January 12-18, 2024 • Vol. 58 Issue 36 • FREE
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Crime is down throughout the city. PAGE 6
AROUND TOWN
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Forever King. King Forever.
No place on Earth celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day like Atlanta. The Atlanta Voice put together a list of eight celebrations, memorials, and events that honor the legacy and impact of Atlanta’s greatest son. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice
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Metro
ONLINE
10 can’t-miss places to visit in the winter
Eight events to participate in for MLK Day
D
BY ISAIAH SINGLETON r. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the annual remembrance of the late great American religious and civil rights leader, is celebrated nationally on Monday, Jan. 15. The Atlanta Voice curated eight events that are scheduled to take place throughout metro Atlanta to help celebrate the iconic legacy of MLK. From his birth in Atlanta to his education at Morehouse College and through his rise as a young pastor at Ebenezer Baptist Church and ultimately as one of the Civil Rights Movement stalwarts, King will always be remembered around the world. In Atlanta however, he is honored. Here are the following eight events:
1.
MLK Day Community Cleanup & BBQ Fundraiser at The Smith Family Ranch (Jan. 15, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) Location: 1950 East Atlanta Road, Stockbridge. For more information, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mlkday-community-cleanup-bbq-fundraiser-at-the-smith-familyranch-tickets-761495602847.
2.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Art & Film Celebration (Jan. 15, 1 p.m.) Location: 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs. For more information, visit https://www.sandyspringsga.gov/mlk.
3.
MLK Day – Drum Run (Jan. 15, 8 a.m. – Noon) Location: First Baptist Church of Doraville (5935 New Peachtree Road, Doraville) For more information, visit https://www.handsonatlanta.org/upcoming-events/mlk-day-5k-drum-run-1.
4.
Americorps MLK Day of Service (Jan. 15, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.) Location: Hands On Atlanta (600 Means Street Northwest, Atlanta) For more information, visit https://www.handsonatlanta.org/upcoming-events/americorps-mlk-day-of-service.
5.
Atlanta History Center presents: Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration (Jan. 16 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.) Location: 130 West Paces Ferry Road Northwest, Atlanta. For more information, visit https://www.atlantahistorycenter.com.
6.
MLK Annual Commemorative Service at Ebenezer Baptist Church (Jan. 16 Noon) Location: 101 Jackson Street, Atlanta For more information, visit https://www.ebenezeratl.org/.
7.
Atlanta Outdoor Escape Game: Martin Luther King Jr. Unwrap His Life & Legacy (All January) Location: 501 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta For more information, visit https://www.unation.com/event/atlanta-outdoor-escape-game-martin-luther-king-jr-unwrap-his-lifeand-legacy-46865528/.
8. Dr. Martin Luther King Day is celebrated nationally on Monday, Jan. 15. The Atlanta Voice curated seven events to help celebrate the iconic legacy of MLK.
The Atlanta Hawks will play their annual MLK Day game against the San Antonio Spurs Location: State Farm Arena Time: tipoff is at 3:30 p.m. How much: Ticket prices vary
theatlantavoice.com • January 12-18, 2024, 2024 • Page 3
Metro
A Tale of Two Cities
A
BY DONNELL SUGGS group of people that made their way on foot from the At-Promise Center on Cameron Madison Alexander Blvd. up Griffin Street had many things in common. They were from two major southern cities, some were business owners while others were involved in local government. They also were on the same page about making their homes, Atlanta and Memphis, two of the safest cities in America. On Friday, Jan. 5, a contingent of Memphians, including members of the Greater Memphis Chamber and a representative of newly elected Memphis Mayor Paul Young’s office, traveled to Atlanta to better understand how the Atlanta Police Foundation has worked with community-focused organizations and with local businesses to create a safer city. A day earlier Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and Atlanta Police Department Chief Darin Schierbaum announced drops in major crimes throughout Atlanta on a yearto-year basis. Like many large cities during the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, Memphis has gone through bouts of crime and population loss. Part of the group of people from Memphis were Black small business owners who have a direct stake in the city’s future. A better, safer Memphis would not only be good for them as citizens but also as business owners, said Michael Hooks, Jr., owner and operator of Allworld Project Management, a project and program management services firm in Memphis. “I think the state of crime in Memphis is starting to have a negative effect on our ability to recruit and retain talent,” said Hooks, Jr. “If we don’t come together and form a response we’re all going to see a decline in growth and profitability.” The visit to Atlanta included a tour of police housing that is made possible by the Atlanta Police Foundation, which began in 2003 and includes programs such as the At-Promise initiative, the Atlanta Police Leadership Institute, and Connect Atlanta Operation Shield among others. The housing program allows Atlanta police officers to secure housing where they work. It is also used as a recruiting and retention tool. During the crime reduction statistics press conference on Thursday, the recruiting of future Atlanta Police Department officers was high on the 2024 wish list for both Dickens and Shierbaum. Housing incentives could
On Friday, Jan. 5, a contingent of Memphians, including members of the Greater Memphis Chamber and a representative of newly elected Memphis Mayor Paul Young’s office, traveled to Atlanta to better understand how the Atlanta Police Foundation has worked with community-focussed organizations and with local businesses to create a safer city. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice
Alandas Dobbins (above), the president of Oteka Technologies, a low-voltage cabling company in Memphis, said about the trip to Atlanta to learn more about what the Atlanta Police Foundation is doing, “This is my attempt at being a small part of that change.” Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice
help the Memphis Police Department with recruitment and retention. Other topics of discussion during a two-hour open forum included juvenile crime reduction, funding for public safety programs, youth initiatives, and fostering relationships between law enforcement and the community. Asked why she made the trip to Atlanta, Alandas Dobbins, the president of Oteka Technologies, a low-voltage cabling company in Memphis, said, “This is my attempt at
being a small part of that change.” Both of her adult children work at Oteka, which makes it a family business, said Dobbins, who once lived in Atlanta. “My office is in the inner city and I’m going to stay, but it’s important to us business owners to make this work,” she said. The two cities, Atlanta and Memphis, have more in common than differences. On the eve of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend, the contingent from Memphis listened to
presentations from Atlanta Police Foundation personnel, asked questions and took notes. “Memphis is not unique regarding public safety issues, but Memphis is uniquely situated to solve them,” said Greg Duckett, Chairman of the Greater Memphis Chamber Board. “What the Atlanta Police Foundation is doing is being a resource across the spectrum.” Duckett said looking at what is taking place in Atlanta and the success that comes from it doesn't have to be exactly duplicated in Memphis. "We don't have to reinvent the wheel, but how we can bring that to Memphis is why we are here," he said. Newly elected Memphis City Councilwoman Janika White was also in attendance. She said she made the trip to Atlanta to bring back "information" and "what's working and what's not." "The Atlanta Police Foundation seems to be really beneficial to this city, and I believe this is a great model to look at," said White, who is also an attorney. As the group made its way to one of the apartment buildings the Atlanta Police Foundation built for its officers, the Memphians, flanked by Atlanta Police Department officers, marched up the street in a formation similar to the ones that Civil Rights leaders took during the 1950's and 60's. An African proverb on teamwork reads as follows: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Memphis and Atlanta were together Friday morning.
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Voices
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“I really don’t think life is about the I-could-have-beens. Life is only about the I-tried-to-do. I don’t mind the failure but I can’t imagine that I’d forgive myself if I didn’t try.” — Nikki Giovanni
Progressives, You Can’t Shame the VOICE Shameless Into Acting Humane T H E AT L A N TA
FOUNDED
May 11, 1966
FOUNDER/EDITOR
BY ASWAD WALKER
F
or people with some semblance of morality, compassion, and human decency, being called a hypocrite is fighting words if the charge is wrong. If correct, though, for the human being labeled a hypocrite, that charge causes painful introspection – or more specifically, some level of shame. Most people view shame in the negative as something that possesses no value. However, psychologists, spirituals, and humans who possess human decency see shame as a critically important part of life. WHAT IS SHAME Shame is defined as “a painful feeling of humiliation or distress caused by the consciousness of wrong or foolish behavior.” The person who recognizes shame for what it is wants no part of it. I mean, who wants to feel ashamed of themselves or their actions? But that’s why shame is so important. For humane humans, feeling shame helps us to course correct to get back on the right track. When we’re called out for speaking or acting in ways that go against everything we say we believe and stand for, we feel shame and are internally motivated to change our behavior and get back on the right track. The thought of us acting in ways that contradict what we’ve declared to the world that we believe in induces the emotion we call shame. We want to do better and be better. We are
Spending time trying to shame the shameless into acting better is a waste of time. Photo Credit: Unsplash
disappointed in ourselves for not offering the world the best version of ourselves. Shame, then, is that reminder emotion – reminding us of who we really are, and that we are called to act and to live accordingly. THE SHAMELESS ARE DANGEROUS Thus, the most dangerous beings on the planet are those who don’t even possess the capacity to feel shame. They can lie, cheat, steal, and kill and feel zero remorse because they have zero “Fs” to give about shame. For regular folk, if we knowingly mistreat someone, we feel some level of shame (big or small) because we know we’re better than that. For the person with no shame, they can keep on moving without a care in the world. There’s a word that describes the no-shame folk – sociopath. Sociopaths, defined as a person with a personality disorder manifesting itself in extreme antisocial attitudes and behavior and a lack of conscience (ie, lack of shame), are considered the most dangerous beings on the planet for that very reason. They are capable of doing any vile act and not giving a damn. Years ago, a “friend” of mine, without going into the gory details, did me dirty. But because this person was a “friend,” we called in a mediator to help us find a path toward resolution so the relationship could be repaired. With the mediator present, my “friend” straight lied through their teeth about the incident in question and did so without blinking an eye. Seeing and hearing that hurt me more than the wrongdoing itself because I realized I was dealing with a being who lacked the capacity to feel shame. Now, I could have spent time staying around in that relationship, but it would have been a waste of time. Because expecting a person who has no shame to ever treat you with respect makes about as much sense as pissing in the wind. It’s all gonna come back on you!
PROGRESSIVES, GET ANOTHER STRATEGY Where am I going with this? Democrats, progressives, and liberals, whether individuals, elected officials or cable news pundits, spend the lion’s share of their time and energy trying to shame Republicans into acting like humans. They might as well be pissing in the wind. Republicans claim to be the party of law and order but have a long history of allowing the wealthy to get away with murder while demonizing the poor. GOP members claim to stand with law enforcement, but when police seek to hold them accountable, they start talking about beating and killing cops and even defunding the top US cop institution, the FBI. Republicans claim to be pro-veterans yet vote against funding VA hospitals and making sure vets receive the benefits they need so they don’t end up homeless. Republicans claim to be prolife but only offer “thoughts and prayers” after mass shooting, and stand against abortion but want to kill everybody who isn’t a right-wing white male hetero-Christian. GOP folk, especially the Christian Right, declare LGBTQ members to be abominations against God, yet are always being caught living LGBTQ lives on the low. Republicans claim to stand for democracy, yet there’s not enough room on their “inner-nets” to break down all the ways they actively and openly undercut democracy, choosing rather to worship white power and the myth of white supremacy. The issue is, you can confront Republicans on each of these points and the other millions I could have listed, and it will make no difference. They’re gonna keep on being hypocrites. They’re gonna keep on being anti-everybody but themselves. They’re gonna keep on swearing they are the epitome of spiritually faithful yet doing devilish things with a smile on their face. Why? Because they have no shame. Investing time trying to shame them, thinking it will move them to self-reflect and course correct once confronted with the error of their ways, is a fool’s errand. Because to them, their hypocritical ways are not an error. They’re standard operating procedures. So, if you’re a human who possesses morals, compassion, and human decency, please don’t waste your valuable time, attention, and energy trying to convert sociopaths. There are a gazillion other ways your time, our time, can be better spent instead of wasting time pissing in the wind.
Ed Clayton
Immortalis Memoria
PUBLISHER/EDITOR
J. Lowell Ware Immortalis Memoria The Atlanta Voice honors the life of J. Lowell Ware. PUBLISHER Janis Ware jlware@theatlantavoice.com PRESIDENT/ GENERAL MANAGER James A. Washington jaws@theatlantavoice.com EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO PUBLISHER Chia Suggs csuggs@theatlantavoice.com EDITOR IN CHIEF Donnell Suggs editor@theatlantavoice.com GENERAL ASSIGNMENT REPORTER Janelle Ward jward@theatlantavoice.com GENERAL ASSIGNMENT REPORTER Isaiah Singleton isingleton@theatlantavoice.com EDITOR AT LARGE Stan Washington swashington@theatlantavoice.com MANAGING EDITOR, DIGITAL Itoro Umontuen iumontuen@theatlantavoice.com
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CONTACT INFORMATION 633 Pryor Street, S.W. Atlanta, GA 30312 Office: 404-524-6426 info@theatlantavoice.com
theatlantavoice.com • January 12-18, 2024, 2024 • Page 5
Voices SPIRITUALLY SPEAKING
Now That’s a Party Blessed to be Invited To
F BY JAMES A. WASHINGTON
The Atlanta Voice
or some reason, the phrase ‘rejuvenated in the spirit’ is resonating with me right now. My reference point however is the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, if you can believe that. I have been revisiting Christ’s last experience on earth and was struck by the fact that God’s Christ had to be excited, if not relieved to be going home. I mean think about it this way. He humbled himself by putting on human skin to fulfill the new covenant under which we all now live. Now some of y’all might think I’m being a little sacrilegious here, but I promise you I am not. After the beatings, stabbing, thorns and nails, after the praying to not have to go through the save the world ordeal and that father forgive them they don’t get it, I am sure Jesus was ready to get up out of here. Job well done! Mission accomplished! Let’s go be
I am because He is. I will because He fulfilled the Word and I’ll see you when you get there. God again. What a rush! Can you imagine the celebration in heaven at the return of this Son? Now if you remember before He left, He spent a little more time hanging out, letting folk see touch and feel His redemption of us. I can’t help but sense His expectancy of being a member of the Godhead again, as He continued to fulfill His calling. I know many of you can attest to a special feeling at knowing you’re going ‘home’ for Thanksgiving, Christmas, family reunions and other infrequent anniversaries and celebrations which bring sheer joy just at the thought of seeing loved ones soon. There are many families arriv-
ing and waiting at airports today just to see and touch once again their loved ones. There are children about to burst with unbridled enthusiasm because they know in a few minutes, mommy or daddy will be coming in that door right there. It’s what makes this pandemic so tortuous. You remember how important family really is don’t you? That anticipation is what I am describing as ‘rejuvenated in the spirit.’ I just believe if we could view the cross as a symbol of our eternal life after death, then maybe we could look upon death a little differently than we currently do. I mean really. If you call yourself a believer, then that’s what
this is all about. The party for Christ had to be incredible. If the truth be told, that party is still going on and everybody is anticipating when you will walk through the door. That’s that Jesus thing again. I find it illuminating that after death, Christ walked among us without the disfigured body on the cross, except for enough to make believers out of the doubting Thomases. That’s proof that when you get to the party, you too will be perfect in your form and perfect in your reception. This may not be a typical column but, based on the cross event, you too are transformed from ‘glory unto glory.’ If you can feel what I feel today, then you understand being rejuvenated. I am because He is. I will because He fulfilled the Word and I’ll see you when you get there. I just know that’s a welcome to look forward to. Until then, may God bless and keep you always.
“YOUR VOICE”
As the Supreme Court considers challenges to Donald Trump’s presidential run, do you think they should be removed from Georgia’s ballot or do you think the voters should decide?
RHONDA BLASSINGAME College Park
SHADYAH WILLIAMS Marietta
MARC ANTHONY STEWART Atlanta
NIA KEITH Atlanta
“Leave Trump on the ballot. Let the voters decide if he's not going to be the front runner or, rather, he's the front runner anyway. If they take him off, they're just going to write him in anyway. So just let the voters decide.
“I feel like he should be taken off. But I know that's not the right thing and that's not how things are typically done. So I feel like the right answer would say that the voters should decide if he should be taken off the ballot or not because that's the American way. That's the right thing to do. That's democracy. So that's what I believe.”
“When we think about a man who has been impeached twice, accused of treason and other accusations under that umbrella, should he be allowed to run for presidency again? The answer to me is no. I think the answer to many Americans is no. So when you think of someone who incited riots at the Capitol, someone who colluded with Russia to gain votes, someone who called the secretary of state in Georgia to demand 10,000 more votes and was impeached twice… when people are removing him from the ballot, I would imagine that they are doing that because he has perverted the political process. Perverted the idea of the democratic system.”
“I do not think Donald Trump should be allowed on the ballot because he already was about to face charges and go to jail for all the fraud he did. I don't think we need to allow the voters to decide yes or no, because they might say yes and he just shouldn't be allowed at all.”
Compiled by Vincent Christie
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Local Mayor, Police Chief say crime is down throughout city BY DONNELL SUGGS
A
tlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, Atlanta Police Department Chief Darin Schierbaum, and representatives from community outreach programs such as Next Level Engagement Center (formerly Next Level Boys Academy), the Offender Alumni Association, Soccer in the Streets, Blueprint 58, and Raising Expectations took part in a press conference on crime reduction Thursday morning inside Salem Bible Church. Crimes against people, which include homicides and aggravated assaults, are down 17%, according to the data provided by the City of Atlanta. Property crimes, which include robbery and burglary, are down 7% year to year as well. The mayor and police chief took the opportunity to announce that overall crime in Atlanta is down across the board. “Public safety has been a top priority of my administration since day one,” Dickens said. “We ended the year with citywide major crimes against people down more than 15%. I don’t put an s on my chest and say I’m going to solve this all by myself. This is a group project.” During his presentation of the data, Schierbaum mentioned the city will be hosting the College Football Championship in (January) 2025 and a stage of the 2026 World Cup so there will need to be an uptick in police activity around the city. According to Schierbaum 37,000 cameras around the city are on the Connect Atlanta network. “Every fifth day of the year (2023) you have shut down a drug operation,” Schierbaum, who said he meets with the mayor at least five times per week, said while giving credit to his fellow Atlanta Police Department officers, detectives, and units. “I want the citizens to know that we are going to stay and fight.” Not all of the data that was shared that
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens took the stage at Salem Bible Church in Zone 1 to talk about crime reduction Thursday, Jan. 5, 2024. Photos by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
morning was on the positive side of the ledger, however. Motor vehicle theft is up 61% from 2022 to 2023, according to the data. Shoplifting is also up 22% from 2022 to 2023. Dickens and Schierbaum both say more patrols are crucial to further dropping crime numbers. Accelerated efforts to hire more officers and 911 operators are underway, according to Schierbuam. Along with Dickens and Schierbaum, Dr. Joseph L. Williams, senior pastor at Salem Bible Church, took the stage and spoke of how the neighborhood around the church has become much safer through collaboration and communication with the police department. “I’ve never seen a mayor, police chief and administration work together like this,” said Williams who added that he has been in the ministry in the area for the past 25 years. “I’ve never felt like an adequate partner like we are now.” Zone 1, which includes Salem Bible Church, was awarded the annual crime reduction award by Schierbaum and Dickens during the presentation.
ONLINE
Hawks Announce GRAMMY Award-Winning Artist Killer Mike to Perform at Halftime as Part of ‘MLK Game
theatlantavoice.com • January 12-18, 2024, 2024 • Page 7
Local
MARTA partners with King Center to honor King family legacy BY ISAIAH SINGLETON
I
n partnership with the King Center, the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) unveiled a special bus honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King. Public transit has long played a role in the fight for equal rights. The arrest of Rosa Parks in 1955 sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott that would bring Dr. King to national prominence. Dr. King would go on to call urban public transportation “a genuine civil rights issue” because of its critically important role in connecting its riders to opportunities for employment. The bus will begin service on Route 3: MLK/Auburn Ave. and move to different routes over the next four months. This is the first of several special bus designs planned as MARTA launches a yearlong celebration of Atlanta Civil Rights leaders. “Transit is a place where all are welcome, and like the Civil Rights movement, where inclusion and equality serve as the foundation for opportunity,” said MARTA General Manager and CEO Collie Greenwood. “MARTA is proud to
In partnership with the King Center, the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) unveiled a special bus honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King.
have played a role in the rich history of the City of Atlanta and the Civil Rights movement and recognize the impact of Dr. King and Coretta Scott King, and the road they traveled as they changed the world.” As MARTA undergoes a major
rehabilitation and expansion program, equity and accessibility are at the forefront of every decision to ensure bus and rail service, transit-oriented development, and customer amenities best reflect and serve our diverse region. Additionally, MARTA officially
unveiled the Dr. King and Coretta Scott King bus at a press conference held at the King Center on Tuesday, Jan. 4. On Jan. 9, a reception will be held at the Center to officially kick off a month of MLK holiday events and activities. For more informa-
tion, visit King Holiday 2024 - The King Center. As it has done in years past, MARTA will stage its 1955 historical bus directly across from the King Birth Home located at 501 Auburn Ave. on the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, Monday, Jan. 15.
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Community
WATCH AND SUBSCRIBE @AtlantaVoice
Five Decades at the Wheel BY NOAH WASHINGTON
P
laying in the background of the Dumas’s MARTA memorabilia-filled living room is the Andy Griffith Show, a program whose time off the air eclipses the 51 years that Coy Dumas, Jr. served as an employee of The Metropolitan Atlanta Transit Authority (MARTA). Joining MARTA in 1972, Dumas witnessed the evolution of Atlanta through the windows of an old 400 series bus to the modern 1886 BRT 30-footer models that are being used to take thousands of Atlantans to and from work every day today. Having been trained by the first five Black transit workers of local 732, Dumas dealt in decoding route sheets, ensuring the seamless operation of public transportation, and driving several routes throughout his career ranging from the West End of Atlanta (his favorite area, he says) to Buckhead. His expertise earned him the role of a trainer, a position he plans to continue doing even in retirement. During Dumas’ career, he has trained MARTA employees, stopped armed robberies, and driven through fluctuating weather conditions. In 2020, Dumas, Jr. started contemplating the thought of retirement, and in 2023, he exchanged the familiar routine of decoding route sheets to give way to a new chapter that commenced with early morning dog walks at 2 AM. Post-retirement, Dumas now adheres to a schedule that involves morning walks, bed-making, shared coffee moments with his wife Theresa (who Dumas will refer to as “Mama” when addressing in conversation), and engaging in the day's errands. Before retirement, Dumas would wake at 2 AM with his wife and begin their shared ritual and routine, which they have maintained throughout their time together. Mrs. Dumas would begin her day preparing either coffee or tea based on her preferences, for Dumas and then oversee Dumas’ lunch and breakfast preparations, which he then would carry with him to work. The role changes brought about by Dumas’ retirement have been transformative, said Theresa Dumas. “I'm enjoying him being around,” she said. “It's been a shift in my shift, where breakfast may now be for him at nine or 10 in the morning,” said Dumas. The Dumas’ found contentment in ticking off items from their bucket list, includ-
See DUMAS on page 9
Coy Dumas, Jr. prominently displays just a few of the mementos of his 50-year career with MARTA. Photos by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice
Coy Dumas, Jr. (right) and his wife of 46 years Theresa at their home, January 4, 2023. All photos by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice
theatlantavoice.com • January 12-18, 2024, 2024 • Page 9
Community
AlvinAiley.org/ Atlanta
DUMAS Continued from page 8 ing extensive travel to locations such as Hawaii, and Mexico, and a planned trip to Ireland. Reflecting on their marriage of 46 years as of January 1st, the couple has managed to find joy in the shared moments post-retirement. Dumas takes on the responsibility of running errands, before picking up his wife in the evenings from work at Macy's in Kennesaw, a 30-minute drive from their home. Bus not included. Dumas’s other love lies in his furry friends. The couple is currently contemplating adopting a white German Shepherd. The couple currently are the owners of two dogs, Cam, a Shih Tzu, and Hannah, a Sheltie that they adopted after the death of their oldest child, Coy “Demetrius” Dumas, who passed from liver failure approximately two weeks before his 30th birthday in April of 2013. Demetrius
was the second in the Dumas family to have an untimely passing. Their oldest child, Coy Dumas III passed away from a car accident while traveling back from New Orleans at the age of 24, in 2002. The couple have two other children, Takeisha Farmer and Chase Decoy Dumas, and 9 grandchildren in total. Over the years, Dumas, Jr.'s commitment and service at MARTA did not go unnoticed. He received commendations and awards from various authorities, including Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff, the City of Atlanta, Fulton County, and a proclamation from the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). The awards are prominently displayed around the couple’s living room. “With the love and respect that MARTA has shown me, not just closing my 50 years, but throughout my tenure, it's been a blessing for me to work for them,” Dumas said. “Everybody at MARTA knows how strong I am about family, and MARTA is my second family.”
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Page 10 • January 12-18, 2024 • theatlantavoice.com
Health
ONLINE
Popular TikTok workouts may be dangerous or ineffective, experts say 1 in 5 Black Americans live in a food desert. In response, Black farmers are buying land and harvesting produce in those communities. Photo By iStock/ Jacob Wackerhausen
3 Black Women Farmers Fighting Food Injustice
A
BY ALEXA SPENCER
plotting food justice in their cities:
round the United States, hundreds of Black farmers have risen to the forefront of the food justice movement. Many harvest crops in areas categorized by the federal government as “food deserts” — communities that lack access to fresh, affordable fruits and vegetables. Living in a “food desert” is a reality for 1 in 5 Black Americans. Oftentimes, there are few healthy food outlets in the area, such as grocery stores and farmers markets. Meanwhile, fast food chains and convenience stores are oversaturated. Inadequate access to nutritional food raises the risk for obesity, diabetes, stroke, high blood pressure, and other conditions. That’s why Black farmers are buying land in underserved communities and sharing the harvest with residents. Here are three urban farmers
Jamila “Farmer J” Norman A first-generation American daughter born to Caribbean parents, Jamila “Farmer J” Norman has a personal history rooted in agriculture. She founded Patchwork City Farms in Atlanta in 2010 and operates the 1.2-acre farm full-time. Patchwork is certified naturally grown. All vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers grown on the land are chemical fertilizer-, pesticide-, and herbicide-free. The seasonal veggies are sold through local farmers markets and at the farm’s weekly seasonal shop. Norman is a founding member and current manager of South West Atlanta Growers Cooperative (SWAG Coop), a cooperative with a mission to strengthen Atlanta’s Black farmers and community. She is also nationally recognized for her
work. For three seasons, she’s been featured on HBO Max’s Homegrown, where she helps families transform their outdoor spaces into backyard farms. Gail Taylor Gail Taylor is the owner and operator of Three Part Harmony Farm, a 2-acre plot of land in Northeast Washington, D.C. She established the farm in 2012 to “learn more about where good food comes from” and “understand how produce finds its way from a farm to the grocery store.” Taylor spearheaded the three-year “I Want DC to Grow” campaign that led to the D.C. Urban Farming and Food Security Act of 2014, a bill that incentivized the use of privately-owned land for farming and community gardens. At Three Part Harmony, she grows crops using organic practices and markets the produce in the area.
She is also a member of the Black Dirt Farm Collective — a Maryland-based community of farmers, educators, scientists, agrarians, seed keepers, and organizers committed to food justice education. Ivy Lawrence-Walls In August 2020, Ivy Lawerence-Walls started Ivy Leaf Farms in Houston’s Sunnyside neighborhood, a historically Black community designated as a food desert during the launch. She repurposed her family’s 5-acre plot into a community farm and vegetable garden. The farm grows and delivers okra, broccoli, carrots, collards, and other produce to local residents within specific zip codes. Beyond the farm, Lawrence-Walls co-founded Fresh Houwse Grocery, a farmer-owned, community-operated store in Sunnyside, and Black Farmer Box, a weekly box of seasonal, farm-raised products.
theatlantavoice.com • January 12-18, 2024, 2024 • Page 11
“You don’t know where you’re going until you understand where you’ve come from.” In honor of Dr. King, we celebrate those who reflect on the past to create positive change. For community leader Brenda Reid, her early introduction to the Civil Rights movement led to a profound career dedicated to nurturing young minds and caring for others—a passion she looks forward to continuing in retirement.
Get to know another inspiring Atlanta local and watch as he transforms a blank wall at one of our stores into something beautiful for Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
publix.com/mlkday
Brenda Reid Publix Community Relations Manager 2000 – 2023 (Retired) Atlanta, GA
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Education
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“My School Votes” initiative encourages civic engagement in students
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BY ANIKE AKANNI-JENKINS he first after-school event for the “My School Votes” club for this school took place at the basketball game against North Cobb Christian School on an early December evening. Amani Mitchell, Advisor of the club and the Coretta Scott King Young Women’s Leadership Academy basketball team spearheaded efforts to encourage voter registration. Asked why this program is important to keep in the school system, Mitchell said, “Just the commitment to understanding the community and civic engagement to the community. If students are involved they’ll make sure their community is in good standing.” Former United States First Lady Michelle Obama's “My School Votes” initiative has found a home at schools across the country, helping to register eligible students and cultivate a culture of civic engagement. “My School Votes” establishes student-led voter registration clubs in high schools nationwide. These clubs provide teachers/advisors with the necessary training and resources, ensuring that every eligible student in your school is registered and prepared to vote annually. At Coretta Scott King Young Women’s Leadership Academy or CSKYWLA for short, the population is quite small, with around 300 young ladies in total from grades 6-12. So if we take out students from middle school and 9-10th graders, the number of people who may be eligible would be around 50-plus students. The CSKYWLA team aimed to increase student registrations but encountered a few challenges on the way. Such as issues with location and promotion of the club's doings and the fact that incentives weren’t provided, which they believe would have driven more student attendance. At present, in the Atlanta Public School district, Midtown High School leads in student registrations, having a total of 102 participants. Following closely behind is North Atlanta High School with a total of 30 registered students. As we steer through this journey of civic engagement at CSKYWLA, let's remain inspired by the progress made and the collective commitment to fostering an informed and active community. Together, we pave the way for a future where every voice matters, creating a lasting impact on generations to come. Stay engaged, stay informed, and let our shared dedication continue to shape the path toward a more equitable political system.
The “My School Votes” program works to register young eligible voters within Atlanta’s public schools. Photo provided by Amani Mitchell
theatlantavoice.com • January 12-18, 2024, 2024 • Page 13
Business
ONLINE
5 reasons to be optimistic about the 2024 economy
Declining mortgage rates appear promising BY JANELLE WARD
I
nterest rates for mortgages, which reached their highest point in more than two decades this past October, have experienced a downward trend for the past several weeks, a promising sign for aspiring homebuyers looking to purchase early this year. Despite mortgage rates and prices for homes last month lingering above values measured at the end of 2022, analysts expect the decline will motivate more buyers to enter the housing market in 2024. According to the government-sponsored mortgage financing company Freddie Mac, the rate to acquire a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage in the country averaged at 6.61%
on Thursday, December 28, a 0.06 percent decrease from the previous week and a decrease of just over half a percentage point compared to four weeks prior. The year ended with the 30-year mortgage rate nearly two-tenths of a percentage point higher than the rate calculated at the end of 2022. However, the rate adjusted by its smallest margin in six weeks, with the weekly average not having seen a change of 0.06% from the week of Nov. 9 to Nov. 16. “The rapid descent of mortgage rates over the last two months stabilized a bit this week, but rates continue to trend down,” said chief economist at Freddie Mac Sam Khater about the Dec. 28 averages. “Heading into the new year, the econ-
omy remains on firm ground with solid growth, a tight labor market, decelerating inflation and a nascent rebound in the housing market.” Prospective buyers appear to have responded to the fall in mortgage rates positively. A December report from real estate company Redfin states that the number of submitted mortgage applications has increased 19% since the beginning of November when the total had reached its lowest point in roughly 30 years. The report also suggests that interest rates are likely to remain below 7% as the new year progresses. “The last week of economic news and data makes it more likely than not that
mortgage rates have peaked,” said economic research lead at Redfin, Chen Zhao, about the report. “Buyers will return from the holidays with more homes to choose from, and they should still see rates in the mid-6% range.” Still, mortgage rates could rise again this year. Although unlikely, Zhao said the Federal Reserve may choose to reverse the direction of interest rates as a cautionary measure at some point in 2024, depending on the state of inflation in the country. The 30-year rate increased slightly to 6.62% this week, per Freddie Mac, bringing a halt to consistent downward progress in the first week of the new year.
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Sports
ONLINE
Does Major League Baseball need a salary cap?
Falcons fire head coach Arthur Smith BY ITORO N. UMONTUEN
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he Atlanta Falcons have fired head coach Arthur Smith after three seasons with the team. Smith has finished each season 7-10. According to a release by the team, a search for a new head coach will be led by Falcons Owner and Chairman, Arthur M. Blank, the team’s CEO, Rich McKay, with input from Falcons General Manager Terry Fontenot, and several other appropriate members of Blank’s Atlanta Falcons and AMB Sports and Entertainment organizations. There is no timetable for filling the role. In his third season, Smith was dogged by persistent questions regarding the play of quarterback Desmond Ridder. Before the season, Smith let it be known that Ridder was his guy. Ridder would finish the season with 2,836 passing yards, twelve touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Ridder’s inability to protect the football inside the red zone has doomed the Falcons time and time again. There were at least four instances in which Ridder’s turnovers games resulted in the Falcons stealing defeat from the jaws of victory. Notably, games against Minnesota, the road game against Carolina, the road game against the Titans and the comedy of errors in the Cardinals game in November. Additionally, Arthur Smith’s indecisive play calling in the red zone and in end-of-game situations complicated
The Atlanta Falcons head coach Arthur Smith was fired following the team’s loss in New Orleans Sunday. Smith was 21-30 during his three seasons as the Falcons head coach. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
matters. The game against Washington in which Smith was unable to get the play into Ridder’s helmet and the quarterback promptly threw his third interception of the game.
Smith’s inability to effectively feature wide receiver Drake London, running back Bijan Robinson, and wide receiver Kyle Pitts was bane of contention for fans and observers alike. Despite running for 976 yards, catching 58 passes for 487 yards and eight combined touchdowns, Robinson was never the every-down back that Smith had promised his first round pick would be during the offseason. Kyle Pitts struggled once again to be featured in an offense that didn’t have an above-average quarterback. Pitts only had 53 catches for 667 yards and three touchdowns. London finished the season with 905 yards and two touchdowns. The Falcons averaged 18.9 points per game, 7th worst in the National Football League. Meanwhile, Atlanta’s offense turned the ball over 28 times, tied for seventh most during the season. “Decisions like this are never easy and they never feel good,” said Blank. “We have profound respect for Coach Smith and appreciate all the hard work and dedication he has put into the Falcons over the last three years. He has been part of building a good culture in our football team, but the results on the field have not met our expectations. After significant thought and reflection, we have determined the best way forward for our team is new leadership in the head coaching position.” A press conference was held at 4:00 p.m. Monday.
Big Saturday for CAU and Morehouse men’s hoops BY DONNELL SUGGS Panthers look to go over .500 in conference play Clark Atlanta will host the Benedict College Tigers on Saturday at 4 p.m. The Panthers evened its conference at 3-3 following consecutive road victories at Central State University (69-67) and Kentucky State University (77-71). The Panthers got 23 points and eight rebounds from sophomore Shemani Fuller against Cleveland State on Jan. 4. During the six-point victory at Kentucky State senior guard Andrew Stewart led the team with 15 points and four assists. Morehouse will try to win back-to-back conference games Saturday The Maroon Tigers lost its first conference game of the season at Kentucky State Jan. 4. Morehouse started the season with an 8-0 conference record that included consecutive victories over LeMoyne-Owen College and Lane College at home before the Christmas break. Morehouse bounced back from that loss with a 78-53 win at Central State on Jan. 6. The Maroon Tigers finished the game with five players scoring in double-figures led by junior forward Amahn Decker’s 25 points. The Maroon Tigers get a break in the conference schedule when they travel to Washington, D.C. to play Howard University on Dr. Martin Luther KIng, Jr. Day.
Clark Atlanta and Morehouse will be back in action on Saturday, Jan. 12, 2024. with consecutive games scheduled for 2 and 4 p.m. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice
theatlantavoice.com • January 12-18, 2024, 2024 • Page 15
Lifestyle
ONLINE
Barack Obama wins Creative Arts Emmy for outstanding narrator
Street Lines: 2023 Dodge Hornet GT BY DENNIS MALCOLM BYRON AKA ALE SHARPTON
The front of the 2023 Dodge Hornet GT incorporates a “mail slot”-style grille opening sculpted into the fascia, reinforcing the horizontal brow of the upper grille and lamp graphics – creating a serious, all-business demeanor. Photo Courtesy of Dodge
Dodge just introduced the Hornet—which they classify as a compact-utility vehicle (CUV)—this year, and it flaunts the look and feel of a performance car the automaker has become renowned for, including a bicep-flexing powertrain and exterior to back it up. (For those familiar with Alfa Romeo, the Hornet shares the same suspension and many other parts with their Tonale.) The GT version I reviewed had a welcomed stealthy look in “8-Ball” black, including the 18-inch wheels with the Abyss finish to accentuate their luster, a “mail-slot” style grille, noticeable heat extractors on the hood, and introduction of the vehicle-width tail lamp. The heart is a peppy 2.0-liter 14 DOHC Hurricane 4 engine that delivers 268 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque, which is truly impressive for a four-cylinder vehicle. The nine-speed automatic transmission, sporty
suspension, all-speed traction control, Koni shocks, Brembo four-piston brake calipers, and all-wheel drive maneuverability further enhance the driving experience. The interior material quality is not extravagant, but gets the job done to keep the pricing from getting out of hand with the seating being a cloth and leatherette combination. However, the driver will appreciate the cockpit-like setup, with a user-friendly 12.3-inch
www.theatlantavoice.com • January 12-18, 2024
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digital cluster screen and 10.25-inch display for optimal visibility. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system has a generous roster of applications coming standard, including wireless Android Auto and CarPlay connectivity, plus the Amazon Alexa virtual assistant. The Hornet’s sound is a lot more than a buzz, thanks to the Harman Kardon 465watt premium system blessing 14 speakers and a subwoofer. To ease the mind regarding
safety, the Hornet has driver attention assist, intelligent speed assist with traffic sign recognition, and intelligent adaptive cruise control to name a few. Dodge has steadily developed a dedicated fanbase who share the need for speed via its “Brotherhood of Muscle” legion of products, including the Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger and Dodge Durango, not to mention their road-terrorizing SRT Hellcat versions. The Hornet seamlessly becomes a family member. Representing the CUV segment, it has a promising future coming with more trims, power enhancements, and addressing green initiatives, including their hybrid-electric 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T. Ultimately, Doge pounds their chests exclaiming that the Hornet is the ”quickest, fastest, most powerful compact utility vehicle under $30,000,” which delivers a significant sting to any competitors it may have. Price: $29,995 MSRP Gas economy: 21 City/ 29 Hwy/25 combined For more information, visit Dodge.com.
CLASSIFIEDS NOTICE
FULTON COUNTY ADVERTISEMENT FOR PROPOSAL
Sealed proposals for 23RFP092723K-JA - Program Management Services for the Fulton County Real Estate and Asset Management Department, will be accepted by the Fulton County Department of Purchasing & Contract Compliance, electronically through Bidnet Direct at https://www.bidnetdirect.com/georgia/fultoncounty, on Friday, February 2, 2024. All proposals submitted must be received no later than 11:00 a.m. local (Eastern) time on the stated date Proposers names will be publicly read at 11:05 a.m. on the stated due date via Zoom. Proposal Bond: 5% Bid Bond Required. Scope of Work: Fulton County, Georgia (“County”) is soliciting proposals for Program Management Services for the Department of Real Estate and Asset Management - DREAM, Facilities and Transportation Services, Purchasing and Contract Compliance, Risk Management and the Department of Water Resources and other jurisdictions as deemed necessary. The PMT will be primarily responsibility for coordination, cost estimating, planning management and implementation of controls to ensure projects remain on the critical path schedule and assist the County in achieving the level of design and planning coordination necessary for the successful construction and delivery of each project included in this Capital Improvement Program. They are responsible for program definition; community participation and strategies for citizen involvement;
communication strategies; cost estimating and cost management; and all other project management functions necessary to execute the design program. These responsibilities also include overseeing and managing project design; completion of construction documents; conducting appropriate design and document reviews; establishing budgets; reviewing consultant invoices for payment; and administering design contracts through project construction. In order to obtain complete information about this solicitation, please click the link below where this document and supporting documents can be downloaded, https://www. bidnetdirect.com/georgia/fultoncounty. Fee: N/A Term of Contract: The term of contract shall be for two years with one (1) one-year renewal option. A Pre-Proposal Conference will be held on Friday, January 12, 2024, at 11:30 a.m., local time, via Zoom to provide bidders with information regarding the project and to address any questions. See Solicitation Document. Site Visit: N/A If you have any questions regarding this project, please contact Janett L. Adams, APA, at Email: janett.adams@fultoncountyga.gov or (404) 612-7967. Fulton County reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals and to waive technicalities.
Page 16 • January 12-18, 2024 • theatlantavoice.com