The Atlanta Voice E-Edition 121324 by theatlantavoice633

A Decade of Dance

At just eight years old, Lithonia native Camille Margaret Jackson (above) felt that magic of dance when she performed as a snow fairy in her first Nutcracker with Atlanta Ballet in 2014. A decade later, at 18, Jackson is in her second season with Atlanta Ballet 2, the highest level of training in Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education. Photo courtesy of Kim Kenney

Congressional Black Caucus Reaches Historic 62 Members

Camille Margaret Jackson: A glimpse of the magic in ‘The Nutcracker’

BY LAURA NWOGU

In a fluffy white tutu, dark green top, and well-loved pointe shoes, Atlanta Ballet dancer Camille Margaret Jackson stretched her arms out as the beginning notes of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy,” streamed out of the speakers in a practice space at the Michael C. Carlos Dance Centre. In moments, she transformed, a smile lighting up her face, as she glided across the room, performing a series of crisp arabesques and pirouettes that hushed the room as she unveiled a glimpse of her performance for this year’s “The Nutcracker.”

Holiday season after holiday season, ballet performances of “The Nutcracker” enchant audiences around the globe. For many people, the Christmas classic is their first introduction to the world of ballet; for young dancers, it’s likely their first chance to feel the magic that comes about from gliding on a stage. At just eight years old, Lithonia native Camille Margaret Jackson felt that magic when she performed as a snow fairy in her first Nutcracker with Atlanta Ballet in 2014. A decade later, at 18, Jackson is in her second season with Atlanta Ballet 2, the highest level of training in Atlanta Ballet Centre for

“It’s special to, at 18, be a part of something important in the arts world and this country period,”

Dance Education, performing various Corps de Ballet roles in this year’s performance, which runs from Dec. 7-26 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.

While Atlanta Ballet nurtured the magic of ballet, it began at home, where she grew up surrounded by an artistic family. Her mother, Mahalia Jackson, is a theatre performer in the Southeast, and Jackson said she would often follow her to rehearsals. She said being a part of so many productions and new works at a young age drew her in and ignited her creativity.

That spark has brought her to 10 years of performing one of the most beloved ballets at the oldest ballet company in America. For her, carrying that legacy and history, especially as a Black ballet dancer, is “incredibly special.”

“Growing up, we knew dancers like Misty Copeland, Michaela DePrince, Lauren Anderson, and Janis Joplin, and we saw them paving the way. We saw their trials and tribulations. So, it's special to now be that change — be the dancers who are now in those spaces that they've created for us. And then to be at the oldest company in America, that's just the cherry on top,” Jackson said. “It's special to, at 18, be a part of something important in the arts world and this country period.” Jackson has experienced her moments of

being a source of inspiration for young Black ballet dancers. She recalled a moment last year after dancing as the stepsister in a production of Cinderella when a young Black girl ran up to her after the show. “She just hugged me. She was like, ‘How did you do that?’ It was amazing. And that was such a special moment because I remember being that dancer looking up to these company members. That's something I'll never forget.”

For months and hours, Jackson and her fellow dancers have rehearsed tirelessly to bring what is often considered one of the most exhausting and complex stage productions to life for Atlanta. When the Waltz of the Flowers concludes and the curtains close, Jackson said she wants the audience to feel a connection to the theater and dancers.

“I don't remember a moment when I wasn’t feeling my soul being touched, going to the theater and seeing the theater as a safe place. I feel like a soul connection doesn’t discriminate, and I don’t think it will. I want everyone to leave the theater feeling like they can come back. They should come back. They even want to be on that stage at some point. I want everyone to walk away feeling something, whether that was happiness, sadness, fear, anger.”

Jackson will be a part of the ensemble during this year’s performance of “The Nutcracker,” which runs from Dec. 7-26 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Photo courtesy of Kim Kenney

Jackson said. Photo by Kim Kenney

Anthony Anderson champions diabetes awareness in Atlanta

BY NOAH WASHINGTON

Award-winning actor, comedian, and producer Anthony Anderson, best known for his role of Andre “Dre” Johnson on the hit tv show, black-ish, visited Atlanta on Tuesday, Dec. 10 for an urgent mission, highlighting the need for awareness and action around Type 2 diabetes. Diagnosed with the condition at age 29, Anderson has become a vocal advocate for better understanding and management of diabetes, particularly in the Black community, which faces disproportionate risks.

Diabetes remains a significant health crisis in Georgia, where 12.1% of adults— roughly 1 million people—live with the condition. The impact on the Black community is especially severe, as systemic health disparities contribute to higher rates of type 2 diabetes and related complications, “I feel it's a responsibility to share my journey, to give my testimony," Anderson told, during his visit. “I want to be able to share that story with them, to let them know that no this too touches people like me," Anderson continued.

According to pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk, adults living with type 2 diabetes are at four times greater risk of stroke, heart attack, or cardiovascular death compared to those without diabetes. Anderson’s advocacy is a key component of his partnership with Novo Nordisk’s “Get Real About Diabetes” campaign, which began approximately seven years ago in 2017. Christine M. Cascio, director of commercial communications spoke on the value that having Anderson brings, ”Anthony continues to play an invaluable role in our mission of encouraging adults, especially Black Americans and men, living with Type 2 diabetes to “get real’ about Type 2 diabetes and to talk to their doctors about the link between Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease,” Cascio told.

The initiative provides education on preventing and managing type 2 diabetes through actionable lifestyle changes such as healthier eating habits, regular exercise, and routine medical checkups.

Anderson chose Atlanta to speak on the issue as its known for its rich Black culture and history of activism, noting the importance of addressing systemic barriers that make it harder for Black families to access nutritious food and consistent healthcare, exacerbating the risks of Type 2 diabetes. During his visit, Anderson shared candid insights about his own journey managing diabetes. “I changed my day-to-day, more sleep, more water, less this, less that, healthier intakes, as opposed to having chips and popcorn and all these other things in my house,” Anderson told. Highlighting small, practical steps that families can take together to support healthier habits Anderson explained, “We change the oil in our car every 3000 miles,

we rotate our tires, our fluids get low, we change that. But we don't do that for ourselves. We don't go to the doctor to say, ‘Hey, what's going on?’

Beyond his work with Novo Nordisk, Anderson uses his celebrity platform to break the stigma around chronic illnesses, “Being my own boss on my own television show, I could say, well, this is what we need on set, not only for me, but for the rest of the cast and the crew,” Anderson told; encouraging open discussions about health and wellness,“ it's more than just nutrition. It's also about exercise. It's also about being fit, ”he said. Anderson’s efforts aim to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools needed to manage their condition effectively, “A lot of people think they need to go to a gym- no, you can take a walk around your neighborhood, as opposed to taking the elevator, take the stairs in a building, sometimes that's what I find myself doing”. For more information on preventing and managing diabetes, visit GetRealAboutDiabetes.com.

Diagnosed with the condition at age 29, Anthony Anderson has become a vocal advocate for better understanding and management of diabetes, particularly in the Black community, which faces disproportionate risks. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

“We change the oil in our car every 3000 miles, we rotate our tires, our fluids get low, we change that. But we don’t do that for ourselves. We don’t go to the doctor to say, ‘Hey, what’s going on?,’ Anderson said. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

“My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together.”— Desmond Tutu

“Where do we go from here?”

STATE REPRESENTATIVE

RON REYNOLDS

As the dust settles on this election, we find ourselves at a crossroads. Vice President Kamala Harris has lost her bid for the presidency, and for the first time in years, Republicans control the House, the Senate, and the White House. For many of us who have been fighting for equity, opportunity, and justice, it feels like the ground has shifted under our feet. The dreams we nurtured, the policies we fought for, and the progress we celebrated now face new and daunting challenges. But in the midst of this loss, I am reminded that true change has never come easy. It has come through our resilience, our determination, and our commitment to the ideals we hold dear.

The question we face now is, “Where do we go from here?”

Our task is not to retreat or to abandon our vision. Our task is to refocus, re-energize, and recommit to the values that brought us to this

fight in the first place. As Democrats, as progressives, and as Americans, we cannot afford to look at this election as the end. We are the voice of millions who still long for justice, healthcare, and education that empowers rather than excludes. Every loss must sharpen our resolve, not weaken it. This is the time for reflection and a recommitment to standing with the people left behind, ignored, and marginalized for too long.

We may face challenges at every level of government, but we are not powerless. Our communities, our neighborhoods, and our grassroots networks remain a powerful force for change. We can influence the policies that matter most by continuing to organize, to educate, and to mobilize. Think of the Civil Rights Movement, think of the countless movements for social and economic justice that flourished against even greater odds. It was the spirit of ordinary people coming together to demand extraordinary change that moved this country forward. And that spirit is still alive in every one of us.

If we have learned anything, it’s that actual change begins at the local level. We need to engage with our city councils, our school boards, our state legislatures, and our communities. These are the places where our work will make the most difference, where we can shape policies that directly impact the lives of those we serve. Together, we can keep pushing forward with policies that reflect the needs and values of our communities—especially for those who have felt the sting of discrimination, exclusion, and systemic inequality.

So, as we look ahead, let’s remember this: Our fight is far from over. This moment, challenging as it is, is also a call to action. Now, more than ever, we need to come together, to rebuild, and to be relentless in our pursuit of the America we believe in. An America that stands for justice, equity, and opportunity for all. Together, we will forge a path forward, one step at a time, one community at a time. This is our moment to rise stronger and more united than ever before.

Let’s get to work.

THE ATLANTA

FOUNDED May 11, 1966 FOUNDER/EDITOR

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

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These are the places where our work will make the most difference, where we can shape policies that directly impact the lives of those we serve.

SPIRITUALLY SPEAKING: The Difference In Me

BY JAMES A. WASHINGTON

The Atlanta Voice

Iknow I’ve written about this before, but with Spring now upon us, I felt the spirit moving me to talk about being“born again.” That phrase sometimes gets associated with everything but its biblical intent, in my opinion. My personal history would suggest that I could not and would never fit in the category of a “born-again Christian.” I could not agree with my definition of what that meant. Today, a born-again Christian is an enigma more readily associated with a holier than though religious fanatic, as opposed to a true believer. Then something happened on the way to the ranch and yep, I got saved. Then, I began to understand those things about faith that would indicate a new me. Now, I can easily profess a clearer understanding of this born-again thing. And guess what? That’s me in every sense of what it means to be born again, biblically speaking.

John 3:5-7 says, “Jesus answered, ‘I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he

When implanted in a person’s soul, that spiritual life is eternal because God’s Word is eternal

is born of water and spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. You should not be surprised at my saying you must be born again.” Rather than think being born again is some radical conservative political movement of otherwise religious zealots, this passage lets us know that being born again relates to an awakening in every one of us to the real presence of the Holy Spirit at work in our everyday lives. It makes logical sense when you see yourself as a new creature attempting to operate with a new lease on life from a new perspective on life.“Now that you have

“YOUR VOICE”

purified yourselves by obeying the truth, you sincerely love your brothers and deeply love one another from the heart. You have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable (seed), through the living and enduring Word of God.” Peter 1:22-23. My bible explains it to me this way. This imperishable seed of the Word of God, planted and accepted by a new believer, gives way to a new spiritual life. When implanted in a person’s soul, that spiritual life is eternal because God’s Word is eternal. By becoming good soil, by being spiritually involved in the process, a new eternal life is born.

Therefore, the life you live once you’ve acknowledged your faith is a new life in the service of the Almighty, hence, “born again.” Personally, my rebirth has been, to me, remarkable. I don’t see myself as the same person I once was. Those around me then and around me now might agree that there is a discernable difference. See me? See my Lor d and Savior Jesus Christ. Talk to me? Hear my Lord and Savior. I know I’ve got a long way to go, but, I think from now, I’ll be a quick study student of the Word, blessed in the knowledge of the truth, and hoping the same for you.

May God bless and keep you always.

This column is from James Washington’s Spiritually Speaking: Reflections for and from a New Christian. You can purchase this enlightening book on Amazon and start your journey toward spiritual enlightenment.

When Sean Combs was denied bail for the 3rd time, did you think he deserved it, and do you think he should be convicted?

AYANNA MATTHEWS

Atlanta

"I think P Diddy should be under the jail. If there is somewhere other than jail that he could be at, that's where he needs to be. Because how are you going to do all these despicable things to children and women and shoot even men, and you want to get bail? You want to get out and be free in the free world? You don't deserve to be in the free world. The free world is for people who do the right thing. And P Diddy has been doing the opposite, even farther than that. So, no, I don't think he should get bail. I don't think he should be out. He needs to stay where he's at, and if anything, they need to put him with more crazy people so he can get a taste of his own medicine."

EBONY DOWDY Atlanta

"Do I think that Diddy should have gotten bail? No. He's harmful. He's been harmful for a very long time. So, I feel like to learn a lesson, he should stay on for a little bit. This affects his children. I'm sad about that. Hopefully, they're getting the counseling and the spiritual healing they need. But yeah, I definitely think that he should not have that bail."

Atlanta

" I used to work with him back in the day, so all the allegations and stuff like that are nothing new to anybody who used to be around the camp. I was back from around the days of [the R&B group] 112. But I feel bad for him. But hey, you know, if we make something happen, that's just not right, we can expect to pay the consequences from it. And so, all this is chickens coming home to roost. So, I mean, I don't want to [come down on him]. I feel bad for him, too. At the same time, but sometimes when you make your bed, you know, you got to sleep in."

Atlanta by way of New York

"I absolutely believe if he can pay for bail, everyone should be able to make bail. If they can make bail, they should be able to get bail. The other question you asked me was whether he should go to jail. I don't have all the evidence, and he hasn't had a trial, so I don't know if he should go to jail or not. We must wait until all the evidence is in and he's on trial. He's entitled to a trial with a jury of his peers. And until that, I have no opinion on whether or not he should go to jail."

Compiled by Vincent Christie.

JEROME

ZAMURRAD BARRON

Usher unveils new entertainment content studio at Boys & Girls Club Metro Atlanta Entertainment

BY LAURA NWOGU

Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter Usher concluded his 100-day Social Impact Tour by unveiling a new content studio lab at the Joseph B. Whitehead Boys and Girls Club on Monday. Decked with state-of-the-art equipment that youth can use to create different media such as podcasts and music production, Usher's quote, “Blessed to be a blessing,” sat high on the wall of the Spark Lab.

It’s a sentiment that began with the organization Usher’s New Look (UNL), a nonprofit he founded in 1999 with the help of his mother, Jonetta Patton. Twenty-five years of service later, the organization's impact could be seen at the event, as UNL alum Malia Dishon spoke of her success in the entertainment industry due to the opportunities the organization gave her since she joined in 2005 and as BGCMA youth toured the new lab with wonderment.

Jim Clark, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of America, said the studio was “the best one” he’d seen at any Boys & Girls Club across the U.S. and hoped that every project forward emulated it. Usher reflected on how the club, which is focused on providing safe and fun after-school programs for children and teens, welcomed him with open arms and became a motivational place for him. He called the moment “full circle.”

“I’m happy that the work that I’ve put in has led me to become an inspiration to so many people,” Usher said. The most important part of all of this starts with a spark. An idea. A concept that says, ‘I can have a definition and an idea of what I found passion in.’ And that's really what New Look started. But the catch is it had to start somewhere before it became a spark. And what was that? The Boys & Girls Club.”

The ribbon cutting at Lakewood Avenue was the last stop on Usher’s Social Impact Tour in partnership with UNL. Over 100 days, Usher visited 11 cities, engaging over 4,800 youth through career-focused workshops, wellness initiatives and tech skill-building sessions. The Spark Lab program, which will provide youth with hands-on training in the entertainment industry, is just one part of the Entertainment Industry Club, a workforce development program for youth ages 14 to 24 that will launch in 2025.

Shawn H. Wilson, the co-founder of UNL, made a point of how rapper and actor Ice T’s visit to Usher’s local Boys & Girls Club inspired the music icon to want to join the entertainment industry.

“I think part of the magic in what Usher has been able to do over the last 25 years is to just simply try to pass forward what he re -

ceived,” Wilson said. “Now he’s doing the exact same thing for hundreds of thousands of kids across the country. You never know how

that one visit could spark a young person’s passion for the entertainment industry.”

Fatima G., a teen ambassador, has been part of the Joseph B. Whitehead Boys and Girls Club for nine years. She said she hopes the new Spark Lab will excite youth interested in joining the club and helping their community.

“It feels very good. Seeing the new Usher Spark Lab is a big opportunity for me to be able to be a rock star for the teen ambassador program,” Fatima said.

At the end of the event, the youth got the opportunity to skate side-by-side with Usher during an Usher club takeover activation that transformed the gym into a rink. As they skated to tunes that defined Atlanta, a few kids ended up falling but were helped back up by Usher, a scene that symbolized a message he spoke during the ribbon cutting:

“That's life: when we fall, we’ve got to get back up. And there's always somebody that can help you. So, I’m happy to be able to share everything that I have come in contact with in this industry as an opportunity for you.”

Lifestyle

‘Luther Vandross: Never Too Much’ is a gift to his fans

Street Lines: 2024 BMW X1 M35i

BY DENNIS MALCOLM BYRON AKA ALE SHARPTON

It looks like BMW has answered a lot of prayers when it comes to delivering an affordable SUV that is still luxurious and a joy to drive. Meet the 2024 X1 M35i, an impressive new addition to the automaker’s family that comes highly recommended for anyone looking in particularly the “compact” segment.

As we all know, BMW takes pride in making “ultimate driving machines,” and the X1 M35i helps validate the slogan with a potent 2.0-liter BMW M TwinPower Turbo inline four-cylinder engine. Validating the M insignia, the engine delivers 312 horsepower and packs a quick acceleration with a reportedly 0 to 60 mph jump in 5.2 seconds. Paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and standard xDrive all-wheel drive, the X1 M35i offers seamless gear changes and exceptional grip on the road, while the Adaptive M Suspension smooths out the ride over any road

blemishes. We also love the M Sport brakes embellished with the signature red calipers provide rest-assured braking in style. The combination of Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) further perfects the handling and sharp cornering, while boosting the driver’s courage

to take on virtually any outdoor challenges. To breathe even easier behind the wheel, the Driving Assistance Pro Package adds a long list of cutting-edge safety features.

As for the looks, our X1 M35i review model was presented in the optional Blue Bay Lagoon Metallic paint which was well liked by onlookers, although I’d get a more intimidating color to match the power like the Black Sapphire Metallic, but that’s just me. Other highlights include its sculpted lines, while the M Sport Professional Package adds sporty accents like Shadowline trim and high-gloss roof rails. Of course, the M’s 20inch Y-spoke and bi-color wheels boost the eye candy, while the LED headlights with cornering functionality look sleek while helping ensure visibility.

Inside, the cabin features a premium blend of materials—Black Alcantara and Veganza upholstery—plus a SensaTec dashboard collectively contribute to the feel of opulence. While the high-tech BMW Operating System

9 comes standard, if the budget allows, go for the Premium Package which enhances comfort with advanced technology such as a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a head-up display. Other perks include BMW’s Digital Key Plus and Remote Engine Start providing more convenience remotely or warming it up especially during inclement weather. The harman/kardon sound system shows the ears a lot of love as well.

Simply put, the X1 M35i is when compact luxury meets performance at an affordable price starting at $49,900. To get the most bang for your buck, the M Performance version fully equipped at just under $59K offers a distinctive edge for those seeking the most exhilarating driving experience… or should we say “ultimate”?

Fuel Economy: 19 city/25 highway/21 combined

Price: The 2024 BMW X1 M35i is $58,795 MSRP fully equipped.

For more information, visit Bmwusa.com.

Photo courtesy of BMW

‘I knew it was my moment’: Atlanta Native DreTL wins Season 2 of Netflix’s ‘Rhythm + Flow’

BY LAURA NWOGU

Opportunity finally met preparation for 22-year-old Atlanta native and Georgia State University student DreTL, the winner of season two of Netflix’s hip-hop competition series “Rhythm + Flow.” On Wednesday night, friends, family and supporters of the young rapper packed into the Rialto Center for the Arts at Georgia State University to watch the final episodes of the season and celebrate his victory.

Chants of his name rang across the theater as the audience watched the finale performance of his song “Nobody,” which featured a recorded prison call from his mother. “You make the city proud, boy. You make the city look good,” Latto said in the episode. Supporters in the theater already knew that everything the judges were saying when Netflix recorded the show a year ago — “You a star,” “That’s what true stars are made of,” and “You’ll make a hit record” — were already in the works of becoming true.

“I just knew it was my moment because sometimes you can't change what's already destined to be. God is gonna have a plan for your life, and you’re just gonna know, what's for you is for you. And I just knew it was my moment,” DreTL said.

The music competition series features hip-hop artists as they judge and mentor unsigned rappers, who are competing to win a cash prize of $250,000 and studio time at Spotify Studios. The backdrop of this season’s competition was Atlanta, which has become the mecca for hip-hop music. It featured Ludacris, DJ Khaled, and Latto as judges with artists such as Eminem, Busta Rhymes, Remy Ma, and Big Sean as guest judges. Fans of the show watched as contestants battled it out through rap battles, cyphers and collaborations with R&B artists.

A few of season two’s contestants such as Detroit Diamond, Jaxs and K’alley were at the watch party to show support for their fellow contestant. D Smoke, a native of Inglewood, California and the winner of the first season of “Rhythm + Flow,” was a mentor during its second season and was also in attendance at the Rialto Center.

“I just couldn't be more proud. I know what the experience was like, so to see people navigating it with such poise and see them put their talent at the forefront of the world is just a proud moment,” D

Smoke said. “it's always good for somebody to hear somebody say, ‘I was proud.’ I wanted to tell them to trust yourself. You could be an incredible artist and not win, but being all right means you can live with what you did at the end of the day. And that's what's most important. And if you win in the process, cool.”

In two weeks, DreTL will walk across the stage to graduate from Georgia State’s School of Music. With a diploma in hand and his dreams coming to fruition, the young rapper felt nothing but gratitude to those who helped make it happen, including his mother, who watched from the audience Wednesday night.

DreTL makes closing remarks at his “Rhythm + Flow” watch party. Fellow contestants Detroit Diamond, Jaxs and K’alley stand behind him. Photo by Laura Nwogu/The Atlanta Voice

“Rhythm + Flow” winners DreTL and D Smoke pose for a picture at the Georgia State University watch party. D Smoke was a mentor for DreTL during the show’s second season. Photo by Laura Nwogu/The Atlanta Voice

Secret Walls: The Live Art Battle That Brings Atlanta Together

Jai Lyle MCMLXXXII: Legacy Can Be Stylish Too

BY NOAH WASHINGTON

Jai Lyle's journey into fashion wasn’t a direct path—it was shaped by years of exploration and a deep commitment to creativity. Reflecting on his life before launching Jai Lyle MCMLXXXII, Lyle explained, “I was focused on music during that time.”

Lyle describes himself as “more of a creative than a fashion guy,” attributing his artistry to a diverse range of influences. Growing up in a musically inclined family, he honed his creative mind through playing the alto saxophone, drawing, and experimenting with design. His grandfather, Dr. Thomas Lyle, was a renowned band director with tenures at Florida A&M, Alabama State University, and Stillman College, where a building bears his name. These rich familial influences shaped Jai Lyle’s approach to creativity as deeply personal and universally resonant. His move to Atlanta was initially driven by a desire to become a music producer, but his artistic vision extended far beyond music. “Even back then, I had ideas about how I dressed and created certain things,” he reflected.

While attending Florida A&M University (FAMU), and earning an MBA, Lyle took his first steps into the fashion world and other creative ventures. He co-founded a line called Luciano Lyle with a childhood friend, Gene Warren, from Orlando and co-created a pop culture TV show, Doin’ Da Fool, on WB with another childhood friend, IC Hartsfield, from Tallahassee. “I started a fashion line in college,” he shared, though his passion for fashion briefly took a backseat as he pursued music. After moving to Atlanta, Lyle worked with a music producer before heading to Los Angeles to collaborate on a capsule collection for Adidas. Though the project didn’t come to fruition, it marked a pivotal moment. “Coming back to Atlanta, I realized I had to make something happen—I had to seal the deal,” Lyle said, describing the drive that reignited his focus on fashion.

The seeds of Jai Lyle MCMLXXXII were planted during this transitional period as Lyle reflected on his promise to his late mother, who passed away in 2005. “I didn’t know what it was at the time, but I knew I had to deliver on it,” he said. His mother, Doris, who studied fashion, guided his decision to build a brand that honors family, history, and culture. “This is a way to honor my parents, our ancestors, and everything they worked hard for,” Lyle noted.

Jai Lyle MCMLXXXII stands apart in Atlanta’s fashion landscape, often leaning toward graphic tees and bold textures. Lyle’s designs, however, emphasize timeless cuts, detailed tailoring, and heritage-inspired elements. Drawing on influences like Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton, and Karl Kani, Lyle

balances classic craftsmanship and modern sensibilities. His attention to detail is evident in thoughtful touches like tailored cuffs designed to retain their shape and waistlines that naturally blouse out.

The brand, officially launched in 2020, had a soft debut featuring pieces like the Hankins Park Sweater. The designs honor Lyle’s family, including Dr. Sylvester Hankins, a pioneering Black physician in the Orlando, Florida community, where a park is named after him. One of the biggest inspirations behind the brand is Lyle’s mother, Doris, a designer, model, and Delta Sigma Theta sorority

member during her time at Tuskegee University. She met Lyle’s father, Britt, a tennis player and Tuskegee Hall of Fame nominee there. Their love story became central to Lyle’s creative vision, with their tender gaze inspiring his trademark piece, Love Supreme

(a title that pays homage to John Coltrane’s iconic jazz album). Reflecting on this, Lyle remarked, “Being a product of my parents’ love, I coined it A Love Supreme.”

The last color Lyle saw his mother wearing was red, a moment that left a lasting impression. That day, he promised to become the greatest version of himself and share his gifts with the world.

For Lyle, fashion became more than a creative outlet—a canvas for storytelling. “It’s about elevating and building on our ancestors’ challenges, highlighting their successes, and using their sacrifices to help us ascend as a people and individuals,” he emphasized. When asked about his connection to fashion, Lyle explained, “Fashion is just a space I’m using as a canvas to tell my story and our story.”

The result is a brand that intertwines personal history with a broader vision of cultural empowerment, inviting wearers to carry forward their legacies while forging new paths. “As luxurious as the clothes look on the outside, they’re merely a reflection of the jewels within us all,” Lyle shares. The brand aims to inspire self-discovery, elevate the spirit, and ignite the energy needed for personal growth to “attract the luxuries of your mind,” Lyle said.

Jai Lyle, 42, with his collection. Photo By Noah Washington/The Atlanta Voice

Jai Lyle’s pieces on display at Herbin Co. in Phipps Plaza. Photo By Noah Washington/ The Atlanta Voice

The “Love Supreme” design crewneck sweater at Herbin Co. Photo By Noah Washington/ The Atlanta Voice

Health

Lil Jon partners with Exact Sciences to raise awareness for colorectal cancer screening

Another Black Maternal Health Concern: Premature Babies

BY JENNIFER PORTER GORE

It’s well known that the U.S. is among the worst industrialized nations when it comes to maternal health. It’s also a given that birth outcomes are worse for Black women, who are far more likely to die during childbirth than white women.

Now, a national charity dedicated to the health of mothers and babies is spotlighting data that shows Black babies are about 1.5 times more likely to be born prematurely than white babies — and are nearly twice as likely to die before their first birthday.

In its annual report on maternal health, released Thursday, the March of Dimes also gave the U.S. a failing grade, D+, based on the number of babies born before term last year.

The data, and report, is part of Prematurity Awareness Month, when national and international organizations bring attention to the health of those infants and their mothers each November.

In an executive summary, Cindy Rahman, interim March of Dimes president, wrote that the consequences of preterm birth “extend far beyond prolonged hospital stays,” and can last a lifetime.

Premature infants “face long-term health challenges that can affect behavior, mental health, and brain development,” she wrote. The children, Rahman wrote, can suffer from “serious conditions such as asthma, hearing loss, and even death.”

While the causes of many preterm births are not fully understood, the risks are reduced if women get access to quality prenatal care, help managing chronic health conditions, and an awareness of preventive interventions such as low-dose aspirin.

Preterm birth is the leading cause of infant mortality, which in 2023 experienced its largest increase in more than 20 years, according to the March of Dimes. Black infants are also nearly twice as likely to die in their first year than the national average.

In the U.S., more than 10% of babies are born preterm, which means their births occurred before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Full-term pregnancies last between 39 and 42 weeks.

Black mothers have a preterm birth rate of 14.7%, almost 1.5 times higher than the national average, according to the March of Dimes.

Ironically, “preterm birth rates are higher for non-Hispanic Black women who have higher educational attainment than for non-Hispanic White, Asian, or Hispanic women with lower educational attainment,” according to a 2012 report from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Experts say continues to be the case even a decade later.

“Recognizing that race is a social rather than a biological construct, the effects of structural, institutionalized, and interpersonal racism and implicit and explicit biases implicated in many health inequities are more likely than race itself to be related to elevated risk,” says ACOG.

Rahman and other experts tie premature births to quality prenatal care; but a May 2024 Harris Poll survey found that, among women who were pregnant or had given birth, just 42% were confident that they had access to the best possible medical care during their pregnancy.

That can be a challenge for Black women: Only 10.7% of OB-GYNs identify as Black/African-American, and studies show health outcomes are better for patients with caregivers who look like them.

Last year, Congress approved extending the “Prematurity Research Expansion and Education for Mothers who deliv-

According to the March of Dimes, Black birthing parents are 1.5 times more likely to deliver a premature baby than whites, and a premature Black baby is twice as likely to die before their first birthday. Photo Credit: iStock.com/ wirestock

er Infants Early (PREEMIE) Reauthorization Act to continue funding research and education programs aimed at preventing preterm births.

The bipartisan legislation is in flux after the recent election, but it could be reintroduced next year.

Several states are also extending postpartum Medicaid coverage from the previously standard 60 days. The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 provided states the option to extend the coverage for up to 12 months, and in 2023 this option became permanent.

“Because Medicaid pays for roughly 64 percent of births

to Black women, extending this coverage is key to helping reduce racial health disparities,” says ACOG. “Postpartum care allows patients to receive treatment for chronic health conditions that can arise or persist long after delivery, such as hypertension and heart conditions.”

The American Academy of Family Physicians and ACOG recommend having prenatal visitsevery four weeks until the 28th week of pregnancy, every two weeks until the 36th week of pregnancy, and then weekly until delivery.

Know the signs of preterm labor so you can contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Money

How to Legally Prepare Your Business for Holidays

Black America Doesn’t Have to Shop at Walmart

BY LIZ COURQUET-LESAULNIER

Let’s be clear: Walmart needs Black America a heck of a lot more than Black America needs Walmart.

Wielding roughly $1.8 trillion in spending power this year, Black folks’ economic clout is undeniable. We get to choose where we spend our hard-earned cash during the holiday shopping season and beyond.

But Walmart — one of many companies that made lofty promises about fighting systemic racism after George Floyd’s murder — just pulled the plug on its diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Now, three weeks after Donald Trump’s election, they claim they want to be “a Walmart for everyone.”

And the anti-woke bros on the right are trading high-fives, claiming they forced the retail giant to abandon its DEI initiatives.

Let’s be clear: Walmart needs Black America a heck of a lot more than Black America needs Walmart.

And the anti-woke bros on the right are trading high-fives, claiming they forced the retail giant to abandon its DEI initiatives.

Just two years ago, an Oregon jury ordered Walmart to pay $4.4 million to a Black man after a white Walmart employee racially profiled and harassed him in one of their stores.

A quick internet search nets plenty of other examples of people suing Walmart over shopping while Black experiences, Black employees suing for being repeatedly passed over for promotions, and Black employees suing because they were being

called racial slurs in the workplace.

Let’s call Walmart’s abandoning DEI efforts what it is: a slap in the face to the Black folks who’ve kept their registers ringing for decades.

This isn’t just about Walmart, though. Across corporate America, anti-DEI crusaders are attacking anything and everything related to leveling the playing field for Black folks, the Latino community, women, and the LGBTQ+ community. And companies are nervous about Trump 2.0, as well as a Supreme Court that’s overtly hostile to anything that smacks of affirmative action.

But here’s the kicker: Black America is not powerless. Walmart, like every other company, runs on dollars. And Black dollars matter — a lot. If Black shoppers took their spending power elsewhere, the fallout for Walmart would be seismic.

Starbucks, though, doesn’t think Black folks have a choice.

“I’m happy to have secured these changes before Christmas when shoppers have very few large retail brands they can spend

money with who aren’t pushing woke policies,” he gloated. Amazon and Target, he said, “should be very nervous that their top competitor dropped woke policies first” and should brace themselves for losses.

Which begs a simple question: Should Black America keep shopping at Walmart when it seems Walmart might have forgotten who helps keep its lights on?

“I think America has figured out that if you dish out racism and bigotry subtly one drop at a time and not in a direct overt manner the Black community is OK with it,” Isaac Hayes III wrote on X about the situation. “Kneel on their necks and kill one of them they get mad. Dismantle systems that level the playing field for them and they just accept it and still continue to spend money with us.”

A company that caves to racist attacks coded as “anti-woke” does not respect Black America. It doesn’t deserve our loyalty. Because loyalty isn’t free — and $1.8 trillion in purchasing power can go a long way somewhere else.

Walmart made big promises after George Floyd’s murder. Now, under pressure from “anti-woke” activists, it’s axing its racial equity center and ditching DEI. Does the company still deserve a piece of Black America’s $1.8 trillion spending power? (AP Photo/Alan Diaz, File)

Trap Sushi combines cultures for a unique Atlanta experience

Corner Bakery’s new seasonal menu of drinks and bites

BY DONNELL SUGGS

The holidays are here and one of Atlanta’s first stops for breakfast and lunch has a new seasonal menu of drinks and muffins.

Corner Bakery, which has multiple locations in Atlanta, has introduced a trio of new seasonal drinks and a new treat, the cranberry orange muffin. The Atlanta Voice visited the Buckhead location on Monday afternoon to taste the new seasonal menu.

The cranberry orange muffin was moist on the inside and had a taste that perfectly blended the tartness of the whole cranberries inside the muffin with the kick of orange zest. The taste doesn’t stop there as the cranberry-orange combo is served as a bundt cake as well. The mini cake is topped with icing that is a touch sweeter than the muffin, but equally as good.

“We’re a bakery so sweets are our specialty,” said Corner Bakery SVP, Head of Marketing Melanie Barichivich.

The cinnamon creme cake, which is available all year long, is another seasonal favorite, says Barichivich. The holiday advertisements around the Buckhead cafe featured the popular treat.

“During the holiday season there’s a lot of opportunities to take food to gatherings and parties,” Barichivich said. Corner Bakery offers catering services.

A trio of drinks take seasonal favorites like peppermint and blend it with cold and hot drinks. The flavor of white chocolate peppermint latte is being served in three variations: iced latte, latte (hot), and in a creamy cold brew. The new drinks give coffee drinkers more options to go along with breakfast and lunch orders.

About the new additions to the menu, the Buckhead cafe general manager Pearl Martyr said they were being well-received from customers. On the drinks she added, “They are a good balance of chocolate and peppermint.”

There are changes taking place at some of the Atlanta locations, including the Buckhead cafe, according to Barichivich. There will be a remodeling taking place in 2025 and some new additions to the menu. “There’s a lot more to come in 2025,” Barichivich said.

Dallas-based restaurant owner and operator SSCP took over the Corner Bakery brand in June 2023.

Small Sliders brings new 'Can' to Stockbridge

BY ISAIAH SINGLETON

STOCKBRIDGE – Small Sliders, a cheeseburger slider brand painting the restaurant industry, dropped its newest “Can” transforming the skyline and the community in Stockbridge.

Small Sliders specializes in fresh, cooked-to-order cheeseburger sliders – small in size and BIG in taste. The “Can” stands out with a stream-lined slide-thru, walk-up window, and a unique modular setup built from Smorange shipping containers.

The “Can”, made from shipping container material, is 750 square feet with an outdoor patio.

Stockbridge Brand Support Specialist Jade Christopher said the restaurant will have its grand opening sometime in January 2025.

Smalls Sliders is the brainchild of restaurateur visionary Brandon Landry and is backed by industry veterans, 10 Point Capital, and former NFL star Drew Brees, as investors.

“You may be asking yourself… have I heard of Smalls Sliders? The answer is yes, and now you’re about to taste it closer to home in Stockbridge,” shared Vik Patel, the local Smalls Sliders franchisee. “Our attention-grabbing Smorange Can is not only going to stand out visually as a pillar of our community but become part of our daily routines – from celebrating

our local friends and neighbors to sponsoring local events and more. We can’t wait to say, ‘thanks for slidin’ thru!’”

During the Can Drop, Smalls Sliders recognized and named

Eagles Landing Christian Academy senior Caleb Sanders and City Council member Yolanda Barber as Smalls Town Heros for their positive contributions to the Stockbridge community. Sanders and Barber’s Kicks 4 Kids drive, conceptualized in the fall of 2022, provides shoes for school-aged children of Stockbridge.

The Can drop, Christopher says, is a celebration for the franchisee and the construction team for all the vigorous work they’ve put into the Can.

With the grand opening approaching very soon, Christopher says her and the team are super excited about it and will be launching a block party the same day as well.

“It’s our first Can and the very first can in Georgia, but there will be a lot more to come. We’re going to have a block party on our opening day, so it’s going to be a lot of fun,” she said. “Our small-town hero is going to be there to celebrate with us as well.”

Smalls Sliders will be bringing over 50 jobs in the Stockbridge community area, according to Christopher.

“Smalls is very involved with the community and so it’s going to be very big for us. We’re going to get really involved with some local organizations around the Stockbridge area and we’ll be opening more Cans in Georgia,” she said.

For more information, visit www.smallsliders.com.

Corner Bakery’s new seasonal lineup includes the cranberry orange muffin and bundt cake. Photos by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

Small Sliders, a cheeseburger slider brand painting the restaurant industry, dropped its newest “Can” transforming the skyline and the community in Stockbridge. Photo by Isaiah Singleton/The Atlanta Voice

Jasmine Crockett Is Clear: White American Men Aren’t Oppressed

Which College Degrees Are Least Likely to Land You a Job?

BY LAURA ONYENEHO

I’m sure we’ve all heard the classic advice from our parents or relatives at one point in our lives, “Go to college, get a degree, and you’ll land a good job.” But for many graduates today, that promise doesn’t always pan out.

A recent study by Degreechoices sheds light on the uncomfortable truth—some degrees just aren’t cutting it when it comes to landing a meaningful job. If you’ve ever wondered why so many college graduates are stuck in jobs that don’t require a degree, you’re not alone.

Degrees in criminal justice, performing arts, and art history have some of the highest rates of underemployment, meaning people are working jobs that don’t even need a college degree. criminal justice, for example, tops the list with a shocking 71.5% underemployment rate. That means more than seven out of ten people who majored in criminal justice are employed in jobs where they aren’t using their degrees. It’s a tough pill to swallow, especially when you’ve spent years (and thousands of dollars) preparing for a career in that field.

Take criminal justice majors, for instance. Many go into college thinking they’ll land roles in law enforcement, social work, or even the legal system. But the reality is, after graduating, a large percentage end up working jobs with little or nothing to do with their field. Sure, the potential to earn $70,000 a year by mid-career is there, but early on, criminal justice grads are making around $41,000. With college debt and living expenses, that’s not much of a return on investment.

Then there’s performing arts and art history. I get it—these fields are full of passion and creativity. But unfortunately, passion doesn’t always pay the bills. Graduates in these areas face underemployment rates of 65.9% and 62.3%, respectively. It’s not that these degrees are worthless, but the job market is tough, and competition is fierce. Early-career wages hover around $38,000 to $41,000, which is tough to live on, especially if you have student loans.

FUN FACTS:

• Underemployment means to work in a job that typically doesn’t require a college degree.

• As of May 2024, about 40% of recent college graduates were underemployed.

• The majors with the highest levels of underemployment are criminal justice (71.5%), performing arts (65.9%), and art history (62.3%).

• Graduates who majored in nursing, engineering, and education enjoy the lowest underemployment rates overall.

Liberal arts majors, another common path, face similar struggles. I’ll have to stand on this soap box because my degree was focused on politics, history, and communications. While the broad education teaches critical thinking, public speaking, and problem-solving, it lacks a direct career path with earning power (At that time,

my focus was to study law). That can be a blessing for students who want flexibility, but it also means that many graduates end up drifting into jobs that don’t require a degree. With an underemployment rate of 56.7%, Liberal Arts graduates often earn a median of $38,000 early on. And if you choose to enter into local journalism as

a focus, trust me, you’re not going to be wealthy, but your skill sets will help you get there in other ways.

Just because a certain degree might not lead directly to a high-paying job doesn’t mean all hope is lost. The key is being strategic. If you’re passionate about liberal arts, that’s great! But it’s important also to have a plan for how you’ll pivot or adapt to changes in the job market.

You may start with a degree in art history but later explore roles in business, education, or technology where your skills can still be applied. Or, if you’re an artist at heart, perhaps you look into fields like marketing, where creativity is a must. It’s about finding new ways to apply your skills and being flexible enough to explore other industries.

The job market is constantly evolving, and one of the smartest things a college graduate can do is be open to change. Just because you earned a degree in one field doesn’t mean you’re stuck in that lane forever. Many people with those degrees have found fulfilling careers in different areas.

Employers are starting to care less about your degree and more about the skills you bring. That’s why gaining additional certifications, learning new skills, or gaining real-world experience can help make you more marketable, no matter your major.

A recent study sheds light on an uncomfortable truth: Some degrees just aren’t cutting it when landing a meaningful job. Photo Credit: iStock.com

Top 10 degrees that lead to the highest underemployment rates. Credit: Degreechoices

Purposeful Breathing Improves Cognition at All Ages

Dawg Gone Good: Bulldogs secure SEC title and first round bye in playoffs

BY DONNELL SUGGS

There will be several plays that can define the Southeastern Conference championship game, but a five-yard run by senior receiver Arian Smith might be the best to do it. The run took place on a fake punt on fourth down in Georgia territory. Bulldogs head football coach Kirby Smart took a chance and it kept a fourth quarter drive alive with the score tied at 13. The drive would end with Georgia leading 16-13 following the third field goal of the game from sophomore kicker Peyton Woodring.

Texas would eventually get the ball back and be successful on a game-tying field goal following the interception of a Gunner Stockton pass. In Overtime Georgia managed to score the game-winning touchdown on a Trevor Etienne run, but that fake punt belongs in Bulldogs lore.

The Bulldogs won the game 22-19 and secured yet another shot at a national title. Georgia now has one of the coveted first round byes and a week off. The Bulldogs will host the winner of Indiana/Notre Dame.

The Texas Longhorns came into the Southeastern Conference championship game with an 11-1 overall record. Their only loss of the season came just over a month ago to the Georgia Bulldogs. That 30-15 loss in Austin on October 19 set the tone for Saturday afternoon inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium. With the Atlanta Falcons away, The Benz was home to plenty of red and black, and burnt orange. But in the end there was a sea of RED and BLACK confetti showering the winner and SEC Champion Georgia Bulldogs in front of a reported 74,916 fans.

The game was a big deal for both of the historic football programs involved. Georgia was looking to win its 15th SEC championship while Texas was looking to win its first during its inaugural season in the conference. Former Bulldogs and Longhorns stars strolled their respective sidelines during the game, including Vince Young and Colt McCoy, Pro Football League and College Football Hall of Famer Champ Bailey and former New England Patriots standout Richard Seymour.

Georgia senior quarterback Carson Beck and Texas junior quarterback Quinn Ewers are two of the top quarterback prospects heading into the 2025 National Football League draft, but when the pair met this season neither put up impressive numbers for the scouts.

Beck threw three of his 12 interceptions during the game, two of them going to Longhorns senior defensive back Jahdae Barron, while Ewers did pass for two touchdowns, but for only 211 yards and an interception of his own. That interception was to Georgia junior defensive back Daylen Everette and

early in the game on Saturday Everette intercepted Ewers again to end the first Longhorn offensive drive of the game. Ewers would redeem himself on the next Texas possession, completing passes to junior receivers Isaiah Bond and Matthew Golden en route to a field goal that gave Texas a 3-0 lead at

the end of the first quarter. Texas would add another field goal of 42 yards early in the second quarter to go ahead 6-0. A missed field goal by senior kicker Bert Auburn became a missed opportunity for the Longhorns.

The Bulldogs offense failed to start against the Longhorns defense with the speed it did

on Oct. 19. Georgia went into halftime of that game with a 23-0 lead. Georgia scored its first points of the game on a Woodring field goal with 6:41 remaining in the first half and went into halftime down 6-3.

As they have done all season, Beck and the Georgia Bulldogs offense saved its best drive of the game for the start of the third quarter. During the first drive of the quarter Beck completed several passes including a dart to sophomore tight end Lawson Luckie. The 75-yard, 10-play drive also included a run by redshirt sophomore quarterback Gunner Stockton and a seven-yard touchdown run by junior tailback Trevor Etienne to go out in front 10-6.

A Texas drive that began at the Georgia 40 yard line and included Ewers passes to Golden and DeAndre Moore, Jr., ended with a Raylen Wilson II sack that put Texas in another fourth down field goal position. That ended in the second miss of the game for Auburn, who was 2-4 on field goals at that point of the game.

Etienne would strike again with a 49-yard run deep into Texas territory to put the Bulldogs back into scoring position. Another Woodring field goal put Georgia ahead by a touchdown at 13-6 at the end of three quarters.

The Longhorns found their way back into the end zone after a Ewers to Moore 41-yard connection to tie the game at 13 early in the fourth quarter.

The Georgia Bulldogs lift the SEC Championship trophy after defeating the Texas Longhorns 22-19 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 7, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. Photo by Itoro N. Umontuen/The Atlanta Voice

Georgia Bulldogs defensive tackle Warren Brinson walks away with the SEC Championship trophy after winning the 2024 SEC Championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 7, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. Photo by Itoro N. Umontuen/The Atlanta Voice

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