The Atlanta Voice 080423 E-Edition

$40 Million-Dollar Plan

BY DONNELL SUGGS AND JANELLE WARD

Bowen Homes site to see second life with help of $40 million HUD funding

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced the distribution of a $40 million grant to the City of Atlanta and Atlanta Housing on July 26, for the reconstruction of the site formerly housing the Bowen Homes development by means of its Choice Neighborhoods Implementation program, an initiative dedicated to helping local governments bring their revitalization plans to life in order to better serve their communities.

The city plans to build more than 2,000 rentable and ownable housing units on the 74-acre site, helping to weaken the blow of Atlanta’s impending affordable housing crisis. Atlanta mayor Andre Dickens, Congresswoman Nikema Williams and U.S. Sens. Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock each contributed to securing the funding, which will add to the hundreds of millions of dollars already

set aside for the project.

The $40 million award is the city’s second — and largest — from the HUD department’s Choice Neighborhoods Implementation program, the first of which was granted in 2015 to restore Vine City, areas surrounding the Atlanta University Center and other sections

of west Atlanta.

“Bowen Choice Neighborhood will be transformative for northwest Atlanta, bringing affordable homes and a vibrant neighborhood back to the community,” Dickens said. “Atlanta Housing and all the members of our Affordable Housing Strike Force came

together with community members to lay the groundwork for this funding.”

Eugene Jones Jr., president and CEO of Atlanta Housing, Georgia’s largest housing authority, said that the HUD department's funding will prove instrumental in redeveloping the area by helping provide necessary resources for the community when renovations are complete.

“Atlanta Housing and the City of Atlanta have demonstrated that we can leverage $40 million in Choice Neighborhood funds into more than $500 million to successfully transform the Bowen Choice Neighborhood,” Jones said.

History of the development

Bowen Homes was completed in 1964 and named after prominent local clergyman and community leader Bishop J.W.E. Bowen, the second African American to receive a doctoral degree from an American university in the United States’ history.

The property that was once Bowen Homes takes up nearly 54 of the 74 acres that the city has plans to revitalize for housing. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

Metro BOWEN HOMES

Continued from page 2

Consisting of 650 units, the development was one of Atlanta’s largest public housing complexes, joining the ranks of Techwood Homes and University Homes, the first federally-backed public housing community designated for Black residents in the country.

The complex was erected to relocate families from the dilapidated slum Buttermilk Bottom and adjoining areas, now the site of Atlanta’s civic center and Old Fourth Ward neighborhood.

Aside from housing thousands of African Americans on the city’s westside over the course of the second half of the 20th century, Bowen Homes served as a communal meeting place for residents, as well as a hub for local activism. The community featured a male softball league, a civic club for senior citizens and a social group of teenage girls dedicated to religious and intellectual matters referred to as “the Bowenettes.”

Bowen Homes was also the site of a daycare explosion in 1980, an incident that resulted in the deaths of a teacher and four children, along with an estimated seven injuries.

Next steps forward

Atlanta Housing announced last October that its board of commissioners had selected a team of private developers to lead the Bowen Homes reconstruction project.

The housing authority has collaborated with developers and former members of the community to draft a vision for the neighborhood’s future, taking into account residents’ concerns regarding the current condition of the community.

The drafted neighborhood transformation plan includes acres of greenspace, improved and environmentally-friendly stormwater infrastructure and a connector linking the community to the nearby A.D. Williams Creek. The plan also features proposals to increase commercial activity within the neighborhood, making entrepreneurship easier for residents to attain by means of affordable rental spaces to establish businesses and job training opportunities, courtesy of the proposed Community Resources Center and Innovation Hub.

While no renderings of future plans have been released to the public as of yet, the housing authority has stated that the updates implemented will reshape the Bowen Homes community and surrounding areas into “a true interconnected neighborhood.

”What’s Next for Bowen Homes?

Archie Kemp was making his way down Field Road when he stopped to inquire what the reporter and photographer were doing in Bankhead? The unpaved, bumpy street led to a popular salvage yard, but there wasn't any reason to be down there otherwise, in his opinion.

Kemp, a former Bowen Homes resident, was told that the journalists were there to report on the former Bowen Homes housing complex, since demolished in 2009, and the

$40 million investment via a federal grant that will be used to "revitalize the neighborhood with affordable housing workforce development, and economic opportunities," according to a June 26 press release from the Mayor's Office.

Not only would the land that Bowen Homes once occupied would be a part of the revitalization, but parts of neighborhoods Carey Park, Almond Park, and Donald Lee

Hollowell and James Jackson parkways would be too.

Kemp asked if that revitalization and investment would be good for the area then immediately answered his own question. "It's good for the investors and the people who are going to be here in the future," he said. "We don't have millions of dollars so I guess that means we're out."

Of the 74 acres that are supposed to be de-

veloped, 53.9 acres is land that once housed thousands of people in Bowen Homes.

At the salvage shop down Field Road, Gray & White U-Pull-It, Rico Howard was wondering the same thing about whether any new development would change things, but his concern stemmed from the business side. "It should make the business grow. The more people, the more business," said Howard, an employee at Gray & White the past five years. "Everybody's got to drive."

Howard once lived in Bankhead and now lives in Douglasville with his family. "Traffic will probably be a problem though."

Gray & White manager Matt Kocher is thinking about traffic in another way. The investment should also lead to improved infrastructure throughout the neighborhood, which includes the road leading to the salvage yard. "We have been fighting with the city for years about getting this road fixed," said Kocher. "Maybe it will help get the city over here."

Carey Park has just under 2,000 residents and has a D- rating for housing and a D+ for public schools, according to a website that specializes in connecting people to schools. Almond Park earned a C- for housing, but maintained a D+ for its public schools.

Before it was demolished and made Atlanta one of a very few major American cities with a majority Black population without a public housing complex, Bowen Homes had fostered a reputation for violence. Maybe there’s a chance the initial investment can lead to a new-look Bowen Homes/Bankhead the same way gentrification and million-dollar investments changed Summerhill, for example. Only time will tell.

Editor’s

Note: Atlanta City Council District 9 councilman Dustin Hillis was contacted for this story, but did not respond before publication date.

Bowen Homes, located in District 9, was built in 1964 and housed thousands of people within its 650 units. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

Voices

ACornel West Candidacy? The Stakes

Are Too High to Ignore Political Reality

BY DONALD M. SUGGS

Black Americans need to recognize that we face a disturbing political reality. Despite his avalanche of seemingly intractable legal problems, Donald J. Trump remains the favorite to be the nominee of the Republican Party in the general presidential election in 2024.

That would mean a rematch between President Biden and Trump.

The outcome of that election is likely to be determined by a few tens of thousands of votes. In the 2020 presidential election, the margin of victory for Joe Biden in Georgia and Arizona was less than 12,000 votes.

In stark terms, the winner of the presidential election next year will be sworn in in just 18 months. A second Trump administration will be better thought out and effective than his first — which saw a huge setback to our interests and concerns.

It is this alarming political reality that makes the self-absorbed, narcissistic third-party candidacy of Cornel West troubling.

Notwithstanding his right to run and the idealism he cited in his announcement (much of which I agree with), any measure of political acumen forces one to recall West’s ill-fated support of Ralph Nader’s spoiler campaign against then-Vice-President Al Gore in his race against George W. Bush. There were disastrous consequences of the outcome of that race for people all over this country, in Iraq, and around the globe as a result of Bush’s denial of climate change.

Expressing no regrets for his stance with Nader in 2000, West is about to do something like that again. There is much to admire in what West has advocated in the past. Although we should not forget some of his over-the-top ad hominem attacks on Barack Obama after he won the presi-

dency in 2008.

Of course, West always cites his outspoken defense of poor and working-class people as the motive for his actions. I don’t disagree with his avowed purpose for running as a champion for “truth and justice” as a presidential candidate “to reintroduce America to the best of itself — fighting to end poverty, mass incarceration, ending wars and ecological collapse, guaranteeing housing, health care, education, and living wages for all.”

Amen. I don’t disagree — and I respect him as a pioneering theorist, but I think he is making a poor political choice with his quixotic third-party presidential campaign.

But that is not the issue here. Rather it is the damage his third-party candidacy could do to Biden’s re-election and the future direction of the country if

Trump or a MAGA facsimile prevails next year. The only possible impact of West’s vain, selfish candidacy is to take some votes away from Biden that might allow Trump or some likeminded far-right wing Republican to return to the White House.

Whatever Biden’s shortcomings, the political system does not give us an opportunity to build a viable political and electoral coalition alternative. West and many other Black political figures seem to think that because they have every right to run, they should run campaigns that satisfy their personal aspirations and/or needs at the expense of the greater good of their communities.

We need to learn from our history in this country about the strategic importance of a galvanized Black electorate to make realistic and smart decisions.

In 1948 the FDR political but reprehensible Democratic Party

coalition — that included racist Southern Democrats — was shattered after a civil rights initiative was included in the party’s platform.

President Truman’s upset victory was only made possible by a surge of Black voters in swing states. This is an experience that has been repeated in several other closely decided presidential elections.

This teaches us that we should not squander our votes on Black “vanity” candidates, no matter how sincere, who offer no path for advancing our interests and concerns.

The stakes in next year’s election are too high to ignore hard political reality. Remember how we got a 6 to 3 hard-right majority on the U.S. Supreme Court? Elections do have consequences.

Donald

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The only possible impact of West’s “vain, selfish candidacy is to take some votes away” from Joe Biden.

Credit: Image by Liz Courquet-Lesaulnier/Wikimedia Commons. redit: Image by Liz Courquet-Lesaulnier/ Wikimedia Commons

BY JAMES A. WASHINGTON

God’s love sometimes hurts Him more than you

Sometimes when life becomes incredibly difficult, it’s almost impossible to believe that it is out of God’s love for me that I am enduring the worst the world has to offer.

It takes serious reflection to come back to the basic truth that God loves me so much that when I stray from His purpose for my life, His mid-course correction can and sometimes is inexplicably (or so we want to believe) painful.

In other words, these are the consequences that I must endure because God is serious about getting my attention. I think we take day to day living as a mere matter of fact, rather than the true miracle and blessing that life is.

The matter of “factness” of what I’m talking about is the fact that we take life far to for granted as evidenced by our reaction to when our lives are threatened; when we’re at the end of our rope, when the temptation not to do God’s will is so strong that we don’t realize the sin we’ve just committed is just that, past tense.

It is then that we realize the precious gift of life. It is then that we call upon the Lord. I submit to you it is then that we internalize the consequences of not disobedience but our lack of focus on why this is

What

happening to me.

The bible is full of examples of saints who didn’t come to realize that God’s love for us will put us in the throes of despair, if that means we will focus our attention on His purpose for us.

Jesus knew this and in Gethsemane asked God to “remove this from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” Jesus knew what was coming and knew why it was coming and understood who would make the decision about His role and purpose.

We get lost sometimes. But allow me to simplify it this way. Satan wants me as a trophy and God wants me as an eternal testament to His love. This is a high stakes game of spiritual life and death. I don’t know if I’ve ever been this popular or have experienced such a high stakes game of life and death when it’s my life we’re talking about.

The danger of taking this life for granted is not knowing or understanding how precious I am to the Lord and how relentless Satan is at using this world to destroy my relationship with the Almighty.

I understand Satan wants to embarrass, humiliate and like a scorned lover, hurt the Lord. What better way to do this than to steal something, degrade something, ruin something that the devil

knows the Lord loves. That would be me. In your case that would be you. Now if you add to that a casual view of life itself, you can see how easy it is to let the world destroy something it knows is priceless, but the owner doesn’t always see it that way.

So, I guess without knowing it, I am vulnerable; sometimes a victim of my own careless attitude. Like a child who unknowingly wanders off into a swamp, he or she has no idea of the dangers lurking there. Injury and death are but steps away. That’s how I feel sometimes. I know I’m in trouble. I know I’m lost. I know if I’m not vigilant and consistent, the devil will take me out and celebrate at the wake. Therefore, like a weekend athlete, I know I must train. I know I must be prepared. I know the game is out there. But sometimes I just don’t want to work that hard. I just want to be left alone.

Can you see how that frame of mind can get you killed? Can you see how that rather mundane thought can spell trouble?

The bible is full of references to those who would be seduced, abducted, tricked and persecuted for not being true to the Word of God. God Himself expresses frustration at times about those who would willingly forget, or unwillingly

choose not to remember who He is and who they belong to.

The consequences can be catastrophic. So what’s the answer when you’re just not feeling it? Get into the Word. What’s the solution to being lost in this world? Get into the Word. What’s the defense for Satan’s temptations? Get into the Word and form an offense of testimony.

I guess this is a good time to suggest to you that my dilemma on this when I find myself out of sync, is to simply realize that I am, well, out of sync.

The answer is to be deliberate in the effort to find my way home. You know when you’re determined, you can’t be distracted. There are some qualities that we all possess that arm us for this fight.

Recognition, understanding, desire and discipline come to mind. Together, focused on the Word, they guarantee victory for God and humiliation for the devil.

Sometimes it just takes the will to fight, and the understanding that the war is over. We win. If you don’t believe me, just ask Jesus. Better yet. Just ask the devil. Remind him that you are a child of the most-high. Always was. Always will be. It’s a family love thing.

May God bless and keep you always.

are your thoughts and/or feelings on the Board of Education in Florida teaching slavery had its benefits for Black people?

“When it comes to the Board of Education in Florida saying that slavery benefited Black people or that Black people learned skills is ludicrous. How can someone benefit from trauma that was enacted on them for generations? It’s revisionist history. It’s retelling the story of America from the perspective of an oppressor and I’m not with that.”

Why would I want to teach the benefits of slavery to my own people especially when they know what slavery is all about. This country was built on the backs of slaves. [White people] know about it. They just don’t want to talk about it because they feel bad about it and they want to duck and hide.

“I think that it should not be taught because it perpetuates the fact that if it wasn’t for slavery we would not have been able to manage on our own.

Compiled by Vincent Christie Read

“It is very irresponsible of the state of Florida to try to change the narrative as far as slavery, saying it was a benefit to the African-American community. I definitely do not think it was a benefit, nor was it intended to be a benefit. I think the outcome is far too negative and teaching our young people that it was positive would be very reckless.”

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Beep launches autonomous shuttle, Cumberland Hopper

BY ISAIAH SINGLETON

The Cumberland Community Improvement District (CCID) in partnership with Beep, a national leader in multi-passenger and electric autonomous mobility solutions, have launched the Cumberland Hopper, an autonomous shuttle pilot program providing additional connectivity throughout the Cumberland district.

This collaboration represents a significant step forward in transforming transportation options within Cumberland, offering enhanced connectivity, sustainability, and convenience to the business community, residents, and visitors.

The Cumberland Hopper will provide an enhanced and efficient complimentary transportation service by leveraging Beep's advanced autonomous mobility solutions and national experience.

The pilot program will operate through March 2024, demonstrating the Cumberland CID's commitment to delivering safe and reliable mobility options to the growing Cumberland community.

We are excited to partner with Beep, a leader in autonomous mobility, to bring the Cumberland Hopper autonomous shuttle pilot program to the Cumberland CID," said Kim Menefee, Executive Director of the Cumberland CID. "By embracing Beep’s cutting-edge solutions, we are providing our community with a sustainable and convenient transportation option that prioritizes connectivity and

safety. The Cumberland Hopper presented by the Cumberland CID represents our commitment to innovation and progress, and we look forward to the positive impact it will have on our district."

During the pilot program, the Cumberland Hopper autonomous shuttle will operate along two designated routes, connecting key destinations as part of a major mobility

project in development by the Cumberland CID called the Cumberland Sweep. The eightmonth pilot program will connect visitors, residents, and the community to destinations around Cobb Galleria and to The Battery.

The pilot program's duration, from July 2023 to March 2024, will provide CCID the data collection, performance evaluation, and community feedback to further define and

develop the long-term Cumberland Sweep mobility strategy which will be implemented over the next several years.

The Sweep is a three-mile plus corridor of dedicated walking and biking lanes strategically designed to connect key destinations throughout the core of the Cumberland CID. The future multimodal path will improve accessibility, enhance safety, and provide alternative transportation options, reducing reliance on traditional car commutes.

With the Cumberland Sweep, the business community, residents, and visitors can effortlessly traverse the Cumberland area, accessing prominent locations such as The Battery Atlanta, Truist Park, Cumberland Mall, Cobb Galleria Centre, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, and the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA), reducing carbon emissions and improved traffic flow.

"We are delighted to partner with the Cumberland CID to bring autonomous mobility to the Cumberland community," said Joe Moye, CEO, Beep, Inc. "Our cutting-edge autonomous solutions are designed to provide equal access to transportation and streamlined connectivity to communities across the country. The Cumberland Hopper pilot program exemplifies our shared mission of providing safe and effective transportation, and we are excited to showcase the benefits of autonomous mobility to the Cumberland CID."

For more information about the Cumberland Hopper, visit cumberlandsweep.org.

Black Writers Weekend event celebrates Black storytelling

BY NOAH WASHINGTON

Black Writers Weekend, an event celebrating Black Writers in the Atlanta area and promoting their contributions to the literary world begins Saturday, Aug. 3.

This event began with Tamika Jamison, a writer and event curator who has been amplifying Black voices and stories for over a decade. Jamison's journey as a writer began at a young age when she discovered a talent for storytelling. According to Jamison, by the age of 12 she had completed her first fulllength novel. Her passion for writing only grew stronger with time.

In 2009, Jamison published her book, "The Ultimate No-No," which became a bestseller and earned her a publishing deal with a major content company, Kensington Book Imprint Dafina. However, Jamison’s journey didn’t stop there, recognizing the need for a

platform that would not only celebrate her work but also uplift and support other black writers who were often overlooked by mainstream media led Jamison to curate unique literary experiences that brought together a diverse group of artists, including writers, musicians, chefs, and more.

These events paved the way for the formation of Jamison’s next initiative, the African Americans on the move book club (AAMBC). Jamison aimed to create a safe space where Black creators could connect, share their stories, and inspire each other. With Black writers being historically suppressed, Jamison’s mission was to make sure that these narratives were not only heard but celebrated. She recognized that everything starts with the written word, and without writers, there would be no music, no movies, and no progress. Jamison’s dedication to promoting Black storytelling is especially timely during the ongoing writers'

strike and the rise of AI technology.

“Nobody was recognizing writers- they needed to be recognized. Everything starts with the written word, right? So without the written word, you wouldn't have music, you wouldn't have movies, you wouldn't have anything. But yet, we were the last people being invited to the party, the last people being invited to the red carpet events, which is ironic how the strike is going on now, because writers want to be respected. Because without us, they wouldn't have anything,” Jamison told The Atlanta Voice.

The Black Writers Weekend features a pitch fest, where aspiring writers can present their manuscripts and concepts to a panel of judges, offering opportunities for mentorship and exposure. Saturday’s event has attracted over 500 attendees who can participate in literary crawls, book signings, art shows, and even a unique "blind book dating" scavenger hunt.

This year, the event is set to include a film fest, where short films by Black filmmakers will be screened, followed by live table reads, allowing actors to showcase their talents in front of an appreciative audience. Most events of the weekend are even free to the public. The weekend will culminate in the AAMBC Literary Awards, an affair that will honor figures Frank Morrison, Kwame Alexander, and the late Tracy Brown, an urban fiction writer.

“It’s the ban on books that we're focusing on this year. Because ironically, my work has been to amplify the black voice, the black stories, the blind creator, but now you have all these other initiatives within the system. The government is trying to shut those voices down or control those voices. You can come in here and you could be anything that you want to be,” Jamison said.

To find out more information visit https:// blackwritersweekend.com/

The pilot program will operate through March 2024, demonstrating the Cumberland CID’s commitment to delivering safe and reliable mobility options to the growing Cumberland community. Photo by Isaiah Singleton/The Atlanta Voice

UPS and Teamsters reach a labor deal, potentially avoiding a crippling strike.

Midtown Alliance announces 9-block “revisioning” plan

BY JANELLE WARD

The community-led nonprofit Midtown Alliance announced a plan earlier this month to revamp nine blocks of Peachtree Street to better accommodate cyclists and pedestrians in the neighborhood’s steadily densifying, car-centric environment.

The proposed revisioning will stretch from North Avenue to 10th Street, which encompasses the Fox Theatre and various hotels, eateries and small businesses.

“Given Midtown’s density, our streets are called upon to do a lot of things,” said Dan Hourigan, director of transportation and sustainability at Midtown Alliance, in the announcement. “And Peachtree Street in particular carries a lot of potential as both a transportation conduit and a public space asset. It’s where people want to be.”

As one of Atlanta’s most popular thoroughfares, Peachtree Street often serves as the backdrop for major city gatherings,

including the Atlanta Pride Parade, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Atlanta Streets Alive, a pedestrian-oriented event expected to make a comeback this fall.

The organization has recruited the firms Kimley-Horn and Snøhetta to help draft a new design for the street, the latter of which is responsible for helping redesign Times Square in New York City in 2017.

The plan is still in predevelopment, but Midtown Alliance says community input will be taken into consideration before official designs are finalized and further action is taken to revitalize the space.

“The Visioning Plan for Peachtree Street from North Avenue to 10th Street will create a new design language for the corridor by questioning what is currently underused asphalt and sidewalks and exploring the future of a livable street that supports a vibrant community,” the statement says. “Reallocating and reprioritizing — to balance vehicular spaces with active, human-centered places — is at the heart of this initiative.”

Maddox & Co. is a tribute to a grandfather's sense of style

BY NOAH WASHINGTON

The journey of Maddox & Co. started off as a heartfelt tribute to her late grandfather turned into a passion-driven business venture for Bivins Bibbins.

Growing up in the close-knit community in Americus, Bivin's experienced the joy of spending quality time with her grandparents. Her grandfather, Henry Maddox, Sr., who Bivins describes as a “renaissance man”, left a lasting impression on her with his impeccable style and dignified demeanor. Maddox dressed elegantly, never owning jeans or sneakers, and inspired Bivins to carry herself in the same manner. Unfortunately, her grandfather fell ill, diagnosed with a terminal illness, which made dressing up uncomfortable for him to continue. her grandfather's illness served as a turning point for Bivins, sparking an idea that would later become the foundation of Maddox & Co. In her pursuit to create stylish and comfortable shoes, Bivins embarked on a journey of research and exploration into the world of shoe design and manufacturing. Guided by her grandfather's memory, she sought to craft footwear that combined both style and comfort, catering to people with special needs or health conditions that impacted their footwear choices.

“The way that he dressed was the way he carried himself, he didn't own jeans, didn't own sneakers, all his clothes, went to the dry cleaners and anytime that I saw him dressed down, he was going to work," Bivins told The Atlanta Voice. "I grew up around that and wanted to carry myself that way, dress like that. So that was always in me growing up in school and in my early adult life."

After spending several years serving in the United States Navy and for large tech compa-

nies, Bivins realized that her true passion lay in creating a brand that would not only fulfill her dreams but also honor the memory of her grandfather.

Bivins knew what she wanted to do after a dream where her grandfather appeared dressed to the nines, donning stylish pinstripe suits, Stacy Adams shoes, and a wide brim hat. In August 2013 Bivins decided to start Maddox & Co. with the vision of creating a legacy brand in mind.

Bivins explains that the brand's focus is on timeless collections of shoes that transcend generations, designed to withstand the test of time. From classic loafers to elegant dress shoes, the company aimed to become a household name, synonymous with quality and sophistication. However, her goal is to simultaneously build a legacy for her family and the community, much like the iconic brands, Allen Edmonds and Bass loafers.

Running a startup while juggling a full-time position at Microsoft presents its challenges. Bivins acknowledges the struggle to maintain a work-life balance, but her determination and belief in the brand's potential keep her focused on the future.

“I want this to be a legacy brand," she said. "When you think of loafers, I want Maddox & Co. to come to mind. That's the type of business that we're building. We're creating timeless collections of shoes that will withstand the test of time. Right now, in 2023, you can look back and see that these same types of shoes were worn back in 1963 when my grandfather was moving around in his younger days, but also when we look ahead in 2050, the same styles will still be around."

You can visit the Maddox & Co store at https:// www.themaddoxbrand.com/ or in person at 151 Spring St. NW in Atlanta.

The community-led nonprofit Midtown Alliance announced a plan earlier this month to revamp nine blocks of Peachtree Street to better accommodate cyclists and pedestrians in the neighborhood’s steadily densifying, car-centric environment. Photo by Janelle Ward/ The Atlanta Voice

Bivins Bibbins, owner of Maddox & Co., is inspired by her grandfather’s sense of style. Photo by Noah Washington/The Atlanta Voice

A pair of Maddox & Co. white sneakers with an orange sole. Photo by Noah Washington/ The Atlanta Voice

Buy From a Black Woman wraps up Inspire Tour in Atlanta

BY JANELLE WARD

Buy From a Black Woman hosted a small business pop-up event on the lawn facing H&M in Atlantic Station last week, providing a platform for eight entrepreneurs to sell products and gain local exposure.

The organization, which houses a community of more than 600 Black woman-owned businesses based all around the country, organized a stop in Atlanta as a part of its Inspire Tour, arranged in partnership with H&M.

The tour, which kicked off on July 1, made stops at various shopping centers in Philadelphia, Charlotte, Houston and Los Angeles before wrapping up at Atlantic Station.

The organization first partnered with H&M in 2021 and has since worked with the brand to help narrow the socioeconomic gap disproportionately impacting Black female entrepreneurs.

Nikki Porcher, founder of Buy From a Black Woman, said she hosted her first collaboration event in Atlanta, and that returning to the city this year to close her monthlong tour feels like the organization has come full circle.

“You look at all that we’ve done in the last three years, and I’m just very proud of what we’re going to do in the next three years,”

Porcher said.

Ariel Young, owner and founder of the e-commerce brand Copper and Brass Paper Goods, participated as one of the evening’s eight vendors. Young, a Spelman College alumna, sells HBCU- and sorority-inspired stationery items, along with other themes — all of which depict elements of Black joy and empowerment.

“As an HBCU graduate, this [representation] means that we have a safe space where

we can come and we can be celebrated, affirmed and highlighted — just like everyone else,” Young said.

Young said she wanted to join the pop-up for the opportunity to support other Black women in business as they work to achieve their goals.

“I was motivated to participate in Buy From a Black Woman because I’m a Black woman, I believe in Black women and I think we deserve to have successful businesses

and to be successful in life,” Young said. “I believe that everyone should lend their support to love.”

Porcher founded Buy From a Black Woman in 2016 as a way to offer support to Black women business owners as they navigate the world of commerce while lacking adequate access to tangible resources.

The nonprofit holds workshops and training sessions, awards grant funding to participating businesses and encourages members to pursue advancements in entrepreneurship, helping more than 15 women earn Minority Business Enterprise certifications over the past two years.

Porcher said that those interested in starting their own businesses should take chances in life as they appear, and that trying and failing is more rewarding than not trying at all. For those who’ve already launched businesses, Porcher said that Buy From a Black Woman provides a sense of sisterhood featuring like-minded business women who are ready to support new members on their entrepreneurial journeys.

“Ideas don’t want to die with you; they want to live with you,” Porcher said. “If you have an idea, go for it until the wheels fall off. And if the wheels fall off, guess what? They make more tires.”

Ariel Young, standing in front of her table at Buy From a Black Woman tour stop, which hosted the final stop of its Inspire Tour in Atlantic Station Thursday evening.

Photos By Janelle Ward/ The Atlanta Voice

Politics

ONLINE Power Haus Creative Amplifies Black August in Support of Imam Jamil Al Amin’s Exoneration.

Fani Willis on possible Trump indictment: “We’re ready to go”

BY ITORO N. UMONTUEN

As of Tuesday morning, Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis is within the four-week window in which a possible indictment could be handed down to former President Donald J. Trump, and others, for their involvement in their attempts to overturn the results of the 2020 Election in Georgia.

Willis said over the weekend her work was complete as she handed out backpacks to school children in Sandy Springs.

“The work is accomplished,” Willis told 11 Alive at a back-to-school event Saturday afternoon. “We’ve been working for two and half years. We’re ready to go.”

While the children walked away with backpacks and school supplies, potentially, Former President Trump would walk away with

indictment.

Last week, county officials placed orange barriers around the Fulton County courthouse on 141 Pryor Street. In April, Willis ordered county employees to work from home during the first three weeks of August, and has asked judges not to schedule other trials for that time.

On Monday, Fulton County Superior Court Judge Robert McBurney rejected Trump’s claims to disqualify Willis from using evidence from the Special Purpose Grand Jury and blocking the looming indictment that might be handed to former President Trump.

“In the future, counsel is encouraged to follow the professional standard of inquiring with chamber’s staff about timing and deadlines before burdening other courts with unnecessary and unfounded legal filings,” Judge McBurney wrote.

The reason Willis is able to declare a timeline for an indictment is because she assembled a Special Purpose grand jury. This move allows the group to interview dozens of witnesses and subpoenaed documents over the course which took nearly seven months. That jury then issued an advisory report which recommended that a number of people be indicted on charges of violating Georgia laws. That report goes to the grand jury and would likely be the reason why Willis could prosecute Former President Trump under the Georgia RICO statute.

The Georgia statute defines racketeering more broadly than the federal law. The difference with the Georgia RICO statute is Georgia does not always require the existence of an enterprise to constitute racketeering.

It is possible that Fulton County DA Fani Willis could narrow down the indictment

to former President Trump, former Georgia GOP Chairman David Shafer in his effort to orchestrate the fake electors scheme in December 2020, and Rudy Giuliani for his denigrating and humiliating, and false comments to the Fulton County poll workers, Ruby Freeman and Wandrea’ ‘Shaye’ Moss.

As the U.S. Congress is heading to their August recess, indictment watch is officially underway in Atlanta, even though there is not a set date for an announcement.

“For some, being the subject of criminal investigation can, à la Rumpelstiltskin, be turned into golden political capital, making it seem more providential than problematic,” Judge McBurney wrote in a footnote. “Regardless, simply being the subject (or target) of an investigation does not yield standing to bring claim to halt that investigation in court.”

Community Hillside International Truth Center hosts townhall for new real estate development

BY NOAH WASHINGTON

On the evening of Tuesday, July 25th, the Hillside International Truth Center hosted a town hall meeting that ignited conversation among attendees as they delved into "Hillside Renaissance Project." Spearheaded by former Atlanta Mayoral Candidate and Councilwoman, Felicia Moore, this real estate development in the Cascade Area of West End, Atlanta, is meant to transform the community and create a unique multigenerational living experience as discussed by Hillside Minister, Bishop Dr. Jack L. Bomar.

The focal point of the Hillside Renaissance Project is workforce housing, specially designed to cater to the needs of older homeowners seeking to downsize in the Cascade community. The aim is to bolster the area while providing comfortable and functional living spaces. The development primarily revolves around: Micro-Housing and its evolutionary counterpart, Tiny-Housing.

During the town hall, multiple speakers took to the stage with former Atlanta City Council president and mayoral candidate Felicia Moore taking the lead. Her involvement in the project came at the invitation of Bishop Bomar, minister at Hillside. Reflecting on her long-standing affiliation with the church, Moore expressed her deep-rooted connection,

"I've been a member of Hillside for well over 30 years. When I ran for mayor, Bishop Bomar, who's now in charge, was incredibly supportive. He shared the vision with me, and I was compelled to give back to the

church and lead the community engagement efforts, which have now expanded into development and community engagement."

Addressing the community's questions and concerns, Moore passionately emphasized the project's multigenerational essence.

"The entire vision is multigenerational," Moore told The Atlanta Voice. Moore then delved deeper into what the new development would look like. "There will be a dedicated senior portion behind the parking lot across the street. In addition,

there will be workforce housing for professionals, first-time homeowners, and empty-nesters looking to downsize,” said Moore. “The project will also incorporate spaces for commercial leasing and homeownership."

The innovative aspect of the Hillside Renaissance Project lies in its holistic approach to community development Moore added.

By offering diverse housing options, the project aims to foster a sense of unity, where residents of different ages and backgrounds can coexist harmoniously.

The micro-housing and tiny-housing concepts cater to individuals seeking manageable spaces without sacrificing comfort or functionality. At the same time, workforce housing provides ample opportunities for young professionals and families to lay down roots and contribute to the burgeoning community.

Developer Dr. Les Snead and architect William Stanley III, provided a detailed presentation, informing the audience with their vision for the development. Snead shared insights on the planning that went into creating an environment that embraces the principles of sustainable living, connectivity, and communal growth.

William Stanley III unveiled artistic renderings and architectural blueprints, offering attendees a glimpse of what the future might hold for the Cascade area.

Still currently in its visionary stage, Bishop Bomar told attendees that “we are going to turn up some dirt on September 23rd.”

North Fulton Rotary to increase community impact

BY JANELLE WARD

Leaders of the Rotary Club of Johns Creek North Fulton revealed plans to up public service efforts and increase collaboration between local businesses and organizations at the group’s Vision 2023 meeting and luncheon Wednesday afternoon, as the chapter outlined its goals and future events for the upcoming year.

The meeting brought together local leaders, philanthropists and business owners to share ideas and form partnerships aimed at instilling a lasting impact and improving the wellbeing of the North Fulton community. Impact 100, a new initiative proposed by the

chapter’s president, Nicole Washington, challenges the club to perform 100 service projects in a single year, all of which would benefit the residents of Johns Creek and surrounding cities.

Washington said that 100 projects in a year is a lofty goal, but one that tests the chapter’s ability to organize regardless of whether it’s achieved.

“I always believe in shooting for the stars,” Washington said. “If you don’t get the star, that’s okay, because you’re going to get some stardust. But if you don’t shoot high enough, you’re never going to get a thing.”

Small businesses were highlighted in

Wednesday's conversation, which play an integral role in the local economy. MJ Jennette from the Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce said that more money remains in the community when spent at local businesses as opposed to larger chain establishments.

“Statistics show that $68 out of every 100 stays in the community when it’s spent on local businesses,” Jennette said. “When you spend it outside of local businesses… only $43 stays in the community.”

This power also makes business owners key constituents in improving equity and opportunity in North Fulton. Devon Dabney, head of public image at the chapter, said that business

owners and philanthropists have the ability to make a positive impact on their communities so long as they collaborate in doing so.

“We’re not to be competing; we’re not to be utilizing organizations to set up political interests or financial gain,” Dabney said. “We’re supposed to be helping each other.”

Dabney also said that Impact 100 can act as a gateway for Rotarians and members of the community to get involved in the organizations working to make a difference for North Fulton residents.

“Hopefully, with Impact 100, you can plug into [Johns Creek’s nonprofits] and really do good things,” Dabney said.

Former Atlanta City Council President Atlanta mayoral candidate Felicia Moore, who was invited by Bishop Bomar, minister at Hillside International Truth Center to speak on the potential impact of the project. Photo by Noah Washington/The Atlanta Voice

Soccer in the Streets awarded $20,000 grant

BY JANELLE WARD

Soccer in the Streets, an Atlanta-based organization that teaches children from underrepresented communities social skills, leadership and camaraderie through soccer, was selected to receive $20,000 from Quest Nutrition this year as a part of the company’s annual Quest for Impact campaign.

The group was one of four chosen to receive funding, each of which was acknowledged for their drive to generate a lasting impact within their respective communities. Soccer in the Streets was the only organization based on the East Coast selected for a grant in this year’s cycle.

Currently operating in five neighborhoods around the city, Soccer in the Streets offers a diverse selection of programs educating students on a variety of subjects, ranging from the sport itself to health-related topics like physical and emotional wellness and nutrition.

Chelsea Wood, Soccer in the Streets’ director of leadership and outcomes, said that soccer is an accessible sport in terms of the simplicity of the rules and the amount of equipment needed to play. But financial obstacles prevent students and athletes from being able to participate in local programs and pursue professional opportunities.

“Sport is such an important opportunity for youth to make friends, learn social and emotional competencies and develop leadership,” Wood said. “Soccer is historically expensive to play competitively. In addition to that, transportation is another barrier. Soccer in the Streets works to alleviate those barriers through our StationSoccer model. All youth should have the chance to safely play and experience meaningful relationships.”

Soccer in the Streets operates camps during the summer and runs an after-school program during the academic year. Tracing its roots back more than 30 years in the Atlanta community, the organization has evolved into a multifaceted network of programs anchored in promoting the wellbeing of youth and the love of the sport. Wood said about 1,400 Atlanta students will be impacted by the organization’s fall programming come the kickoff of the 2023-24 school

year.

“What is so amazing about our network is the diversity,” Wood said. “The City of Atlanta is so rich in culture. At our games and tournaments, you really do see the reflection of that. I love that our families take pride in their locations and are able to share that with others around the city.”

Wood said that Soccer in the Streets intends to use the funding from the grant to further develop its Girls with Goals initiative, a program within the organization’s umbrella specifically dedicated to teaching school-aged girls how to navigate a male-dominated society through sessions with guest speakers. Soccer in the Streets will also expand its outreach by opening a sixth StationSoccer location in East Lake this fall.

Additionally, Soccer in the Streets has its sights set on 2026, when the FIFA World Cup is slated to bring millions of spectators to Atlanta. The organization also wants to grow its ‘League of Stations’ to operate in ten Atlanta neighborhoods, a system of soccer fields connected by MARTA routes that are used throughout competition seasons.

“I think the best part of our program is the mentorship and positive influences our coaches have,” Wood said. “My favorite thing to do is watch our school program coaches make every kid feel seen, valued and cared for.”

Atlanta-based organization Soccer in the Streets was granted $20,000 in funding through a national community impact campaign hosted by Quest Nutrition. Photo courtesy of Soccer in the Streets

Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids looks to keep kids safe

BY ISAIAH SINGLETON

The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) will be ruling to permanently ban menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars in August.

Researchers estimate that prohibiting menthol cigarettes would save up to 654,000 lives within 40 years, including the lives of 255,000 Black Americans. Black Americans represent over one-third of the lives that would be saved. With menthol's addictive nature and aggressive marketing towards people of color, menthol tobacco possesses a significant health risk that demands immediate attention.

The proposed rule represents an important step to advance health equity amongst Black Americans and address tobacco-related health disparities.

Yolonda Richardson, new President and CEO of Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, spoke with The Atlanta Voice to discuss the importance of staying aware and why the ruling is important to Black communities in the United States.

The Atlanta Voice: Why is the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids important, especially for Black communities?

Yolanda Richardson: Smoking is something our community needs to address because as it currently stands, tobacco is the leading cause of preventable death for African Americans in this country. I’ve been with the campaign for the last 14 years and most of that time, I worked on global tobacco control and other health issues. In the U.S., our primary focus has remained on tobacco control since 1996. The work we have been doing in the U.S. started with the work we did to help pass the national tobacco control law in 2009, it was one of the first bills then President Obama signed. The bill gave the FDA the authority to regulate cigarettes and other tobacco products, which is kind of amazing to think it had gone unregulated up until that law passed. It’s a critical piece of legislation and we’ve been working nonstop since to make sure it’s implemented.

AV: Why is smoking menthol cigarettes and other flavored tobacco products so devastating to Black communities?

YR: Smoking rates among African Americans are roughly the same as among other Americans, but what’s devastating for our community is that menthol, which is the flavored cigarette of choice for African Americans, was exempted from that 2009 law. This created an opportunity for the tobacco industry to further exploit communities of color and to push their products into our communities spending billions of dollars on advertising, giveaways, sponsorships, cultural events, and even disproportion of pricing advantages in the African American community. Now more than 85% of African Americans who do smoke, smoke menthol cigarettes, so it was a devastating loophole for our community. All

the other flavored cigarettes were banned at the time and menthol got a special exemption. We know that this happened because the tobacco industry was behind the scenes making sure this exemption was in place. Therefore, our community remained vulnerable when it came to menthol cigarettes and other flavored cigarettes were in fact banned. Since then, we have been working to close that gap and close the loophole. A couple of years ago, we were working vigorously to get a national law passed to close that gap and it also demanded that all flavored E-cigarettes. The other exemption from 2009 was flavored cigars, which for our community, are smoked by Black teens.”

AV: What kind of health impacts does smoking menthol cigarettes have on our communities?

YR: Menthol has major health impacts on our community such as increased cardiovascular disease, asthma, and more. This is our and my number one priority as the new President and CEO to have the FDA pass this new rule that would eliminate menthol as a flavoring of cigarettes, and you can imagine it remains a big fight with the tobacco industry, but we are working hard to get the rule out the door. The FDA seems poised to release the rule and we’re just waiting for that to be the case.

AV: If the FDA officially bans menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars, what other work will the campaign continue to focus on?

YR: We will continue to advocate with the

administration through Medicaid, private health insurance, and other health services to make sure African Americans have access to cessation programming to make sure those folks who want to quit, now that they aren’t going to be able to get their flavored cigarettes, are able to have the resources and services to help them quit. We are really committed to making sure those services are available and accessible to Black people.

YR: The other part of the work we really need to focus on is a next step and an additional step to ban flavored E-Cigarettes. Vaping kind of threw a wrench in our plans in

a sense we were able to lower teen smoking. We are working hard on vaping because in many ways, vaping is even more problematic because it has gone unregulated since 2007. The 2009 law requires before any new tobacco products can come into the market, they must be pre-cleared, but the FDA hasn’t exerted that authority and therefore the market has gotten really flooded. They’re in the midst of looking at some applications now, but we really want to press them to review those applications so we can get E-cigarettes out the market. The rate of E-cigarettes has now exceeded the rate of teen smoking. The tobacco industry would say it’s to help give an alternative to smoking to existing smokers, but they have made every effort to market these products to kids. They have all kinds of flavors that cater towards a younger audience that wouldn’t resonate with adults like bubblegum, choco-berry this, and so many more. The real big issue is they aren’t regulated so the nicotine levels are much higher than are in cigarettes because there aren’t any limits on it.

AV: How are you guys feeling about the upcoming ruling by the FDA?

YR: The rule was drafted almost a year ago. We have been working closely with people from the FDA to continue to pressure them on getting the rule released. There’s been a scientific review that showed how deadly menthol is to smokers, so they now have the science that can support the release of the rule. The public support for banning menthol is high and well over 60%. So, the politics of it works and the economics because it’s so costly in terms of our healthcare sector to continue treating patients who are smoking or using E-cigarettes. We feel fairly, yet guardedly optimistic, because they are experiencing pressure and there’s always political trading to find out what’s going to be a priority. However, we want to see action sooner rather than later.

AV: What do you want our readers to know about what this ruling could potentially mean for their communities?

YR: This is an important issue and an easy win for our community. The tobacco has targeted the more vulnerable communities to continue to advertise menthol. We want people to know we have a very easy way to save 45,000 African American and other lives every year. It’s also important to be aware of how the tobacco industry continues to use predatory marketing tactics that hook our communities and children. I think early on parents thought vaping was cool and less harmful but certainly for children, scientifically, it’s not. We want them to know they should be rigorous in looking out for their children to ensure they don’t become nicotine addicts and suffer major health complications.

For more information, visit https://www. tobaccofreekids.org.

First woman and first Black woman to lead Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, Yolonda Richardson (left), says banning menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars can save thousands of Black lives. Photo courtesy of The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids

Counter Narrative Project weighs in on Supreme Court LGBTQ+ rights case

BY ISAIAH SINGLETON

All the good and hard work that’s been put in over the last few years is slowly, but surely unraveling before our eyes.

The U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022, which guaranteed a constitutional right to abortion.

On June 29, the justices struck down affirmative action, where they declared that race cannot be a factor in admissions. Colleges and admissions can no longer consider an applicant’s race as one of many factors in deciding who to admit. Also, President Joe Biden’s administration plan to forgive student loans was rejected.

303 Creative LLC v. Elenis

In a 6-3 vote, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of a Colorado Christian web designer, Lorie Smith, who wanted to refuse to create websites to celebrate same-sex weddings out of religious objections.

According to the justices, Lorie sought to expand her business into the area of weddings and wrote a webpage explaining why she won’t create websites for same-sex couples. However, under a Colorado public accommodations law, she said she cannot post the statement because the state considers it illegal.

During the case, the justices said the First Amendment’s free speech protections permitted Smith to do this.

Ultimately, the ruling will pierce state public accommodation laws for those businesses who sell “expressive” goods.

These are monumental rulings that directly affect people of color, queer folks, prospective students and the 43 million Americans who would have had some relief from their student debt, leaving many devastated and fearful for the future.

The Counter Narrative Project and why you should care?

Charles Stephens, executive director of Atlanta’s Counter Narrative Project (CNP), spoke to v to weigh in on the Supreme Court’s ruling, and how it will affect the future of the LGBTQ+ community.

CNP’s mission is to shift narratives about Black gay, bisexual, queer, and other men who have sex with men to change policy and improve lives.

“I’ve been very concerned about the recent Supreme Court rulings regarding LGBTQ+ rights, and affirmative action, student loan debt, and reproductive justice,” Stephens said. “I worry that the years and years of progress made, of battles fought and won, are being ripped away from us. It’s disheartening to see our protections in danger. I think we are all struggling to make sense of what's happening, even as we strategize a response.”

CNP also said autonomously and through

their various coalitions, they are having various conversations and actively working to engage this political moment through sharing information, convening advocates, and providing public education about LBGTQ+ and racial justice.

“We will continue to offer training through our Narrative Leadership Lab and Narrative Justice Fellowship,” Stephens said. “We will continue to partner with media organizations committed to amplifying the voices of marginalized communities through our Media Roundtable. And CNP will continue to create original content through our digital publication, The Reckoning, which empowers our community to be the authors of their own narratives.”

How does this affect the LGBTQ+ community in Atlanta?

CNP believes, Stephens said, bad narratives lead to bad policies.

“Before a single piece of legislation is passed, the justification of its existence is often rooted in a narrative. We must monitor very closely how the policies crafted, laws passed, and rulings made, will impact culture,” he said. “Historically, there are too many examples to count, of how a false narrative, the culmination of poisonous lies, can justify not only discrimination and oppression, but violence and death. I’m concerned that these shifts in the law, the turning back of progress, will strengthen stigma and discrimination against LGBTQ+, and other marginalized communities.”

Additionally, Stephens said those in the South, including Georgia, are paying “very close” attention to the implications of the Supreme Court ruling, around LGBTQ+ rights, reproductive justice, and affirmative

action.

“I’m worried that these acts will disempower us, cast doubt, and create despair,” he said. “I’m also worried that the fragile coalitions that have been forged around support and solidarity will fracture, as there are forces that seek to rip us apart. As James Baldwin wrote in his 1970 open letter to Angela Davis, “if they take you in the morning, they will be coming for us that night.”

For Atlanta specifically, Stephens said, due to the state, region we live in, and the challenges marginalized communities experience in the Georgia capital, Atlantans may find themselves uniquely vulnerable to this rising conservative regime.

“However, there is a rich culture of resistance and social justice in the South, as part of our movement's history, that we may need to take inspiration from, and extract lessons, to shape how we respond,” he said. “Though I’m disgusted by the history of discrimination in Georgia, and across this country, I’m uplifted by the history of the resistance. Atlanta represents so much for Black LGBTQ+ people. In many ways, I think how we respond to this moment, how we resist, might become inspiration, if not a blueprint for others.”

Staying Aware & How to Help

CNP strives to provide true and factual narratives about the LGBTQ+ community while spreading positivity. Stephens said the importance of staying aware, your human rights, and voting is critical.

“One of the greatest threats to democracy is the proliferation of misinformation and false narratives. Those of us that work in narrative strategy, that work in culture, find ourselves at this very moment, on the front

lines of not only protecting the communities we love and serve, but also protecting democracy. I would encourage everyone to not only remain aware of what’s happening to question everything, and not surrender to despair,” he said.

From here, Stephens said, we continue to fight, strategize, and to learn.

“Find a political home that affirms you. Tell your story. Be a witness. Stand in truth. To quote the poet Essex Hemphill: “Let us not accept partial justice. If we believe our lives are priceless, we can’t be conquered,” he said.

Also, Stephens said the most important thing communities in Atlanta can do to remain aware, safe, and continue to make positive change is both continue to educate themselves on the political moment and find joy and peace where they can.

“We must not internalize the violence being done to us,” he said. “We must find the strength to not only be resilient but have joy. There is an incredible social justice movement in Atlanta, and many opportunities to find a political home. Let us remember that Atlanta has always been a center for civil rights strategy and innovation, and I think we will continue to be, especially in these troubling times.”

Furthermore, Stephens said, CNP is committed to advancing Black LGBTQ+ acceptance.

“We welcome allies that would like to support us in strengthening our impact and shifting narratives,” he said.

For more information on CNP and their mission, visit https://www.thecounternarrative.org. To view more information about your local policies, visit https://www.usa. gov/local-governments.

Pictured: Atlanta Rainbow Crosswalk on a Tuesday morning in August. The mural represents the LGBTQIA+ community in Atlanta and is a universally recognized symbol of unity. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

Sports

ONLINE Survivors of the Tulsa Race Massacre Say Their Fight Is Not Over. Read online.

CAU gifted new batting cage

BY MENRA MAPFUMO

The Atlanta Braves Foundation and Truist Bank held a ribbon cutting ceremony on Clark Atlanta University’s campus to unveil the new batting cage they constructed for the Panthers baseball and softball teams.

The ceremony took place Tuesday, JUly 25 and opened with a musical performance from the Atlanta Braves Heavy Hitters, the team’s drumline. Following the performance those in attendance heard speeches from the Vice President of Community Affairs and Executive Director of the Atlanta Braves Foundation Danielle Bedasse, Clark Atlanta University Athletic Director Dr. Jerrel Drew, Vice President and Chief Advancement Officer Sam Burston, and Mrs. Billye Aaron, the widow of Atlanta Braves great and Baseball Hall of Famer Henry Aaron.

Also in attendance was the Atlanta Braves mascot Blooper and Judge Brenda Cole, the wife of the late Dr. Thomas Cole Jr., the first President of Clark Atlanta University.

The ribbon was cut by the CAU baseball Kentaus “K.C.” Carter. There was a ceremonial first hit in the cage from CAU softball player Jazmin Scott and CAU baseball player Khail Manuel.

Players and coaches were asked how they feel about the new batting cage and what the construction of it means to them.

Jason Jones, another CAU baseball player said, “It feels great. It feels like it is a step in the right direction, and it feels like this will be the start of something beautiful here at CAU.”

Manuel added, “I was here when there was a piece of a batting cage over here, so I feel like this is important to help the players here perfect their craft...to me it means [the

Atlanta Braves Foundation] see something in us and they know that we are capable of making the best out of what they have given us and just continue to provide for future generations.”

CAU softball player Rasheedah Hassan said, “I feel like it is a great gesture based on the fact that we did not have a big batting cage, so this is coming from nothing and having this for us is really going to change up our game, drastically.”

She added, “Honestly, it means a lot, especially for us being able to work on something and it being in a facility like this, this is not something that we are used to. For me it just means growth.”

Carter, who has coached baseball at the university for years said, “I really do not feel

anything, I am just at a loss for words for what this beautiful batting cage will afford to do. It allows us the opportunity to always get some work in...One of our mottos last year was ‘let’s hit every day’ and with this cage we will definitely be able to do this.”

The batting cage is covered by a roof and has lights meaning that players will be able to hit all hours of the day no matter the weather.

“It’s really just not about me, but the fact that I was the head coach when this was built, it's going to be a legacy that will live on for me,” added Carter.

Assistant CAU softball coach Ray Malone said, “First, I would like to thank the Braves organization and Truist for this new tool. I call it a tool simply because of the fact that it allows our players to get more reps. In the old

cage we had to share with the baseball team. Either the baseball team was in there or the softball team. This represents a big improvement of what we had before and also allows our players to get more reps.”

Drew, the school’s athletic director said of the new cage, “It is wonderful. The biggest thing is the commitment they put into building us a facility for our student athletes. A place where they can grow and a place where they can hone their skills.”

Bedasse expressed what it means to provide CAU softball and baseball with a new batting cage.

“I think I have the best job in all of baseball. I get to build community through baseball, I get to provide opportunities, I get to connect people with a sport and a game that we love.

Braves invite CAU twin players to throw out first pitch

BY MENRA MAPFUMO

Twin brothers Jorden and Jayden Dixon threw out the first pitch at Truist Park before the Atlanta Braves played the Milwaukee Brewers Friday, July 28.

The Dixon brothers are baseball players at Clark Atlanta University. Jorden is a senior and Jayden is a graduate student. The brothers also own a photography business called, “Better Images.”

This summer the twins have been working to promote themselves as athletes, photogra-

phers, and videographers. Jayden has been in Atlanta working with the South Dekalb Tribe, a non-profit travel baseball organization as a social media manager, photographer, and videographer. He also has been working with Minority Baseball Prospects (MBP), while playing in the MBP Collegiate League.

Jorden has been interning within the Major League Baseball photography department.

“Being in photos this summer, I have learned a lot about what it takes to be a

professional photographer and how to refine my skills, how to make myself and my business, as well as my brother better in all aspects,” said Jorden.

On May 25, 2023, the Atlanta Braves invited the Dixon brothers to photograph and record video at Truist Park when the Braves took on the Philadelphia Phillies.

Regarding the brothers’ relationship with the Braves, Jorden said, “We got a chance to speak with Greg Mize [Vice President, Marketing and Innovation at Atlanta Braves about what we do around the community

and we were offered an opportunity, in early June, to come out and shoot a game for the Braves as honorary photographers for the day.

He continued, “The relationship we have been able to build with that organization has been great. They are really open to what we are trying to do and they are helping us build our foundation within the business.”

Jayden described the opportunity to throw out the first pitch as “amazing.” “I never

The Atlanta Braves Foundation and Truist Bank held a ribbon cutting ceremony on Clark Atlanta University’s campus Tuesday, July 25, 2023, to unveil the new batting cage they constructed for the Clark Atlanta University baseball and softball teams.

Photo by Menra Mapfumo/ The Atlanta Voice

thought I would be doing anything that is even close to this. It shows people of my color, people of my age and people younger than me coming up and wanting to do the same things that anything is possible.”

Jorden added, “Everybody does not get a chance to do this in their lifetime. For my brother and I to be selected and just even thought about, our names being brought up in rooms around people that we have never met before and have never seen, it is a great opportunity and it feels amazing to just be considered to honor our HBCU, Clark Atlanta University, our business, everything that we do and everything that we stand for this evening.”

This week the Braves are celebrating Hank Aaron Week and Jorden described what comes with honoring Hank Aaron, “There is plenty of pride...[Tonight] is a great end cap to what the Braves are doing and what we started this week as far as the ribbon cutting [referring to the new batting facility the Atlanta Braves foundation gifted to Clark Atlanta University.] It is great honor to be able to be able to continue his legacy on and off the baseball field”

The Dixon brothers mentioned there are many who have helped them grow their business and get to where they are today. Among those mentioned were coach Willie Slaton, IV of the South Dekalb Tribe, Alexander Wyche, founder of Minority Baseball

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Jayden talked about what the first pitch will do for them as athletes and for their business, “Tonight will gain us more exposure. More people will see us as two African American young men who aspire to do something great with a camera and with confidence.”

View the full interview with Jordan and Jayden Dixon on The Atlanta Voice YouTube channel.

Sealed proposals for 23RFP139483K-DB - TSPLOST Program Management Services for the Fulton County Public Works Department, will be accepted by the Fulton County Department of Purchasing and Contract Compliance, electronically through Bidnet Direct at https://www.bidnetdirect.com/ georgia/fultoncounty, on Wednesday, September 20, 2023. All proposals submitted must be received no later than 11:00 a.m. local (Eastern) time on the stated date.

Proposals names will be publicly read at 11:05 a.m. on the stated due date via Zoom. See link noted in the Solicitation Document of Section 3.

Proposal Bond: N/A

Scope of Work: Fulton County, Georgia (“County”) Qualified Proposers to provide flow service to perform and provide program management services in the execution of the Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST). Services

will include, but not limited to, the preparation of reports and technical memoranda, conducting meetings, and following all requirements contained in SB369 to ensure Fulton County’s compliance. Review Request for Proposal (RFP) for more details. In order to obtain complete information about this solicitation, please click the link below where this document and supporting documents can be downloaded, https://www.bidnetdirect.com/ georgia/fultoncounty. Fee: N/A

Term of Contract: The initial term of the contract shall be for 365 calendar days with two (2) one (1) year renewal options as determined by the County.

A Pre-Proposal Conference will be held on Thursday, August 17, 2023, at 10:00 a.m., via Zoom; see link in Section 1, 1.6. If you have any questions regarding this project please contact Darlene A. Banks, CAPA, at Email: darlene.banks@ fultoncountyga.gov or (404) 6127879. Fulton County reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals and to waive technicalities.

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