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Georgia construction firms seek qualified workers Powered by Real Times Media

Volume 89 • Issue 4

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‘When the Bough Breaks’ movie premiere

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6 top ‘Black-to-School’ scholarships for students

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September 1-7, 2016

COVER STORY

Many Rivers to Cross festival for social change features T.I., Usher, Chris Rock, Macklemore and more By Terry Shropshire The name Belafonte is practically synonymous with social activism and high artistry. So it should come as no surprise that Gina Belafonte, daughter of legendary singer-actor-activist Harry Belafonte, would leverage the universal power and influence of music to bring about needed social change and awareness. Belafonte, through her Sankofa.org, has teamed up with local rap superstar Clifford “T.I.” Harris, aka Tip, to help promote and put on the first comprehensive, multifaceted music festival dedicated to uplifting causes, enlightenment and to address the tumultuous relationship with blacks and law enforcement. “Many Rivers to Cross” is slated to be the largest, multi-generational music and arts festival dedicated to progressive social change. The festival, which will promote awareness around critical human rights issues, is a two-day event that will take place on October 1-2, just outside of Atlanta. The great thing about the event is that the twoday extravaganza in metro Atlanta inculdes Grammy-winning hip-hop artist T.I., who will perform. But he will be far from alone as an A-list attraction. Joining him are the likes of Usher, Macklemore, singers/songwriters Aloe Blacc, Goapele and Alice Smith along with Grammy-Winning jazz vocalist Dianne Reeves, Grammy-nominated a cappella ensemble Sweet Honey In The Rock, and artist-actor-activist Jussie Smollett of “Empire” fame. Also joining the celebrated line-up that features a mix of artists and thought-leaders including John Legend, Chris Rock, Jesse Williams, Common, Estelle, Dave Matthews, Carlos Santana, Public Enemy, Danny Glover and Dr. Cornel West. Belafonte, who was born into a family of activists, is continuing the work of her famous father who was deeply involved in the Civil Rights Movement and was a major contributor to the USA for Africa endeavor in the 1980s (powered by the song “We are the World” by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie). “I got involved be-

cause it’s my job, it’s my heart, it’s my passion,” Belafonte said. “I have found that this is a way to not only give back, but to activate myself in the movement in the process. Much of the work that we are doing with Sankofa.org is on the front line. “I’m extremely close to my father and who he is and how he works, his strategy and his legacy. I’ve been able, because I’m younger and more able bodied, to take that and use that to influence culture and participate, and to broaden the participation and use my father’s level of platform and level of celebrity to shine a light.” Belafonte said music fans and social activists will be able to witness a full orchestra of black classical artists, who usually aren’t provided the platform to showcase their talents. Also, Usher came to Belafonte with a song he intends to incorporate into the festival that addresses police brutality and gun violence. Along with multiple performance stages, music fans will be able to be part of the Social Justice Village integrated throughout the festival to engage Sankofa.org and its social justice partners, get informed on current issues, interact with activists and thought-leaders, and find out how they can help impact change in their own communities. T.I. is the perfect person to team up with to spread awareness of the festival as well as increase activism. He, along with Usher and Killer Mike, led the charge to put more of their money into black banks as a way of orchestrating viable lasting change. “The financial structure of a community is imperative to grow one’s influence, if you will,” Harris said. “We all know that black lives don’t necessarily matter to everyone. However, black dollars do. Okay, so, to ensure that someone respects something that they are not acknowledging right now, then you take the thing that they do respect and you remove it from them until you get their attention — at least until you get them to be passionate about the things you are passionate about. I think that is the most effective tool that we can use right now.” Tip also has incorporat-

ed wisdom into his activism that has heightened his respect among many different demographics ad genres. “You can’t outshoot them. They have bigger guns, more weaponry,” Tip explains. “But if we take the things that circulate their economy — and we’ve done it effectively before — you can take your strength and move it to the people who feel the way you feel and care about the thing you care about. Then that is the most effective tool that we can use right now to make a difference.” Belafonte has been fighting and standing up for social justice since the day she was born. She is leading the movement to continue her father’s work and legacy through Sanfoka, “Many Rivers Festival” and many other platforms. Belafonte went on to name some of the talent set to perform and why she was able to attract such major talent to this festival, many of whom have been personally touched by questionable police tactics, such as Chris Rock and Jesse Williams. “I think it’s a combination of things. And I think that every artist comes to this work in different ways. An example of this is Macklemore. I’m a fan of his music and I’m a fan of him trying to find different ways in [reach] out himself and [address] white supremacy and white privilege,” Belafonte said. “He’s gotten a lot of blowback for that. … Dave Matthews is also hugely political, but his fan base may not know that because of his artistic brilliance. Every artist is finding their own way to contribute and find a space. Not only did Belafonte break down “Many Rivers Festival,” she also collaborated with artist with grassroots partners to elevate the voices of the disenfranchised and promote justice, peace, and equality. “The artists come to this in a whole other scope that is important and valid around healing and loving, and the power of spirit and the creator,” Belefonte said. “We all have different dynamics. But I think it’s the collective, that when we come together that is the most powerful.”

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

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NEWS

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Zipcar officially launches in East Point

Zipcar officially launches in East Point at a ribbon cutting with Mayor Jannquell Peters. ADW reports Zipcar, the world’s leading car sharing network, has announced its official launch in East Point through a partnership with the City of East Point. Zipcar’s innovative mobility solution supports the City’s sustainability goals by enabling residents to live car-free or car-lite lifestyles and, in turn, the City is providing Zipcar with access to parking. Three Zipcars — a Honda Civic named “Slotnick,” a Honda Civic named “Streep” and a Honda CR-V named “Jannquell” after East Point’s very own Mayor Jannquell Peters — are now available by the hour or by the day. The vehicles are parked in designated spots at the East Point MARTA station and the East Point fire station for convenient pick-up and drop-off and can be reserved in seconds on Zipcar’s mobile app, online or over the phone. “I’m excited that East Point has partnered with Zipcar to offer shared vehicles as a transportation alternative,” said East

Point Mayor Jannquell Peters. “We take pride in our ongoing effort to support progressive and environmentally conscious initiatives that also make life easier for East Point residents and visitors alike. Shared transportation enhances the accessibility to East Point and I am thrilled for Zipcar’s expansion into our community.” The official launch in East Point builds on Zipcar’s success in downtown Atlanta, where the company has been operating since 2009. With members using Zipcar nearby, the company was eager expand south to East Point to provide more residents and visitors with convenient access to wheels where they live, work and play. “Bringing Zipcar to East Point gives single-car households an extra set of wheels for those times when theirs is tied up or not working, and it even inspires some to live car-free,” said Vilaire Lazard, Zipcar general manager. “Our on-demand car sharing service offers instant access to a vehicle right nearby and it has several environmental benefits, including reducing the number of personally owned vehicles on the road.” The three new Zipcars bring the greater Atlanta fleet to a total of 145 vehicles. Each reservation includes gas, insurance and 180 miles of driving per day, making it a great option for those who need occasional access to a second vehicle. Local businesses in East Point can benefit from Zipcar’s presence through the Zipcar for Business (Z4B) program, which offers discounted driving rates Monday through Friday. The Z4B program helps businesses save money, meet environmental sustainability goals and reduce parking requirements by providing employees with access to Zipcar for business needs and other uses. In addition to the vehicles in East Point, Zipcar members can reserve and drive the 12,000 vehicles in the company’s global fleet. Prospective members can join the service instantly on Zipcar’s mobile app. For more information on Zipcar in East Point please visit: www.zipcar.com/eastpointcommunity.

Atlanta city councilmembers, Mitchell and Winslow announce security camera installation Atlanta City Council President Ceasar Mitchell and City Councilmember Cleta Winslow on Wednesday announced the installation of a security camera at the intersection Lawton Street and Westview Drive in southwest Atlanta. The camera was funded by Renew Atlanta funds. “Cameras are a force multiplier for our police officers, and we must ensure that they are present in all parts of the city,” Mitchell said. “Though they are a crucial aspect of the overall police presence in the city, cameras must be used in combination with community policing, officer training, and engagement with the community to bring about success.” City Councilmember Cleta Winslow, whose district includes the area, joined Mitchell in welcoming the new security measure. “I am pleased that a camera has been installed at this location because this is a main intersection for our children going back and forth to school each day at M. Agnes Jones Elementary School,” she said. “This new camera will provide additional surveillance that is greatly needed in this area.”

Atlanta Daily World

In 2010, a southwest Atlanta store owner described by customers and neighbors as a foundation of the community was stabbed to death inside a small supermarket at Lawton Street and Westview Drive. He had run for more than 30 years. Atlanta police Major Keith Meadows told the AJC that the victim was stabbed repeatedly during an apparent robbery attempt at the Southern Supermarket. Responding officers found the victim lying just inside the door of the store. A cash register was taken from the store, Atlanta police said. President said he supports more cameras in all areas of the city and will work closely with Atlanta Police on this particular camera location and placement as well as others. The Lawton Street and Westview Drive security camera is integrated into the city’s sophisticated Loudermilk Operation Shield Video Integration Center, where police can monitor images from more than 5,700 high-tech cameras throughout the city.

Publishesed Every Thursday

September 1-7, 2016

September is National Voter Registration Month Today Secretary of State Brian Kemp joins fellow members of the National Association of Secretaries of State by designating September as National Voter Registration Month in this year’s historic election cycle. “As Georgia’s Chief Elections Official, I have worked in close cooperation with leaders at all levels of government to streamline the voter registration process in our state, leveraging the use of technology to make it easier than ever before to get on the rolls,” stated Secretary Kemp. “During National Voter Registration Month, I urge all Georgia voters to help us reach out to the public to share this message and empower our citizens to register to vote in time for the November General Election.” The nation’s Secretaries of State established National Voter Registration Month in September as a non-partisan means of encouraging voter participation and increasing awareness about state requirements and deadlines for voting. NASS also supports the independently organized National Voter Registration Day effort, which will be held on September 27, 2016. Secretary Kemp issued the following tips to Georgians: - Get registered to vote. You can register to vote if you are at least 17 ½ years of age when you register and you will also be 18 years of age by the time you can vote. Now, you can submit an electronic voter registration application using your Georgia driver’s license number or state-issued identification card number on several platforms: Online Voter Registration the free “GA SOS” mobile app for Apple and Android devices, and the recently announced “2VOTE” text messaging pilot project. Individuals can also mail in hard-copy voter registration applications to their county registrar to register to vote by the deadline on October 11, 2016. - Check your voter registration information online. Updating voter registration information is critical for people who have, for example, recently moved or changed their name. By October 11, voters should verify their voting information and, if necessary, update their record. The “My Voter Page” is a great resource to check your voter status, update your personal record, and view individualized voting information to prepare for November. - Add important dates to your calendar. Several important dates are fast approaching for Georgians who want to vote in the General Election on November 8. The deadline to register to vote or update your voting information is October 11. Advance in-person voting begins on October 17. Georgia law also requires the polls to be open on Saturday, October 29 in all 159 counties for Georgians to vote in the November contests. Election Day is November 8, 2016. Currently, there are over 6.4 million registered voters in the Peach State. Brian Kemp has been Secretary of State since January 2010. Among the office’s wideranging responsibilities, the Secretary of State is charged with conducting secure, accessible, and fair elections, the registration of corporations, and the regulation of securities, charities, and professional license holders. For more information about the office, visit our website at www.sos.ga.gov. Follow Secretary Kemp for agency news on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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BUSINESS

September 1-7, 2016

McDonald’s demonstrates true value ADW reports McDonald’s is serving more than good food fast. Throughout Atlanta, McDonald’s is hosting events where church and community leaders come together to discuss issues in the African American community. These meetings are hosted at McDonald’s restaurants that are owned by members of the African American community. These African American small business operators provide employment and valuable resources to the communities they serve. The hosted events at McDonald’s are called “Conversations with the Community.” “My McDonald’s is happy to host Conversations with the Community, bringing people together to discuss what is going on and what is needed,” said Leon Goodrum, one of the local McDonald’s owners. “These conversations help us to plan for the well-being of our communities.” The first three conversations took place at McDonald’s restaurants in East Point and Riverdale. These events will continue through the fall at various McDonald’s in the metro area. Among the local church leaders who attended and participated in the meetings are Bishop Kenneth Carter, Presiding Prelate of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, 6th Episcopal District; Reverend Yvette Massey, Senior Pastor at Central United Methodist Church; Bishop Paul Morton, Senior Pastor of Changing a Generational Full Gospel Baptist Church; and Dr. Kenneth Walker, Senior Pastor of Greater Elizabeth Bible Church. Additionally, representatives from the Urban League of Atlanta, Operation Push and representatives from the Atlanta City Council have attended.

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GDOL to co-sponsor Labor of Love Expo in Atlanta ADW reports

McDonald’s restaurants employ more than 15,000 people in Atlanta. The local McDonald’s owners support and sponsor the Wheels of Dreams Foundation which supports public education and provides college scholarships. Wheels of Dreams provides about $115,000 of educational support annually. Additionally, Wheels of Dreams provides services to Atlanta Public Schools and area school systems, including Clayton, DeKalb, and Fulton County schools. Since Wheels of Dream’s inception, nearly 15,000 students, educators and parents have been touched by the program and special event offerings; and the Atlanta Black McDonald’s Operator Association and Wheels of Dreams Foundation have awarded over $690,417 in scholarships. The McDonald’s Conversations with the Communities will continue on Monday afternoons as designated McDonald’s restaurants throughout Atlanta.

The Georgia Department of Labor’s North Metro Career Center and other local organizations will co-sponsor the 7th Annual Labor of Love Career and Resource Expo Saturday, Sept. 10, in Metro Atlanta. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Georgia International Convention Center located at 2000 Convention Center Concourse in College Park. Other sponsors include the City of College Park and Hosea Helps, a.k.a. Hosea Feed the Hungry, an organization established to feed the homeless and combat poverty. The expo will feature a number of employers, educational institutions, and resource agencies that provide assistance to job seekers. Employers will be hiring or discussing current and future employment opportunities, while other organizations will provide education and additional resources. The event is free and open to the public. Applicants are encouraged to dress appropriately to improve their opportunities for jobs.

The GDOL is enlisting employers and other expo participants. Those already registered to participate include: Allied Universal Security, Amazon, Areas USA, Avon Products, Brenau University, Central Michigan, CSL Plasma, Department of Juvenile Justice, DeVry University, Georgia State University Police, Georgia Tech Hotel and Conference Center, Just US Opportunities, Primerica and Teachers R US Education Placement. Other companies and organizations wanting to participate in the expo should contact the GDOL’s Janice.Burley-Black@gdol.ga.gov to request registration forms. Job seekers interested in attending the expo may visit www.employgeorgia.com to create an account and upload, or prepare, a resume. Having an Employ Georgia account expedites the interview process. To learn more about career opportunities, Employ Georgia and other GDOL services for job seekers and employers, and to connect with us on social media, visit www.dol. georgia.gov

Georgia construction firms report trouble finding qualified workers ADW Reports Local Firms Working to Cope with Growing Workers Shortages as Metro Atlanta Ranks 5th in the Nation for Total Number of Construction Jobs Added During the Past Year, Officials Call for New Workforce Measures Seventy-two percent of construction firms in Georgia report they are having trouble finding qualified craft workers as local employers added more jobs during the past year than all but 4 other metro areas in the U.S., according to the results of an industrywide survey released today by the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials called for new career and technical school programs, other workforce measures to offset the growing labor shortages. “One reasons so many local firms are worried about finding qualified employees is that they have been working to keep up with growing demand for construction,” said Stephen Sandherr, chief executive officer for the Associated General Contractors, who released the new data during a visit to an Atlanta construction project. “All this growth is occurring at a time when many contractors worry about the poor quality of the pipeline for recruiting and preparing new craft workers.” Sandherr noted that the Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell metro area added 7,800 new construction jobs between July 2015 and July

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2016, a seven percent increase. He added that Atlanta ranks 5th out of 358 metro areas the association tracks in terms of the total number of construction jobs added during the past year. Yet he added that 89 percent of firms in Georgia rated the new craft worker pipeline as poor or fair while only nine percent said it was good or excellent. The association executive said that tight labor market conditions are prompting many firms to change the way they compensate employees. He noted that half of firms nationally and 38 percent in Georgia report

they have increased base pay rates for craft workers because of the difficulty in filling positions. Nationally 22 percent have improved benefits for craft workers and 20 percent report they are providing incentives and bonuses to attract workers. He added that many firms in Georgia are also changing the way they operate in response to labor shortages. He noted that 56 percent of local firms report they have increased their use of overtime hours while 42 percent note they are relying more heavily on craft labor suppliers. Thirty-six percent of

firms noted they are engaging with secondary and college-level career-building programs and an equal percentage say they have increased the amount of in-house training they perform to cope with labor shortages. The association has developed its Preparing the Next Generation of Skilled Construction Workers: A Workforce Development Plan to address the growing worker shortages, Sandherr noted. The plan outlines steps, like increasing funding for vocational education and making it easier to establish constructionfocused schools, to reinvigorate the pipeline for new construction workers. The plan also calls for comprehensive immigration reform and steps to make it easier for firms to hire veterans. In Georgia, the local association chapter, AGC Georgia, is working with education officials, the Governor’s and Lt. Governor’s offices and member firms to advocate for more career and technical education funding, said Mike Dunham, the chapter’s CEO, said. “We want to make sure more young people can be introduced to rewarding construction careers at a young age,” he added. Sandherr noted that over 1,400 construction firms participated in the survey, which was conducted in July and August of this year. Thirty-six Georgia firms responded to the survey, he added. Click here to see the national survey results, analysis of the data and the Georgia survey results.

COMMUNITY

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Cheryl Jones joins Pink Frog Foundation Board of Directors Cheryl Jones, retired educator and vice president of business development at AEE Productions, has joined the board of directors for The Pink Frog Foundation, Inc. “We’re excited about Cheryl’s decision to become affiliated with the Foundation,” said Tammy L. Bolton, co-founder and executive director of PFF. “She will assist us with board development and increasing the Foundation’s visibility among various constituent groups in the Atlanta area,” Bolton continued. Jones is an Atlanta native and a graduate

of Spelman College. She brings to the board a wealth of contacts, including her passion for service. She is the co-founder/vice president of Atlanta Read: a non-profit, literacy-based program whose goal is to build and broaden a culture of literacy that empowers today’s children to achieve and lead in tomorrow’s world. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, the National Association of Educators, the Camellia Rose Chapter of The Links, Incorporated and serves on the Atlanta Metro YMCA Teen Advisory Committee.

September 1-7, 2016

Not Getting the Results You Need? It’s Time to Advertise...

Buy 3 Ads Get 1 Free Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta announce Legacy Awards

The Legacy Awards Gala honors individuals who act as role models, guiding theway for others. The 2016 Legacy Awards Gala will be held on Saturday, September 10, 2016, at The St. Regis Atlanta. This year’s the event will be chaired by Mary A. Laschinger, Chairman and CEO of Veritiv Corporation, and the Master of Ceremonies will be Russ Spencer, anchor on the Fox 5 News in Atlanta. Proceeds from the 22nd Annual Legacy Awards will support Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta’s mission of providing children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-toone mentoring relationships that change their lives for the better, forever. This year’s Legacy Awards Gala will honor three distinguished community leaders who have made significant contributions to their professions and the community. Shan Cooper WestRock Shan Cooper is chief supply chain and technology officer of WestRock and is responsible for procurement, logistics, information technology, and recycling. Her accomplishments in the corporate world have earned her many awards and recognitions, including the Women of Color in Technology Corporate Responsibility Award and the YWCA Tribute to Women of Achievement. She was named to Diversity MBA Magazine’s 2009 Top 100 Under 50 Executives and as one of Georgia Trend Magazine’s Most Influential Georgians in 2012, 2013 and 2014.

Egbert Perry Integral Mr. Perry has served as CEO and Chairman of Integral, which provides real estate development, advisory and investment management services in urban markets across the United States, since its inception in 1993. He serves as the Chairman of the Board of Fannie Mae, and was a long-term board member for the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Mr. Perry was also inducted into the Hall of Distinction for Real Estate by Georgia State University and Real Estate Investment Advisory Council. Meredith Leapley Leapley Construction Meredith Leapley is the founder of Leapley Construction, a premier commercial interior general contractor. Ms. Leapley’s accomplishments inside and out of the commercial real estate industry include the 2015 POW! Award, the Phenomenal Woman award from Kennesaw State University’s Siegel Institute, and she is a member of the Emory University Board of Visitors. Ms. Leapley served an impressive seven years on the board of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta, three of which she was board chair. For more than 55 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta has transformed the lives of some of the most vulnerable children in our community through a proven youth development strategy: one-to-one mentoring. The agency serves approximately 2,100 children from 12 metro Atlanta counties on an annual basis.

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September 1-7, 2016

ENTERTAINMENT

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Atlanta filmmaker Ken Feinberg dishes on new film and the art of acting Like many memorable holiday films, Santa’s Boot Camp plays with the familiar story of the holiday season’s most beloved icon, giving us a behind-the-scenes look at Santa’s “operation” from the perspective of six kids who learn a valuable lesson about themselves and put that lesson into action. That not only happens in the story – it happened on the set of the film, where dozens of young actors put their well-honed skills to Ken Feinberg use to help bring this memorable story to life. Santa’s Boot Camp, which features Academy Award nominee Eric Roberts as a beleaguered mall Santa, is the brainchild of filmmaker Ken Feinberg. An Atlanta native who worked for a decade as a professional actor in Los Angeles, where his many TV credits included guest roles on “Buffy the

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Vampire Slayer,” “Charmed,” and “Star Trek: Enterprise,” Feinberg returned to his hometown a decade ago and began Creative Studios of Atlanta. “When I grew up in Atlanta, there was nobody there who could answer my questions about being an actor. When I moved to LA, I didn’t have any connections and had to learn everything from the ground up. I opened up the studio with the intention of training people on what they need to know in order to get work in the industry.” Thus began CSA, which focuses on young actors and asks them to commit to a yearlong intensive program specifically focused on acting for the screen. Emphasizing preparation, professionalism, and an understanding of one’s type, Feinberg has

brought his wealth of real-world experience to hundreds of young performers over the years. The results? Dozens of his former students have gone on to act in major projects, including AMC’s The Walking Dead, the blockbuster Hunger Games films, and the Oscar-winning 12 Years a Slave, Ring of Fire, and The Blind Side. But it wasn’t enough that CSA would offer the usual acting class experiences in audition technique, scene study, and so forth. Feinberg knew that the best way to learn how to act on film was to act on film – to have a real acting job, working with film professionals. “One of the reasons why actors from Atlanta have typically only gotten day player roles in the bigger projects is because they don’t have the experience of working at the level of actors from LA and New York. There’s a standard of professionalism in terms of auditioning and working on the set,” Feinberg explains. Thus, the culminating experience for the students each year was to act in a film – and over the years, Feinberg and his creative team have produced dozens of shorts featuring CSA-trained actors. But three years ago, knowing that some of his more talented performers were returning for additional training an experience, they set their sights higher. “We looked at all of the production we were doing and figured with that much effort, we could make a feature – and something that would have appeal to people beyond just the students and their families and communities.” That’s how Santa’s Boot Camp came about. Co-written with Mimi Fontaine and Kelly Nettles, Feinberg’s modern-day take on Santa

includes insight on how Elves use social media and modern technology to put together the “naughty” and “nice” lists; asks its characters to confront real-life issues of bullying and stereotyping; and even takes Santa to task for being a little too old-fashioned about what Christmas means in a modern, multicultural world (one of the demands of his Elves is that Santa expands production to include more gifts for Jewish kids and other faiths). Feinberg says that the more universal themes of the story remained clearly in focus despite the modern twists: “Santa Claus is a universal symbol for unconditional giving and creating good will, so we see him as that much more than a specifically Christian symbol. We wanted it to have a universal feeling and the message that no matter your religion, you need to think about your actions as a person.” With limited resources and a complicated schedule — working with minors means restricted hours and needing to provide school time — Santa’s Boot Camp shot about 20 minutes of the story in order to create a reel that could secure finishing funds. Despite nearly a year between that initial effort and the completion of the film, the final product is seamless, a tribute to film’s editor Craig Tollis (a four-time regional Emmy winner) who also helped produce the film and develop the script) and the solid acting skills of the cast, including local Shakespearean veteran Doug Kaye as the real Santa. Kids who had grown too much from one year to the next found themselves playing multiple roles – unrecognizable from each other – that offered more opportunities to test out their acting skills. With a production schedule of about 15 total days, the film was completed with some stylish special effects to enhance the magic of Santa and his elves and an entirely original score by Stephen Letnes.

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ENTERTAINMENT

September 1-7, 2016

Morris Chestnut, Regina Hall, Sanaa Lathan and more attend ‘When the Bough Breaks’ premiere On Saturday, Aug. 27, Morris Chestnut and Regina Hall were joined by celebrities and influencers attending the exclusive When The Bough Breaks red carpet premiere screening and after party in Los Angeles powered by the MOTIONS hair care. Influencers previewed the film, enjoyed the interactive Bosco photo booth along with complimentary specialty “MOTIONS Mojito” cocktails. Special guests included: Gabrielle Dennis (actress, FOX’s “Rosewood’), Jaina Lee Ortiz (actress, FOX’s “Rosewood”), Lorraine Toussaint (actress, FOX’s “Rosewood”), Russell Simmons (lifestyle influencer and entrepreneur), Sanaa Lathan (actress, “The Perfect Guy,” “The Best Man Holiday”), Malika Haqq (E!’s “Dash Dolls”), Melissa De Sousa (actress, “The Best Man Holiday”) MOTIONS continues to celebrate women who are confident, savvy and sophisticated and partnered with Sony to send lucky winner to attend the special premiere complete with an all expense paid trip to LA, a glam squad led by celebrity makeup artist Melissa Hibbert and a gift card. The all-new MOTIONS collection features sleek packaging, reformulated products

that are sulfate-free and infused with rich essential Argan, Aloe Vera oils, vitamins and silky Shea proteins available for under $10 at fine beauty retailers. When The Bough Breaks releases nationwide on Sept. 9.

When The Bough Breaks Cast, (L-R) Jaz Sinclair, Morris Chestnut and Regina Hall

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September 1-7, 2016

LIFESTYLE

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6 ways social media can destroy your marriage By Keyaira Kelly When it comes to marriage, you don’t just say “I do” to your partner on your wedding day, you have to say it all the time. Maybe not verbally, but the message has to shine through in your actions, your compassion, and your selflessness. But modern couples may find daily commitment difficult, especially when you have blinding LCD screens in your face every second of the day. From computers to tablets to kindles to smartphones, our society is more distracted than ever. And social media thrives off of our connectedness, which could ultimately lead to disconnectedness. Relationship experts have explored the correlation between social media and relationships, and the results can be pretty harmful to intimacy. Here are some of the ways a screen addiction can hurt your marriage: 1. You have more FaceTime with you screen than your person. Randall M. Kessler, Family Law Litigation professor at Emory University, explains, “Instead of getting into bed and discussing how each other’s day was, couples, instead, often opt to be on social media. Instead of intimate moments and sweet or even romantic conversation (or behavior), one partner is often fully engaged with friends, acquaintances, or even followers during times that they would

otherwise be growing and improving their marital relationship. Yes, affairs can be ignited via Facebook, and emotional attachments and relationships can occur on social media and harm marriages, but we shouldn’t overlook the obvious. Put down your device, ask your spouse how their day was, and listen. It might make a world of difference.” 2. Connection d e c e p t i o n . According to Jason Levy, a divorce resources expert, couples discreetly connecting with people from their past may lead to trouble. “If you reconnect with long-lost pals from high school or college and start having regular conversations without telling your spouse, that can create mystery and skepticism that something not kosher is going on. Be open and honest with your spouse about your social network activities,” he advises. 3. She/He wants that old thing back. Family law attorney Carla Schiff Donnelly says, “Your former partners bring you back to a time when life was less complicated and your greatest challenge was a term paper. Some get so caught

up in the romance that they move from posts, to emails, texts, calls, and then secret rendezvous. Even if things don’t work out with the old fling, the temporary checking out from your marriage can cause irreparable harm.” 4. Paralysis of analysis. One of the major downfalls of social media is comparison. But divorce mediator Michael Aurit says this could be a good thing, if you use it wisely. “Any Facebook friend can dress to impress, take a selfie with their spouse, smile and post #DinnerDateNight. As you scroll your news feed and see so many seemingly perfect marriages, there is a natural tendency to compare your own relationship to the perceived perfection of another’s. The weaknesses in your own marriage may become more obvious. Resist the urge to take what you see at face value! In reality, you know very little about the relationship

that is being presented on Facebook. Rather then allowing comparisons to fuel insecurity, channel that energy into something productive to deepen your own relationship.” 5. Social media word vomit. Family law attorney Caroline Choi says sharing too much about your relationship can invite trouble. “Intimate details about your relationship and marriage should never be exposed on social media. Your friends and family are not interested in these details, and more importantly, it causes distrust between partners and it can backfire if you and your partner divorce.” 6. Wanting to be single, and ready to mingle. Sometimes when you are in a committed relationship or going through a rough patch, navigating the world alone can look really appealing. “The social media posts of your single ‘friends’ look amazing. You’ll see dates with very attractive, physically fit people dancing the night away, going on adventurous vacations, attending sporting events, concerts, restaurants with top-rated chefs … it always looks so much better than your own life because many people’s posts are actually staged or orchestrated to portray their own lives in the most positive light. There is a reason the selfie stick was one of the most popular holiday gifts last year,” Bonnie Sockel-Stone, board certified in marital and family law, says.

UnitedHealthcare invites African American seniors to A Better You Event UnitedHealthcare will host A Better You, a series of health and wellness educational events, in Atlanta to help African-American seniors and other beneficiaries learn more about Medicare and their health care coverage options. The events – supported by the AARP® Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans, insured by UnitedHealthcare – will feature renowned keynote speakers and musical performances to engage and motivate participants in a celebration of health. Among the featured speakers are 80-yearold record-breaking bodybuilder Ernestine Shepherd and spiritual advisor Reverend Dr. William E. Flippin of The Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church, who will provide guidance and tips to achieve optimal physical and mental health at all ages. Attendees will also enjoy the live music and high-energy performance of legendary vocal group The Persuasions. “I’m honored to be part of this program and touch so many lives with a healthy, inspirational message,” said Shepherd. “Attendees will gain a better understanding of their insurance coverage options, and learn that it is never too late to start planning for a healthy life. Age is only a number!” Attendees will also learn about the basics of Medicare – including the different parts of the program, eligibility requirements and enrollment windows – to help them make confident health care coverage decisions. According to the Medicare Made Clear Index, a 2013 survey conducted by UnitedHealthcare, more than 1 in 5 older adults de-

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scribes Medicare as confusing, and two-thirds of beneficiaries have never shopped around for Medicare coverage or haven’t shopped in more than three years. “These interactive events are aimed at helping Medicare beneficiaries live healthier, more secure lives,” said UnitedHealthcare’s Rita Tolbert, who will facilitate the Medicare education portion of the events. “Understanding the Medicare program is a key component of making more informed health care coverage decisions and achieving optimal health and wellness.” Events will be held at the Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church, 1879 Glenwood Ave. SE, Atlanta, on: * Saturday, Sept. 10 at 10 a.m. * Saturday, Sept.10 at 2:30 p.m. UnitedHealthcare offers other resources tailored for Medicare beneficiaries, including www.medicaremadeclear.com, where people can find clear, easy-to-understand information that breaks down the complexities of Medicare. The site also provides health and wellness information to help older adults and other beneficiaries manage chronic conditions and enhance their quality of life. The events are open to the public and there is no cost to attend. For more information or to RSVP, beneficiaries may call 1-888-385-1995 or visit http:// www.abetteryou.info.

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EDUCATION

September 1-7, 2016

Scholarships Online’s Top 6 Georgia teacher under fire for ‘Black-to-School’ scholarships for slavery game black students By Nigel Roberts

School officials in Cobb County, Georgia, banned a slavery educational game and will discipline the teacher who used it, after the grandmother of the only Black student in her classroom complained, WSB-TV reports. The teacher at Cheatham Hill Elementary School had her lone black student play the slave in an interactive game on the Underground Railroad. Dice roles determined whether the 10-year-old student would escape slavery or get sent back to a plantation. Delores Bunch-Keemer told WBS-TV her granddaughter came home “very concerned” from school. She was unlucky in the game, getting caught and returned the plantation six times, where she was beaten. School officials gave Bunch-Keemer a

Every year, billions of dollars in financial aid and scholarships are given away to students to help them pay for college tuition, books, and other college-related expenses. As the year winds down, here are the top national scholarship programs for African American students and others that are still accepting applications: #1 – Ford HBCU Community Challenge: The Ford HBCU Challenge invites college students to submit their ideas for building sustainable communities for a chance to win a college scholarship and other awards. Students must have a strong interest in their communities and the environment. Project ideas must include innovative ideas on how to build sustainable communities. The deadline to apply is in December 2016. #2 – Xerox Technical Minority Scholarship: The Xerox Technical Minority Scholarship Program is designed to help cultivate minority students for potential recruitment in the field of technology. The scholarship amount award depends on the student’s tuition balance, academic excellence and classification. The deadline to apply is in September 2016. #3 – Coca-Cola Scholars Program: The CocaCola Scholars Program is a very competitive program for high school seniors throughout the United States. Sponsored by The Coca-Cola Company, the largest soft drink company in the world, the

program awards millions every year in college funding. The deadline to apply is in October 2016.

statement that said they were unaware of the lesson, and they are “taking appropriate personnel action with the teacher.” The teacher stated the learning activity was not intended to harm her Black student but was a history lesson to teach her fifth-grade class about slavery and the Underground Railroad. However, Bunch-Keemer said she told the teacher the game was inappropriate. “If we did a Holocaust game, and people had to roll the dice if they were going to go in the gas chamber, do you see any similarity in that, and she didn’t, that it was wrong,” Bunch-Keemer said, sharing part of her conversation with the teacher to the news outlet. The teacher was apparently surprised by the grandmother’s reaction, saying no one had complained when she used the game in the past.

Chevrolet, NASCAR announce annual Diversity Scholarship Contest

#4 – Apple HBCU Scholarship Program: The Apple HBCU Scholarship Program is offered to eligible college students who are in their final year of college at a HBCU institution. Eligible students include those who are majoring in Computer Science, Information Science/Technology, Mathematics, and/ or Engineering. The deadline to apply is in October 2016. #5 – Will.i.am Scholarship Foundation (The I.Am.Angel Foundation): Established in 2009 by Grammy-winning Black Eyed Peas star Will.i.am (William J. Adams), this program is open to high school seniors who plan to attend a four-year college and pursue degrees in the STEM and arts fields. The scholarship covers all college expenses, including tuition, books, fees, and room and board for four years. The deadline to apply is in December 2016. #6 – Burger King Scholars Program: The Burger King Scholars program is designed to help high-school seniors who are looking to start college next year. Annually, the program awards more than $1.4 million in scholarships to more than 1,000 students. Applicants must be residents of the United States or Canada, and must be graduating high school seniors. The deadline to apply is in December 2016.

Left to right: Jim Cassidy, NASCAR Senior Vice President of Racing Operations; Alba Colon, Chevrolet NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Program Manager; Ken Barrett, General Motors Global Chief Diversity Officer; and Jim Campbell, GM Vice President of Performance Vehicles and Motorsports (Photo by Harold Hinson Photography). Chevrolet and NASCAR have announced the launch of the second annual NASCAR Chevrolet Diversity Scholarship Contest. The contest offers college students an exciting and engaging way to learn and become involved in STEM, a key area of importance to the success and future of the motorsports industry. “At GM, we believe success and innovation lies in attracting unique and creative talent,” said Ken Barrett, General Motors Global Chief Diversity Officer. “Diversity within STEM is not only a priority, but a necessity as we continue to face new challenges and opportunities with the advancement of technology.” General Motors strongly values diversity and inclusion among its employees. Empowering unique perspectives keeps GM on the cutting edge of technological innovation in the fast-paced automotive industry. The scholarship program is a part of the company’s commitment to ensure students of different backgrounds, skills and experiences have the opportunity to pursue STEM related careers. “Inspiring innovative students who are interested in careers in STEM is critical for the growth of our sport and business,” said Jim

Cassidy, NASCAR Senior Vice President of Racing Operations. “The scholarship program helps both organizations attract young, diverse talent to the world of motorsports.” Four selected winners will be awarded a scholarship, and an exclusive behindthe-scenes experience at a NASCAR race, including a tour of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series garage, pace car rides and meet-andgreets with Team Chevy drivers and Chevrolet NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Program Manager, Alba Colon. Students can submit a 90-second video that describes a STEM related racing application and its significance to motorsports. Entrees will be judged on technical accuracy, creativity and production value. The deadline to enter is Saturday, October 15, 2016. To be eligible, students must be currently enrolled, at least part-time, in an accredited college or university within the United States, including Puerto Rico, be between the ages of 18 and 25 at the time of entry and submit a YouTube link through the scholarship website. For more information or to submit an entree, visit http://chevyscholarship.nascardiversity.com.

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GUEST COMMENTARY

by Raynard Jackson

by Virgie Rollins

Why are black Democrats more popular in the GOP than black Republicans? If black Republicans ever want to be taken seriously by the Black community, they have to stop accepting the silly ultimatum being offered by the Republican Party. Some in the party think blacks have to choose between their community and the GOP. The proper thing to do is to be both black and Republican. This isn’t an “either-or’ scenario. Black Republicans must represent their community and the GOP at the same time. Some black Republicans that appear on television must be so starved for money that they are willing to sell their souls for 30 pieces of silver. You can always make more money, but you can’t make more integrity. Republicans’ obsessive love affair with hiring black Democrats continues to come back to bite them on the butt. Back in February, ordained minister and reality TV villain Omarosa Manigault appeared on a segment on Fox News to bolster support for Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump. The former Clinton aide spent more time name-calling and obsessing over another guest’s cleavage than giving strong reasons why the black community should vote for Trump. Omarosa should have been barred from anything to do with the Trump campaign after this embarrassing interview. How can blacks take this campaign seriously with surrogates like this? Some will accuse me of taking one bad interview and going off the deep end. Oh really? Check out Roland Martin’s interview with Ashley Bell, a newly hired Black staffer at the RNC. The train wreck starts at 10:10. I cringed while watching this interview. This is what happens when you hire inexperienced people who make you feel comfortable, versus someone who is a bona fide professional. Need more proof? My good friend, former Congressman Jack Kingston from Georgia is also a Trump surrogate. Kingston is White. This interview is bordering on insanity and racism. I know Jack very well and he is neither, but when you speak of things which you have no knowledge

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of, like the Black community, this is what you get. I have provided media training to some of the biggest names in business, politics, entertainment, and sports and have offered to do the same for the Republican Party, but of course, to no avail. Some racially-tinged jokes and campaign antics that are funny to white folks are simply not funny to blacks, and Diamond and Silk are prime examples. Diamond and Silk are two black women who are Internet sensations from North Carolina. They also support Trump. So, in usual Republican fashion, they have become “the flavor of the month.” They are Democrats and are now being flown across the country and being paid to “entertain” mostly white audiences. Memo to white folks: “Blacks don’t think this is funny.” Diamond and Silk give us flashbacks of the minstrel shows of old. Most black Republicans complain in private, but don’t have the guts to complain publically. These are the blacks that this party hires and promotes. You can’t complain about your opponent’s behavior and remain silent when one of your own behaves in a similar manner. The only black involved in the election cycle with any professionalism and credibility is Katrina Pierson, Trump’s national spokesperson. The rest do not even meet the minimum requirement to be in the role they occupy. They provide nothing more than race insurance for the party. (“We hired a few blacks, therefore we can’t be racist.”) None of them possess any institutional memory or knowledge of the Republican Party. None of these blacks would be deemed qualified for similar positions in the private sector. These blacks are simply a reflection of the organizations that hire them. The Republican Party has shown no interest in engaging with the black community. The best way to get attention in the Republican Party as a black is to be a black Democrat.”

Donald Trump’s misguided, condescending savior complex Ask anyone to describe the 1963 March on Washington and they’ll tell you about the “I Have a Dream” speech. The scene is etched into our collective memory whether we lived it or learned about it in school – Dr. King, self-possessed and sure in front of the grand columns of the Lincoln Memorial, throngs of civil rights activists stretching off into the horizon past the vast reflecting pool. We can hear his thunderous voice in our heads, sharing his dream for that day when his own children would not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character. The speech, which was as much a demand for economic fairness as it was a call for voting rights and social equality, is easily one of the most persuasive works of oratory in history. It was a moment that electrified the nation and secured Dr. King’s preeminent status as an agent of social change. The unifying soul power of that rally led directly to the passage of the Civil Rights Act in 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. It was spectacular in the loftiest sense of the word. Now, 53 years later, we’re witnessing a different kind of spectacle: Donald Trump has begun making his case for why African American voters should abandon progressive causes and support him instead. Speaking in front of mostly white audiences in Wisconsin, Michigan and Ohio recently, Trump confusedly addressed the African American community, presenting himself as the savior that he seems to think we need. At one event he told us, “you live in your poverty, your schools are no good, you have no jobs, 58 percent of your youth is unemployed.” He said our communities are worse than war zones, that the way we’re living “is a disaster,” that if you walk down the street in our neighborhoods, you’ll get shot. The gross ignorance is astonishing. If you could write the opposite of “I Have a Dream,” this is what it would look like. On voting for the Republican ticket, Trump asked, “What do you have to lose?” Well, for starters, our right to vote. In 2013, conservative justices on the Supreme Court issued a ruling that gutted a key

provision of the Voting Rights Act. Ever since, Republicans around the country have done everything in their power to erect new barriers to the vote. They’ve eliminated sameday registration, rolled back early voting, implemented photo ID laws, and limited the counting of provisional ballots. These new laws and regulations disproportionately target communities of color, precisely because we are less likely to support Republican candidates on Election Day. Moreover, what Trump fails to grasp, is the importance of economic fairness. This idea was a centerpiece of the March on Washington, the full title of which was “The March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.” This battleground isn’t new territory for Hillary Clinton either, unlike Trump, who seems to think that by tacking on a new section of his stump speech this late in the game, African Americans will flock to his campaign. Clinton has spent her career fighting for progressive causes that matter to black communities, going back the 1960s when she supported the student efforts to increase the admission rates of African Americans at Wellesley college. Dr. King described life for African Americans as living on a “lonely island of poverty in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity.” Donald Trump has spent a lifetime luxuriating in his own vast ocean of material prosperity, going back to the start of his business career in the late 60s when his father gave him a “small loan” of $1 million. If Donald Trump wants to get serious about fixing the systemic social and economic challenges faced by the African American community, he should spend less time in his gilded towers, drop the empty posturing, stop lecturing black voters in front of white audiences, and start listening. I’m know a few leaders in the African American community who would love to share their wisdom with the leader of the Republican Party. But for now, 53 years after the March on Washington, Hillary Clinton, not Donald Trump, is clearly the better standard-bearer of the Civil Rights Movement, and clearly better suited to lead our nation from the Oval Office.

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