The Atlanta Voice E-Edition 070524 by theatlantavoice633

Marcus Williams (above) opened Nubian Books

Connecting With The Next Wave Of Homeowners

Building a Literary Legacy

BY DONNELL SUGGS

Sandwiched between a TJ Maxx and a DTLR outlet, the one and only Black-owned bookstore in Georgia's seventh largest county, Nubian Books, is buzzing with activity on a Friday afternoon. Author Rhonda McKnight was signing copies of her latest book, Bitter and Sweet, while customers were shopping in the store’s Greek clothing section.

Nubian Books, located in Morrow, isn’t just the only Black-owned bookstore in Clayton County, it is the only bookstore in the county. The Barnes & Noble franchise, which was located a half-mile away, closed in early May and left Clayton County residents without a major bookseller to patronize within the county limits. There was however a bookstore for many of those customers to get their books from.

“Business-wise it’s been good for me,” Marcus Williams, owner of Nubian Books said of the closure of Barnes & Noble. He said he has seen an uptick in book sales since the closure. “It kind of helped me corner the market.”

Nubian Books opened in February 1999 inside Southlake Mall and moved into its current location on Southlake Parkway in the fall of 2013. There was always a need for a Black bookstore in Clayton County in comparison to larger Fulton County where Black bookstores existed in the West End and inside Greenbriar Mall. The bookstore in the mall, Medu Bookstore, has been a staple in the community for decades and for a then young Williams it was an inspiration and a direct reflection of what he wanted to do. As a student at Morehouse College majoring in business marketing, Williams got a job at Medu Bookstore and that job changed his life, he said. He knew he wanted to open his own bookstore one day.

“I really enjoyed working at the book-

store,” said Williams, 48. “The hands-on experience at Medu gave me all the experience I needed.”

Williams dropped out of school, borrowed some money from family members and found a retail space where he could bring his dream of owning a bookstore to life. Even though 1 in 4 small businesses in the United States fail within the first year of business, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, it has been 25 years since the first day Nubian Books opened its doors. Asked what has been the best part of owning his own business, Williams said it was the control.

“Being in full control of the success of your business has been the best part,” he said. “I wouldn’t have made it this far without consistency and working hard everyday.”

Nubian Books doesn’t just sell books by Black authors like McKnight and others that routinely hold book signing events in front and inside the store. Customers can get copies of Black newspapers, such as The Final Call, inside Nubain Books. Comic books and children’s books by Black illustrators and authors are also available. One of the more popular sections of the store is the Greek fraternity and sorority ailes. Greek life at Historically Black Colleges and predominantly white universities is huge in metro Atlanta and Williams says he gets customers from all over Georgia and from as far away as Alabama and South Carolina. The ease in which customers can shop for fraternity and sorority gear makes Nubian Books a desired destination for regular customers, according to Williams. Nubian Books has Greek-themed keychains, lanyards, jackets, sweaters, hats, plaques, coasters, backpacks, car tags, license plate holders, ties and jewelry on display throughout the store.

Nubian Books is the only bookstore in Clayton County following the closure of a mainstream franchise in May. “Business-wise it’s been good for me,” Marcus Williams, owner of Nubian Books said. He said he has seen an uptick in book sales since the closure. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

Nubian Books owner Marcus Williams (above) assisting a customer with a book purchase on Wednesday, June 19, 2024. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

See BOOKS on page 3

Nubian Bookstore sells Greek fraternity and sorority gear, sone of which is very hard to find in smaller cities and towns around the country.

Photo by Donnell Suggs/ The Atlanta Voice

BOOKS

Continued from page 2

Williams shared a story of a regular customer coming to the store from Detroit every time he’s in Atlanta to visit his parents. “He stops by to buy his Kappa Alpha Psi paraphernalia,'' Williams said. He believes the level of customer service to Black customers looking for books as gifts, for example, is something they won’t always get at big box stores and popular chains.

“I think a lot of the merchandise that I carry you can’t find anywhere else,” Williams explained. “A lot of the mainstream booksellers won’t carry the books that Black customers need and want.”

During the time The Atlanta Voice was in the store conducting an interview for this story, a customer came into the store asking for a copy of “The Grift, the latest book from author Clay Cane. Williams immediately checked his store database and then went searching in the back of the store. He didn’t find a copy at first before remembering there was a recent shipment of books that he needed to unpack. Minutes later he was back at the register checking out that customer and his grand-daughter, who picked up a copy of one of Williams’ 14 children’s books. He found a copy of “The Grift” for that customer.

“Just by me being Black I usually have a feel for what Black people want and need in the store,” Williams explained. “I’m in tune with my target market.”

Asked what the worst part of owning Nubian Books might be, Williams smiled, “I have no issues. I wouldn’t trade this for anything,” he said.

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Williams is the author of 14 children’s books on sale at Nubian Books. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

“Amazing Grace” by Mary Hoffman and illustrated by Caroline Binch on a bookshelf at Nubian Books. The store specializes in selling books by Black authors. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

“You have to learn how to care about people without taking on all of their problems.”

—

Phylicia Rashad

Opinion: Dazed and Confused

BY DONNELL SUGGS

The owner of Rocky's Barbershop, a small Black-owned business located on Piedmont Rd. in Buckhead, is confused. Rocky Jones allowed his small barbershop to be the site of a small business roundtable discussion hosted by a pair of Republican Congressman, Byron Donalds (FL) and Wesley Hunt (TX), and Dr. Ben Carson, the former United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development under Trump. And somehow, Jones has gone on record to say he didn't know it was a Trump surrogate-led event. He didn't know it would be political in nature. Yeah right, dude.

I was there that day, and so were 30-plus other members of the media. I'm not sure that we all would have been crammed inside and gathered outside the barbershop on a hot Wednesday afternoon if it was just "locker room talk" taking place. I was invited by a member of the Trump campaign communications team. As a member of the media, I jumped at the chance

to cover a small Black business owner who openly supported the Trump reelection campaign. Only Jones must have been confused about what was taking place.

Days after the roundtable took place, which was a day before the first presidential debate between President Joseph R. Biden and former President Donald J. Trump took place in Midtown, Jones went on a mini-media tour to explain his inclusion in the event. He didn't realize hosting the event would end in a backlash from customers. He didn't understand that having "Blacks for Trump" and "Never Surrender" signs in his barbershop were going to be seen as support for the Trump campaign. I am ready to go on record as saying he didn't realize Trump lost Georgia by a little over 12,000 votes last election, and some of those people that voted against Trump and for Biden were customers at his barbershop. Don't cry for Jones, though. He was financially compensated for the time his barber shop was closed to customers. There were a number of times I saw him leave the barber-

shop before the event started, and each time he saw more and more media outside, even once saying to me, "The Atlanta Voice, huh" while looking at the logo on my work-issued polo shirt. Jones is no fool. You can't run a successful business in Atlanta and be clueless to your surroundings. He knew what was happening and now seems to regret ever getting involved. He chose a side, even just for a couple of hours, and apparently chose wrong, at least when it comes to his business: cutting Black men's hair.

In the Black community, barbershops are safe spaces where we can talk about anything and everything going on in the world. On Wednesday, Jones set his business up, signs and all, to be a safe space for Trump surrogates and support. As an American, he had the right to do so. The backlash and dazed and confused aftermath that he is now experiencing are on him now. Trump has moved on.

Editor's Note: This column is the opinion of the writer and not The Atlanta Voice.

FOUNDED May 11, 1966

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Rocky’s Barbershop owner Rocky Jones (right) sharing a humorous moment with Republican Congressman Byron Donalds during a small business roundtable on Wednesday, June 26, 2024 in Atlanta. Jones claims he never knew the roundtable was a Trump-focused, political event.

Photo by Julia Beverly/The Atlanta Voice

SPIRITUALLY SPEAKING

TEMPTATIONS CENTRAL

BY JAMES A. WASHINGTON The Atlanta Voice

This thing with Satan is occupying a good part of my biblical studies lately. I’m encouraged to know that God’s plan is precise and obvious to those looking for His Word. I was taken with reading Matthew 4: 1-11 regarding the three temptations of Jesus in the desert after 40 days of fasting. When Satan offers Christ ‘all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor, I was shocked at the power the devil has to tempt each and every one of us as we operate on what is essentially his turf. Remember, Lucifer hung out with the Lord in heaven. They were roadies until Lucifer got the big head and was banished to the physical realm. Once Jesus rebuked him for the third time, scripture says, “Then the devil left Him, and angels came and attended Him.” So once Christ withstood temptation, God delivered unto him all that Satan offered

Man does not live by bread alone, but on every word that come from the mouth of the Lord.

and more. You see, that is Christ’s birthright, and ours is too. So, let me get this straight. The devil probably knows the bible better than we do. He understands what tempts us because he knows what pleases God. Remember, they hung out together. Hence, I am a much easier target than Jesus Christ was, and ruination for me won’t necessarily take the promise of all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. Since I am made in the image of God, perhaps the key to my salvation is surrendering all that I Have and all that I am to Him, He who is my Lord and Savior. By doing so, I should be able to put myself in a position to see the devil coming. If I see him coming, maybe I can withstand, for the moment, the need to have

“YOUR VOICE”

my wants and desires satisfied by sacrificing the integrity of my soul for momentary gratification. I understand the difference between the temptation to sin and the test of faith. I’m coming to grips with how simple it appears to be when looked at from a godly, no-spiritual perspective. Once Jesus answered each of Satan’s successive temptations with Matthew 4:4, “It is (also) written: Man does not live by bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.” Matthew 4:7: “It is also written: Do not put the Lord your God to the test.”Matthew 4:10: “Away from me, Satan! For it is written ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve Him only.”Then the devil left, and the angels came. The key, then, is to get on the

other side of temptation by walking in the Word consciously enough to understand that just saying no to Satan is an absolute guarantee of getting all that you desire and all that you need in this life. What must be overcome, however, is to realize just how cunning the devil has become in getting one to realize, to forget, to ignore that he is the source of all temptation. When in doubt, call on the name of the Lord, and eventually, Satan will be replaced by angels who are ready to attend to you. As Jesus said, “Seek ye first the kingdom and whatever it is that you desire, you will have more…”

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.

What are your thoughts on the Democrats’ consideration of replacing Joe Biden for the upcoming Presidential Election?

ATALYA MANCHESTER

McDonough

“It's concerning. We were just talking about this I was saying that the latter is worse, especially for minorities. For me personally, I am a queer black woman, living in America, so I feel it every day... I know Biden is not the best candidate. We don't have good candidates. It's kind of like the lesser of two evils. And so, I would just go for Biden because the latter is way worse for us, and our future is not looking good.”

CRYSTAL

WILLIAMS Austell

“Honestly, I think it's necessary, unfortunately. I do feel like I'm not excited about either one of the candidates right now. I feel like who I vote for will be based on who I don't want in office and who's the lesser of two evils. I wish that I had been excited about the candidate who was running. If the Dems can replace Biden with somebody who can make us excited and have hope again and motivate us to hope for change, I feel that will be good. But right now, it just feels... Daunting... like when we have the election, it seems it will be more of the same. I wish it were a positive change.”

LAWRENCE RAPIER

Kennesaw

“I think that Biden should have been replaced. It might be too late now, but I think they should have replaced him with somebody. I think that a lot of the Democrats, a lot of the Progressives, are looking forward. Biden is literally like the definition of an old moderate Democrat. He's not progressive in thinking. He really can't be. It's out of his generation, right? And I think many voices are lost in that because you're trying to find somebody who fits the middle. They are missing people with these progressive thoughts that can lead us forward with new, innovative ideas and new ways to bring the country together. And Biden can't be that because he never was that. I think Biden ran for president several times before but was never a good candidate. The only reason he is now is because he's the alternative to Trump.”

TIGER ROMAN

Atlanta

“So, with everything happening, I don't think he should be replaced. I still think there's a lot of opportunity and smart people around him. Some of the other available options may not be the best. So, I think we still have time to decide.”

Compiled by Vincent Christie at Ponce City Market.

Negro Southern League Museum: A rich historical moment

Local Veterans gather at Liberty Plaza to have their say

BY LAURA NWOGU

Ahead of CNN’s Biden-Trump presidential debate in Atlanta, Common Defense, the nation’s largest grassroots veterans organization, gathered for a rally at Liberty Plaza on Thursday. Just steps away from the Georgia State Capitol, veterans from states such as Texas and Arizona traveled to the battleground city to address voter intimidation, advocate for reproductive rights, and demand the protection of democracy.

Ed Anderson, the Georgia lead organizer for Common Defense, said veterans probably understand the values of democracy better than anyone else.

“In Georgia in 2019, over 200,000 people were purged from the voter rolls. Cross-reexamination of those rolls shows that many people lived in counties around military bases,” Anderson said. “We’re trying to break that down even more. We feel like military voters and families of military voters are being disenfranchised. So all of our outreach is to reach not just veterans, but also military families and communities to educate and engage them in the voting process.”

At the rally, veterans told personal anecdotes rehashing futile searches for healthcare and fear of the current state of reproductive rights in the country in efforts to emphasize the importance of voting for the right leaders.

Dallas native and Air Force veteran Britni Cuington has a differently-abled son and shared that she’s “terrified of conceiving again” because she’s unsure if she and her unborn child would survive the pregnancy due to the lack of medical care.

“I have less rights now in June 2024 than I did in June 2013. As a Black female Air Force veteran who proudly offered my life for this country and called Texas home, I don’t even have the right to make critical decisions about my reproductive health,” Cuington said.

“The Maga Movement seeks to destroy solidarity and use its fear as its weapon of choice. It is up to us, everyone listening right now, to choose not to pick up that weapon and destroy each other. More importantly, it is up to us, the two men who will be on that stage this evening, to address the hurt in this country directly and abolish the spread of misinformation. It’s time to speak the truth and unite the states in this America.”

Ahead of Thursday night’s presidential debate, the message was clear: they wanted commitments from both leaders to protect the integrity of the democratic nation.

“We need leaders strong enough to do the right thing, strong enough to speak truth to power, strong enough to feed the hungry, strong enough to shelter the homeless, strong enough to clothe the naked, strong enough to mentor the youth, strong enough to change the world,” said marine veteran Darren Harris. “Last but not least, strong enough to honor veterans.”

Air Force veteran Britni Cuington speaks at the Veterans for Democracy rally on Thursday. Photo by Laura Nwogu/The Atlanta Voice

Common Defense’s Georgia lead organizer Ed Anderson (third-from-left) gathers with veterans nationwide. Photo by Laura Nwogu/The Atlanta Voice

Education

Clark Atlanta University will host the 2024 Mandela Washington Fellowship

BY LAURA NWOGU

In partnership with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), The Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) hosted a battlebots competition at the John Hope Envision Center on Friday. The competition marked the final event of the CIA Robotics Academy’s weeklong day camp, where 23 rising seventh-ninth grade students used hands-on skills to learn how to build, test, and refine robots. The academy was also hosted in partnership with the Atlanta University Center Data Science Initiative and the Morehouse Center for Excellence in Education, which granted participants tours of the AUC campuses.

“The CIA supports STEAM education to prepare students to enter into careers that will require them to demonstrate their ability to problem solve, to critically think, to have self-exploration and to continue to persevere. The students have done all four this week,” said Manon Fleming, project manager for ORISE.

Students worked in teams of two or three and had only one week to design, build, and program their robots in preparation for the showcase.

Black Girls Code Comes To Spelman Campus CIA supports STEAM for Atlanta Youth

BY NOAH WASHINGTON

Black women represent just 1.8% of the engineering and science workforce, as reported by the National Science Foundation in August of 2022. Black Girls Code is looking to change that.

Running from June 17th through Friday June 28th, Spelman College hosted Black Girls Code for their summer camp program. The camp hosted 50 middle school and high school campers for an immersive understanding of STEM education and potential career paths they can explore. Each year the camp undergoes a different theme, this year students made their own pixelated video games which focused on AI and climate change.

The campers coded their own game centered on sustainability using Microsoft MakeCode Arcade. The younger campers, who met in the corner classroom of the second floor of the Spelman College Innovation Lab, looked excited while moving from desktop to desktop, looking in awe of each other’s work.

Suhailah Owuo-Hagood, a 15-year-old participant from the West End, shared her journey with Black Girls Code beginning with her first learning about it from her mother. Initially skeptical, Owuo-Hagood, who had not been deeply into tech before, found her interest growing as she met other girls in the field. "I'm actually part of Girls of Excellence, so it kind of bridged me here," she explained. "This is my first year, and I like it. The girls are pretty cool. We've been doing a lot of MakeCode Arcade. It's cool seeing a game go from what the originator did and then adding your own touch.”

The 50 attending students were divided into 2 groups, each consisting of approximately 25 people. The camp caters to girls aged 11 to 17, divided into "littles" (ages 11-13) and "bigs"

(ages 14-17).

Regarding her future aspirations, Owuo-Hagood said, "I want to do a little more advanced coding. Instead of arcade games, I'd like to work on smaller pixel games that look more realistic, like Fortnite." Although unsure about her career path, Owuo-Hagood values the skills she's gaining from the camp. "These summer camps open my eyes to many things. I met Professor Holmes, who was a project manager and now advises people on coding,”

Jael Crewe, 11, who attended the camp, first learned about Black Girls Code at the age of seven when her mother introduced her to the program. Now attending the camp at 11, Crewe's introduction to coding came from her mother, who introduced her to Scratch, a coding platform for creating interactive stories, games, and animations.

“My mom showed me Scratch because I used to like to mix things up when I was younger, and I was hooked. I saw that you could use code to make games, and I decided I wanted to be a software engineer,” Crewe explained

Crewe cites her time at the camp as helping to nurture her interest in software engineering. “The courses here have been preparing me well. We’re making a game about ocean acidification right now,” Crewe said. When asked about ocean acidification, she explains, “It’s when carbon dioxide and oxygen enter the ocean. It’s really bad for the ocean, especially for the fish. It makes it harder for them to see predators.”

This is the camp’s second year in Atlanta, having previously been hosted on Georgia Tech’s campus in 2022. Cadence Patrick, a 21-year-old rising senior at Spelman College, a current mentor in the summer, as well as a former student in her home of Oakland, California, where the program started,

They battled it out in a bracket-style competition featuring robots with various mechanisms, from claws to scoops to conveyor bolts. In simplest terms, the object of the competition was to win as many points as possible by directing the robots they designed to score balls in different baskets.

Students showcased the science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) skills they’d learned throughout the week and used teamwork to navigate the playing field for the competition.

“My favorite part of the CIA Robotics Academy this week was probably learning and experiencing how fundamental directions can be, especially when it comes to building robotics and knowing what steps to go first and probably learning more about the HBCU colleges,” said I’vion Pattman, one of the student participants of the academy.

At the end of the competition, the students received certificates for completing the CIA Robotics Academy. Fleming said she hopes to reach and interest more parents and teachers to encourage students to join next year’s cohorts when applications open.

shared her thoughts on the transition from student to mentor, "It feels like a full circle moment," Patrick said. "Watching them learn about game design and computer science has been amazing. Getting to mentor them is so cool because I remember what it was like doing this coding camp.”

Patrick, set to receive her degree in computer science next year, cites her participation in the program as a kid as profoundly influencing her academic and career path. "Doing Black Girls Code Camp and those events inspired me to major in computer science, and I decided to attend Spelman because of it," she explained.

This year marks a significant milestone as Black Girls Code hosts its first camp at a Historically Black College and University (HBCU). "I think it’s super cool that it’s not only at Spelman College, a women’s HBCU but that I get to attend and be a mentor for these students. said Patrick.

The organization's programs have been hosted in 15 cities across the country. The program was founded in 2011 in Oakland by Kimberly Bryant and is now being led by CEO Cristina Jones, who took the position in October of 2023. On the final day of the camp, attendees will present their final projects to their fellow campers and attendees.

Brittany Long, the program manager for Black Girls Code, shares her pride in hosting the camp on an HBCU campus, particularly at Spelman College. "As a Howard University alum, it’s heartwarming to see these girls on an HBCU campus, learning what that means and being surrounded by future leaders," she said. “The number of girls aspiring to attend Spelman College has increased from one to seven,” Long continued.

Reflecting on her time with Black Girls Code, Long cherishes the students' transformation. "They come in as shy, timid girls, and by day three, they have best friends," she said. "The friendships and community they build are my favorite part.”

Students play to score points during the battlebots competition. Photo by Laura Nwogu/The Atlanta Voice

ONLINE Supreme Court overturns 1984 Chevron precedent

Election Central Biden and Trump surrogates set sights on the Black vote in Georgia

BY DONNELL SUGGS

With the 2024 presidential election just a little more than four months away, surrogates for both the Biden-Harris administration and former United States President Donald J. Trump are hitting the campaign trails throughout Georgia. For voters, Democratic and Republican, having respected political figures show their political cards can go a long way to steering certain voter blocks - seniors, small business owners, young voters, Black voters, for example- to the polls in November.

The voice coming over the speakerphone was a familiar one. Inside Rocky’s Barber Shop on Piedmont Road in Buckhead and outside the door via a speaker that was set up to accommodate the dozens of media members that were there to cover a roundtable discussion with Trump surrogates and Black small business owners on Wednesday, June 26, former United States President Donald J. Trump began to speak.

“As you know, I cut taxes and regulations more than any administration ever,” Trump said. He said that during his time in office, his administration saw the lowest percentage of Black unemployment in history and now “ has great support from the Black community."

That support was displayed at the barbershop a day before the first presidential debate was set to take place in Midtown at McCamish Pavilion Thursday night. A roundtable discussion about Black voters supporting the Trump campaign was moderated by Republican Congressman Byron Donalds (FL) and attended by fellow Republican Congressman Wesley Hunt (TX), Dr. Ben Carson, the former United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development under Trump, and a number of local Black small business owners. With media from across the country and the world (there were reporters representing media outlets from Spain and the UK in attendance), Donalds, a strong Trump supporter, kicked things off with a story about how both of his parents attended Historically Black Colleges (HBCUs) because "that's all they had."

"This is all about Black excellence, and it's not confined to one party," Donalds said. "Black excellence is about everyone."

"I just came up with it," he said. "Let the people earn what they earn. [The idea] has been so popular. Vote for Trump, no tax on tips."

Republican National Committee spokesperson Henry Scavon told The Atlanta Voice that the Trump campaign now has "over a dozen fully staffed field offices in the state right now." According to Scavon, offices have been opened in remote Georgia cities like Martinez and north Atlanta Republican strongholds like Alpharetta. He also says offices were opened in Fayette, Gwinnett, Cherokee, and Cobb counties.

A number of events featuring Congressman Hunt and hosted by former ESPN host Sage Steele are scheduled for this week around metro Atlanta.

During a Small Business Owners for Biden-Harris event at She Salon in Castleberry Hill on Tuesday, June 25, Senator

The two-hour roundtable was one example of how the Trump campaign is attempting to reach Black voters. During his time on speakerphone, Trump made a couple of jokes and was asked about his idea of no longer having tips taxed for wage workers.

A sign on the wall inside Rocky’s barber shop. Photo by Julia Beverly/The Atlanta Voice

Congressman Byron Donalds (third from left) moderated a roundtable discussion that included fellow Republican Congressman Wesley Hunt (TX) (first from left), Dr. Ben Carson (second from right), the former United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development under Trump, and a number of local Black small business owners at Rocky’s barber shop in Buckhead on Wednesday, June 26, 2024. Photo by Julia Beverly/ The Atlanta Voice

ELECTION

Continued from page 8

Jon Ossoff, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, Georgia State Senator Jason Esteves, and several small business owners. One of those small business owners, Gina Palmer, the owner of She Salon and the event's host, said she watched many of her fellow small business owners close their businesses during COVID. She blamed those closures on the ineptitude of the Trump administration.

"I have seen my friends close their businesses because they were struggling to get by," Palmer said. "Because of the Biden-Harris administration, we are making a comeback."

Ossoff, who hugged Palmer after speaking to the assembled media inside her small salon, added, "I am here to deliver a very simple message: We must reject Donald Trump's comeback bid."

Asked if he believes the small business voter block is one that the Biden-Harris should target, Ossoff said, "You are hearing firsthand from small business owners here today just how much they appreciate competent leadership that's focused not just on the most powerful companies and largest companies with the most lobbyist, but the main street businesses who were left behind during the former president's

and was very clear about how much he believes the Biden-Harris administration has had Georgia on their minds.

"As mayor, I've seen firsthand how the infrastructure bill has helped Atlanta," said Dickens. Less than a month ago, Atlantans had to deal with a major water main break in Midtown, downtown, and on the southwest side. "This type of leadership is making a difference in Atlanta."

On Saturday, June 22, seniors and veterans from Columbus, Georgia, and the surrounding district gathered in a hotel conference room to hear Congressman Sanford Bishop (D-Ga., 2nd District) and his good friend and colleague Jim Clyburn (D-SC, 6th District) discuss the importance of voting this election season.

Biden-Harris surrogates like Clyburn, a longtime colleague of Biden's from his Congress days, and Bishop, who is in a race for his seat with Republican challenger

Nearly 155 million Americans voted during the previous presidential election. According to data from the United States Census Bureau, more than 75% of registered and active voters ages 65-74 voted in that election, making the senior voting block crucial to both candidates.

We’ve got a great story to tell,” said Clyburn about Democratic supporters and the party as a whole. “We should not be on the defensive, let’s go out and win this election.”

botched Covid response and have been the center of this administration's attention."

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens has been a

staunch supporter of the Biden-Harris administration. Dickens reiterated Ossoff's statements

The 60th Mayor of Atlanta, Keisha Lance Bottoms, speaks during a press conference regarding abortion rights and reproductive care on Monday, June 24, 2024 in Atlanta.

Photo by Itoro N. Umontuen/ The Atlanta Voice

Congressman Jim Clyburn (D-SC, 6th District) spoke to Biden-Harris administration supporters in Columbus, Georgia on Saturday, June 22, 2024. Credit: Donnell Suggs / The Atlanta Voice

Health

Rare drug-resistant flu variant identified in the US

Centria Autism brings therapy services to Atlanta

BY ISAIAH SINGLETON

Centria Autism (Centria), a leading national provider of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, recently opened its first Life Skills Autism Academy (LSAA) center in Atlanta, and first location in Georgia.

According to the CDC, 1 in every 36 kids is diagnosed with autism – illuminating an increasing need for quality behavioral therapy across the board. Centria is continuing to honor their commitment to supporting those on the spectrum with additional center openings planned in Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, Oregon, and Virginia, joining the lineup of existing locations open in Michigan, Indiana, Arizona, and Texas.

Centria places an emphasis on early intervention with its LSAA centers, providing high-intensive, specialized ABA therapy to children with autism. The center, which specializes in providing treatment to clients five or younger, is accepting new clients.

Centria centers offer individualized treatment plans from a staff of Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and Behavior Technicians, prioritizing the development of everyday skills and social behaviors that will allow children with autism to thrive in school, at home and in their communities.

The facility’s larger footprint allows clinicians to welcome up to 76 clients at a time.

The 16,245 square-foot center in southwest Atlanta opened at 1640 Phoenix Blvd. on June 5, acting as a temporary space while a permanent location is identified and built out later.

“As we open our doors to our first location in Atlanta, this new center marks a continuation of our ongoing commitment to serving clients and their families in this community,” said Timothy Yeager, Chief Clinical Officer at Centria Autism. “The expansion of our services in Atlanta to include both in-home and center-based services will allow us to provide therapy services to children in the environment most appropriate for their individual needs.”

Director of Clinical Services Halee Royal said the temporary location is fully open and has seven active clients and a growing waiting list of 17 more kids. Royal also said they’re hoping to get at their permanent location before they reach more clients.

“Our permanent location is about a mile from here down Godbey, so not too far, still in the same neighborhood, which is exactly what their goal was. They are in the process of completely renovating that location,” she said.

To Royal’s understanding, the permanent location is a standalone building and Centria has a model they’ve constructed for life skills, Autism Academy sites, and will be set-up like every other model site they have.

“We hope that that timeline is within six to

nine months of opening up that full time permanent location,” she said.

Additionally, Royal said Centria chose Atlanta because it’s an “incredibly underserved area in the southside of Atlanta.

“If you were to look at the map of Atlanta and hit I-20 South, it's historically been incredibly underserved,” she said. “I happen to be a native Atlanta, and grew up here on

the south side, and so having that firsthand knowledge of we need services here. There are not enough services here.”

Royal said she was encouraged to find out Centria was actively looking for locations of underserved communities. Atlanta, Royal said, is a rapidly growing community and more people need more kids to serve.

“This area has been needing this for such

a long time, so I hope we open even more locations on the southside of Atlanta,” she said.

Life Skills, Royal says, offers Early Intensive Behavior Intervention Program for ages two to six and all using ABA therapy, which is considered as the gold standard.

“Assess the children with a focus on what their parents and caregivers' aspirations for them are, whether it be short term or long,” she said. “We want to focus everything that we’re doing on those client aspirations.”

Afterwards, the company develops a treatment program with those client aspirations in mind and their goal for the age group is to hopefully get them to a point where they can go to school, whatever schooling that may look like.

Whether it be public education without needing extra support, public education needing additional support by way of special education services, or even private education.

Also, Royal said they have a lot of big goals for the year which include making a difference in every child’s life, no matter how many kids walk through the door and to make positive change for the families.

“I talk to parents every day, and some come in not so hopeful,” she said. “Some come in very hopeful, and some come in just not knowing what to expect, but just knowing that they need help, and that's our job.”

For more information, visit https://www. centriahealthcare.com.

Community center receives CPR kits donation

BY CLAYTON GUTZMORE

Community centers play a huge role in small towns and cities nationwide. The Charlie Ferguson Community Center (CFCC) plays a significant role for locals in Canton, Georgia. The facility is a former Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Service Station. It is the first African American volunteer fire department in Georgia. A recent donation from the American Heart Association and CareSource Georgia is equipping the Community Center to be a place to save lives again. Both organizations gifted CPR Anytime kits to the CFCC. This will allow residents to become CPR certified and prepare them to save a life when a cardiac emergency arises.

"We are trying to create a nation of lifesavers at the American Heart Association. Our goal is to train as many people as possible in hands-on CPR. The center now has 20 kits that can train 20 people, and those individuals can teach 20 more people. This creates the nation of life savers in Canton," said Shana

Business

Scott, VP of Community Impact for the Metro Atlanta American Heart Association.

The donation, valued at $3,000, included 20 CPR manikins, an automated external defibrillator (AED), and reading material on CPR and heart health. It honored Deacon John Heard, the CFCC's former executive director.

Decon Heard passed away from a cardiac arrest in April 2023. It was at a church across the street from the community center, and no AED was present to prevent this outcome. The community of Canton mourned the loss of this father figure.

"It was unfortunate. Not only did he do pretty much everything in Hickey Laws Baptist Church, but he was a father to many who were fatherless. People attempted to save him with CPR, but if we had that AED, we wondered if things would have been different," said Tanisha Welch, Executive director of the CFCC.

Deacon Heard was an essential member of the Canton Community. He was the first Black city council member and the first Black

Mayor of Canton. He was the chairman of the Deacon board of the city and a significant role player in Keeping the CFCC running. Charlie Ferguson was one of the original committee members who worked to get the volunteer fire department built in 1982. The center is named after him because he approached the city council regarding the fire department in Canton, where he was the chairman. The fire department became a community center in July 2023, and Deacon Heard was the first executive director.

Canton, Georgia, is considered a low-income area. AHA and Carsesource Georgia's gift is noteworthy because AEDs cost around $1500. Donating the CPR anytime kits brought optimism and energy to the ceremony's residentsthe ceremony’s residents.

"I saw that the people were excited that we would receive a device. There is not one that I can think of anywhere in the North Canton community. Canton is a predominantly low-income, underserved area. Everyone was excited to receive the AED and celebrate Dea-

con Heard's life," said Welch.

"The room was filled. It was a Sunday afternoon, and people came right after church. Seeing the faces, from the three to the 93-yearolds was nice. We heard stories of Deacon Heard and met Charlie Ferguson's daughter. It was touching to be in the presence of that legacy," said Scott.

What is next for the CFCC is preparing people to be CPR-certified. They will begin classes in the Fall. AHA and CareSource Georgia delivered a remarkable gift to locals around the CFCC. Soon, Canton residents will be able to intervene during cardiac emergencies.

"The Charlie Ferguson Center just made sense because they have that rich history in the community to ensure that their families and their community have their needs met," said Elida Lopez, senior specialist for population health engagement at CareSource Georgia

"We should all learn CPR, and hopefully, we never get to use it, but just having that skill could save someone's life," said Lopez

2 Chainz and Smoothie King open kiosk at State Farm Arena

BY ISAIAH SINGLETON

Smoothie King announces its newest franchisee, Atlanta rapper 2 Chainz. 2 Chainz, in partnership with longtime Smoothie King franchisee and friend Philip Jones, is opening a Smoothie King kiosk inside State Farm Arena just in time for the Atlanta Hawks NBA Draft Party on June 26.

For the first time ever, Atlanta sports and entertainment fans can enjoy Smoothie King during their favorite events, including Hawks games. In 2023, Smoothie King became the team’s official smoothie partner.

I visit Smoothie King at least twice a week, so this partnership has been a long time coming,” 2 Chainz said in a press release. “Opening a Smoothie King in State Farm Arena felt like the right move for me. Throughout my health journey, I’ve been mindful of my choices, and when I go to games and events, it’s no different – I’m always looking for nutritious options, and Smoothie King is in a class of its own when it comes to delicious smoothies with no added sugar. I’m proud to join the brand.”

As we continue to expand, we’re thrilled to welcome 2 Chainz to our franchisee family—not to mention in collaboration with one of our great partners in the Atlanta Hawks,” Wan Kim, Smoothie King CEO, said in a press release. “2 Chainz’s passion for health and wellness aligns perfectly with our mission to inspire a healthy and active lifestyle; that, coupled with his entrepreneurial spirit, embodies the essence of our brand and makes this a perfect match.”

Fans attending the venue can choose

from various Smoothie King’s most popular blends, including Angel Food, Gladiator Vanilla, Caribbean Way, and more. This venture showcases an expansion of Smoothie King’s already robust presence in Atlanta, with more than 80 stores, further solidifying its presence in the market.

“This is an incredibly exciting time for our franchise and the community. Having

two of our favorite partners in 2 Chainz and Smoothie King select State Farm Arena for a new location is a perfect fit. Our fans will enjoy having another nutritious and delicious option at games and concerts,” Andrew Saltzman, Executive Vice President & Chief Revenue Officer of the Atlanta Hawks & State Farm Arena, said in a press release. As part of its Clean Blends™ initia-

tive, Smoothie King’s menu includes only whole fruits and veggies, no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, and zero grams of added sugar in many smoothie options. Smoothie King also now offers Smoothie Bowls, which include delicious combinations of premium ingredients to help guests achieve an active and balanced lifestyle.

2 Chainz (above), in partnership with longtime Smoothie King franchisee and friend, Philip Jones, is opening a Smoothie King kiosk inside State Farm Arena just in time for the Atlanta Hawks NBA Draft Party on June 26. Photo provided by Smoothie King

Why Black Republicans Aren’t Persuading Black Voters

BY KEITH BOYKIN

If you want to know why Black people don’t vote for Republicans, just look at the Black Republicans.

America’s top Black Republican, Tim Scott, claims that “woke supremacy is as bad as white supremacy.” What on earth is woke supremacy? Scott is so desperate for white approval that he voted against the first Black woman on the Supreme Court, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, even while three of his white Republican colleagues voted for her.

Then there’s Byron Donalds, who claimed that “the Black family was together” under Jim Crow. Donalds is one of 26 House Republicans who refused to sign a letter denouncing white supremacy. And he was one of only two Black members of Congress who voted to overturn the 2020 election results, which would have disenfranchised Black voters in Philadelphia, Detroit, Atlanta, and other cities.

And just in time for Juneteenth, three Black Republicans in the House of Representatives (Donalds, Burgess Owens, and Wesley Hunt) voted to restore a racist, Confederate monument at Arlington National Cemetery.

Republicans love Black people — who love white people.

Tim Scott and Byron Donalds have an excuse, but it’s not a good one. They are so desperate to be Trump’s running mate that they refuse to upset his base or hold him accountable even after he was convicted of 34 felonies. What Black man with 34 felony convictions gets a pass from Republicans?

But one of the most notorious Black Republicans today is North Carolina gubernatorial candidate Mark Robinson. Robinson tells Black people, “nobody owes you anything for slavery,” and invokes the history of Black abolitionists and civil rights leaders to excuse white people from accountability. “If anybody owes, it’s you,” he says.

Robinson became popular in the GOP precisely because he loves to attack Black people. He called the Black Panther movie “trash” made by a “satanic marxist,” said that Halle Berry, Mariah Carey, and Issa Rae wear “whore dresses,” and repeatedly misgendered former first lady Michelle Obama as a man.

Then there’s Winsome Sears, the gun-toting Virginia lieutenant governor, who is upset because she thinks critical race theory is being taught in schools. It’s not.

Next up is Daniel Cameron, the former Kentucky Attorney General who said the police killing of Breonna Taylor was “justified” and declined to charge the officers responsible for her death. I guess Black lives really don’t matter to Republicans.

Or how about Larry Elder? The 72-year-old Black Republican lived through Jim Crow segregation, Rosa Parks’s arrest, and Dr. King’s assassination, but he told Fox News that Donald Trump’s indictment was “probably the most egregious thing I’ve ever seen in the history of our republic.” Was he kidding?

Or Ben Carson, the Trump appointee who thinks systemic racism ended with the civil rights movement, says Colin Kaepernick would never have been criticized if he had just said he loved America, and claims that Obamacare is the “worst thing that has happened in this nation since slavery.” Really, Dr. Carson? Providing health care to Black people is worse than segregation, lynchings, and mass incarceration?

And we can’t forget Herschel Walker, the former football player who lied about being his high school valedictorian, lied about graduating from college, had no experience in government, and didn’t even live in Georgia when Republicans recruited him to run for the Georgia Senate seat against Raphael Warnock. Walker’s own son, Christian, admitted that his father was picked mainly “because he was the same skin color as his opponent.”

After years of Republicans weaponizing Dr. King’s line about judging people “by the content of their character,” when it came time to pick a candidate to run against Rev. Warnock, the pastor of Dr. King’s church, they picked an inexperienced Black guy based on the color of his skin.

Last but not least is Clarence Thomas, the Harlan Crow-fund-

ed Black conservative who replaced the legendary Thurgood Marshall on the U.S. Supreme Court through affirmative action, and then joined five of his white colleagues to kill affirmative actionfor everyone else. Thomas also cast the decisive vote to gut the Voting Rights Act that protects Black people at the polls.

What these Black Republicans have in common is that none of them were chosen by Black people. They may have been born in Black communities decades ago, but none of them represent Black districts or interests. That means they have no accountability to the majority of Black Americans.

And that’s important because Black and white people, like Democrats and Republicans, see the world differently. A new study from the Pew Research Center found that nearly 80 % of Biden supporters say that white people benefit from racial advantages in society, while only 22% of Trump supporters say this.

In order for Black Republicans to stay relevant with the base,

they have to pretend — or in some cases, they may even believe — that racism is not an issue in America. But the majority of Black people know better. If Black Republicans spent more time in Black communities, they’d know it too.

“Black Vote, Black Power,” a collaboration between Keith Boykin and Word In Black, examines the issues, the candidates, and what’s at stake for Black America in the 2024 presidential election.

US Representative Byron Donalds, Republican of Florida, speaks to the media on the floor of the McCamish Pavilion at the Georgia Institute of Technology campus ahead of the first presidential debate in Atlanta, Georgia, on June 27, 2024 Photo by Kyle Nadler / ExclusiveAccess.Net

Reasonable doubt season 2 sneak peek at American Black Film Festival Entertainment

BY CLAYTON GUTZMORE

Reasonable Doubt was Hulu's mystery drama that made fans emotional in 2022. The series is about a defense attorney named Jax Stewart who juggles work, family, friends, and a complicated personal life in Los Angeles and bucks the justice system every chance she gets.

The series returns for season 2 this August. Guests at the American Black Film Festival got a peak at the upcoming season. They learned about the show's impact from cast members Emayatzy Corinealdi, McKinley Freeman, and series creator Raamla Mohamed.

"It is going to be a ride. You get to see how Jax picks up the pieces after season 1 and how it has affected everything. Now she has to represent her friend who says she killed her husband. There is so much going on, and it is more of a journey this season," said Emayatzy Corinealdi, the actress who plays Jax.

The Reasonable Doubt season 2 sneak peek occurred on Friday, June 14, at the American

Black Film Festival in Miami Beach. Mohamed created the series executively produced by Larry Wilmore—season 2 debuts on August 22 on Hulu. The upcoming season finds Jax trying to get her life back on track after the events of season 1. Things crank up when one of her closest friends reveals that she has killed her husband. Her friend is claiming self-defense, but an uncompromising prosecutor thinks otherwise. Needing all the help she can get, Jax brings in an ambitious defense attorney to lead the case, but things get tense quickly. Season 2 asks: can Jax defend her friend, save her marriage, and protect her energy while being catapulted into the most significant case of her career?

"Jax and Lewis have so much chemistry and love for each other. We are exploring that in season 2 and how they will get their marriage back on track,” said Raamla Mohamed, creator of Reasonable Doubt.

One of the strengths of Reasonable Doubt is having an all-Black writer's room. Mohamed explains that the show's possessing a room full of talented Black writers has allowed dif-

ferent human experiences to play on screen. Mohamed further elaborates that her team comprises fathers, mothers, people who are only children, people who are one sibling out of many, people who are recently single, and more. The writer's room can translate those feelings and experiences to the characters so viewers can relate to those moments throughout the show.

"When I think about our conversations in the writer's room. They are not about having to explain things. We get to talk about our different experiences being black. What you see in the show are Jax, Lewis, and Mama Lu, they are having Black human experiences, "said Mohamed

"It is made so that everyone on this set can feel it. I was doing a scene with one of my kids, and I said something. The boom operator said You sound just like my mama. It is that shared Black experience and how you say and do things that everyone can relate to, and you feel it in the work," said Corinealdi.

Love is another strength of the show.

Through their creativity, Reasonable Doubt portrays love not seen in other TV series. In season 1, Jax and Lewis are in the middle of their marriage. Different series are designed to make marriage the destination for characters. Mohamed structured the show so viewers could see two people with flaws trying to make it work with all the drama around them.

"A lot of times in marriages on television, you see the problem is they are not having enough sex, and they lost the chemistry. That is not their problem at all. Jax and Lewis have a lot of chemistry, but that is not the only thing that can break a marriage. I wanted to show communication and assumptions in this relationship. I wanted to show a Black woman and Black man being flawed but still working together and moving toward each other," said Mohamed Season 2 of Reasonable Doubt improves on what it did well in Season 1. Fans can expect more drama, passion, and the material that made this show a hit. Reasonable Doubt season 2 streams on Hulu on August 22. advertising@theatlantavoice.com

Jamal Thiaré and Atlanta United steal victory from Toronto

BY ITORO N. UMONTUEN

Atlanta United Forward Jamal

Thiaré scored the game winning goal in the 97th minute, giving the Five Stripes a much-needed 2-1 victory over Toronto FC. Thiaré’s goal sent the crowd of 42,568 into delirium while securing the three points.

With the victory, Atlanta United is now two points out of seventh place.

“I wasn’t surprised, because I just had a feeling that the goalkeeper was going to put the ball down on the turf, and then I focused on making sure to do my job,” Thiaré said after the game.

The victory was the first for interim manager Rob Valentino. In his post-match remarks, Valentino admitted he’s never seen a contest end this way.

“That’s what we were joking about, exactly how we wanted it,” Valentino said. “I would say I’m on the younger side of coaching and the younger side of being in the game, but I have never seen anything like that. I made the joke to Dax [McCarty], after I ridiculously went sprinting down the sideline, that he has played 20 years now and I bet he has never seen a finish like that. It was incredible, bizarre, but I’m glad we’re on this side of it.”

Designated Players showed up tonight

Meanwhile, Thiago Almada scored his sixth goal of the season two minutes into first-half stoppage time. While rumors abound regarding Almada’s future in Atlanta, his performance throughout the match were of very high standard. He was proactive in the final third and was looking to create opportunities for himself and the fellow attackers.

Federico Bernardeschi quickly equalized for Toronto after the halftime break. He was assisted on the goal by fellow Italian, Lorenzo Insigne. The second half evolved into a cagey battle as both teams counterattacked and nearly scored potential game-winning goals.

In the end, it was Thiaré’s brilliance that broke the deadlock.

“I mean it will only help us in the best of ways,” says Atlanta United defender Caleb Wiley. “I think we really needed that win. We go back on the road next week. So I think the boys are in pretty high spirits after this win and we’ll go to New England and try to do the same thing.”

Atlanta United’s next home match will be against New York City FC on July 17th. Kickoff is set for 7:30 PM.

Atlanta Hawks welcome draft picks Zaccharie Risacher and Nikola Djurisic

BY KYNNEDI S. JACKSON

Apress conference was held to introduce the Atlanta Hawks latest additions by way of the draft, Zaccharie Risacher and Nikola Djurišič.

The city of Atlanta is already buzzing with anticipation for its first-round draft pick, Zaccharie Risacher. When speaking with Risacher he tells of the moment he found out he had been drafted. “It was special…I’m just excited to be with the Hawks right now.”

In the Risacher household, sports is not just a competition, but instead a way of life used to hold them together. Basketball, in particular, holds a special place, holding deeply with Stéphane Risacher, a former professional player in France and also father of Zaccharie.

"For us, sports, especially basketball, has always been more than just a game," shares Stéphane Risacher. "It's been a way to bond." Stephane understands the nuances of the game and the opportunities it presents. However, his perspective shifts when viewed through the lens of fatherhood. "Balancing the knowledge of the sport and its possibilities alongside being a parent has all been emotionally overwhelming," he admits.

Nevertheless, the entire family is excited as Zaccharie takes the next steps in his career.

Both of these players have international backgrounds, which have helped shape them into the athletes they are today," noted the Hawks' newcomers. "I’m willing to do anything to win," said Djurišič, who was a second-round draft pick, his sentiment echoed by Risacher, who added, "I always give 110%." Djurišič further emphasized his eagerness to learn and grow alongside his new teammates, stating, "It’s been a hectic month. I’m super tired. But when I got to Atlanta, it was like a burst of energy…It feels like a family here."

Hawks’ General Manager, Landry Fields, emphasized the team's commitment to developing young talent and building for the future. "Zaccharie and Nikola embody the qualities we value: dedication, skill, and a team-first mentality," he added, “It was all about knowing who we wanted, being aggressive, and ultimately getting our guys.”

As the press conference concluded, optimism filled the air among fans and team personnel. With training camp on the horizon, anticipation continues to build for what promises to be an exciting season for the Atlanta Hawks and their newest additions, Risacher and Djurišič.

Atlanta Hawks General Manager, Landry Fields, alongside the two Rookies from left to right Zaccharie Risacher and Nikola Djurišič during the jersey ceremony. Photo by Kynnedi S. Jackson/The Atlanta Voice

Jamal Thiare of Atlanta United acknoledges Luka Gavran of Toronto FC after scoring the game winning goal during a Major League Soccer match on Saturday, June 29, 2024 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Ga. Photo By Itoro N. Umontuen/The Atlanta Voice

Presidential Debate Watch Party shows support for POTUS Biden

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2024 BMW X6 M60i

BY DENNIS MALCOLM BYRON AKA ALE SHARPTON

BMW continues to build on their iconic slogan by producing another “Ultimate Driving Machine”—the 2024 X6 M60i—thanks to this SUV’s athletic physical frame, hair-raising power, captivating driving experience, and seemingly countless accompaniments.

The M60i received some applauded physical alterations this year, including a more curvaceous body, intimidating front flaunting the signature double-kidney grille concept, and attractive LED package for starters. Further embracing the sporty theme, owners will appreciate the red caliper brakes, M Sport quad-exhaust system, black M mirrors, M-style roof spoiler, and sloping rear that delivers a sleek, coupe-like feel. My review model also was dressed in a special “Tanzanite” blue which is just a shade away from black and optional 22-inch M wheels.

Of course, with all of this muscle flexing suggested by the design, the engine has to back it up. Trust me, that box is checked. Justifying the M label, its heart boasts an invigorating 4.4-liter M TwinPower Turbo V-8 with variable valve control (Double-VANOS and Valvetronic), resulting in 523 horsepower, 553 pound-feet of torque, and a reported 0-60 time of 4.5 seconds. Besides the world-class Adaptive M Suspension Pro and xDrive all-wheel drive, the driving experience reaches new heights with the 8-speed Sport Automatic transmission, wheel-mounted paddle shifters, Launch

Control, and three driving modes—Sport, Comfort, and Eco Pro.

Addressing the posh cabin experience, the driver and passengers will be pampered by a plethora of features. Once entering the interior lined with “Tartufo Merino” leather, wood appointments, carbon fiber trim, and ambient lighting, the panoramic moonroof provides a spacious feel for up to five passengers. The luxury continues with front seats that are heated and ventilated complete with armrests; wireless charging; and personal eSim 5G connectivity. The driver will relish the technology, including the cockpit’s vibrant, curved display;

12.3-inch instrument cluster and 14.9-inch information screen in the center; a head-up display; and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The one enhancement I truly enjoyed was the 1,500-watt, 20-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system ($3,500), although the “standard” Harman Kardon is no slouch regarding audible quality.

While the base model is $93,600, BMW’s optional packages come highly recommended; especially the Climate Comfort, Executive, Parking Assistance, Dynamic Handling; and Driving Assistance Pro. The remote privileges include the My BMW App, which is a

valued plus regarding operation of the vehicle from a distance, and safety including stolen vehicle recovery. Please visit BMW’s site posted below for complete descriptions. Ultimately, the 2024 X6 M60i is ideal for anyone desiring power, opulence, and a current exhibition of the technology the auto industry will be offering for years to come.

Fuel Economy: 17 city/22 highway/19 combined

Price: The 2024 BMW X6 M60i is $113,945 including options, handling, processing and delivery as reviewed.

For more information, visit Bmwusa.com.