BY DONNELL SUGGS
PLAINS, GA. - Bonita’s restaurant isn’t open on Mondays but the owner and namesake got a phone call and got right to work preparing food for the customers to come.
“And I’m honored to be here,” said Bonita Hightower, who has owned the local restaurant since 2020. She has lived in neighboring Webster County since moving to Georgia with her family in 1990. Soon after she began cooking food for the public and the Carter family was one of her customers. To cook for people coming into town to pay their respects, including dozens of members of national and local media, was an honor, she said.
The passing of former United States President Jimmy Carter, a native of Plains, was on everyone’s minds on Sunday, especially the Carter family, who reached out to Hightower about opening her restaurant for the influx of visitors that were planning to come to town. Hightower cooked for the Carters, both the late former President and First Lady Rosalynn Carter, who passed away in November 2023.
According to Hightower, President Carter, who never ate at her restaurant due to his illness, but regularly requested her food on Fridays, would have one piece of fried catfish, the homemade coleslaw, and an order of cheese grits. Mrs. Carter didn’t eat fried catfish, so Hightower would sautee her catfish and add vegetables to her plate.
“They were regulars,” Hightower told The Atlanta Voice. “I fried all of the chicken for his 98th birthday party. He could have lived any place in the world, but he chose to live back home in Plains.”
Downtown Plains was busy with activity on Monday morning, as to be expected. Locals were putting bereavement reefs on the doors of the Plains High School Museum and Visitor Center, which is located within the Jimmy Carter National Historic Park. The flag outside of the museum was at half staff. Across the street from the famous red, white, and blue “Home of Jimmy Carter” sign, dozens of camera crews were setting up under white tents. The nation’s eyes, ears, and newspapers were in little old Plains, Georgia under sad circumstances.
Carolyn K. Owens and her five-year-old granddaughter Ellarie J. Carter came into Bonita's to have lunch. They live in nearby Americus, but wanted to stop into downtown Plains to pay their respects to President Carter.
"Job well done," was how Owens, an educator in the Sumter County School System for the past 38 years, described the late President's life. "I believe President Carter was a
great and honorable man who loved people."
Owens said she grew up in a family of peanut farmers like Carter was and thus had a familiarity with him past his being Plains' most famous resident. "He was a great man," she said.
James Earl “Jimmy” Carter, Jr., passed away Sunday, Dec. 28 at the age of 100. Carter entered hospice care in February 2023, had his 100th birthday celebrated across the state of Georgia. He was the 39th President of the United States and the oldest living POTUS until his passing. Current United States President Joseph R. Biden now holds that distinction.
Statements on Carter’s passing came rolling in from Georgia political and business leaders, including Senators Rev. Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff, Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, Clark Atlanta University President Dr. George T. French, New Birth Missionary Baptist Church Senior Pastor Dr. Jamal Bryant, and Atlanta Falcons/Atlanta
BY LAURA NWOGU AND ISAIAH SINGLETON
After a day of rain, the sun was shining on The Carter Center in Atlanta early on the morning of Monday, Dec. 30. A display of flowers lined the Center’s sign as residents paid tribute to former President Jimmy Carter, the 39th and longest-living U.S. president who was reported dead on Sunday at the age of 100. “We love you, President Carter,” an easel read next to the growing tribute. This sentiment carried Georgia residents as they visited the site of the nonprofit organization founded by Georgia’s own.
Atlanta resident Jumbeseb Unya said although it’s a sad time, he’s also grateful God allowed the country to have President Carter for so long.
“He contributed significantly to the global peace, love, and respect for these national laws, so we wanted to come and pay my respect in a position of his contribution to peace around the world,” Unya said.
The Carter Center was founded in 1982 by Carter and his wife Rosalynn, who died in November 2023 in Plains, Georgia. The nongovernmental organization was founded with a commitment to prevent and resolve conflicts, enhance freedom and democracy,
and improve health, implementing a host of peace and health programs.
Unya said he met President Carter once in Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland when Carter visited one of the programs
funded by his Carter Center Institute.
His wife, Anya, said she didn’t get a chance to meet President Carter but was living in Mozambique at the time of their first election after the Civil War, which was monitored by the Carter Center.
“It was very rocky and challenging, but they made it happen, so we’re so grateful,” she said.
Decatur resident Jennifer Taylor placed a bouquet at The Carter Center alongside her 12-year-old daughter. The mother-daughter duo said they were proud President Carter was from Georgia.
“We’re proud he’s a Georgia native and all the good he did for our country, and we’re feeling sad about next month,” Taylor said. “We wanted to pay our respects.”
Taylor shared they’d often come to The Carter Center, hoping to meet him, but never did.
“From growing up, I remember all the different things he did when he’d go overseas and how he represented the U.S. and how helpful he was,” she said. “It made me proud to be an American, and I’m trying to look for those moments now.”
“He was so humble, graceful, and the person you would like to know more about,” he said. “I have that memory in me, but we respect that we are from an international organization. I always talk with care around the world, so I appreciate the contributions of President Carter, the peace, and prosperity of the world."
“It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.”— Frederick Douglass
BY BENJAMIN F. CHAVIS, JR. President and CEO, National Newspaper Publishers Association
My first brush with the law took place when I was just 12 years old. I walked into the local library in Oxford, N.C., from which Black Americans were expressly forbidden, and tried to check out a book. The librarian responded by calling the police.
A dozen years later, at the age of 24, I and nine other men and women were wrongfully accused of arson during a spate of race-related civil unrest in Wilmington, N.C. We became known as The Wilmington Ten. We were unjustly sentenced to a combined total of 282 years in prison. It took more than 40 years for the state of North Carolina to officially issue a “Pardon of Innocence” to The Wilmington Ten. After a lifetime as a civil rights advocate fighting against a wide range of discriminatory practices and racial injustices, I know firsthand how the levers of justice can be pulled or manipulated by the powers that be to the detriment of vulnerable individuals and underserved communities.
A glaring example of this exists right now in New York, where a complete lack of regulation of the booming lawsuit lending industry is enabling unscrupulous lenders to take advantage of injured and mistreated borrowers. Also known as “litigation funding” or “car accident loans,” lawsuit lending is the practice by which individuals can borrow against potential legal settlements or judgments to cover day-to-day
expenses or medical bills. At the same time, they await the outcome of their case.
It is time for state lawmakers to protect the vulnerable individuals who too frequently find themselves as the victims of usurious lending practices. They can do this by passing some commonsense reforms to the lawsuit lending industry that cap the interest lenders’ charges and require disclosure of lawsuit loans to ensure transparency in the legal system.
In theory, lawsuit loans can serve as a critical line of support for individuals who find themselves in unenviable positions as the victims of fraud, accidental injury, or even malicious attacks – especially for those who are unbanked or underbanked and lack a financial safety net, which too often is the case for people of color.
In practice, however, the lawsuit lending industry’s complete lack of regulation is too often manipulated by bad actors, some bankrolled by big hedge funds or even foreign interests. Due to the lack of an interest rate cap, for example, unscrupulous lenders can charge as much as they want—sometimes as much as 200 percent.
Such was the case for a young mother from The Bronx, who worked hard during her pregnancy to ensure her twins’ needs would be met when they were born. Yet, despite all the preparations and precautions she took, one baby was injured during birth, resulting in severe brain damage. The mother filed a medical malpractice case, and the bills piled up. Her attorney directed her to a lender who gave her a loan with a 65 percent interest rate, compounding by 1.5 percent monthly.
Adding insult to injury, the mother later dis-
covered that the attorney’s brother owned the firm her lawyer recommended. The court ultimately determined that the lack of knowledge of this relationship could be interpreted as a conflict of interest since the attorney could have influenced his client’s acceptance of a settlement to his brother’s benefit.
Only by mandating the disclosure of lawsuit loans during the legal process can potential ethical lapses like this one be sure to be brought to light, leveling the playing field for all parties. Who knows how many settlements have been delayed, decreased, or improperly influenced to the detriment of borrowers to ensure that usurious loans are repaid to their predatory lenders?
A properly regulated lawsuit lending industry could have benefitted that mother in The Bronx. It also could have benefitted the many people like me who have been wrongfully imprisoned or convicted and, in some cases, are now being aggressively targeted by the lawsuit lending industry.
A reform bill that reasonably caps interest rates and ensures transparency will ensure that New Yorkers and others across America in need can continue to access lawsuit loans and be projected from the greedy whims of the wealthy and powerful. Those experiencing some of the most difficult periods of their lives deserve support and protection and surely do not deserve to be victimized repeatedly.
Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., civil rights leader, author, journalist, and the current president and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) can be reached at dr.bchavis@ nnpa.org
FOUNDED May 11, 1966 FOUNDER/EDITOR
Ed Clayton Immortalis Memoria
PUBLISHER/EDITOR
J. Lowell Ware Immortalis Memoria
The Atlanta Voice honors the life of J. Lowell Ware.
PUBLISHER
Janis Ware
PRESIDENT/
GENERAL MANAGER
James A. Washington 2018-2024
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BY JAMES A. WASHINGTON
The Atlanta Voice
I'm trying to reconcile the dilemma between faith and what life teaches us regarding submission, sacrifice, and acceptance of someone else’s will superseding our own. Life teaches us to act independently of others. Men, particularly Black men, survive in this natural world because of their egos, stamina, and unwillingness to submit to the Man. Almost from birth, we are told we don’t have to take that off anyone. Stand up for yourself. It’s better to be a leader than a follower.
The Bible teaches us in Hebrews 11:1-3 that faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hence, we are to submit to the will of God, follow the teaching and example of the life of Jesus Christ, be guided by the direction of the Holy Spirit…fly blindly into the fray, if you will. Faith will be your lighthouse. Ultimately, faith guided all of the prophets, including Moses. Faith brought the walls of Jericho down. The Red Sea was parted by
Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
faith, and Enoch was transformed by faith. Abraham was delivered by it. But the reality of the concept is still foreign to most of us because to follow and believe in what you can’t touch, see, or confirm by our senses goes against everything natural and learned in this life. If that was all there was to this, everybody should begin packing for hell because the devil has won. But there’s more to it, I believe.
We all know in the natural world that man does not live by bread alone. Love and its pursuit drive many of us to do great andsometimes ridiculous things. Can’t touch it. Friendship can characterize lifelong relationships and manifest itself in untold deeds of great significance. Can’t see it. Respect can change the behavior of the worst
“YOUR VOICE”
wrongdoers. Can’t taste or smell it. We are guided by the unseen every day in relation to people and things we honor and appreciate. The distinction must be brought to bear on faith in God instead of in man. You and I can easily have faith in a person we’ve come to trust. That manifests itself as loyalty. When we put God into the equation, we’re face to face with what we truly believe in or don’t believe in. You know, and He knows. BAM! Now what you gone do?
The dilemma, I believe, lies in this struggle every person looking for the Lord must encounter. It takes a while to get there, but the decision is simple once there. One decision will bring the bread of the world. The other will bring the fruit of eternal life. The promise is, "If you have faith as a mustard
seed…nothing will be impossible to you.” Matthew 17:20.
The dilemma keeps us from seeking and, therefore, confronting our faith. I believe that’s just another tactic of the devil. As long as we do not confront the question of faith, we will never find the road to our own salvation. Patti LaBelle’s book is entitled “Don’t Block the Blessings.” I’m merely submitting for the record that I have work to do to come to grips with my faith so I can inherit the promise of grace and tell the devil he can have the rest of this stuff. It doesn’t mean anything anyway.
May God bless and keep you always.
This column is from James Washington’s Spiritually Speaking: Reflections for and from a New Christian. You can purchase this enlightening book on Amazon and start your journey toward spiritual enlightenment.
If 2025 is the Year of Intention, what is one thing you intend to make happen?
BRITTANY MOORE
Southwest Atlanta
“I'm going to have a lot of intentionality in putting myself first. I love my job. I work a lot, so I want to do some self-healing self-reflection and spend more time with my family.”
REGINALD O’NEAL
Stone Mountain
“The intent for me this year is to get more in shape and be more conscious of my health. There are a lot of people around me who have passed away from health issues that could have been prevented. That's something that I'm now more intent on doing, being more conscious of what I put in my body and how I move. So that's one of the main focuses I will have this year is to write content about. My actual. And one of those things is to lose weight.”
Atlanta Old Fourth Ward
“It's calmness. I was looking for how to phrase it. Yeah. The intention I'm working on for 2025 is moving with the intent of calmness, keeping my energy calm, working with speaking clearly, keeping my voice tone calm, and cooling down my thoughts. 2024 had me hyped, that's for sure. And so, I'm going to calm down this coming year.”
CEDRIC GRACE
Decatur
“I want to be more intent regarding how I invest my funds. To do more with real estate, more things in stock.
I'm also on this new health kick, living a better life regarding holistic mind, body, and soul. I want to be more intentional in my decisions regarding myself and my finances. Have a great day.”
Compiled by Vincent Christie
BY AZIAH SIID
It’s an undisputed fact: the number of K-12 special education students is slowly but steadily rising, having increased significantly over the last decade. Studies also show that, of the nation’s roughly 7.5 million special education students, nearly 2 in 10 are Black.
Given the nationwide shortage of special education teachers, it makes sense that some districts would outsource some of their duties to a robot— namely, artificial intelligence. Powerful computer programs can help write lesson plans and customize them for individual students’ needs, among other things. With AI technology changing every day, education professionals are working diligently to dissect its role in K-12. Part of that research examines how AI shows up in special education and its impact on students with disabilities, especially Black students with disabilities.
Although it may seem like a godsend to stressed-out SpEd teachers and students with different learning abilities, experts say it’s unclear whether AI is a help or hindrance for Black special-education students. One big issue: the lack of people of color in AI development, a problem that often means technology that has racial and cultural blind spots.
“I work with product developers that are investigating ways that their products and features of their products can specifically impact black, Latino, and students experiencing high poverty,” says Shayla Cornick, director of research and development at Digital Promise, a nonprofit education organization. “And what they’re trying to do is look for ways to increase motivation, engagement, and persistence of these students.”
In the 2022-23 school year, 15% of all public school students received special education or related services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
From interactive online lesson plans to ways families can check their student’s progress — AI already plays a role in special education. That’s why experts believe families also need to be a part of the conversation on how the latest tech is deployed in the classroom.
Incorporating AI Into Special Education
Cornick — and many others advocating for inclusion — say the scarcity of representation in tech can trickle down to marginalized students like students with disabilities.
Most students engage with AI through platforms like ClassDojo, which keeps them informed about lessons, and Kahoot!, which encourages classroom engagement and participation.
“I think it has a lot of potential to offer additional kinds of resources and support, for students that are typically lacking in the types of support and guidance that they receive,” Cornick says.
Platforms like Digital Promise have tools like the Learner Variability Project, which creates guides for educators and students with unique needs.
“Being able to customize dialects, being able to customize imagery and the environment around them to learn in really cool ways — it’s really interesting and exciting to hear and see,” Cornick says. “I’m also seeing them doing a lot with having the tools to adjust to the behaviors of the students.”
However, teachers need to be aware that not all AI tools will work for all students. And, racial bias can also show up in AI-generated responses and images.
“There is a lot of backdoor stuff happening with AI around who’s creating the models and what that process looks like,” Cornick says. “So I think there should be a level of transparency that product developers provide around how and if AI has been used in teachers’ work.”
Continued from page 2
United owner and philanthropist Arthur Blank. That list also includes the President.
“What I find extraordinary about Jimmy Carter, he lived a life, not by words, but by his deed,” Biden said about Carter from the St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands during a televised address to the nation on Sunday, Dec. 28. “We send our whole heartfelt sympathies and gratitudes.” Biden added that Carter was a beloved statesman all over the world and that he embodied the fundamental human values that make the world a better place.
“I think he’s happy with Rose,” said Biden about the late First Lady Rosalyn Carter.
“President Jimmy Carter leaves an amazing legacy of humility, principled leadership and service to humankind. A former state Senator, Governor as well as President, his greatest contributions came as a citizen and all he accomplished in his post-presidency,” Bryant said in a statement sent to The Atlanta Voice.
“A warrior for civil rights, fair elections and global peace, this
life-long Sunday School teacher lived out his Christian faith daily, boldly and consistently. We pause to celebrate the life and legacy of a good and faithful servant. New Birth is praying for the Carter family as they mourn the profound loss of this good man.”
Carter was born on Oct. 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia. The son of a peanut farmer, Carter would join the United States Navy and upon being honorably discharged following a distinguished career, he began a career in politics.
Carter served as a Georgia State Senator from 1963-1967. He also served as the 76th Governor of Georgia from 1971-1975. While serving as Governor, civil rights were a high priority for Carter. Carter championed the hiring of Black state employees. He also commissioned portraits of three prominent black Georgians to the capitol building: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Lucy Craft Laney, and Henry McNeal Turner.
Memorial and funeral plans for Carter in Plains, Atlanta, and Washington, D.C. are currently being planned by the family and the United States Department of Defense.
BY STAFF REPORT
On December 21, 2024, Donnell Suggs, Editor-in-Chief of The Atlanta Voice, and his wife, Chia Suggs, who serves as both Advertising Administrator and Executive Assistant to the Publisher, had the honor of attending a holiday reception at the White House. This exclusive event brought together a diverse group of guests from print, digital, and radio media, highlighting the essential role that varied voices play in shaping public discourse in the nation.
For Donnell, receiving an invitation was not only a personal achievement but also a significant recognition of The Atlanta Voice’s unwavering commitment to amplifying the stories of individuals often overlooked by mainstream media. As Editor-in-Chief, he has dedicated himself to ensuring that the publication remains a cornerstone of news coverage, cultural insights, and community engagement.
The Atlanta Voice is dedicated to shaping the narrative surrounding the African American diaspora by producing and distributing compelling, informative, and educational content across multiple platforms that will focus the world’s attention on what it truly means to be Black in America.
BY ISAIAH SINGLETON
Meet Theresa Butler, CEO and owner of premier Atlanta-based interior design firm Theresa Butler Interiors, known for blending traditional elegance with modern flair, infusing each space with a touch of whimsy.
A native of Nashville, Tennessee, Butler has an MS in nurse anesthesia, but interior design has been her calling since she was 12. The COVID-19 pandemic ignited her desire to change careers and spend more time doing what she loves: interior design.
Founded in 2001, Theresa Butler Interiors was born from a vision of cultivating valued client relationships through respect, trust, and confidence in delivering beautiful designs in various styles, time frames, and requirements.
The company’s design philosophy is rooted in the belief that every home has a story to tell.
“We design custom interiors that are not just visually stunning but deeply functional, infused with old or cherished pieces that reflect our client’s unique narratives and personalities, creating spaces that spark conversation and inspire a love for home,” Butler said.
Butler’s passion for interior design stems from her desire to create spaces that reflect her client’s personalities and lifestyles. She finds joy in discovering what makes clients happy and bringing it to life through their homes.
Before fully immersing herself in interior design in 2020, Theresa worked as a nurse anesthetist for over a decade. The pandemic ignited her desire to change careers and return to doing more of what she loves: interior design.
“It [interior design] wasn’t fulltime because I was a full-time nurse anesthetist with a local pediatric hospital in Atlanta,” she said. “Due to the pandemic, I decided to do more of what I love and what causes me less stress and offers me more happiness and enjoyment.”
Even though Butler prioritized interior design, she is still incredibly involved as a nurse anesthetist. In addition to her design work, Butler takes
passion for design and a commitment
mission trips to provide nursing care to families and children in need.
Recently, she took her first trip to Ghana, where she helped with several types of surgeries people needed.
Butler also says she enjoys taking care of children, and if there’s an opportunity to give back, volunteer, and help people, she follows her heart.
“When I was asked about going on this mission trip to Ghana to assist with all different types of surgeries people need, I said let’s do it,” she said. “We were there for about two weeks and cared for hundreds of patients, adults, and children; it was an eye-opening and rewarding experience.”
She’s also been to Montego Bay, Jamaica.
Theresa Butler: The Creative Butler’s inspiration as an interior designer is finding beauty in many things, such as artwork, nature, plants, flowers, and a plethora of colors.
“It lights a fire under me and makes me want to create things, and that’s where my desire to paint my-
self comes from,” she said.
Additionally, Butler’s favorite projects she’s worked on didn’t begin as her favorites, she says. As the project progressed, Butler said she ended up thinking to herself, ‘Oh wow, this is really turning out great; I really love it.’
Her inspirations come from other designers who aren’t afraid to mix different designs and colors people wouldn’t normally mix, such as Nadia Watts and Corey Damen Jenkins.
Additionally, she says that although she honestly loves residential design, she wants to see her and her team expand into commercial design in five to ten years.
“We have a lot to offer and to share when it comes to our point of view of design, and I have felt like it’s been hard to tap into commercials because we don’t have a lot of commercials to show people,” she said.
Butler also says clients sometimes ask what they have done regarding commercial design, and she often says, “You can be my first; let’s do this.” Butler has done commercial
work before, she says, but the work at this point is outdated and would not be displayed.
Additionally, Butler says she enjoys being a small firm and wants to remain one.
“Over the summer, we have four employees, and right now, we have three solid employees. It works really well for me and us as a team,” she said.
She says having a black-owned business means sharing your craft with other people who want to learn your craft. The importance of having a black-owned business, she said, is helping other people who don’t necessarily “want to be in your business but be in business” and helping them or at least showing them how to get where they want to be.
“People of color need some guidance; they don’t know where to go or what to do when they reach out to you, so be available to them, even if it’s in small ways, so you can let them know they have support and help in any way,” she said.
She also said that sometimes people get busy in life, but to communicate and say, “Hey, thanks for reaching out. I would love to help right now; however, I can’t, but let’s stay in touch.”
Furthermore, Butler said she has seen both sides of a small, blackowned business where she’s met people who have open arms and are happy to help and the other side where no words can get out.
“You have a side where they don’t see you as competition, and there’s plenty of work for all of us, and then there’s the side where you can’t get
a word out, and I’m thinking to myself, this isn’t what I want to be,” she said. “I want to be on the other side, embracing others.”
Butler says business goals for 2025 are to be more selective about the type of project they’re doing and elevate their clients and their own visions as designers.
“We are more honed into curating beautiful custom spaces, designs you don't see often. We want to create spaces that are not the norm, unique, custom, and special,” she said.
As for advice to creatives and entrepreneurs alike, Butler said to find a support system because there will be days when a person may feel like they can’t do it.
“It’s simply not true that you can’t do it. When you feel like you can’t do it or you don’t have what it takes, you must reach out to that support system,” she said. “It’s not enough just to have them; you have to use them because they can’t help you if you don’t reach out.”
Butler says when she has creative blockage, she speaks to her tribe, who she works with, and who is around her.
“When you can be honest, transparent, reach out to people you trust, and you can say, ‘Hey guys, I have no idea what to do with this space, I’m counting on you all to help me with ideas and what direction we could go in,’” she said.
Butler also says to keep going. “I cannot say that enough; it’s not going to be roses for the entire journey. There will be difficulties, but you must keep going,” she said.
BY NOAH WASHINGTON
The Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA), the only design-focused museum in the Southeastern United States, currently hosts Characters: Type in Action. The exhibition features the work of Tre Seals, one of the world’s few Black typographers. Seals took an unsung everyday necessity—typography, the style and appearance of printed matter— and tied it to pivotal historical moments.
Seals’ typefaces are deeply rooted in history, drawing inspiration from the Underground Railroad, the Civil Rights Movement, and the Women’s Suffrage Movement. This exhibit includes creations like the “Harriet” typeface, named after legendary Black freedom fighter Harriet Tubman. This font incorporates quilt patterns believed to have guided enslaved individuals who were not literate to safety traveling along the Underground Railroad, transforming these historical symbols into digital characters. Susan Sanders, MODA’s Development Director, remarks, “In the 1850s, enslaved individuals couldn’t read but could recognize patterns. These quilts were an early form of typography—a visual language for survival.” The exhibit’s displayed typefaces are not merely decorative elements but carriers of activism with a deep history
Laura Flusche, MODA’s Executive Director, explains, “Design is one of the most powerful tools we have for taking on the challenges of the 21st century.” She emphasizes that design’s potential extends beyond its aesthetic qualities, serving as a means to address pressing societal issues. Seals’ work goes beyond aesthetics, recontextualizing historical fonts to honor the legacy of civil rights leaders and movements. For example, his “VTC Martin” typeface pays homage to Martin Luther King Jr. by recreating the lettering used in the iconic “I Am A Man” placards from the 1968 Memphis sanitation workers’ strike. This font gained national prominence, appearing in Black Lives Matter murals and public campaigns, symbolizing contemporary activism.
Other notable typefaces include “VTC Dubois,” inspired by W.E.B. Du Bois’ infographics presented at the 1901 Paris Exposition, and “VTC Ruby,” named after Ruby Bridges. “Ruby” reimagines fonts historically tied to the Jim Crow era, reassigning new meanings to these typefaces to challenge their fraught histories and reclaim them as empowerment tools.
The exhibit also highlights the contemporary applications of Seals’ fonts, demonstrating their relevance in today’s social and political landscapes. From political campaigns to public art, organizations consciously choose Seals’ typefaces to align their messaging with social justice and activism themes. No -
tably, Stacey Abrams utilized Seals’ designs in her political materials, further cementing their significance in modern movements.
Flusche notes, “Everything in the world is designed, from the clothes we wear to the toothbrushes we use. Typography is an everyday part of our lives, yet we rarely con-
in shaping society.
Engagement with the exhibit doesn’t stop at observation—MODA ensures that attendees can become creators themselves. Visitors will find printouts of Seals’ fonts. Armed with glue sticks, scissors, and Sharpies, they are invited to design posters inspired by the exhibit’s themes. This hands-on activity fosters a sense of connection and creativity as guests use design to express their messages.
role of design
sider its impact.” The Characters: Type in Action exhibit seeks to change this perception, urging visitors to recognize typefaces as powerful tools for storytelling and advocacy. By showcasing how typography intersects with history and activism, MODA encourages its audience to rethink
Characters: Type in Action is on display until January 20, 2025.
BY NOAH WASHINGTON
“We ATL, right?” was the call to arms from rapper and entrepreneur Rick Ross, energizing the crowd gathered to see him do what he does best—get the people going.
Atlanta was dressed to the nines on Sunday, Dec. 29, as Ross returned to the Atlanta Symphony Hall for "Rick Ross: A Holiday Affair", a one-of-a-kind orchestral experience. Presented by Opus World Entertainment, the event blended hip-hop’s energy with the refinement of classical music, performed by The Atlanta Pop Orchestra, showcasing Rick Ross’s musical catalog.
Celebrating the rich hip-hop history that Atlanta has come to be known by; Ross took to the stage alongside the Atlanta Pops Orchestra in an emerald green tuxedo and black mink fur coat with shades and cane in hand against the backdrop of the song “Everyday Hustle” battling against the roaring of an excited crowd.
Ross’s setlist included some of his greatest hits, such as “B.M.F. (Blowin’ Money Fast)” and “Diced Pineapples.” Attendees took to their feet to rock out with Ross and were treated to a special surprise appearance by Cee-Lo Green on "Tears of Joy”, performed for the first time together Ross stated.
The full setlist performed by Ross was as follows (in order):
Act One:
• Everyday Hustle
• Fuckwithmeyouknowigotit
• I’m Not a Star
• Hard in the Paint
• 9 Piece
• All I Do Is Win
• I’m On One
• Magnificent
• Diced Pineapples
• Hustlin’
Act Two:
• B.M.F. (Blowin’ Money Fast)
• MC Hammer
• Tears of Joy
• I Can Make Cocaine
• Here I Am
• Devil in a New Dress
• Pop That
• Rich Forever
• T ype of N**A
Integral to the night’s ambiance was the decor welcoming attendees inside the Symphony Hall, featuring work by Andrene T. Kong, founder of We Like to Party ATL. Tasked with bringing a jungle-inspired theme to life, Kong, who was commissioned by Philana Williams & Opus World Enter-
tainment to bring to life the vision, created a dazzling tropical environment in just a few days. “I had a huge vision for this place, and it’s literally alive right now because of everybody God sent me to bring it together. I had an excellent team,” Kong shared.
The decor featured handcrafted vines and tropical motifs, alluding to Ross’s and Kong’s shared Florida roots. “Growing up, I loved visiting places like the Rainforest Café, and I drew from those memories,” Kong explained.
DJ Big X ATL, an Atlanta DJ and president of Coalition DJs, captured the essence of Atlanta that night, “Man, it’s always amazing to see us out here looking elegant and fashionable. What Ross has done over the years, from the trap days of ‘Hustlin’” to now collaborating with orchestras, shows incredible elevation. It’s inspiring for artists to see this and set their goals high. If I were an artist, I’d look at what Ross is doing and aim to build a catalog that could one day bring me to this stage.”
The event was also a full-circle moment for Big X ATL, who reflected on the significance of Ross’s contributions to the Coalition DJs. “He’s been like family, rocking with us at anniversaries, collaborating on projects, and supporting our artists. He’s showcasing that energy tonight, setting the vibe for everyone here.”
Nuface, a culture preserver documenting hip-hop’s evolution, emphasized the event’s significance in showcasing Atlanta’s pivotal role in the genre’s growth—from the era of Freaknik to the rise of crunk, trap, and now orchestral collaborations. Nuface states that Atlanta has always been at the forefront of innovation, “It warms my heart to see somebody as successful still be out and be approachable to the people and give back opportunities and shows like that. You know, it's not where nobody can get in. Tickets are available to the whole city, not in Miami. This is Atlanta”.
BY LAURA NWOGU AND DONNELL SUGGS
Two members of the editorial staff at The Atlanta Voice reviewed "Wicked" for the latest "Try This". One, a female in her 20's, the other, a male in his 40's. The latter grew up on "The Wizard of Oz" while the former had only seen the classic movie once in her life. The elder read the book "Wicked" several times, while the younger was looking forward to seeing the movie in order to learn the story of the world-famous Broadway smash turned Hollywood blockbuster.
Here are our reviews.
'I cried. I laughed. I sat in awe. - By Laura Nwogu
Walking out of seeing “Wicked” was like several different puzzle pieces finally clicking together. I’d only seen “The Wizard of Oz” and “The Wiz” maybe once in my life, and even then, my young mind only captured bits and pieces. So, I walked into my local theater essentially blind, save for the bits and pieces of the popular tale that followed me throughout my life, whether it was through renditions of songs such as “Popular” and “Defying Gravity” or references in
the media. As soon as the last notes of Cynthia Erivo’s powerful version of “Defying Gravity” slid into the end credits, I finally understood the magic of living in Oz because I also felt that same magic. Watching Erivo as Elphaba was like discovering my own yellow brick road.
Each role in “Wicked” felt like actors donning a custom-made suit. While many may have been skeptical of Ariana Grande as Glinda, I knew — as someone who grew up watching her on TV — that the role was one that she would do justice. And that’s exactly what she did.
I cried. I laughed. I sat in awed silence. The storyline was more than I’d imagined, with themes of identity, discrimination, the fight for equality, and sisterhood that resonated with me as a young Black woman. If you'd told me a film adaptation of "Wicked" would be my favorite movie of 2024, I probably would've laughed. But if you'd told me that Erivo would leave a lasting impression like her tear-inducing rendition of “I'm Here” from the 2015 Broadway revival of the musical “The Color Purple," I would pause in understanding.
From beginning to end, watching Erivo and Grande felt like a masterclass in portraying the magic of musicals. They can be
funny and silly, but also touching and tragic. They can make you feel good and cause you to look within yourself to discover how you, too, can defy gravity.
Defying Gravity and much moreDonnell Suggs
"Nobody in all of Oz, no wizard that there is or was, is ever gonna bring me down" said Elphaba Thropp, the future Wicked Witch of the West played by actress Cynthia Erivo. "Wicked," starring Erivo, singer/actress Ariana Grande as Glinda, and many others including Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard of Oz, is a story about good and evil, and what happens when the two mix company. It can also be seen as a unique alternative universe to the most recent United States presidential election we took part in. Trust me on this one.
"Wicked" tells the story of the "Wizard of Oz" but through the lens of Elphaba and Glinda, students at Shizz University when they first meet, but later becoming roommates at Shizz, rivals, good friends, and later important pieces to the puzzle that is Oz.
Already a huge fan of Gregory Maguire's bestselling novel that the movie and Broadway hit's named after, I am now a big fan of the movie "Wicked". It was both entertaining and important. First, the reason why I believe the film is important is because Erivo plays the most important role in part one of the three-part series. Elphaba believes in
herself and her "unlimited future" (see: the "Wicked' soundtrack) despite being in spaces where she will not see anyone else that look like her. Many of us Black Americans deal with this every day, particularly if you are a journalist. Covering the Democratic and Republican presidential campaigns from across the country this year, for example, I was almost always the only Black man in the presidential press pool van. I believed that I belonged there representing Atlanta's only print Black-owned newspaper. "I'm through playing by the rules of someone else's game," said Elphaba when she made up her mind about not being a pawn for the Wizard. "I'm through with accepting limits become someone says they're so."
As I sat in the AMC Southlake theater watching the movie on Friday, Dec. 28, I thought about the times I defied gravity (see: the "Wicked" soundtrack, again) this year as the Editor-in-Chief of a Black newspaper. The times I looked around and felt like my skin was green like Alphaba's is in the movie, on stage, and in the books. "Wicked" spoke to me like few films have this year.
Towards the end of the movie, Elphaba sings, "Everyone deserves a chance to fly," and I agree. Though I recommend everyone read the "Wicked" series of books, I also highly recommend seeing the movie. If you have ever been through something, anything, you will immediately understand the Elphaba character.
BY CLAYTON GUTZMORE
NFL Hall of Fame player Art Still has become an advocate for raising awareness about a rare disease called amyloidosis. This condition affects one in 25 African Americans, and its symptoms can significantly impact the daily lives of those who have it. Currently, some of Still's family members are also living with the disease. He is using this chapter of his life to educate current and retired athletes across all sports about amyloidosis. By drawing attention to this issue, Still hopes to promote preventive measures that can benefit everyone.
"Getting awareness out there is one of the things we are trying to do now. The results of Amyloidosis can diminish your life expectancy. When Amyloidosis happens, we want doctors to treat the core problem, not the symptoms," said Art Still, Former NFL star.
Still was diagnosed with Amyloidosis in September 2023. According to the Mayo Clinic, this disease causes the body to produce abnormal proteins that stick together and deposit in tissues and organs. This buildup of these abnormal proteins is called amyloid. A thick enough buildup of amyloid can cause organs like the spleen, heart, and liver to fail. The disease is hereditary. According to Still, 1.6 million African Americans are unknowingly carrying the disease.
Symptoms of amyloidosis include fatigue, gastrointestinal issues, and pain in the shoulders and hips. These symptoms typically do not surface until individuals are in their 40s or 50s.
James Still, the brother of Still, experienced these issues. They were severe enough for him to require surgery. Despite these challenges, he was a defensive end for the Kansas City Chiefs during the 1970s. Throughout his career, he under-
went shoulder surgeries and dealt with carpal tunnel syndrome. Recently, he discovered he had an irregular heartbeat but was unsure of the cause. It wasn't until he had a medical checkup at Tulane Medical Center in New Orleans that he was diagnosed with amyloidosis.
"It's been an eye-opener for me to learn that other players I
competed with, as well as some younger athletes who just retired, are facing Amyloidosis. I recently discovered that former NBA players like Nate Archibald and John Chaney are dealing with this condition. I feel it is my responsibility to spread the word," said Still.
To take action, Still co-founded the Amyloidosis Army in April 2024, partnering with patient advocate Mike Lane, who also has Amyloidosis and has been actively raising awareness about the disease. This organization aims to increase awareness of Amyloidosis and provide support to those affected, ensuring they don't have to suffer alone.
The Amyloidosis Army focuses on education and advocacy to promote early diagnosis and effective treatment. Based in Kansas City, MO, Still and his team have hosted presentations with the current roster of the Kansas City Chiefs and the NFL Player Alumni Associations. In November, they met with staff at a local hospital to educate them about Amyloidosis.
"We have been working to educate people about the symptoms of Amyloidosis and how it affects our bodies. We recently gave a presentation on the disease with the Chiefs. One individual mentioned that he had already discussed this condition with his doctor. We provided him with a booklet about the disease, which he shared with his doctor on his next visit. Our goal is to empower individuals to advocate for themselves regarding Amyloidosis," said Still.
Looking ahead, Still and the Army plan to continue discussions about Amyloidosis. They have recently engaged in conversations with the state Department of Health. Still hopes that more of his retired athlete friends will share their experiences with the disease. He is leveraging his network to help address this medical issue.
BY DONNELL SUGGS
It's that time of year again when people start thinking about how to get healthier, stronger, faster, and more flexible. The gym is always one way to change your life positively. The “New Year, new me” craze might not be for you, but a gym with several amenities for the many ways you stay in shape might be.
Life Time, a Minnesota-based, national fitness brand, recently opened a new location in the North Druid Hills section. The Atlanta Voice recently received a guided tour of the facility.
Josh Neal, the gym's head trainer, and Tara Esmiel, the lead general at Life Time North Druid Hills, gave the tour and immediately showed us to the recovery area where lounge chairs and massage chairs awaited. Along with this area, several rooms and studios are designated for other physical pursuits. There's a dance studio, a barre studio for ballet, a cycle studio, a pilates studio, and a yoga studio. According to Mead, the yoga studio will be home to MB360, the new full-body yoga class that will begin in February 2025 and focus on
the connection between mind and body. "It's our newest format," Neal said with a smile. "Think of 32 years of innovation in this one location," Neal, who has worked for the company for 14 years, said. "We're all about serving our members, and our members are what sets us apart."
There is an indoor and outdoor pool for swimmers. The latter is part of the gym’s Beach Club, which also has cabanas for lounging out by the pool. If relaxing is your thing, but not at pools, the Life Spa offers another option.
Life Time has six outdoor pickleball courts, six tennis courts, three indoor pickleball courts, and an outdoor courtside bar and lounge. It feels more like a country club in the middle of DeKalb County. "Atlanta needs this," Esmiel said. "A lot under one roof."
Neal said this location is different from any other Life Time location. There are 11 Life Time locations in the state of Georgia, all of which are within Metro Atlanta.
Life Time North Druid Hills is located at 1515 Sheridan Rd., NE. and is open Monday-Friday 4 a.m.-midnight; Saturday-Sunday 6 a.m.-11 p.m.
BY ITORO N. UMONTUEN
NEW ORLEANS, La. - A pickup truck plowed into a crowd on Bourbon Street in the early morning hours of New Year’s Day. 42-year-old Shamsud Din Jabbar is identified as the suspect. He was killed by police. The terrorist attack killed 15 people and injured 35.
President Joseph R. Biden spoke to members of the press Wednesday afternoon following a briefing on the attack.
“The FBI reported to me the killer was an American citizen born in Texas,” Biden said. “They also reported to me that hours before the attack he posted videos on social media indicating he was inspired by ISIS.”
Jabbar posted videos on social media “mere hours” before the attack “indicating that he was inspired by ISIS.”
A student at the University of Georgia has been identified as one of the injured victims. The yet unnamed student is in critical condition. University President Dr. Jere Morehead expressed sorrow over the gut-wrenching moments. He con -
firmed that the injured student is receiving medical treatment. Also, he had spoken directly with the student’s family to share support and well wishes on behalf of the UGA community.
“I would like to express my gratitude to all the first responders who moved so quickly to help those affected by this senseless act of violence, as well as to the medical personnel who are caring for the injured,” Morehead said in the statement.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp also issued a statement offering condolences.
“Marty, the girls and I ask for all Georgians to join us in praying for the City of New Orleans and all those affected by last night’s horrific tragedy. We send our deepest condolences to the families of those lives lost and pray for the recovery of those injured.”
The College Football Playoff quarterfinal game between the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the Georgia Bulldogs was rescheduled to be played on Thursday, Jan. 2 due to the attack. The game was originally planned for Jan. 1.
BY DONNELL SUGGS
The last day of 2024 saw the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets win their first Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) game of the season after defeating visiting Notre Dame 86-75. The victory was the second consecutive victory for the Yellow Jackets.
On Saturday, Jan. 4, the Yellow Jackets will play back-toback ACC games for the first time this season when the Boston College Eagles come to town. Georgia Tech, 7-4 at McCamish Pavilion this season, has played the large majority of their games on campus thus far. Following the game against the Eagles, head coach Damon Stoudamire, his staff, and the Yellow Jackets will play consecutive road games at Syracuse and at SMU on Jan. 7 and 11.
The Yellow Jackets' experienced players were the difference in the game against Notre Dame. Senior Lance Terry scored six straight points for the Yellow Jackets during a drought that saw the Fighting Irish go on 11-0 and 11-3 runs. Asked about having players like Terry that have played under pressure in multiple situations, Georgia Tech head coach Damon Stoudamire said, “I’d do anything for Lance. He’s a good kid from a good family.”
Georgia Tech started the game against Notre Dame strong, going ahead 7-1 following a layup by sophomore guard Nathan George. The Toronto native had a tough shooting night against Alabama A&M on Saturday, but did lead the team with 10 assists. Georgia Tech had a season-high 27 assists during the 92-49 victory.
Notre Dame would pull closer, even taking their only lead of the first half at 12-11 before the Yellow Jackets saw senior Javian McCollum and sophomore Baye Ndongo go on mini-scoring runs to take the lead back and keep it heading into halftime. Georgia Tech led 43-24 at halftime and much of the credit for that could be evenly dispersed amongst the team. McCollum scored 10, Ndongo had eight, George added nine points, junior Duncan Powell scored seven points, and Terry had five points, respectively.
Consecutive three-pointers from Notre Dame freshman guard and head coach Micah Shrewsberry’s son Braeden Shrewsberry brought the Fighting Irish to within seven points at the 12:29 mark of the second half. About his team’s fight during the second half, Shrewsberry said they have to be ready to do that at the start of the games. “That’s on me,” he said. “Credit to Georgia Tech. I thought Damon had his guys ready to go.”
At that point in the game Yellow Jacket freshman Jaeden Mustaf had more personal fouls (3) than points (2). Mustaf came into the game averaging just under 10 points per game. In order for Georgia Tech to remain competitive in the ACC they will need much better starts from Mustaf, a highly regarded recruit coming out of Overtime Elite in Atlanta.
Notre Dame would get as close at five points near the eight-minute mark before Powell and McCollum, the Yellow Jackets most experienced players (both have played for multiple college basketball programs before matriculating to Atlanta) calmed things down. Powell scored 14 points during the second half. He did miss several crucial free throws late in the game, but dunked home two points that put the home team in front by 11 points with 2:41 to play in the game. Powell even drew an offensive foul while fighting through a Notre Dame screen late in the game.
After the game, Powell said he enjoys playing in “high intensity” games. “Whenever I quit thinking and just let my point guards find me, I play better and things like that happen,” said Powell.
BY DENNIS MALCOLM BYRON AKA ALE SHARPTON
As the welcomed trend of all-electric automobiles continues to build, so does the innovation to make them more exciting, powerful, and attractive. The 2025 Ioniq 5 N Hyundai checks all the boxes and then some.
When the “N” badge is associated with the trim for any of this carmaker’s models, the auto industry is alerted that power and a thrilling ride follow with the goal to wow especially racing enthusiasts. The bonus is this model still maintains the comfort and roominess of the more practical Ioniq 5 from the 2022 generation’s launch; the N just possesses a demon under the hood.
While the cubic body, futuristic lighting, 21-inch alloy wheels, and “Soultronic” orange will collectively turn heads, let’s get straight to the excitement hiding behind the wheel. Minus the roars of what traditional gas-guzzling muscle cars produce, this EV is a silent assassin. Powered by dual high-performance electric motors, the Ioniq goes 0 to 60 mph in just over three seconds, plus a mind-boggling 601 horsepower and 545
lb-ft. of torque. And as if that’s not enough, the steering wheel has the automaker’s signature boost button, taking this SUV to a reportedly 641 mph. With all this power—plus paddle shifters, metal pedals, and shift-bywire gear selection to make things even more interesting—the handling is enhanced with all-wheel drive and electronically controlled suspension. The driving range is 221 miles and takes about 8.7 hours to charge.
There are plenty of perks Hyundai provides with their automobiles, and the Ionic 5 continues the applauded tradition. Besides terrorizing the road, the packages in this review model are highly recommended, from safety to the 2025-and-beyond technology bundled in one. The amenities are plentiful, including Alcantara with Hi-Tex seating, sport bucket front seats, and an overall spacious cabin to fit up to five adults comfortably lit up with
ambient lighting. Mastering the art of minimalism, the user-friendly controls activate the vibrant 12.3-inch digital cluster, surround view monitor with a bird’s eye perspective, digital rearview mirror, eight-speaker BOSE sound system, WiFi, Apple/Android connectivity, and long list of standard features you must go to the website to explore. Note that the Hyundai’s Bluelink app provides even more advantageous functions to activate remotely. Of course, Hyundai’s industry leading warranties—5 years/60,000 miles (new vehicle) and 10 years /100,000 miles (EV System) ease the mind as well.
Going electric is one thing. Experiencing an electrifying drive no matter the journey is another. If potential buyers are looking for both qualities, go all the way in with this N trim. The future awaits.
Fuel Economy: In MPGe, 84 city/72 highway/78 combined
Price: The 2025 IONIQ 5 N is $67,685 including options, handling, processing and delivery as reviewed.
For more information, visit Hyundaiusa. com.
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PROVIDED BY CULINARY.NET
The same old brunch menu week after week can become tiresome and dull. It’s bland, boring and your tastebuds get used to the same flavors repeatedly.
It’s time to add something new to the table with fresh ingredients and simple instructions to enhance your weekend spread.
Try this recipe for an Easy Brunch Quiche that is sure to have your senses swirling with every bite. This quiche is layered with many tastes and a variety of ingredients to give it crave-worthy flavor.
To create this dish, start with one package of broccoli and cheese then microwave it for 5 minutes until heated through. Add 12 slices of chopped bacon to a skillet. While cooking, add 1/2 cup of green onions. Cook for 2 minutes then add 1 cup of mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for 4 minutes and drain the grease.
In a small mixing bowl, combine four eggs and 1 cup of milk. Whisk together. Add egg mixture to the broccoli and cheese. Also add 1 cup of shredded cheese and stir the ingredients together.
In two separate pie shells, spoon in the bacon mixture then pour the egg and broccoli mixtures over the top. Sprinkle with a little more cheese then bake for 35-45 minutes at 350 F.
With a range of ingredients from broccoli to bacon, this quiche is a brunch hero. While baking, the cheese gets all melty, and with every bite the mushrooms add texture and earthy flavor. The ingredients combine together to make something warm, hearty and fresh.
Find more brunch recipes and cooking ideas at Culinary. net.
Serves: 12 1 package (10 ounces) frozen broccoli with cheese 12 slices bacon, chopped
1/2 cup green onions, sliced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
4 eggs
1 cup milk
1 1/2 cups shredded cheese, divided
2 frozen deep dish pie shells (9 inches each)
Heat oven to 350 F.
In medium bowl, add broccoli and cheese contents from package. Microwave 5 minutes, or until cheese is saucy. Set aside.
In skillet, cook chopped bacon 4 minutes. Add green onions; cook 2 minutes. Add mushrooms; cook 4 minutes, or until bacon is completely cooked and mushrooms are tender. Drain onto paper towel over plate. Set aside.
In medium bowl, whisk eggs and milk until combined. Add broccoli and cheese mixture. Add 1 cup cheese. Stir to combine. Set aside.
In pie shells, divide drained bacon mixture evenly. Divide broccoli mixture evenly and pour over bacon mixture. Sprinkle remaining cheese over both pies.
Bake 40 minutes.
Allow to cool at least 12 minutes before serving.
Note: To keep edges of crust from burning, place aluminum foil over pies for first 20 minutes of cook time. Remove after 20 minutes and allow to cook uncovered until completed.
