base. We not only feel like we have a supportive infrastructure. We feel like we have a friend.” Marta Collier Educational Systems and Services is just one of thousands of companies celebrating Small Business Week across Georgia March 13-17. Over the last five years, SBDC clients have started 1,422 businesses, creating 11,785 jobs and generating $8.9 billion in sales in the process. Collier says the help she received from SBDC consultant Mike Myers was “game-changing.” He encouraged Collier

that her idea to sell lesson plans for children’s books from neglected black authors was sound. Myers helped her focus her energy on lesson plans and take the steps to set up her home-based business in Newton County. And he connected her with interns from UGA to make it a reality. “Mike turned us onto a wealth of talent and they need experiences like this for their resume,” Collier said. “It’s been phenomenal for us to have someone to connect us to that kind of resource.” Collier’s work is an outgrowth of consulting she has done for decades. The basement of the home she shares in Covington with her husband and business partner, Willyerd, resembles an elementary classroom. Shelves, tables and crates overflow with books and educational materials. Many of those books come from authors who weren’t commercially successful. She wants to expose them to a new generation of children. In addition to helping edit lesson plans, the interns also are marketing Col-

lier’s new business through social media platforms that the 64-year-old admits she’s not as familiar with. Krysten Hardee, a senior English major at UGA, is helping Collier set up a Pinterest page. Eyeing a career in publishing, Hardee was thrilled to read about the internship on a UGA Listserv. She said she’s interested in diverse voices in children’s literature, which matches Collier’s mission. “This is where I can shine. I love this and I’m passionate about it,” Hardee said. “I think it’s going to be great for my career after college. I think it’ll be great to talk about in an interview.” Myers said the Colliers’ passion for the subject will make them successful. They just needed the tools SBDC provides to execute a business. “She has a real good point of differentiation,” Myers said. “Hers is pride in the heritage of African-Americans. She’s trying to make sure this group isn’t forgotten. There’s some darn good stories they could share.”

Russell Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurs kicks off upgrades Roz Edward, ADW Managing Editor Former U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Jay Williams and the former Minority Business Development Agency’s National Director Alejandra Y. Castillo joined the family of Herman J. Russell in mid-January to announce a new partnership and discuss renovations for the Russell Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (RCIE). The 40,000-square-foot facility, located in the same building as the former headquarters of H.J. Russell & Company at 504 Fair Street on Atlanta’s west side, will provide space to more than 100 emerging entrepreneurial companies. The Russell family, local business leaders and elected officials and representatives, joined Commerce Department officials for the announcement. In November 2016, RCIE received $3 million from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) to fund the design and renovation of the existing building to house the center. According to grantee estimates, the center will help create 50 new jobs and save 175 jobs. Once completed, the newly designed and renovated space will support longterm disaster recovery efforts by adding economic resiliency to the city of Atlanta through increased economic diversification. “With the help of the $3 million matching grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce, we are one step closer to being able to create a unique entrepreneur ecosystem that works in synergy with the diversity of Atlanta,” said Donata Russell Ross, founder,

ADW | 4

Pictured in above photo (l-r): Georgia Representative Able Mable Thomas; Michael Russell, CEO, H.J. Russell & Co.; Dr. Eloise Klementich, CEcD, President and CEO, Invest Atlanta; Jay Williams, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development; Alejandra Y. Castillo, former National Director, Minority Business Development Agency; Donata Russell, Founder, RCIE, RCIE Board Member & Chief Executive Officer Concessions International; H. Jerome Russell, Founder, RCIE, RCIE Board Member & President, H.J. Russell & Co.; City Councilmember Cleta Winslow; and City Councilmember Ivory Young. (Photo by Terrence Carter) board member, RCIE. RCIE was founded by the family of the late Herman J. Russell, an Atlanta entrepreneur and philanthropist, to honor his legacy. The center will serve as a collaborative, co-working ecosystem connecting Atlanta’s top entrepreneurs from communities of color and other underrepresented communities to business resources, access to capital and corporate partners. RCIE is also located near several of Atlanta’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities. “We envision the Russell Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship be-

coming a supportive community – one that will serve as a visible and inclusive avenue for all individuals to receive the mentoring, investment, and inspiration they need to launch a thriving business,” said H. Jerome Russell, RCIE Founder and Board Member. “We want to eliminate barriers to all, from college students with a brilliant business idea to the retired person launching their next passion in life. We believe RCIE will equalize the playing field in Atlanta and beyond by helping minority entrepreneurs in particular, overcome barriers to entering the marketplace.”

Facebook.com/ADWnews Follow us @ADWnews

ADWnews.com

www.AtlantaDailyWorld.com

COMMUNITY

March 16-22, 2017

49th Anniversary Commemoration of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. By Bunnie Jackson-Ransom On Saturday, April 1, the 14th Annual March at the Moore’s Ford Bridge will take place at noon. The public is urged to participate. The purpose of this march and rally is to demand the arrest and prosecution of the participants involved in the lynching at the Moore’s Ford Bridge in Monroe, GA, Walton County, that took place on July 25, 1946. The “Rally for Justice” will be held at the First African Baptist Church, 130 Tyler Street, Monroe, GA., at 12:00 noon. Following the rally, there will be a motorcade to the Moore’s Ford Bridge, departing at 1:00 p.m., and proceeding to the historic memorial marker, on Interstate Highway 78 at Locklin Road, terminating at the Bridge on Mt. Carmel Church Road, also in Monroe, GA. This is where the commemoration of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. will take place, as a reminder of his contributions to the civil rights movement and his dedication to the call of justice. “Before Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, the Moore’s Ford Bridge murders were on his agenda. Dr. Ralph Abernathy, Hosea Williams and Dan Young, who buried the victims, had many conversations about this. We must concentrate our collective strength and efforts to correct this atrocity,” said Tyrone Brooks, Chairman of the Moore’s Ford Movement, and the freedom fighter

who continues to lead the cause for solving this horrendous case. The day wraps up with a reception at 5:00 p. m, returning to the First African Baptist Church. This event continues to memorialize Roger and Dorothy Malcom and their unborn infant and George and Mae Murray Dorsey who were murdered at the bridge seventy-one years ago. Minister Hattie Lawson and Reverend Cee Cee Anderson are coordinators for the Annual March. “Our job is to reinforce the foot soldiers for the challenges ahead. “We will continue to fight for justice,” says Minister Lawson, “and to get ready for the Annual Moore’s Ford Bridge Re-enactment that will take place on Saturday, July 22, 2017.” For more information about the Moore’s Ford Movement and the commemorative events, please telephone Minister Hattie Lawson at 706-207-9010 or visit the Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/MooresFord-Movement-877977362272681/ . About the Moore’s Ford Lynching Two African American couples and an unborn baby were shot more than 60 times and lynched near the Moore’s Ford Bridge, in Walton and Oconee Counties between Monroe and Watkinsville, GA on July 25, 1946. Roger and his wife Dorothy Dorsey Malcom, who was seven months pregnant, along with

MARTA goes green with new electric bus unveiling

George and his wife May Murray Dorsey were massacred by a mob of white men who accosted them as they headed home. There

were approximately 200 people in the lynch mob who watched this egregious act.

Blue Breeze Cards must be replaced with Silver Cards!

Authority tests Proterra’s 40-ft battery-electric bus, explores additional cleaner transportation options for fleet

After March 31, 2017

Blue Breeze cards cannot be reloaded.

After July 9, 2017

Blue Breeze cards will not be accepted. ATLANTA— The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) is going green with an electric bus pilot program. The 40-foot Proterra Catalyst bus is on loan to MARTA as the authority explores cleaner transportation options. MARTA’s General Manager/CEO Keith Parker will lead a tour of the new electric bus on March 17, at 10 a.m. at the Authority’s headquarters. Currently, MARTA’s bus fleet is inclusive of both diesel, hybrid and compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles. “MARTA continues

to consider options to diversify our fleet by testing a range of alternative fuel innovations to greatly reduce our overall carbon footprint while enhancing the safety and comfort of our passengers,” Parker said. The Catalyst holds up to 40 seated passengers and can travel more than three hours on a single charge. MARTA Operations has outfitted the test routes with periodic rapid charging stations. The Catalyst fully recharges in approximately 10 minutes.

To avoid losing any trips/value on your Blue Breeze card: Use all trips/value on your Blue card by July 9, 2017. Purchase a new, secure Silver Breeze card for $2.00 at any rail station vending machine, Ride Store or at www.Breezecard.com. Go to www.itsmarta.com for FAQs or call 404-848-5000, M-F 8-5.

5 | ADW

March 16-22, 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

www.AtlantaDailyWorld.com

Prominent Photojournalist and former Chicago Defender Editor, Robert A. Sengstacke dies at 73

It is with a heavy heart that Real Times Media announces the passing of former Chicago Defender editor Robert A. Sengstacke at 73. Newspapers and news outlets in every community throughout the nation are mourning the loss of their beloved colleague. Sengstacke, son of the legendary John Sengstacke, the owner and publisher of the Chicago Defender and founder of the National Newspaper Publishers Association, had close ties with other RTM publications including the Michigan Chronicle and the New Pittsburgh Courier all iconic brands that have been nationally recognized for

providing readers with relevant and compelling local coverage from a black perspective. Robert A. Sengstacke, an award-winning photojournalist and one of America’s foremost photographic artists, passed away on March 7, 2017 after a long illness. Sengstacke captured the famous and the infamous, the saint and the sinner, kings and the common man. His photographs and profiles have appeared in Life, Ebony, Jet, Essence, the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Houston Post, the Chicago Tribune and Spike Lee’s “School Daze” as well as his photograph of Dr. Martin Luther King that was featured on the set of Patti LaBelle’s TV sitcom “Out All Night.” Born in Chicago, he was the second child of three sons born to John and Myrtle Sengstacke. Robert’s father, John H.H. Sengstacke, was the owner and publisher of the Chicago Defender newspaper, and he was the grand-nephew and namesake of the newspaper’s founder, Robert Sengstacke Abbott. In following his family’s legacy, he would become the Chicago Defender’s head photographer and editor, Muhammad Speaks first non-Muslim staff photographer, artist-in-residence at Fisk University, general manager and publisher of the Memphis Tri-State Defender, had photo assignments for Eastman-Kodak Co., and a photographer for the Phil Donahue show. He later served as president of Sengstacke Newspapers and a former editor of the Chicago Daily Defender.

As a prominent photographer, his works featuring the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. have been featured at the Statue of Liberty, in addition to being displayed at the renowned Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. Other institutions such as Stanford University, the Smithsonian Institution, the DuSable Museum of African American History, the Museum of Science of Industry, Spelman College, the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) Circle Campus, the University of Illinois Urbana campus and the University of Minnesota, among many others. Sengstacke also maintained a video production company that produced over 50 mini-documentaries.

Like a lot of black women, I have always had to invent the power my freedom requires. -June Jordan

ADWnews.com

ADW | 6

Atlanta Daily World

www.AtlantaDailyWorld.com

ENTERTAINMENT

March 16-22, 2017

Atlanta judge awards Kordell Stewart $3M from blogger who defamed him Celebrity High profile Attorney, Antavius Weems, managing partner of The Weems Law Firm, has announced the award of a$3 Million Dollar Judgment for his client, NFL Legend, Kordell “Slash” Stewart. Mr. Stewart, a 10 year veteran of the NFL, has decided to join other high-profile celebrities Halle Berry, Jennifer Garner, Erin Andrews and Sean Penn in holding reckless journalists, bloggers and paparazzi liable and responsible for what they print, say and sell. “The actions of these irresponsible people are harmful and damaging the brand that I and others like me, have worked very hard for”, says Mr. Stewart. Stewart himself has been the subject of various rumors that range from him overspending in a lavish lifestyle, to homosexuality, to buying television network BET, to him splurging on a private island. Initially he allowed the rumors to simply subside, however, after recently having become the target of an irresponsible blogger who not only lied on him, but also targeted his minor son, whom Stewart has custody of, Kordell had reached his breaking point. “Mr. Stewart has chosen a public life, and understands clearly that a large part of that comes with people targeting you for profit-true or not. However, Mr. Stewart became concerned when his minor son became the target of these people, say Attorney Antavius Weems, Kordell Stewart’s Attorney. “I was a Journalism/Communications major in college, so I knew that the ethical standards were gravely being violated,”

says Kordell Stewart himself. He says that It was time that he took action–and action is exactly what he took. Mr. Stewart has successfully sued an irresponsible journalist, and attached you will find the result of that action– A $3 Million Dollar Judgment against the blogger who blatantly lied and defamed him. However, for Mr. Stewart, this is not a Judgment against a person, but it is a judgment in support of a movement. A Movement to restore ethics, dignity and quality into journalism and communications. Stewart pleads “If you want to write a story about me, contact my team and lets get good, quality and accurate information. Bad journalism, if that is what you were calling it-will not be tolerated. And my son and family are off limits. That will get you sued. Trust me”. Kordell Stewart will be filing another action soon. In fact, some well-known names will also be sued. “Just because you are a celebrity yourself does not exclude you from the rules of journalism,” says Stewart. In fact, Stewart believes that it makes you even more liable, because you know exactly the harm and damage that reckless behavior can cause.

Stars Janelle Monae´, Samuel Jackson, Common and more launch ‘Know Your Baldwin’ campaign Janelle Monáe attends an exclusive screening of I Am Not Your Negro at Morehouse College in Atlanta to pay homage to James Baldwin and recite an excerpt from “Notes of a Native Son.” Fresh off the heels of an exciting awards season, Janelle Monáe has teamed up with Magnolia Pictures and Mic. com to release “Know Your Baldwin”- a powerful, socially conscious visual presentation that not only extends the conversation of the Oscar-nominated documentary, I Am Not Your Negro, but also inspires audiences to get familiar with the genius of James Baldwin and engages a “woke” generation to act and make sense of this moment in history. Spearheaded by Monáe, who called on some of her very influential friends to lend their voices, Know Your Baldwin features the perfect mix of Hollywood celebs, music artists and well known social activists. The conscious col-

lective includes: Chris Rock, Jidenna, Common, Alexe Belle, Isis Valentino, Jurnee Smollett-Bell, Aldis Hodge, Baron Vaughn, Lupita Nyong’o, Michael Eric Dyson, Yara Shahidi, Janaya Khan, Patrisse Cullors, Open Mike Eagle, Esperanza Spalding and Ashton Sanders as well as I Am Not Your Negro director, Raoul Peck and Samuel L. Jackson who narrated the actual documentary! As the video reports, “these artists and activists are echoing the past to contextualize the present,” and just like the documentary, it does its job to parallel the experiences of our forefathers with the realities of today and the fears of our future. In its final words, “Study your Baldwin! Read James Baldwin! Know Your Baldwin!” the voices give a call-to-action to educate ourselves and suggest that through the power of knowledge, we can work, both individually and collectively, to make change in our society.

7 | ADW

March 16-22, 2017

LIFESTYLE

www.AtlantaDailyWorld.com

Spelman graduate develops a new product Celebrating the purposeful life and legacy to relieve dry scalp Xernona Clayton

Hello Beautiful Many factors can contribute to dry, irritable and itchy scalp. The changing seasons, chemicals, and hair processing can do a number on the scalp, which is why a Spelman graduate has decided to come up with a solution. Dr. Shari Hicks-Graham, a practicing dermatologist is introducing LivSo haircare line, with the intention of helping people who suffer from dry scalp and damaged hair. The LivSo line features a shampoo, conditioner and moisturizing lotion to address

ADW | 8

the different scalp problems plaguing people who wear curly, kinky hair. A study conducted on the product found that those who used LivSo products had significant scalp relief after just four weeks of use. Scalp damage or irritation affects at least half of Americans. Products developed to treat dry scalp often lack the necessary ingredients needed to treat the condition while maintaining the necessary moisture the hair and scalp needs. LivSo ingredients include glycolic acid, Abyssinian oil and coconut oil that are part the product’s three-step hair care system. With Dr. Hicks-Graham’s educational background, research and expertise in treating dry scalp, LivSo is bound to be a quality product to address the common problem of dry scalp. LivSo is available for purchase on Amazon. You can learn more about LivSo product on the main website and get a free sample to check out for yourself!

Local, national, and International friends of the Honoree will come to Atlanta in March and celebrate the amazing life and legacy of civil rights leader and broadcasting executive Xernona Clayton, the Xernona Clayton Foundation is pleased to announce a celebration of epic proportions celebrating the life, legacy, and accomplishments of Atlanta’s beloved icon Xernona Clayton. The celebration will kick-off with an inspirational breakfast on March 25 at 9 a.m. at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, culminating with a black tie Purposeful Life & Legacy Dinner at 7 p.m. A celebrated historic figure, Ms. Clayton has been on the forefront of the Civil Rights Movement and bridging the gap between people of all races and ethnicities for decades through her service to the National Urban League and Southern Christian Leadership Conference, where she became involved in the work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. A groundbreaking visionary, Ms. Clayton was the first African American in the south to host her own television show. The Xernona Clayton show aired in 1967. She later became corporate vice president for urban affairs for Turner Broadcasting. In 1993, Ms. Clayton created the Trumpet Awards to honor the achievements of African Americans who have succeeded against immense odds and in 2016 through an agreement with

the Trumpet Awards Foundation, Bounce TV acquired the program. The Trumpet Awards has been televised annually and distributed Internationally to over 185 countries around the world and remains one of the most highly acclaimed African American awards shows in The United States. In honor of this momentous occasion dignitaries, corporate brass, and Atlanta’s elite will join in celebration of the many facets of Ms. Clayton’s life and legacy. Honorary hosts are Her Royal Highness Princess Basma Bint Saud Bin Abdul Aziz of Saudi Arabia; Archbishop Desmond TuTu; Governor and Mrs. Roy Barnes; Lt. Governor Casey Cagle; Mayor Kasim Reed; Ambassador and Mrs. Andrew Young; Mr. Ted Turner; Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Blank; and, Congressman John Lewis. The celebration will include Ms. Clayton’s current philanthropic initiatives including the Motherless Daughters Foundation, the Africa School in Ghana, Race Relations Projects, and numerous ancillary Trumpet Awards activities. According to Ms. Clayton, “It is indeed an honor to be celebrated, but my life and legacy is about service. I look forward to using this event to build support for the important work the Xernona Clayton Foundation undertakes within the community.”

www.AtlantaDailyWorld.com

EDUCATION

March 16-22, 2017

Fashion design students at CAU created heart-wrenching Holocaust Memorial Dress The Memorial Dress to be included in traveling exhibit throughout Georgia and Germany Clark Atlanta University fashion design students Niambi Davenport and Lenora Gray are being lauded for their heart-wrenching Holocaust memorial dress, created in honor of Jewish fashion designers who were killed during World War II. Davenport and Gray constructed the dress from paper and adorned it with shards of plexiglass inscribed with the names of those persecuted Jewish designers. It was unveiled in January at the “Can You Fashion It” event commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Holocaust, and the end of Nazi rule in Germany. “The reaction was one of amazement,” said Davenport, referring the emotional response from those who witnessed the unveiling of the elaborate creation. “No one could believe the dress was made with paper.” The destruction of Jewish fashion houses by the Nazis during World War II became known as Kristallnact, which translates to a night of broken glass. On this fateful night, fashion houses were ransacked and burned to the ground. It’s one of the reasons the CAU design duo chose to embed shards of plexiglass in the fabric of the dress. “The dress symbolizes a lot of pain, but the beauty behind it is amazing,” remarked cocreator Gray. She said she was at a loss for words at the response to their work. “To know the significance of Jewish designers in

the fashion industry, and to know that was unjustly taken away from them, it really hurt me,” she continued. The impact of the dress was so profound its creators have been invited to present it March 29 at CAU’s Center for Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium. Next, the Goethe-Zentrum/German Cultural Center is partnering with the Georgia Commission on the Holocaust to sponsor a traveling exhibit for the dress throughout the state beginning April 27. And, perhaps the most exciting of all are efforts to raise enough funds to display the dress in Germany. “It’s an amazing feeling to know something I helped create was liked so much they want the world to see it,” said Davenport. The Holocaust memorial dress was created under the tutelage of senior lecturer Cynthanie Sumpter in CAU’s Department of Art and Fashion. This is the latest in a long string of success stories emanating from Art and Fashion, one of the fastest growing majors at CAU, and one of the few such programs among HBCUs nationwide. For more information about the Holocaust memorial dress, contact Prof. Sumpter at 404.880.8122. To give in support of efforts to display the dress in Germany visit https://invest.cau. edu/give-now.

Atlanta Links host ‘Vive Brasil!’ A program exploring the African roots of Brazilian music and Capoeira The International Trends Facet of The Atlanta Chapter of the Links, Inc., in collaboration with the Auburn Avenue Research Library, invites you to an exciting event featuring live Brazilian music, a brief talk on the African roots of Brazilian music, and an authentic Brazilian Capoeira demonstration. The event will take place on Sunday, March 19, 2017 at the Auburn Avenue Research Library, 101 Auburn Avenue N.E. Atlanta, GA 30303,at 3:00 p.m. Brazilian-style refreshments will be served and admission is free. The program will feature renowned Brazilian singer and violinist, Corina Brito with her quartet. Ms. Brito is also an internet TV host, teacher, and founder of the Brazilian Music Society, an organization devoted to showcasing and educating others on the richness and diversity of Brazilian culture. She will give a short talk on “Brazilian Music and Its African Roots.” This will be followed by a Capoeira, demonstration by Master Muriel Souza and his

capoeiristas. Capoeira is a Brazilian martial art of African origin which combines elements of fight, acrobatics, music and dance. Recognized as a Capoiera Master in 2011, Muriel Souza traveled and taught extensively across the U.S., before opening his own Capoeira academy, Cordao de Ouro Atlanta, here in 2006. “This is an opportunity for Atlantans to learn more about the vibrant Brazilian culture. Many people don’t realize that Brazil is home to the largest population of blacks outside of Africa,” said Links member, Dr. Doris Derby, co-coordinator of the Atlanta event. The Chairs of the International Facet are Dr. Henrie Treadwell and Kawonza Wilson-Jones. The Links, Inc., is an international, non-profit, organization of more than 12,000 accomplished African-American women and one of the nation’s oldest and largest volunteer service organizations. For more information, call (404) 613-4001, www.atlantalinksinc.org.

Members of the Cordao de Ouro Atlanta, Capoeira Academy

National HBCU band directors to host open scholarship auditions in Atlanta The HBCU National Band Director Consortium (HBCU-NBDC) - an annual convention of HBCU band directors-- will offer in person scholarship auditions to high school senior musicians interested in attending a Historically Black College and University. The auditions will be held on Saturday, March 25nd from 2pm - 4pm at Benjamin E. Banneker High School in Atlanta, Georgia. The HBCU-NBDC represents nearly 50 HBCUs across the country. Students who audition will receive same-day notification of scholarship acceptance. The HBCU-NBDC is committed to providing an opportunity for band directors and students from predominately black institutions to collaborate and develop strategic plans for success in instrumental music programs. The annual convention features workshops, clinics, and concerts led by HBCU band directors. Concerts and auditions are free and open to the public. “This is a prime opportunity for graduating

senior musicians,” says Thomas G. Warner, Jr., assistant director of Bands and Music Department Lecturer at North Carolina A&T State University. “Band directors from all over the country will be gathered in one place with the specific goal of selecting future band members for their institution. Students have the convenience of auditioning to multiple schools at no cost. We truly believe that this is a terrific aid to the education and enhancement of our young musicians.” In addition to the auditions, ensembles from various HBCUs such as Howard University, Albany State University, Jackson State University and more will be performing. Concerts will be held at Morehouse College in the Ray Charles Performing Arts Center/Morehouse Department of Music Building and are free and open to the public. Guests will also receive a special performance by the Canadian Brass Ensemble. For additional information, visit: www.hbcu-nbdc. org/auditions.html

9 | ADW

CLASSIFIEDS

March 16-22, 2017

It pays to advertise in the Atlanta Daily World.

Contact ADW sales representative at

678-515-2053 or lcochran@realtimesmedia.com

Subscribe for 2 Years and Save! RATES: Mail Subscription Rates (Check one) 1 Year for $52 2 Years for $85 PAYMENT: Check, Money Order, American Express, MasterCard or VISA

Credit Card#: Name: Address: City:

State:

Zip:

Phone: Email: CLIP AND MAIL: ATLANTA DAILY WORLD 100 Hartsfield Centre Parkway, Suite 500 Atlanta, Georgia 30354

ATLANTA DAILY WORLD – Pick Up Locations Auburn Avenue Library - 101 Auburn Avenue The Apex Museum - 135 Auburn Avenue Silver Barbershop - 392 Auburn Avenue Auburn Cleaners - 388 Auburn Avenue McGhee Tennis Center - 820 Beecher Street Big Daddy - 3085 Campbellton Avenue Nail Spot - 589 Cascade Road Kroger - 590 Cascade Road Stylistic Hair Salon - 590 Cascade Road Shear Barber Shop - 590 Cascade Road Cascade Nail - 590 Cascade Road Spark Unisex - 591 Cascade Road Ethnic Braid - 593 Cascade Road China Cafereria - 609 Cascade Road Cascade Grill - 1053 Cascade Road CVS - 2237 Cascade Road Big Daddy - 2284 Cascade Road Frills Hair Salon - 2290 Cascade Road Dream Wings - 2292 Cascade Road Louisana Seafood - 2298 Cascade Road Hans Express - 2345 Cascade Road J R Cricket - 2348 Cascade Road Kroger - 3425 Cascade Road Papa John’s - 3425 Cascade Road Atlanta Fulton Library - 3665 Cascade Road PUBLIX - 3695 Cascade Road Pak Mail Center - 3695 Cascade Road Tire Plus - 3735 Cascade Road Kaiser Permante - 1175 Cascade Parkway Dixie News - 13 Decatur Street Chanterelles - 646 Evans Street Baltimore Crab - 1075 Fairburn Road Trends Barber Shop - 1075 Fairburn Road LT’S - 1270 Fairburn Road Mr Abdullai - 2377 Fairburn Road Ben Hill Rec Center - 2405 Fairburn Road The Barber Shop - 2841 Greenbrair Pkwy The Herb Shop - 2841 Greenbrair Pkwy Le Nails - 2841 Greenbrair Pkwy Salon Culture - 2841 Greenbrair Pkwy Medu Book Store 2841 Greenbrair Pkwy Citgo Service Station - 2995 Headline Drive Master Beauty Supply - 3031 Headline Driver Mr Everything - 870 Martin L King Dr Key Low Cut Barber Shop - 876 Martin L King Dr The Beauty Beauty Industry - 901 Martin L King Dr Advance Tax Service - 903 Martin L King Dr Citizen Trust Bank - 965 Martin L King Dr

How to place a Classified Ad ONLINE: www.atlantadailyworld.com MAIL: ATLANTA DAILY WORLD 100 Hartsfield Centre Parkway Suite 500 Atlanta, GA 30354

Atlanta Daily World

EMAIL: lcochran@realtimesmedia.com TELEPHONE: 678-515-2053 PAYMENT: Cash, check, or credit card DEADLINE: Every Tuesday, 12:00 pm (noon) RATES: Open Classified Advertising Rates $25.00 for four lines . Additional lines $5.50 each. A line consist of 26 characters including spaces and punctuation. All rates listed above apply to line ads. DISPLAY ADS: Contact 678-515-2053 or lcochran@realtimesmedia.com

We Accept... ADW | 10

www.AtlantaDailyWorld.com

Call to place your classified ad

Atlanta Library - 1116 Martin L King Dr Shell Service Station - 1720 Martin L King Dr M L K Coin Laundry - 2860 Martin L King Dr African Braid - 3050 Martin L King Dr Adamville Rec Center - 3201 Martin L King Dr Adamville Library - 3424 Martin L King Dr Shummy - 3550 Martin L King Dr Linda’s Cleaners - 3565 Martin L King Dr Yasin - 3641 Martin L King Dr Washington Park - 101 Ollie Street Washington Tennis Center - 102 Ollie Street 100 Black Men of Atlanta - 241 Peachtree Street Executive Shoe Shine - 241 Peachstreet Kanley Restaurant - 75 Piedmont Road Citizen Trust Bank - 75 Piedmont Road Post Office - 576 Piedmont Road PUBLIX - 595 Piedmont Road Playmaker Barber - 270 Ponce De Leon Eats - 600 Ponce De Leon Borders - 650 Ponce De Leon Kroger - 725 Ponce De Leon Dugus - 777 Ponce De Leon PUBLIX - 1007 Ponce De Leon Merkerson’s Fish Market - 740 Ralph D Albernathy Blvd SW Scott Library - 1917 Candler Road Gutbusters - 2107 Candler Road FedUPS Express - 2376-B Candler, Road CVS - 2458 Candler Road Gene Package - 2538 Candler Road Gene Laundrymat - 2538 Candler Road Big Men Package - 2594 Candler Road Dramatic Design - 2701 Candler Road Music Media - 2701 Candler Road Amber Bristo - 3910 Flat Shoel Parkway Master Barber - 3910 Flat Shoel Parkway T Nails - 3665 Flat Shoel Parkway Kroger - 2875 N Decatur Road PUBLIX - 2155 N Decatur Road Kroger - 3108 Briar Hill Road Post Office - 3104 Briar Hill Road Up Sweep Beauty Salon - 3649 Flakes Mills Road PUBLIX - 3655 Flakes Mills Road Mo Better Restaurant - 3927 Flat Shoals Parkway Barber Shop - 3929 Flat Shoals Parkway PUBLIX - 3870 N Druid Hills Road Helen S. Mills Multi Purpose Facility - 515 John Wesley Dobbs Ave. SE Healthful Essance - 875 York Avenue NW Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

VIEWPOINTS

www.AtlantaDailyWorld.com

March 16-22, 2017

GUEST COMMENTARY

by Charlene Crowell

by Congresswoman Robin Kelly

State AGs ask Education Secretary DeVos to protect federal student financial aid An old adage teaches, “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.” In recent months, the troubled Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) tried and lost two legal attempts to recover eligibility for federal education funds. But don’t be surprised if a third ACICS effort soon makes its way to the desk of U.S. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos. She brings to her position a long record of support for private education. The vast majority of schools formerly accredited by ACICS were private, for-profit colleges. If ACICS sounds familiar to readers, there’s a reason. In December 2016, thenEducation Secretary John B. King ruled that the educational accreditor would no longer be recognized by the department. That action also meant that none of ACICS’ 240 institutions would have access to federal funds, including the 17 institutions that have been sued by either state or federal officials for defrauding students and other deceptive practices. Last year, shortly before Christmas and on Dec. 21, ACICS’ request for a temporary restraining order was denied. Then in late February, DC’s U.S. District Judge Reggie B. Walton refused to rescind the Education Department’s ruling. So what would make ACICS and its institutions so determined to have federal funding restored? The answer is money. Each year, $129 billion is spent on federal student aid. In just one year — 2015 — ACICS schools received nearly $5 billion in taxpayer dollars. It is also legal for up to 90 percent of for-profit college revenues to come from Title IV federal aid. If veterans’ financial aid is added to that of Title IV, taxpayer dollars can subsidize even more than 90 percent of for-profit revenues. These and other concerns have now led to attorneys general from 17 states and the District of Columbia sharing their collective concerns directly with Secretary DeVos. Among those signing the communique were attorneys general (AGs) representing largely populated states such as Illinois, Maryland, New York, North Carolina and Pennsylvania. Noting their support to protect students and taxpayers, the AGs letter alerted the new secretary to three specific and major concerns: 1. How for-profit schools have harmed student borrowers; 2. Why vigorous oversight of accreditors is in the best interests of taxpayers and students; and 3. The importance of preserving two departmental rules — the Gainful Employment Rule and the Borrower Defense to Repayment rule set to go into effect at mid-

year. “We are deeply concerned that rollbacks of these protections would again signal ‘open season’ on students for the worst actors among for-profit post-secondary schools,” wrote the AGs. “Over the past 15 years, millions of students have been defrauded by unscrupulous for-profit post-secondary schools. With accreditors asleep at the wheel, state attorneys general offices have stepped in to stop some of the worst abuses.” “Many schools inflated job placement numbers and/or promised career services resources that did not exist,” continued the AGs. “Many students were placed in loans that the schools knew from experience their graduates could not pay…In short, the entire for-profit education system was failing students and taxpayers.” The Gainful Employment Rule is designed to ensure that programs equip graduates with skills and employment opportunities that enable them to repay their student loans. Should annual loan payments be more than 30 percent of discretionary income or 12 percent of earnings in two out of three consecutive years, the educational program loses access to Title IV federal student loans and grants. Similarly, the Borrower Defense to Repayment Rule, set to take effect on July 1, provides legal recourse for students who were harmed by for-profit colleges. Many of the issues raised in the seven-page letter to Secretary DeVos were noted in an earlier report prepared and released last fall by the Office of Senator Elizabeth Warren. “This taxpayer investment is wasted when student aid funds are funneled to sham colleges — many of which operate as forprofit entities that use federal student aid dollars to enrich top executives. Meanwhile, students are left with a shoddy education and a staggering debt load, unable to rely on their education to secure a job that will help them responsibly repay their loans,” states the report. “The title of a recent Century Foundation report characterizes the situation we find ourselves in perfectly: “The For-Profit College Story: Scandal, Regulate, Forget, Repeat,” said Robin Howarth, a senior researcher with the Center for Responsible Lending specializing in student loans and related debt. “We now have the opportunity to break this vicious cycle that is so costly to students and taxpayers. It’s imperative that we keep the pressure on forprofit colleges through prudent regulation and oversight, thus avoiding a repeat of past abuses.” Charlene Crowell is the communications deputy director with the Center for Responsible Lending

Speak out to protect your health For six years, Republicans have repeated the same phrase in every conversation about healthcare: “repeal and replace” the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Now that Republicans control all levers of government, they are preparing legislation to strip 30 million Americans of the everyday security of health insurance. The impact of any repeal would be massive and disastrous. Experts estimate that repealing the ACA will kill 43,000 Americans every year. A disproportionate number of these deaths will be from the African- American community. The ACA is the most significant piece of health equity legislation we’ve had in a generation. It reduced the number of African Americans living without health insurance by more than half. We know that increased coverage has decreased the number of Americans dying from cancer. A recent report by the American Cancer Society showed that cancer deaths have declined by 25 percent since peaking in 1991. In their report, the American Cancer Society specifically notes that the ACA is driving “these shifts [that] should help to expedite progress in reducing socioeconomic disparities in cancer, as well as other health conditions.” The report also lauded the ACA for helping to decrease the “excess risk of cancer death” facing African Americans. The ACA has also significantly expanded mental and behavioral treatment access,

especially to community hospitals and schools. The Office of Minority Health notes that African Americans are 20 percent more likely to experience “serious mental health problems.” Yet, only a quarter of African Americans seek mental healthcare, compared to 40 percent of white Americans. Thanks to the ACA, we are starting to see that gap close and more people are receiving the care they need to live healthy, productive lives. We know that the ACA saving lives, so why are President Trump and Congressional Republicans so determined to repeal it? This question is truly vexing when you consider the fact that, in addition to the tens of thousands of Americans who will die every year, we will also add trillions to the national debt and increase taxes. According to the GOP’s budget resolution, repealing the ACA would add $29.1 trillion to the national debt over the next 10 years. That’s more than $90,000 for every American citizen. But the fiscal pain doesn’t end there. A GOP Senate bill and recently leaked audio from the Republican retreat confirms that Congressional Republicans are plotting a tax hike. Together, we can stop the repeal of the Affordable Care Act and stand up for our fellow Americans’ right to live a long, healthy life. Robin Kelly represents Illinois’s 2nd Congressional district.

11 | ADW

March 16-22, 2017

ATLANTA DAILY WORLD

We are too! Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find dozens of new BOGOs every week at Publix. So you can stock up, pay less, and go home happy every time you shop. Browse our latest deals and BOGOs online at publix.com/savingstyle.

ADW | 12