The Atlanta Voice E-Edition 053124

Ring of Resilience

Professional boxer Evan Holyfield (above) is working his way back into the ring after discovering a serious heart condition in September 2023. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

MARTA Airport station reopens after 6-week renovation

Evan Holyfield returns to boxing after open heart surgery

BY LENTHEUS CHANEY

As a professional boxer in prime physical condition, Evan Holyfield, 26, never expected to learn that he had a serious heart condition, but that was the reality he faced in September 2023.

"When I first got the news that I was going to need open heart surgery, it was a surreal moment," Holyfield said. "It didn't seem real to me until probably about 24 hours before the surgery."

His father, multi-time heavyweight and Olympic champion Evander Holyfield, named him Eleazar, meaning 'one whom God helps', yet he goes by his middle name, Evan, a shortened version of his father's name.

That divine help emerged during preparation for a professional boxing match when Evan experienced unusual symptoms during his training, such as vomiting and chest pain. Initially attributing them to anxiety or stress, he learned after a doctor’s visit that the situation was much more severe.

"They hooked me up to the EKG and then said I needed to go to the emergency room immediately," recalled Holyfield. "I must have had a cardiac arrest or some arrhythmic thing happening with my heart."

Doctors diagnosed him with a right coronary anomaly, a congenital cardiac blood vessel malformation. According to the Cleveland Clinic, up to 1% of people are born with a coronary anomaly, though most are not dangerous.

However, Evan Holyfield required surgery to ensure his survival. This revelation led to a critical moment: undergo surgery or never step into the boxing ring again.

“I really didn't have a choice but to get the surgery,” Evan Holyfield said. "I would have to put myself in a box and wouldn't be able to do anything very exciting." And it could be at any given time that I could just drop dead.”

Holyfield said that his post-surgery recovery was physically demanding and the support from his family, friends, and trainers played a crucial role in his recovery process.

“Just going from being a very capable person and being able to do everything for myself to kind of starting over was hard,” Holyfield, currently 11-1 as a professional fighter, said. “It’s really just important to have those people around you that really keep you comfortable and reassure you.”

Murray Kampf, staff trainer at Sugar Bert Boxing in Doraville where Holyfield trains, said he has known him since he was a teen and has always provided support. Kampgf says he now keeps a closer eye on him post-surgery.

"I always like to remind him that health is number one and most important in your life, so take it easy, don't just jump back in, and you'll build back up to where you were,"

Kampf said. “He’s a hard worker, so it has been hard to kind of keep him from going too fast sometimes.”

Holyfield cautiously returned to training earlier this year. He and his cardiologist use technology, such as a smartwatch strapped to his ankle, and they both monitor his heart rate and ensure he's not pushing too hard too soon.

“The number one thing was that I didn't want to push myself to a limit where I actually hindered myself, so I asked him, 'How would I know if I'm pushing myself a little bit too hard?'” Evan Holyfield said. “He suggested that I use my watch so he can monitor my heart rhythms, and if anything comes out of rhythm, he gets in contact with me.” His newfound knowledge and titanium re-

inforced chest protecting his heart allow him to train smarter, push harder, and rejuvenate his love for boxing.

"I wake up every day, go to the gym, and that’s my purpose. At night, I feel like I actually worked, like I've put my life towards something," Holyfield said.

He sets high goals for himself as he prepares to return to competition. He plans to test himself against strong competition right from the start, believing his new lease on life has given him an edge.

“I plan on, when I come back, whether it’s at the end of this year or early next year, to just test myself,” Holyfield said confidently. “There's really no reason for me to be baby-stepping now. I should know what I am able to do after my first fight, and I am just excited for the future and what lies ahead.”

According to Evan Holyfield, the surgery wasn’t just a physical battle; it also tested him mentally, and the fear of never returning to the ring has forever changed how he lives his life.

"Life will come at you. It will throw dirt, rain, and snow at you, whatever—it will try to make you change the perspective of who you once were,” Holyfield said. “You have to stand strong, remember why you're here, what you stand for, and not let life change you. Sometimes, you have to look in the mirror to remember who that person is.”

When Holyfield experienced unusual symptoms during training one day, such as vomiting and chest pain, he initially attributed them to anxiety or stress. Later he learned that the situation was much more severe. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

Holyfield, 26, is 11-1 as a professional fighter and looks forward to continuing his career. “I wake up every day, go to the gym, and that’s my purpose. At night, I feel like I actually worked, like I’ve put my life towards something,” Holyfield said. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

“You deserve safety. You deserve protection. You deserve love. You deserve peace.”– Tarana Burke

To Biden, Black Moms Matter. To Trump, Killing Roe Matters More

BY TONYA LEWIS LEE

As the maternal mortality rate in America continues to spike, Black Maternal Health Week is an urgent call to action. American women are dying at a higher rate from pregnancy-related causes than in any other developed nation, and Black women are three times more likely to die of complications than their white counterparts.

The CDC reports that 85% of US maternal deaths are preventable, and the deaths that do occur tend to reflect a systemic issue rather than a pathology on the part of Black women.

As a women’s health advocate and co-director of the documentary film Aftershock, I’ve had the opportunity to speak with thousands of women, families, health care practitioners, and general maternal health stakeholders. I’ve learned that with evidenced-based solutions focused on supporting women and listening to them, we can improve outcomes for Black mothers, which will ultimately improve birthing for all American families.

As the seventh annual Black Maternal Health Week comes to a close, let’s pay homage to the unparalleled work that President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris are doing to center the voices of Black women and the Black maternal mortality crisis.

Since taking office, President Biden and Vice President Harris have remained steadfast in their commitment to tackle this crisis head-on and have made it their priority to promote improved maternal outcomes for Black women. Never before has Black maternal health been at the forefront of an administration’s health care initiatives, proving how essential and historic it is to have a Black woman like Vice President Harris helping to lead the executive branch. Vice President Harris has been at the forefront of these unprecedented efforts, raising awareness about the maternal mortality crisis for decades and calling for increased safety standards and funding long even before she took office in the White House.

Vice President Harris launched the first-ever White House Maternal

Health Day of Action in 2021 and introduced the administration’s Blueprint for Addressing the Maternal Health Crisis, which lays out more than 50 actions that over a dozen federal agencies can take to improve maternal health.

The Biden-Harris administration also enabled states to provide a full year of postpartum coverage to new mothers on Medicaid and protected and built upon the Affordable Care Act, which requires insurers to cover pregnancy care, childbirth, and newborn care. They also launched the Maternal Mental Health Hotline, a confidential, 24-hour, toll-free line where new and expecting moms can connect with professional counselors.

Meanwhile, Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans have been hellbent on doing everything in their

power to enact or repeal laws that worsen outcomes for Black mothers and Black lives. Trump has bragged about being the one responsible for overturning Roe, which led to a reproductive health crisis that is disproportionately hurting Black women and allowed cruel abortion bans across the country to go into effect.

There are few scares in life more terrifying than having a pregnancy-related emergency, and since Trump helped to overturn Roe, 68% of OBGYNs say they struggle significantly more when trying to save mothers’ lives.

While president, Trump sabotaged Medicaid expansion, which is significantly tied to a decrease in Black maternal mortality; gutted resources for clinics providing life-saving reproductive health care

to Black communities; and tried to slash funding for Health and Human Services maternal and child health program — a move that would have completely eliminated funding for maternal depression screening and treatment.

300,000 Black Americans lost health insurance under Trump, and he was one vote away from repealing the Affordable Care Act, which has helped to reduce racial health care disparities nationwide.

There’s no question that a second Trump term would make Black maternal health care outcomes much worse. If re-elected, he would sign a national abortion ban — which his allies are pushing him to do with or without the help of Congress — gut Medicaid, and “terminate” the ACA — ripping away insurance coverage from over three million Black Americans. Think candidly about everything you know about Donald Trump. He never centered on combating the health disparities Black women face when he had the chance, and he wouldn’t if he gets another.

Black voters, particularly Black women, were a crucial part of the coalition that helped elect President Biden and Vice President Harris to the White House. We know that our voices and votes will once again be critical in helping them win a second term and build upon all of the progress they have made. Despite the tremendous pressure of working with one of the slimmest majorities in Congress, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris have accomplished so much, including centering Black maternal equity at the forefront of their agenda.

For so long, Black women have constantly had to advocate for ourselves in every space we occupy, but with the Biden-Harris administration, we have champions in the highest office in the world fighting alongside us. The choice is clear this November: We must reelect President Biden, Vice President Harris, and Democrats to Congress so they can finish the job!

Tonya Lewis Lee is an award-winning filmmaker, author, and entrepreneur whose work often explores the personal impact of social justice issues.

FOUNDED May 11, 1966 FOUNDER/EDITOR

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J. Lowell Ware

Immortalis Memoria

The Atlanta Voice honors the life of J. Lowell Ware.

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If we want to end the Black maternal health crisis, filmmaker Tonya Lewis Lee says the choice is clear on election day in November. Photo Credit iStock.com/digitalskillet

SPIRITUALLY SPEAKING

The Sly, The Slick & The Wicked

BY JAMES A. WASHINGTON

The Atlanta Voice

You know, I’ve got to give it to Satan. He truly is as slick as they come. It is my understanding that he has some power in the physical world and what amounts to zilch in the eternal kingdom of heaven. Hence, the devil has an advantage when it comes to orchestrating the events of this world in order to accomplish two very important things to him; things that we should all be aware of. One, I believe,is to get us to believe he doesn’t exist.Two, is to show us a perspective on this world that leaves God out of the equation. Now I don’t know which one is more damaging. But to think the devil doesn’t exist is extremely dangerous and to further believe that God is not an integral part of life is spiritual suicide.As the Parable of the Sower, we learn this reality… “Some people are like seeds along the path where the word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the Word that was sown in them.” Mark 4:15. This entire parable speaks to how life, its worries, its illusions about acquiring wealth and desire for personal gratification, can obscure the truth contained in the Word of God. Imagine being tricked

Some people are like seeds along the path where the word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the Word that was sown in them

out of what rightfully belongs to you because you didn’t know it was yours in the first place. Now underscore that with the belief that the person doing the tricking is actually someone who doesn’t really exist. If we succumb to either point of view, belief or non-belief, then we proceed through life guaranteeing that the Word of God will bear no fruit in us. Hence, it is impossible for us to have the kind of life which God intends for us. I believe many of us, me included, spend far too much time and energy relying on the lies of Satan and a world that measures success by the weight of one's wallet, rather than by God’s divine will. Our struggle is one where we must first be sure the soil is ready to produce a crop. Our challenge is to be prepared to hear the Word.The intent is to bear fruit. By bearing fruit, I mean we should spread the Word, pollinate the lives of others

“YOUR VOICE”

with the reality that Satan is real and evil walks and talks and lives and breathes in this world today. More importantly, we have been seeded with the secrets revealed to us in the life and death and life ofJesus Christ. He is the key to our salvation.The question then is what do you believe in? But lest you answer that hastily, know your world put into perspective by your answer to that simple but very important question. Belief in God obviously necessitates a belief in the devil and that knowledge prayerfully fortifies and insulates you against the evil in your life. If you don’t believe in God, what you don’t know will be what ruins you eternally. You will never seek Him out.You therefore become vulnerable to the devil’s tricks because keeping you ignorant is and always has been the tool of this oppressor. It’s a control thing as we all now know.

In that regard the one thing that insures salvation is just a little bit of knowledge based in faith. That faith, no matter how small, stands as a testament to all that God is in control and the first option should be Him.A Little bit of faith is required when life and the devil says no way. Faith always gets tested. Salvation lies somewhere between what you say, what you do and what you believe in.You see when you know the truth, you can’t be tricked. However, the effort to trick you will be constant and the lies will keep coming. But “If you hold to my (Jesus) teaching, you are really my disciples.Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32. May God reveal to your heart His purpose for you and may you be bathed in it. May God bless and keep you always. This column is from “Spiritually Speaking: Reflections for and from a New Christian” by James Washington. You can purchase this enlightening book on Amazon and start your journey towards spiritual enlightenment.

From a man’s perspective, what are your thoughts and feelings regarding Sean Combs’ domestic assault and public apology?

GREGORY X East Point

“I think it's disgraceful what he did. I don't know how he could bounce back from this. Well, to entertain people, because I don't know who will want to be entertained by someone who treats people as such. So, as far as entertainment, I don't know, but setting himself up and becoming a better man, that's what he can do. So, hopefully, he will man up and understand his role in the community and his role with his sons and daughters. That's what I would be trying to do. But, hopefully the brother get it together. But as far as what I think about it, it's a shame and shameful, bro.”

SHAWN DAVIS

Buckhead

“My thoughts on the Diddy situation are that it's messed up. I do not condone domestic violence, whether it's man on woman or woman on man. Watching that video hit home because I have multiple sisters and mom and stuff like that. And I wouldn't want them to be in a situation like that to where they felt after, for them to come out and say finally, hey, I've been beat on and just mistreated and stuff like that. We will have to see what's next regarding all the other accusations. I feel like there is much more to come out of this situation and this story. I don't think it's going to be unveiled all at once. I think it's going to be a long process.”

ANDRE BASS Atlanta

“What I think about this situation is that the dark is finally coming to light. I think he's done some questionable things and taken advantage of his position in certain areas, and now we see what's come to light. Now, he's having to pay for a few things he's done in the past. That's how it's looking so far.”

BOYD

GOODSON Atlanta

“Regarding my thoughts on the P. Diddy situation, he's done. It's on video. There's nothing to debate about, as far as I can see. I didn't see [the apology.] But I understand he never mentioned the young lady's name. So he wasn't apologizing to me, you know, I mean, I don't care. He needs to apologize to her and her whole family. Everybody. But he did mention her name...”

Compiled by Vincent Christie.

State

Patrick Labat wins Fulton County Sheriff re-election bid by a large margin

Bryce Berry wins Democratic Primary

BY ITORO N. UMONTUEN

As a member of the 2023 graduating class at Morehouse College, and seventh grade math teacher, Bryce Berry beat three candidates in a crowded Democratic primary Tuesday night in the Georgia House District 56 race. Berry’s victory all but solidifies his path to a seat in the House in 2025.

Berry’s victory will see him take on State Rep. Mesha Mainor in November. In 2023, Mainor switched parties due to what she categorized as moral reasons. If Berry wins in November, he will become the youngest person elected to the Georgia House of Representatives at 22 years old.

“I cannot thank District 56 enough for their support and their belief in me,” says Berry. “I’m humbled and honored. Even as a young person, there’s a chance they’ll see the need for new resolute leadership that sees

and champions every single district. And so I owe this to District 56. We talked not just to the voters, but to non voters as well.”

Berry says his campaign went after the low-information voters that reside in his district. Individuals that felt downtrodden or left out by the process. He says he’s speaking for them.

“I’m someone that I don’t get into the politics of, that we have to degrade and, and defame somebody to get ahead,” I think we all just deserve a chance to get ahead. And we offered them a chance to be seen and heard. And we gave folks hope. That’s what you saw tonight. The move to the results, you saw hope for a district that has a hospital, a district that has jobs, and a district that has the best schools in the nation.”

Berry says his campaign was about maintaining the high road, while the temptations to go low were everywhere. Now, his singular focus is on

winning November’s general election. Berry’s education agenda includes raising teacher pay statewide while fully funding Georgia’s public schools. His economic agenda includes providing tax incentives for small businesses that offer fair wages and healthcare benefits.

Mainor was seated in the Georgia House of Representatives in 2021, representing House District 56. It is Democratic stronghold that stretches from Ansley Park, Atlantic Station, Vine City and to Westview. In 2020, President Joe Biden carried the district with 90% of the vote.

Mainor garnered 114 votes as the sole participant in the Republican primary.

“This is only half the battle, but it’s a battle we will lead with love, hope and optimism of what Georgia can be,” Berry said Wednesday on social media. “We’re taking this to November and restoring progressive values to District 56.”

Dickens, City hosts employment signing day for city’s summer youth program

BY DONNELL SUGGS

Ayoung woman made her way to the podium and looked down at her notes. Cassipea Stith was once one of the Atlanta youth being given a summer job through the city’s Summer Youth Employment Program and now she was addressing them about what the program and the opportunity it wrought did for her.

“Continue to be present like you are today and the rest will work out,” she explained. Stith, who is preparing to enter law school in Chicago in the fall, worked for the City of Atlanta as a summer youth employee and she spoke of how that experience has changed her life and professional trajectory.

“So many stories like that play in my mind,” said Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens after Stith left the dais. “I believe this program can serve as a launchpad for their careers. To the young people that are here today, I am urging you to embrace the opportunities with an open mind.” Dickens shared stories of working at a local Wendy’s and Publix as a youth and how having a summer job was important to him.

Dickens’ “Year of the Youth” plans have a strong focus on not only finding something constructive for the city’s youth to do during the dog days of summer, but also on helping them find jobs. More than 5,000 youth (ages 14-24) worked for a number of companies, including 12 City of Atlanta departments, through the program last year. Just over 2,000 youth registered for job opportunities through the program before the summer began. This year there have been 5,070 registrants, according to data provided by the Atlanta Department of Labor & Employment Services. That means

more jobs for local youth at $15 per hour, says Accenture Managing Director Chloe Barzey.

“We all know that talent is equally distributed, but opportunities are not. As a mom of teenagers, I will say this program is fantastic.”

The third annual Summer Youth Employment Program signing day offered employers and their future summer employees the opportunity to shake hands and sign on the dotted line. Some of the employers that were in attendance at the signing, which took place at Accenture Atlanta’s Midtown tech hub, put their electronic signatures on the digital document alongside the mayor’s.

“Our programs have seen remarkable responses from local businesses,” said Atlanta Department of labor & Employment Services Commissioner John Flanagan.

One of those business owners that is utilizing the Summer Youth Employment Program is Blooksy, aBlack-owned and operated Atlanta-based software company that helps users to get books published. The company’s founder, AJ Joiner attended signing day and sat alongside 15-year-old Kimora Pitts, a young author and student at KIPP Atlanta Collegiate. On the benefits of the Summer Youth Employment Program, Joiner said, “It’s investing in the future, it's investing in their education.”

Pitts, who came to the signing day event with some of the members of her family, reiterated something she learned from Joiner and while working with Blooksy. “Once a published author, always a published author,” she said. “This program gives us various opportunities to tap into our writing and creativity.” She also mentioned the professional relationships and friendships she has made because of the summer youth employment program.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens (above) signs his name to the Summer Youth Employment Program signing day letter inside Accenture’s Midtown innovation lab on Wednesday, May 29, 2024. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

Finance

Develop Fulton launches international business development efforts with a trip to Korea

In Low-Wage Jobs, Working While Black Means Showing Up Sick

BY JENNIFER PORTER GORE Word in Black

The states that mandated paid sick or family leave for hourly workers are in mostly-white states. Given that nearly 20% of low-wage workers are Black, that means they are disproportionately more likely to live in an area where they can't care for themselves or their loved ones if they fall ill during the work week.

In 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress passed a temporary law that allowed employees, who are disproportionately Black and Latino, to claim up to two weeks of paid sick leave for pandemic-related illness. For the first time, low-wage workers had access to sick leave for themselves or to care for loved ones.

Eight years earlier, several states and the District of Columbia had enacted laws requiring employers to allow workers to earn paid sick time. However, the pandemic revealed how much the lack of paid sick days still affected thousands of hourly workers and many states and localities began offering some type of paid time off for illness.

But an economic analysis — coupled with the demographics of states that haven’t expanded sick leave to hourly workers — found that swaths of Black workers have to come to work even if they are sick.

“During the pandemic, workers and their families benefited when the government acted quickly to protect workers from the threat of COVID and the threat of economic insecurity,” according to the report from the Economic Policy Institute, a Washington think tank. Forcing people to come to work when they’re sick, the report states, is a public health hazard and harms the economy.

“Paid sick leave not only helps reduce transmission of disease, it also provides economic security for workers who might otherwise lose income if they have to take time off from work,” the report states. “Giving up on these protections, including support for employers to provide access to paid sick leave, hurts everyone.”

The changes have revealed yet another public-health inequity hidden in plain sight, according to Hilary Wething, the economist and researcher who wrote a report on the

state of sick leave in the United States.

While about 14% of hourly-wage workers are people of color, “In 2022, 67% of Black workers [nationwide] had access to paid sick leave,” she says. “Black workers were more likely to have access to paid sick leave than Hispanic workers, but less likely than Asian and white, non-Hispanic workers.”

“This means that 1 in 3 Black workers still have to make an impossible choice between losing pay to stay home if they are sick or coming to work and risk infecting their coworkers and community.”

Residents in Missouri, Alaska, and Nebraska, will be able to vote on paid sick leave initiatives during the upcoming elections but there’s no move at the federal level to do the same.

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act, a tax credit Congress passed in 2020, incentivized employers to provide sick leave for punch-clock employees, who typically don’t have it. The law was designed in part to help “essential workers” — grocery store clerks, hospitality workers and the like — who were crucial to keeping the economy functioning during lockdown.

The U.S. remains one of just nine countries that do not guarantee paid sick leave and it is the only developed country that doesn’t require employers to guarantee sick days. Private-sector workers do a bit better than low-wage workers with 78% of them having access to paid sick days, up from 63% in 2010. And 96% of private-sector workers with the highest wages have paid leave.

In an interview with KFF Health, Wething said the government used the COVID crisis as an opportunity.

“When the pandemic hit, we finally saw some real political will to solve the problem of not having federal paid sick leave,” she said..

Service-oriented jobs such as cashiers, nail technicians, home health aides, and fastfood workers–tend to be the low-paying jobs that often lack paid sick leave but require a heavy amount of personal interaction.

“So paid sick leave is about both protecting the public health of a community and providing the workers the economic security that they desperately need when they need to take time away from work,” Wething said.

A temporary federal law during COVID gave low-wage workers paid sick leave. But the law expired, forcing a huge chunk of Black workers to clock in when they should stay home. Photo Credit: iStock.com/Marisa9

Community

McBath cruises to Democratic primary win

Walmart returns to Vine City with Neighborhood Market

BY ISAIAH SINGLETON

Walmart has returned to Vine City (835 MLK Jr. Drive) after the store closed following fire damage in December 2022. Instead of returning to the old store, the company aimed to bring something new to the Vine City community with a Neighborhood Market. For the first time in its history, Walmart has converted a Supercenter into a unique Neighborhood Market model, which offers affordable, fresh produce, meat and dairy products, bakery and deli items, household supplies, health and beauty aids, and a pharmacy.

The newly reopened store will help meet the needs of the Vine City community, which would otherwise have limited choices for fresh food and pharmacy services.

Mayor Andre Dickens was in attendance and just as eager about the re-grand opening

as the community was. He said that when the store closed in Vine City, the community was upset and held a vigil.

“I immediately met with Walmart leadership and worked with them through a variety of options to reopen the store and ensure this community would not remain a food desert,” he said. I am grateful to Walmart for their commitment to reinvest in our community and join my administration’s efforts to improve the quality of life for our residents."

The Vine City Neighborhood Market is 75,000 square feet, nearly double the size of the typical format. It includes a full-service deli, Money Center, expanded bakery, and Online Pickup and Delivery service.

The new and expanded pharmacy features cooler capacity for larger on-site inventory and five full-service windows. A new Health Service Room will also offer immunizations, health screenings, consultations, medication therapy management, and other vital services.

Senior Director and Market Manager Limark Tucker, overseeing the Vine City Walmart, said when they committed to rebuilding the location, they knew how important it was to have meaningful discussions with local officials and community members to identify the most important needs.

“We got to work building a store that met those necessities, and we’re thankful for the leadership of the City of Atlanta and Invest Atlanta,” he said. “They have supported our efforts to provide these vital services in the community, and we will continue to work closely with them throughout this process.”

Vine City residents Taylor Chaney and Davon Jackson said they are forever grateful to Walmart and Mayor Dickens for working diligently to bring back such an essential part of the community in a new form.

“It’s been a minute since we lost Walmart due to the fire, and it has been tough because we don’t have much in the area. It was like

a food desert out here, so I’m grateful that there’s something back here to help all of us out in getting fresh food,” Chaney said.

“I got up early this morning to be here because I was so excited to finally be able to shop here again instead of going out my way to shop for my family,” Jackson said.

Additionally, the Neighborhood Market’s reopening demonstrates Walmart’s continued community investment, notably by creating 135 jobs. Additionally, the company is making donations totaling $12,500 to the following local causes its associates chose to recognize:

• Atlanta Community Food Bank ($2,000)

• H.O.P.E. Atlanta ($2,000)

• Warrior GMR Foundation ($2,500)

• Bearstrong, Inc. ($2,000)

• H.E.Y. Atlanta ($2,000)

• Hands On Atlanta ($2,000)

For more information about this store, visit Contact Walmart Media Relations (walmart.com)

The Walmart at 835 MLK Jr. Drive in Vine City reopened Wednesday morning. The store had been closed for over a year following a fire. Photo by Isaiah Singleton/The Atlanta Voice

Building a bridge between the AUC and Africa

BY LAURA NWOGU

The President of The Republic of Kenya, Dr. William Samoei Ruto, visited Spelman College on Tuesday to lay the groundwork for creating partnerships between Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Kenyan scholars.

“Spelman has already had strong ties and engagement in several African countries. And that's why we are so happy to be deepening this relationship with Kenya,” said Spelman College president Dr. Helene D. Gayle. “HBCUs, historically black colleges and universities, are beacons of economic and social mobility for people of African descent. One of Spelman’s many pride points is our impact on economic mobility.”

The event extended Spelman’s commitment to fostering community and strengthening engagement with the African diaspora, with an emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs. Gayle announced the rollout of a new educational initiative representing the college’s commitment to fos-

tering stronger ties and creating impactful opportunities within the African diaspora, particularly Kenya.

Silicon Savannah is a term used to de -

scribe the tech ecosystem in the East African country, which has positioned itself as a hotbed of innovative breakthroughs. A play on San Francisco's Silicon Valley is a crucial

signal toward how Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city, has become a global player in helping shape the technology industry's growth. Ruto and Gayle emphasized how the focus on STEM education investment benefits both the U.S. and Kenya as they hope to empower the youth, increase the workforce and drive economic growth.

Kenya signed a collaborative memorandum of understanding (MOU) with leaders from Spelman College, Microsoft, Mastercard’s Center for Inclusive Growth, Howard University, Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) that signaled the framework agreement to enhance student and faculty exchange, joint research and innovation, aiming to bolster capabilities for a digital future.

“By following in the footsteps of the historic end, we shall empower a new generation of disruptive thinkers, ambitious visionaries and innovative problem solvers,” Ruto said. “And thus divine a brighter and knowledge-driven future where progress transcends borders, transforms lives and delivers prosperity.”

The President of The Republic of Kenya, Dr. William Samoei Ruto (seated left) and Spelman College President Dr. Helene D. Gayle (seated right) on stage at Spelman College on the morning of Tues., May 21, 2024. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

The President of The Republic of Kenya, Dr. William Samoei Ruto. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

Kirk Franklin announces The Reunion Tour 2024

André 3000 and his flute took thousands on a journey at the Atlanta Jazz Festival

BY LAURA NWOGU

Fans of Grammy Award-winning artist André 3000 got to experience a new side of the Atlanta music legend at the Atlanta Jazz Festival on Monday, the festival's final day. In an immersive performance and celebration of his 49th birthday, he performed music from his debut solo project, “New Blue Sun.”

Nearly 50,000 people spread across Piedmont Park to listen as the former OutKast member took them on an auditory experience that explored ambient jazz through woodbines and flutes, a contrast from his funky and psychedelic Southern roots made clear by the album’s opening track, “I Swear, I Really Wanted to Make a 'Rap' Album but This Is Literally the Way the Wind Blew Me This Time.”

André 3000 stood on stage in 90-degree weather wearing a red beanie and longsleeve shirt, the latter styling courtesy of his “long-sleeve policy” that he adopted. “I’m hot, but I’m cool, though,” he told the audience. He was backed by his collaborators on the album, the four-part ensemble he’d met while living in Los Angeles and recently finished a tour of intimate live shows with; it was the group's first time performing for an audience as big as the festival’s.

“We’re on this stage tonight to pour out the sky and see what we can get,” he said. “Because everything we’re doing — the same way that ‘New Blue Sun’ was made with me and my brothers — we’re completely making everything up as we go along. We never know

what the night is gonna sound like.”

For an hour, soothing and serene instrumentals that marked the evident shift in his artistic vision filled Piedmont Park. He played the flute, took in the moment and even howled as the energy of the music moved him. In a touching tribute, Andre 3000 paid homage to his roots and producer Rico Wade of the Dungeon Group, who passed on April 13, for raising him and ensuring his raps were “tight.”

“They taught me how to dream,” he said. “Atlanta was the ground for creativity.”

As the performance continued, he encouraged meditation as vertical mirrors reflected toward the audience shifted to face him. As the sun set on the park and the music reached different heights, it was a true testament to the personal spiritual and healing journey André 3000 hoped to reveal to his fans.

From VA to the A: Butcher Brown brought funky sounds to ATL Jazz Fest

BY DONNELL SUGGS

The 47th annual Atlanta Jazz Festival took place this weekend and on Saturday, the official day one of the festival, a band from Richmond, Virginia might have stolen the show.

Butcher Brown, having come off a tour of their latest album, Solar Music, made sure to save some of the albums hits for a very large crowd at Piedmont Park. Performing some of their hits, "No Way Around," "Happy Hourrr", and "This Side of Sunshine", it didn't forget to mix in some older work and one the latest singles, "Thirty One", which does a good job of highlighting the bands many musical gifts.

They opened the set with "I Can Say To You", the version without featured artist Vanisha Gould. It's the version the band played at their most recent NPR Music Tiny Desk appearance and it set the tone for a stellar evening.

By the way the crowd was instantly vibing with the band, one could tell there was some recognition of the music mixed with curiosity. Butcher Brown occupied the 5 p.m. slot and took full advantage of a still very engaged crown since the performances didn't begin at 1 p.m.

The band is made up of five members: lead vocalist/sax/trumpet Marcus "Tennishu" Tenny, Corey Fonville on drums, DJ Harrison on the keys, Andrew Randazzo on bass,

and Morgan Burns on guitar. There were several times were when Randazzo's and Burns skills were on display and you can see why the band is booked throughout the year. When the and played "Fohbliv" it got a lot of people out of their comfortable seats and off blankets.

"Everybody isn't doing this right now, but we are," Tenny said in between songs. "You can dance whenever you feel like it."

"DYKWYD" is one of the band's songs that allows Tenny to play a vocal lead and it's no wonder why when the band proceeded to perform the song there were very few butts in seats (or on blankets). Upon a first lesson, Butcher Brown can give off "The Roots” vibes, but with more of an allegiance to jazz and the

art forms fundamentals than hip-hop.

The two-hour set had no dull moments, and a lot of credit that easily listening has to go to every individual member of the band. The music allows for each of them to have their moments during a live show.

Butcher Brown is scheduled to perform back on its home turf at the Main Line Brewery on May 27 for the Daydream Fest. Here's to hoping they are performing in Atlanta again, because I believe they have gained an entirely new audience. Thousands are expected to make their way to the park for the three-day festival.

"Shout out to my man in the Vick jersey, I know he's Atlanta, but that's VA right there," Tenney shouted into the microphone.

Former Outkast member Andre 3000 (above) and his bandmates played an hour-long set for thousands of fans at the Atlanta Jazz Festival Monday night. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

Foundation fights for Lupus sufferers and their families

BY CLAYTON GUTZMORE

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that affects thousands of individuals across the country. It can impact multiple parts of the body and cause severe internal damage. There isn't a cure for this disease, and it imposes a significant emotional and financial toll on family members of people with Lupus. The Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) Georgia Chapter supports everyone affected by this issue. The organization offers assistance to those in need through various channels. May is Lupus Awareness Month, and the organization has planned activities for the rest of the month to allow locals to show their support for the Lupus community.

"We should all care about this because anybody can get lupus. We should serve those who need to be served, and lupus is a very underserved population," said Teri Emond, President and CEO of the Lupus Foundation of America, Georgia Chapter.

The Lupus Foundation of America Georgia Chapter has been serving the community since 1978. Through advocacy, fundraising, and research, the organization has provided support to those dealing with the disease and their family members. In observance of Lupus Awareness Month in May, the chapter organized several events. On Saturday, May 18, the chapter hosted a Lupus walk in Augusta, GA, where Morehouse School of Medicine presented the latest research on Lupus. Additionally, Georgia chapter members traveled to Washington, D.C., from May 19 to May 21 to advocate for more funding for Lupus research at the national advocacy summit.

The foundation's main message is to assure those battling Lupus that they are not alone and to improve the quality of life for people living with the disease until a cure is found.

When you come to our support group, leave your troubles at the door. Lupus is not always manageable; for some, it's chronic. It's a cruel mystery, but we are dedicated to solving it," said Emond.

Lupus is a severe disease because it causes the immune system to attack healthy tissue in various parts of the body. This results in inflammation, pain, and damage to any organ system. Despite the efforts of foundations and organizations to educate people about Lupus, it is still widely misunderstood. Unfortunately, the disease disproportionately affects women and minority groups the most.

"Lupus predominantly affects young people in their childbearing years. It is three to five times more likely in minority populations. Dr. Sam Lim, from Emory University, one of the top rheumatologists in the country, stated that

Lupus is a severe disease because it causes the immune system to attack healthy tissue in various parts of the body. This results in inflammation, pain, and damage to any organ system. Photo credit iStock.com/asphotowed

Black people bear the burden of the disease. They experience more severe symptoms and are affected more frequently," said Emond.

Lupus treatment can be expensive. According to the Lupus Foundation, the costs for a diagnosis can range from $13,000 to $68,000. Emond and the team at LFA Georgia are aware of these challenges and provide assistance by covering certain costs for individuals with lupus. This support ensures that no one has to choose between paying their bills and meeting their living expenses.

"We have an emergency financial assistance fund because we don't want someone living with lupus to have to choose between paying the light bill and going to the doctor. It is a $500 grant available per grant period. We pay the vendors directly to cover utility bills or provide a hotel room if someone with lupus is homeless," said Emond.

LFA Georgia is working to raise awareness for lupus by highlighting individuals affected by the condition. Their new campaign, "31 Faces of Hope," shares the stories of people with lupus on the organization's website and social media platforms. This initiative ensures that individuals like Monique Thornton are recognized.

Monique Thornton was a dedicated volunteer and advocate who spearheaded this campaign. Sadly, she passed away from Lupus just three days before our walk on April 24. Her husband attended the walk and spoke about the importance of the initiative. We are continuing the campaign in her memory," said Emond.

Lupus is a life-altering illness that marks the beginning of a long-term health struggle. LFA Georgia ensures that individuals commencing this fight are not alone.

Life

Opinion: It turns out young people don’t know Joe Biden all that well

Morris Baxter’s ‘Morris Motivations’ uplifts listeners on Jazz 91.9 WCLK FM

SPECIAL FROM WCLK

If you turn on your radio to Jazz 91.9 WCLK FM between 7 and 10 a.m. on weekdays and hear a motivational message, you are undoubtedly listening to Morris Baxter's voice.

Baxter has been on-air with WCLK since 2006, when the previous morning show host, Bill Clark, passed away. He auditioned for the program with three other potential hosts and was chosen by staff members and listeners to become the station’s newest personality.

“Morning Jazz with Morris Baxter” features an eclectic mix of jazz music from Maysa to Maxwell to Mike Phillips. But the highlight of his three-hour program is his “Morris Motivations.” He’s also the author of “The Morris Code—21 Ways Something Good Is Going To Happen To You Today,” a collection of 21 stories, quotes, and affirmations.

“I believe that everybody should have a mantra and that mantra should be something that gets them motivated,” Baxter said. What motivates me is when I wake up in the

morning. The first person I thank is God. The second thing I say is the ‘Morris Code’: ‘Something good is going to happen to me today.'

“Morris Motivations” has reached tens of thousands of people worldwide with its positive message. Baxter believes it is his purpose to “empower and enlighten.” He credits Coretta Scott King with helping him find his purpose when he was 40 years old after listening to her speak on the matter.

When reflecting on his purpose, Baxter said that his morning show is “the gift that I have been given to make sure that I can really push people forward. “One of the most rewarding things is to make people feel good, but when it comes to what I receive, I believe that as long as you’re humble, you never stumble.”

Morris got his start in radio while he was attending Norfolk State University. Baxter first went to NSU to play basketball but suffered an injury that ended his athletic career. But as the old saying goes, when one door closes, another one opens. While he was listening to the University's radio station, Baxter thought,

“Wow, I can do that.” He then spent time at the station, making his presence known. One day, the station's general manager had to attend to a family emergency, and the current host missed their radio shift. The general manager approached Baxter and said, “You said you wanted to be on the radio. Here is your opportunity. Here is turntable one, turntable two, and the microphone. Have at it.” From there, “Morris the Nighthawk” was born.

A native of Detroit, Michigan, Baxter was exposed to some of the best radio announcers in the U.S. The one who influenced him the most was Charles Johnson, known as “The Electrifying Mojo.” His show, “The Midnight Funk Association,” would air nightly on Detroit airwaves. Baxter said what he remembered most about the show were the sound effects Johnson used at the end of every show. “It was theater of the mind,” Baxter fondly remembered.

Many great Black male voices have been on the radio over the years, like Frankie Crocker in New York, syndicated host Tom

‘Hey, that’s me’: Familiar face in a famous place

BY NOAH WASHINGTON

Donovon McKnight, professionally known as Kent King, does not flaunt his wealth or wear it on his body. At 36, McKnight is humble, his demeanor unassuming, sitting outside Bold Monk Brewery.

To those familiar with him on social media, Mcknight runs a marketing business, “Kentcultivate” However, to the wider world, he is known as the infamous GIF of a little Black boy crying a single tear, a clip from his guest appearance on "The Chris Rock Show."

McKnight’s venture into the entertainment industry began unexpectedly at a Halloween party in New Brunswick, New Jersey, where he caught the attention of casting directors at just five years old.

"I stumbled into a room filled with casting directors. Even at five years old, I could hold a conversation,” McKnight remembered. He and his family eventually found representation in talent agent Shirley Faison, mother of “Scrubs” actor Donald Faison. McKnight's charisma paved the way for a career leading him to work alongside notable figures like Chris Rock and even Halle Berry, his “first girlfriend,” whom he appeared in “Losing Isaiah” as Amir.

“My first girlfriend was Halle Berry. Don't, don't get it twisted. That's the only thing I'm extremely braggadocious about,” McKnight jokes. McKnight’s career would expand from commercials for major brands to film roles. However, his experience on "The Chris Rock Show" led him to become one of the most familiar faces on

Donovon McKnight, known as Kent King, has become a familiar face on the internet as the infamous GIF of a little Black boy crying a single tear from his guest appearance on The Chris Rock Show. Photo by Noah Washington/The Atlanta Voice

the internet. Rock's mentorship, emphasizing professionalism and dedication, significantly shaped McKnight's approach to acting. "Working with Chris Rock was one of the best experiences I've had as an actor," McKnight said.

In 2009, McKnight first encountered his iconic GIF—a single tear streaming down his cheek—on Twitter. "I think the first time I ever saw it was on Twitter," McKnight recalls, noting

his active participation on the platform around that time. The experience was unexpected and left a strong impression. "It was a shock to see myself like that, to be used in that way," McKnight admits, reflecting on the sudden expansion of his digital footprint. This sense of unexpected digital notoriety unfolded as McKnight navigated different online spaces. Then, in 2013, the meme took off. While participating in an online forum focused on various interests for Black men—including movies, sports, and technology—he stumbled upon a meme of himself in a thread discussing popular models. "I scrolled down, and somebody was using that meme to represent their appreciation for her. It was a bit jarring, but hilarious," McKnight said about the incident.

At the time, his confidence had yet to mature enough to embrace his tech-savvy side or the unexpected roles his digital likeness took on. "I kind of just froze in place," he admits. McKnight

Joyner, Jack “the Rapper” Gibson, and Doug Steele in Atlanta. Now Morris joins that prestigious list.

He shared why he thinks having Black male voices in radio is important, “There are a lot of Black men that are not really being recognized, and it seems like we are slowly being annihilated.” Baxter said about Black male voices on the radio. “I think our presence is something here that is valuable to this world.”

Before Morris arrived at WCLK, his first job in Atlanta was as the national promotions manager for Loud/Sony Records. He worked with hip-hop legends such as the Wu-Tang Clan, Three 6 Mafia, Mobb Deep, and more in this role. Plus, his voice was featured on Blackstreet's 4x platinum album, “Another Level.”

As the interview concluded, Morris shared a positive quote from Confucious for The Atlanta Voice readers, “If you think about the past, it causes depression. If you think about the future, it causes anxiety. You will always be at peace if you think about the present.”

was hesitant to reveal his identity, grappling with the dynamics of internet anonymity. "I thought about being like, 'Yo, that's me.'" But you know, internet anonymity is a thing. So, I didn't want to expose myself," McKnight continued.

This incident began his journey towards accepting and eventually appreciating how his image was being used online, a realization that deepened his understanding of his impact in the digital world. "That experience was both shocking and awe-inspiring," McKnight explained.

McKnight's journey eventually took him from his home in New Jersey to Atlanta, where he was drawn by the booming music scene and the opportunity for business expansion.

However, the COVID-19 pandemic prompted a reevaluation of his career and personal goals, leading him to focus on authenticity over conformity. This shift facilitated a pivot towards utilizing his combined skills in music, content creation, and marketing.

Today, McKnight is deeply involved in content creation, leveraging platforms like YouTube to combine his creative talents with his entrepreneurial acumen. His content aims to entertain and help others understand marketing and business strategies in relatable ways.

“I'm uniquely positioned to do this content thing because I have a history and a background in media," he says. I understand business and marketing, and this is how I mash the two together: teaching everything that I know and doing it in a creative way. I've always been a creative individual. I've always been comfortable in front of the camera. Now I feel like I have found this synergy, and this frequency resonates with me the most."

Biden and Trump agree to 2 presidential debates, with first

set for June 27 on CNN

Poach Social reopens in Summerhill

BY LAURA NWOGU

Poach Social, a brunch restaurant at 112 Ormond St. SE, reopened after shutting its doors in 2022 following a large kitchen fire. During its closure, the Summerhill restaurant reinforced its mission to provide the community with a space that feeds and brings the community together.

The restaurant’s focus is not only on providing good food but also on cultivating an environment where people can have an enjoyable time and socialize. Upon entering the restaurant, guests are greeted by a large LED sign promising great food and a great mood, a commitment that motivated owner Brian Mitchell through the restaurant’s hardships.

After the fire gutted the entire kitchen and caused smoke damage to the dining area, Mitchell shared it was a challenge to rebuild and reorganize. Inflation had hit, causing the price of produce to triple against their budget used to renovate the boutique space and revamp the menu. Discouragement settled in, but Mitchell took it as an opportunity to make “lemon out of lemonade” and implement changes.

“It was overwhelming at first,” Mitchell said. “I won't lie. Sometimes, it's like, do I really want to do this again? But based on the initial passion that I had to open the restaurant in this area, I just felt the need to do it. And the community loved us, so it became motivating, and I'm very happy to be back open again.

“We were able to take that disaster and make it a great opportunity for us to improve and become a better version of ourselves.”

From the adoption of an open floor plan to the relocation of the bar and implementation of walk-in coolers, Mitchell and his team were able to build something new and better from the ashes of the fire, allowing them the opportunity to remain a staple in Summerhill.

In the past few years, the Summerhill neighborhood has undergone rapid redevelopment. What was once a historically Jewish and Black community has been transformed through gentrification, and when Mitchell moved to the neighborhood in 2016, he noted the wave of changes that were blanketing the neighborhood due to new development. But within that redevelopment, Mitchell said he wanted to make sure that the Black business owners were still represented. It’s a dedication that has stemmed from his childhood. His dad owned several restaurants, and he grew up in the hustle and bustle of different eateries, observing the ins and outs of the industry. That experience is one of the influences that led him to open Poach Social.

“It's in my blood. I said I would never do restaurants, yet here I am. It’s to carry on my dad's legacy and have my own spin on it.”

Through the opening of Poach Social, Mitchell said he also wanted to provide the community with access to fresh, healthy and consistently good food. The menu melds beloved breakfast classics influenced by Southern cuisine with food from different cultures. It’s a feast for everyone, combining dishes such as brioche french toast drizzled with lemon and topped with fresh blueberries with menu items such as jerk chicken egg rolls and cajun shrimp pasta.

“We wanted to develop a menu where everyone can find something that they like, so that drove the basis of it. When I go to a restaurant and I enjoy something, I'm really big on saying, hey, every time I go there, it's going to be the same. So that was another focus of developing the menu. We've learned a lot of recipes and procedures to ensure consistency.”

Since its reopening, Mitchell said the biggest goal for Poach Social is to foster a diverse customer base that promotes inclusivity and encourages the community to embrace the restaurant in its new phase of life.

“Atlanta is changing. I want to create an environment for us all to be able to eat and enjoy food together and to be able to just share a common experience within the community of Atlanta. That is one of the biggest things that I think Poach Social’s whole omission is — serving everybody in Atlanta.

“So I definitely just encourage everybody to come and check us out and support us then help us thrive.”

Poach Social owner Brian Mitchell. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

French toast at Poach Social.

Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

BY DONNELL SUGGS

On Wednesday night in Fort Lauderdale against Inter Miami CF Atlanta United found what had been missing for so many matches: goals and a victory in Major League Soccer play. Prior to the 3-1 victory over Inter Miami, Atlanta had been winless in eight consecutive league matches.

Atlanta will host its first two matches of June against Charlotte FC and the Houston Dynamo on Sunday, June 2 and on Saturday, June 15 following the international break. Both opponents are in seventh place in their respective conferences and should be winnable matches for Atlanta (4-4-7 overall).

During the game against Inter Miami, Atlanta United goal keeper Josh Cohen made a number of saves, while goals from Saba Lobzhanidze (2) and Jamal Thiare’ (1) were enough to stave off a goal from Lionel Messi.

The victory was the team’s first road win since August 2023.

On Memorial Day weekend fans could have added a red card on goalkeeper Brad Guzan to the list of things that could go wrong and did go wrong for Atlanta United. Backup goalkeeper Josh Cohen came into the match and immediately saw a free kick from LAFC midfielder Mateusz Bogusz fly his out-stretched hand and into the net to give the visiting team a 1-0 lead in the 63rd minute.

The team's most recent success in the U.S. Open Cup play, including that of Cohen during the penalty kick stage of the victory over Charleston earlier this week, could not hide the fact that something has bitten this team and won’t let go.

Substitutions like Derrick Williams and Edwin Mosquera in the 72nd minute brought fresh legs onto the pitch for Atlanta, but little else. Even eight minutes of stoppage time wouldn’t be enough to stop the winless streak.

In the 98th minute of play there were a few desperate attempts at tying the match, including a shot from Tristan Muyumba that he barely missed, but it felt like Atlanta was perpetually playing from behind.

Simone Biles wins Core Hydration Classic on the road to the Paris 2024 Olympics

Atlanta United opens June with momentum and consecutive home matches

Brooks Lennon, left, battles for possession during the first half of a Major League Soccer match between Atlanta United and Los Angeles Football Club on Saturday, May 25, 2024 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Photo: Itoro N. Umontuen/The Atlanta Voice

Tristan Muyumba is on the ball during the second half of a Major League Soccer match between Atlanta United and Los Angeles Football Club on Saturday, May 25, 2024 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Photo: Itoro N. Umontuen/The Atlanta Voice

Atlanta United will face Charlotte FC and midfielder Justin Meram (right) on Sunday afternoon. Photo by Itoro N. Umontuen/The Atlanta Voice

FULTON COUNTY ADVERTISEMENT FOR PROPOSAL

Sealed proposals for 24RFP142770K-CRB - Project Management Enterprise Application Software for the Fulton County Public Works 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 Wednesday, July 24, 2024, 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: N/A

Scope of Work: Fulton County, Georgia (“County”) is seeking a SaaS-based construction project management (CPM) solution for the County’s Public Works and D.R.E.A.M. departments. Through the issuance of this Request for Proposal (“RFP” and/or “Proposals”), the County is soliciting Proposals from qualified Proposers for the Project Management Enterprise Application Software. 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: 90 Days.

A Pre-Proposal Conference, will be held via Zoom on Wednesday, June 26, 2024 at 10:00 a.m., local (Eastern) time, to provide bidders with information regarding the project and to address any questions. Link: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJYvf-mqpjgrE9RiDUGPDAr6K44Cm-APKsqH

If you have any questions regarding this project please contact Craig R. Bogan, Assistant Purchasing Agent, at Email: craig.bogan@ fultoncountyga.gov.

Fulton County reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals and to waive technicalities.

RFP for Sweet Auburn Grande located at 229 Auburn Ave, Atlanta, GA.

BIDS DUE: June 6, 2024, at 2:00 pm PRE-BID MEETING will be held on site on May 22, 2024, at 11:00 am.

PLANS: Hard Copies of plans available upon request and at subcontractor’s expense from A1 BluePrint (www.a1blue.com), Phone: 404-524-8881 OR for a link contact Linda at Lstache@gormanusa.com. Contact Info: Linda Stache, Gorman & Company, Phone: 608-835-5177

CERTIFICATIONS: SBE/MBE/WBE/EBE/DBE/VBE, BABAAIron and Steel Only and SECTION 3

Please note: This is a prevailing wage rate project.

Sr. Data Engineer. Design, develop, test, and deploy data pipelines to manage enterprise data.

Employer: Sharecare Operating Company, Inc. Location: HQ in Atlanta, GA. May telecommute from any location in the U.S. To apply, mail resume to K. Bing, 255 E. Paces Ferry Road NE, Suite 700, Atlanta, GA, 30305.