The Atlanta Voice E-Edition 122223

December 22- 28, 2023 • Vol. 58 Issue 33 • FREE

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Photos from the 40th Annual UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball PAGE 8-9

AROUND TOWN

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Mayor’s Ball makes 40 Years Mistress of Ceremonies, Karyn Greer, and CEO of the United Negro College Fund, Dr. Michael L. Lomax attended the 40th Annual UNCF Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball on Saturday, December 16, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. Photo by Itoro N. Umontuen/The Atlanta Voice

Page 2 • December 22- 28, 2023 • theatlantavoice.com

Metro

ONLINE

Delta: ‘That’s the model, take care of our people first.’

Nouveau Christmas played Santa to hundreds of area kids, families

BY DONNELL SUGGS

T

he Jonesboro Majestic Marching Band made its way off the quartet of school buses parked next door to Cascade Family Skating on a cool Monday evening. A long line of parents, grandparents, and children waiting outside watched as the band, fresh off a trip to New York City and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, warmed up with a couple of Christmas classics.

Asked why the band was miles away from Clayton County on the first Monday of Christmas break, Jonesboro High School Director of Bands Lynel Goodwin said, “Because we understand the responsibility that we have that comes with the huge platform we have. We know we have to give back to the community whenever we can.”

The 4th annual Nouveau holiday toy drive brought a large crowd to the popular skating rink with a week to go before Christmas Day. Hosted by Nouveau owner Ebony Austin, the event aims to serve the community's families by distributing gifts to children. Austin believes getting a few gifts off a family’s list can help with the many financial burdens that can feel heightened this time of year.

“When we think of communities and all of the increases in costs going on right now, the kids don’t always understand how expensive things have gotten,” Austin said.

Over 5,000 toys were distributed to more than 2,500 children Monday night. Austin said there was an express goal of having every child get something they want for Christmas. Hours before the children and their families arrived there were dozens of volunteers, including Nouveau staffers, friends, and family unboxing toys and staging stations around the rink. The toys included Spider-Man mini motorbikes, scooters, bicycles, doll houses, trampolines, and baby toys.

There were also educational toys that included toddler laptops and science kits.

A little bit of everything for everyone, said Austin. “We want to do it really big to show our appreciation,” she said.

The event did not only cater to children, with a special surprise skate party scheduled for educators and a gift card giveaway to seniors in attendance. “Sometimes it is important to look out for the people that look out for us,” said Austin.

Regarding the seniors, some of whom waited outside in folding chairs and on walkers, Austin added, “We want to make

ABOVE: The 4th annual Nouveau holiday toy drive took place at the Cascade Family Skating rink on Monday, December 18, 2023.

Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

LEFT: More than 5,000 toys were distributed during the event. Photo by Donnell Suggs/ The Atlanta Voice

sure we also serve people that may be overlooked at times.”

Participants had the opportunity to register online, with the promise of getting at least one toy per child. Austin made a number of television appearances in the lead-up to the event, including on Good Morning America back in October and on local television earlier this month.

“I’m in alignment with God’s plan and it’s important to give back,” Austin said.

theatlantavoice.com • December 22- 28, 2023 • Page 3

Metro

Winter Wonderland at Trilith is here

BY ISAIAH SINGLETON

W

inter Wonderland at Trilith welcomed guests to its inaugural event, a grand opening that took place Monday, Dec. 18, 2023.

The Winter Wonderland experience, which will take place through Dec. 23, makes it the perfect destination for creating unforgettable memories with loved ones. Guests also can capture picture-perfect moments at designated photo spots throughout the wonderland.

The event offered four thrilling experiences that are sure to put anyone in the holiday spirit: Tinsel-Tastic Holiday Celebrations, Festive & Fun Selfie Experience, Outdoor Igloo Experience, and Frosty's Frozen Lounge.

The Tinsel-Tastic holiday celebrations change daily, making each visit unique and exciting. In addition, guests can enjoy their favorite cocktails at Frosty’s Frozen Lounge, which is adorned with holiday decorations.

For a cozy and intimate experience, guests can retreat to the Outdoor Igloo Experience.

Winter Wonderland is a one-stop shop for everything you might imagine you want to do for the holidays, according to the director of the event Octavia Samuels.

“This event is so important because when you consider being south of Atlanta, things we would normally like to do, let's say outdoor igloos are very hard to find as an option,” she said.

Samuels said she is proud to offer a variety of experiences that cater to all ages and ensure there is something for everyone. She also said her personal favorite of the four experiences is the enchanting Outdoor Igloo Experience, where guests can cozy up and enjoy the winter wonderland atmosphere.

Additionally, Samuels said she is very intentional about the representation of black performers on her roster and includes a Black Santa and Mrs. Claus in the Winter Wonderland experience.

“It's important because when you think about the entire reasoning behind Winter Wonderland, it’s so people can come to a place and are reminded to believe in their dreams and that anything's possible,” she said. “When you combine that with having black representation of performers and a Black Santa that looks like the people in the audience, it reminds them there are no doors or walls or anything closed to them as far as believing in their dreams.”

Samuels said as a child growing up, she loved Christmas.

“Each time, either with friends or family, we had a chance to have a Santa at our school or take a photo with Santa or even as young. I remember my day here. Santa will come, and it was never black. Santa didn't look like me.

And it helped in my mind reinforce the belief that everything is positive, it looks white, even when it comes to the holidays. And I didn't even want that to be the case when

Several toy drives and holiday-themed events took place around Atlanta and its neighboring cities this week.

From the westside of Atlanta to suburban Fayetteville, the season of giving is here.

Photo by Kerri Phox/ The Atlanta Voice

Winter Wonderland at Trilith welcomed guests to its inaugural event, a grand opening that took place Monday, Dec. 18, 2023. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

given the opportunity. I wanted every person, no matter their color or age, to be able to celebrate the holidays and see it reflected in them.

As part of their “Pose for a Purpose initiative”, 50% of ticket sales from the Festive & Fun Selfie Experience will be donated to cause-based organizations.

“One of the things I really love about Winter Wonderland is the commitment to family, so we have programming created just for families to connect and engage with each other like Carol-okie and also the diversity and inclusion focuses on intention,” she said.

With their community outreach, Samuels said, they have Santa Andre for their “Brunch with Santa” and “Pink Christmas” events as well. Additionally, Samuels said they have partnered with an organization called Southside Support, where they are

hosting families who have children with special needs for a sensory-friendly experience.

“We’ve planned this with the idea in mind of being mindful of making sure that they can access Santa, it’s inclusive and meets the sensory guideline,” she said.

Through the event, Samuels will be supporting 15 local small businesses. As a Black business owner herself, she said the importance of supporting small businesses is crucial.

“It was important to me when having the opportunity to choose different vendors like catering or entertainment, to choose small businesses that have been extremely impacted by some of that, especially those based in Charlotte that relied heavily on the entertainment audience,” Samuels said.

She also said during the event week, they are running a promo code that gives you $20

The director of the Winter Wonderland event, Octavia Samuels (above) said, “This event is so important because when you consider being south of Atlanta, things we would normally like to do, let’s say outdoor igloo, are very hard to find as an option. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

off all the “simple-sensory celebration and in some cases brings down ticket prices to $25.”

Samuels said she wants everyone at the grand opening to have an amazing time during the event week.

“I want them to have a small experience of what it will be like for the entire week. I want guests to share the idea; The entire setup of how we split a building made up of shipping containers into a winter wonderland,” she said. “I want people throughout the week to know the space was created for them and was built within their minds so they could foster great memories for the holidays and spend time with their friends and families.”

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://playspacesus.com.

Page 4 • December 22- 28, 2023 • theatlantavoice.com

Voices

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“Education is our passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it today.”

– El Hajj Malik El Shabazz

Why Most of America Ignores Violence Prevention

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T H E AT L A N TA

VOICE

BY DR. STEPHANIE MYERS

FOUNDED

e all know America was born into violence with genocide of the Native Americans, enslavement of millions of African people and violence against indentured poor White Europeans from England, Scotland and Ireland during the 1500’s-1800’s. Violence has been used as the preferred method of control, and is showcased regularly in movies, on nightly television, in video games, by law enforcement, gangs and through easy access to guns.

For 12 years, during the month of October, Black Women for Positive Change has sponsored annual days, weeks and months of non-violence, families, voters rights and opportunities.

It is our belief that with the epidemic of violence still gripping the nation, America should be anxious for new approaches that can promote violence prevention, anger management, conflict resolution and de-escalation of violence.

So far in 2023, the Gun Violence Archive reports that there have been more than 35,250 people who have died from gun violence this year– and 50 percent were suicides. However, in spite of our 12 years of outreach to governors, members of Congress, mayors and national leaders, there has been very little response to our efforts to start a violence prevention movement.

Our nation needs a national grassroots movement with citizens and institutions from all sectors.

Not everyone is turning a deaf ear. In September of 2023, President Joe Biden created the vital Office of Violence Prevention; and Congresswoman Gwen Moore (D-Wis.) and Congressman Maxwell Frost (D-Fla.) are supporting our efforts, along with Everytown for Gun Safety, National Black Nurses Association, National Association for Community Mediation, 100 Fathers and some law enforcement and faith-based organizations. But this is not enough.

In 2024 we must change the culture of violence in America, and the world, by urging use of new methods for peace and reconciliation.

For example, this year during the Month of Non-Violence, we focused on “Restorative Justice Peace Circles” in schools and organizations.

These peace circles provided adults and children with forums where they were able to honestly express anger, interact with peers, analyze their moods and to find ways to resolve conflicts without violence or suicide.

This year, we engaged over 3,400 adults and children, in 84 activities including peace circles, in 15 U.S. States and eight overseas countries.

Children in elementary schools in South Korea, Pittsburgh, Houston, the Ivory Coast of Africa

May 11, 1966

FOUNDER/EDITOR Ed Clayton

Immortalis Memoria

PUBLISHER/EDITOR

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

Despite 12 years of outreach to national leaders, there has been very little response to efforts to start a national violence prevention movement.Credit: Natalie Chaney/Unsplash

and Nigeria, have had open non-judgmental discussions about anger they were feeling and how to resolve it.

Global peace discussions were held with professionals in the USA, England, Scotland and Canada, where health professionals, educators and law enforcement personnel discussed how to stop domestic violence, and how to teach de-escalation of violence. There was even a session on the impact of artificial intelligence on society, and how it can be used to foster global peace.

As we hear daily news about violence increasing in the U.S. and overseas in Ukraine, Israel, Palestine, Sudan, Ethiopia and other countries, we are all alarmed. It is urgent that people come together to implement non-violence, non-militaristic solutions since history shows that more violence, increased punishment, expanded prisons and lack of mental health for suicidal adults and children, are not the answer.

Let’s stop ignoring the discipline of violence prevention and start to overhaul the American culture of violence. We must advocate for fund-

ing for programs that establish peace circles in schools, make state and local Departments of Parks and Recreation safe centers of non-violence, and build on programs that teach the time-tested philosophies of Dr. Martin Luther King, Mahatma Ghandi, Nelson Mandela and other non-violent leaders.

Sadly, much of the violence in our nation begins at the kitchen table and is the fault of law enforcement that commits violent acts against innocent people. Our children, adults and law enforcement must learn how to de-escalate violence and how to use different approaches to resolving disputes and anger, other than taking guns and shooting family members, co-workers, fellow students– or themselves.

The year of 2024 will be the 13th Year of Non-Violence, Families, Voters Rights and Opportunities. Will the readers of this article stop ignoring violence prevention and take leadership in their communities?

If yes, contact us at Bkwomen4poschange@ gmail.com or visit our website at www.blackwomenforpositivechange.org.

PUBLISHER Janis Ware jlware@theatlantavoice.com PRESIDENT/ GENERAL MANAGER James A. Washington jaws@theatlantavoice.com EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO PUBLISHER Chia Suggs csuggs@theatlantavoice.com EDITOR IN CHIEF Donnell Suggs editor@theatlantavoice.com GENERAL ASSIGNMENT REPORTER Janelle Ward jward@theatlantavoice.com GENERAL ASSIGNMENT REPORTER Isaiah Singleton isingleton@theatlantavoice.com EDITOR AT LARGE Stan Washington swashington@theatlantavoice.com MANAGING EDITOR, DIGITAL Itoro Umontuen iumontuen@theatlantavoice.com

ADVERTISING, SALES & CIRCULATION ADVERTISING ADMINISTRATOR Chia Suggs advertising@theatlantavoice.com CIRCULATION MANAGER Terry Milliner SALES R.D.W. Jackson rdwadman@gmail.com SUBMISSIONS editor@theatlantavoice.com DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS Martel Sharpe msharpe@theatlantavoice.com

CONTACT INFORMATION 633 Pryor Street, S.W. Atlanta, GA 30312 Office: 404-524-6426 info@theatlantavoice.com

theatlantavoice.com • December 22- 28, 2023 • Page 5

Voices SPIRITUALLY SPEAKING

True faith requires action, so act accordingly

Y

BY JAMES A. WASHINGTON

The Atlanta Voice

ou guys have heard, read my feelings about faith actually being a verb. Regardless of when and how you found religion, what are you going to do about it now?

Faith being a verb rather than a noun requires action. That action, in my opinion, should actually be based on the faith of what you believe.

For example, if you believe Jesus is who He said He is, then do you still gossip? Do you continue to spread rumors and innuendo?

Are you forgiving of the flaws and faults of others? Do you really turn the other cheek?

I mean, faith as a verb demands active behavior consistent with the belief that all things have a purpose far beyond the realm of today.

Our understanding, then, is pretty much incidental to the faith we claim when it comes to our actions.

Mercy, charity, and love all have a place in your everyday experience in the world of human beings. If

“All things work together for good according to the lord and those who have been called according to his purpose.” –Romans 8:28 your faith is so shallow that the only thing that touches your heart is just that, the things you can touch and feel and see, then you’ve missed the point of eternal existence.

Faith in the Almighty literally means claiming the life that Jesus promised abundantly. Believe it or not, that life did not begin the day you were born and will not end the day you die.

So says every professed Christian on the face of the planet. But how you handle this short conscious existence goes a long way towards the quality of your afterlife.

“All things work together for good according to the lord and those who have been called according to his purpose.” –Romans 8:28.

The consequence of faith then

means realizing that according to God’s purpose, your role is clear.

One must act on the Word of God as given by Jesus Christ. One must live rather than merely profess faith. One must be a church rather than just attend one.

So often in scripture, we are reminded that Jesus was focused on a lifestyle pleasing to His father. As a matter of fact, he was appalled at the use of “The Law” as an excuse not to fulfill the purpose of “The Law.” Jesus accepted any and all who believed in the Son of Man as also the Son of God. He, therefore, demanded appropriate behavior from apostles, elders, gentiles and sinners alike.

The higher up the religious hierarchy, the more Jesus expected to

be done on behalf of the unenlightened. The more faith you profess, the more knowledge you gain, the more selfless you should become.

I guess all I’m trying to say is the dynamics of faith over time, will demand that your lifestyle reflect an awareness of spiritual consequence for your actions or lack thereof.

“Therefore brother, we have an obligation…” –Romans 8:12.

We must live according to the Spirit within us rather than the passions that would corrupt us. A faithful Christian knows the difference and functions accordingly.

“We have different gifts according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophecy, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage…” –Romans 12:6-8.

Simply put, that’s my point. This is the kind of knowledge that separates “gonna” from “do.”

May God bless and keep you always.

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Page 6 • December 22- 28, 2023 • theatlantavoice.com

Community

ONLINE

RecruitMilitary, DAV hosts Atlanta Veterans job fair

Atlanta Hawks celebrate holiday season with Boyce L. Ansley School students

BY NOAH WASHINGTON

T

his holiday season the Atlanta Hawks, in collaboration with the Lady Hawks, orchestrated a festive day for over 60 students at the Boyce L. Ansley School, a tuition-free private institution catering to children experiencing homelessness in Atlanta.

The Lady Hawks, a collective of wives, significant others, and mothers of Hawks players and staff, actively engaged in the festivities alongside volunteers from the Hawks organization. The day's activities included arts and crafts sessions and a photo booth for the students' enjoyment.

In preparation for the event, students were entrusted with creating wish lists, which were later displayed on a tree at the Hawks' corporate office with the organization ensuring each student received a personalized holiday gift from their lists.

Johnny Ray James, a seasoned educator with 15 years of experience and the current Head of School, expressed his gratitude for the Hawks' support of the school and students. "I understand the Hawks' slogan is 'True to The A,' but the A, whether in terms of Ansley or Atlanta, truly resonates because they brought in a substantial number of people, including staff and volunteers,” James said. “The kids can genuinely feel the joy."

James, an alumnus of Teach for America with an MBA in education from LSU, stressed the importance of exposing students, not just to players but to everyone behind the scenes who came and volunteered.

"I'm glad that the students were able to see the operation team of the Hawks to see truly what makes the engine go because a lot of kids only see the dreams that we give

them, and this has given them some new dreams," James said.

Further elaborating on the significance of the Hawks' involvement during the holiday season, James empathized with the challenges faced by the students. "Our kiddos, unfortunately, have nightmares both day and night. By seeing that they were brought so many gifts from their wish lists, the Hawks are making literal Christmas dreams come true," James told The Atlanta Voice.

In addressing the critical need for comprehensive education support, James emphasized the approach that the institution takes compared to many public schools—highlighting the challenge faced by public schools attempting to provide wraparound services, often falling short due to overwhelming student versus staff numbers. The Boyce L. Ansley School maintains low class sizes, capped at around 15 students, enabling a more personalized and effective approach.

James further cited that while public schools might have a social worker catering to about 300 students, The Boyce L. Ansley School's two social workers on staff maintain a ratio of one to 32, ensuring more individualized attention and care. The inclusion of licensed therapists further enhances the support system, offering therapeutic sessions for students and oneto-one assistance for their families, “We provide holistic support to make sure that we can provide an outlet to economic mobility," James told The Atlanta Voice.

Alexis Roe, Vice President of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Strategic Initiatives, now in her third season with the Hawks, shared her commitment to helping the students of Boyce L. Ansley School.

Atlanta Hawks volunteers take a picture behind stacks of gifts for students at the Boyce L. Ansley School, Thursday Dec. 14, 2023. Photo by Noah Washington/The Atlanta Voice

Boyce L. Ansley School students took part in arts and crafts with Hawk volunteer staff. Photo by Noah Washington/The Atlanta Voice

Born in the Lone Star state of Texas, but raised in Decatur, Georgia, Roe cites her passion for positive change stemming from her upbringing, while attending the Dekalb School of the Arts in DeKalb County. "I grew up knowing that I was going to change what Atlanta looked like in terms of decreasing barriers, tearing down barriers, making more access for people. At my core, that's who I am,” said Roe. With a diverse professional background, including teaching in China and marketing for Home Depot, Roe's journey led her to her current role with the Hawks. In her position, Roe cites striving to make individuals "feel seen, heard, valued, supported, and respected,"

while emphasizing the importance of fostering a sense of belonging.

Reflecting on the Hawks' engagement with The Boyce L. Ansley School, Roe emphasized, "The Ansley school is such an amazing school that's six minutes from State Farm Arena. When we look at our city and see different challenges, we recognize that as an organization, we want to help lift our community. We are true to Atlanta and a civic asset to the community," Roe told The Atlanta Voice.

A poignant moment during the event included students taking the stage to declare their aspirations, as recounted by Morgan Walsh, a Lady Hawk of 15 years. Describing seeing the excitement of a young

girl in a Hawks jersey, Walsh said, "It almost brought tears to a lot of people's eyes because she just came out running and screaming."

Walsh, married to Hawks director of team operations Zac Walsh for nearly 15 years, highlighted the organization's positive impact on mental health. "This organization has been great for the city of Atlanta for doing activities, but also just for the mental health of the wives, girlfriends of the coaches and players," Walsh said.

Charting the evolution of the Lady Hawks, Walsh credited the guidance of Jami Gertz (co-owner of the Hawks along with her husband businessman Tony Ressler) citing that the organization has grown substantially, actively participating in numerous service activities throughout the year.

Originally from South Carolina, Walsh, an Emory graduate in Political Science, now works in the clerk's office at the Georgia State Capitol. Reflecting on the joy of giving back during the holiday season, she described the experience as invigorating. "I just want to say how thankful that we are that we're able to help out an amazing organization and these kids. We're decorating cards and ornaments right now, and it reminds you of the epitome of Christmas - that you're around people and seeing the kids' faces, smiling and their eyes shining. That's what's important," said Walsh.

theatlantavoice.com • December 22- 28, 2023 • Page 7

Community

A park in every NPU: West Cascade Park gets green space, playground

BY DONNELL SUGGS

A

tlanta Mayor Andre Dickens took his place behind a podium under a red, white, green, and gold balloon trellis inside the new West Cascade Park Friday afternoon. The mayor was there to officially cut the ribbon to the park and as he thanked the people in attendance he paused. Children were already playing on the park's small playground by the time the ceremony started.

“I love that in the background you hear children laughing and playing,” Dickens said. “That’s what we have this here for.”

The last of the city’s neighborhood planning units (NPU) to get a park was officially scratched off the list this afternoon. West Cascade Park, one of the most historic and affluent mostly-Black neighborhoods in the city, now has a park to call its own. The 12acre park is located on Danforth Road and includes a nearly one-mile-long walking trail that cuts through the park and near a creek.

The construction was handled by Blackowned Coweta County-based firm, Asque's Construction & Home Improvement, and began in late 2020 following the demolition of a home that was in the center of the property. During the Bottoms administration, there were plans to bring green space to the West Cascade Park neighborhood where Bottoms and her husband bought their first home

Kids playing on the swing set inside the West Cascade Park playground Friday, December 15, 2023. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens (center) and City Councilmember Marci Collier Overstreet (right, in green) during the ribbon-cutting ceremony at West Cascade Park Friday, December 15, 2023. Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms (seated, right) was also in attendance.

Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

in 1995 and have lived ever since. As a city councilmember she said she fought to get that done, but had more power to make the project happen when she was elected as the city's 60th mayor in 2017. Bottoms recalled seeing the for sale sign on the property and

immediately getting in touch within the proper channels about buying the house and beginning the project.

Dickens said green spaces have a direct effect on a community's health - both mental and physical- and "this one will ensure an

exceptional experience for all visitors."

The mayor credited Overstreet for spearheading the project after he took over at City Hall. Overstreet, an Atlanta native, said she handpicked the playground equipment and said the playground at Westside Park was her inspiration.

"The West Cascade Park project is a legacy project," said Overstreet. She added that having this green space open "addresses a significant gap in this neighborhood."

The total construction budget was $3 million with more than two-thirds of the park being floodproof.

"This literally is a game-changer for our community," Bottoms said.

Page 8 • December 22- 28, 2023 • theatlantavoice.com

Education

Dr. Justine Boyd, Assistant Vice President, Regional Development with the United Negro College Fund, Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock, and a guest attend the 40th Annual UNCF Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball on Saturday, December 16, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. Photo by Itoro N. Umontuen/The Atlanta Voice

40th Annual UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball

Jay Bailey, President and CEO of the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs and wife attended the 40th Annual UNCF Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball on Saturday, December 16, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. Photo by Itoro N. Umontuen/The Atlanta Voice

Bailey Dickens (daughter of Mayor Andre Dickens) attended the 40th Annual UNCF Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball on Saturday, December 16, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia.Photo by Itoro N. Umontuen/The Atlanta Voice

theatlantavoice.com • December 22- 28, 2023 • Page 9

Education

Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock and Sylvia Dickens (mother of Mayor Andre Dickens) attend the 40th Annual UNCF Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball on Saturday, December 16, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia.Photo by Itoro N. Umontuen/The Atlanta Voice

Charmaine Ward and her guest attend the 40th Annual UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball on Saturday, December 16, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. Photo by Itoro N. Umontuen/The Atlanta Voice

The 61st Mayor of Atlanta, Andre Dickens, attends the 40th Annual UNCF Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball on Saturday, December 16, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. Photo by Itoro N. Umontuen/The Atlanta Voice

Michael Thurmond and wife attend the 40th Annual UNCF Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball on Saturday, December 16, 2023 at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis in Atlanta, Georgia.

Photo by Itoro N. Umontuen/The Atlanta Voice

U.S. Representative Nikema Williams, D-Georgia, and a guest attend the 40th Annual UNCF Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball on Saturday, December 16, 2023 at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis in Atlanta, Georgia. Photo by Itoro N. Umontuen/ The Atlanta Voice

Carolyn Young and Ambassador Andrew Young attend the 40th Annual UNCF Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball on Saturday, December 16, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. Photo by Itoro N. Umontuen/The Atlanta Voice

Page 10 • December 22- 28, 2023 • theatlantavoice.com

Business

ONLINE

MARTA festibus cruises through town with free rides until Dec. 31

Disney Institute teaches Black entrepreneurs the keys to success

BY JANELLE WARD

O

RLANDO, FL. - Disney Experiences, formerly Disney Parks, hosted nearly 100 Black small business owners from the Atlanta-based Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida early this week, organizing an experience designed to equip emerging business leaders with the skills needed to generate a positive economic impact within their communities.

Returning for its second year following Disney and RICE’s initial collaboration in 2022, the three-day event trained participating business owners in pitching, networking and the utilization of social media, while challenging them to strengthen their storytelling abilities and ultimately find their “why” in their journey to growing as entrepreneurs.

Attendants were lodged inside Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts for the duration of the trip, spending a majority of their afternoons and evenings alongside RICE leadership, stakeholders and members of Disney’s supply chain accelerator planning team.

Each pupil “graduated” from the program on Wednesday, receiving a certificate of completion and a round of congratulations from Mickey Mouse himself.

As the lead financial sponsor of RICE’s Supply Chain Accelerator Program, Disney presented a slew of educational sessions and workshops for the team, one of which was developed and hosted by the company’s exterior training arm, Disney Institute, giving Black business owners first-hand experience in adopting the mindset needed to operate successful ventures.

Leaders from Disney Institute introduced a service-oriented approach to entrepreneurship through its teachings, emphasizing that great service is necessary to properly run a business, regardless of size or revenue.

Cast members at Disney brought this notion of exemplary service to life through their kind and courteous treatment of RICE entrepreneurs and stakeholders over the course of the trip.

Disney Institute also invited the group to tour exclusive parts of Magic Kingdom Park on Tuesday afternoon, where attendees identified real-life examples of the managerial concepts taught during the institute’s training session.

Additionally, RICE-backed business owners heard from local Black vendors contracted with Disney on Wednesday, listening in on a panel about expanding business practices, working with big retailers and embrac-

Disney Experiences hosted nearly 100 Black small business owners from the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs at Walt Disney World in Orlando from Dec. 11-13. Photo by Janelle Ward/The Atlanta Voice

Chantel Powell, stakeholder at RICE and founder and CEO of natural kids deodorant brand Play Pits. Photo by Janelle Ward/The Atlanta Voice

ing authenticity when developing a brand— another popular takeaway from the seminar.

“That’s the power of storytelling,” said Lisa Williams, founder of multi-cultural doll company World of EPI, about authenticity during the discussion. “Because we get to see who we are…”

While many of this year’s participating entrepreneurs returned from last year’s event, some business owners joined RICE leadership in Florida for the first time this week.

Chantel Powell, stakeholder at RICE and founder and CEO of natural kids deodorant brand Play Pits, said that RICE’s trip to Orlando marked her first visit to Disney World since she was about 10 years old, giving her a chance to observe the parks from a new and refreshing perspective as both an adult and an entrepreneur.

“I remember nothing (about my last time at Disney),” Powell said. “So, to see it with these experienced, entrepreneurial eyes— oh, my God, it’s incredible. It’s truly magical.”

Powell also said that she’s previously worked jobs in customer service before switching gears to start her own business, so Disney’s lessons on providing excellent service to clients and consumers particularly resonated with her.

“I was an executive assistant. I worked as a wardrobe stylist and assistant costumer in film and TV,” Powell said. “So, I’m used to being of service to people…”

A select few attendees even visited the parks at Walt Disney World for the very first time.

Chisom Eke, founder and CEO of skin-sen-

sitive skincare company Overlooked Beauty, said she had preconceived notions before traveling to Disney World, but her first experience navigating Magic Kingdom and EPCOT completely exceeded her expectations.

“I thought it was going to be like your typical amusement park,” Eke said. “But (after) coming here and after going through some of the info sessions we went through earlier (today), I’m like, ‘This place is absolutely amazing.’”

Intentionality was a central theme from Tuesday’s session with Disney Institute, with instructors from the institute stating that business owners should lead both intentionally and professionally in order to sustain financial success and encourage loyalty from their consumers.

Eke said that the intentionality behind Disney World’s operations was evident throughout Tuesday’s tour and that she plans to incorporate many of the lessons she’s learned on this trip into running her own small business.

“I think it made the experience so much better, because I know that… (Disney) did everything with care and with the customer in mind,” Eke said. “That helps me with even my business.”

The Russell Center and Disney plan to partner to host the event again next year.

theatlantavoice.com • December 22- 28, 2023 • Page 11

Business

Digital RICE Expands Entrepreneurial Resources Nationwide

BY JANELLE WARD

O

RLANDO, FL.- The Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs publicized the launch of a virtual educational platform this week that, like its existing Supply Chain Accelerator Program, will offer exclusive insight on navigating the public and private business sectors to current and aspiring Black entrepreneurs.

Leadership from RICE announced the development of “Digital RICE” as well as the renewal of the organization’s partnership with Disney Experiences, Disney’s subsidiary overseeing all of the company’s theme parks located around the world, to a room of RICE business owners and stake-

holders at an entrepreneurship retreat in Orlando, Florida, on Monday, December 11.

A portion of the funds from Disney will be used to advance RICE’s new online program. According to a press release from the Russell Center, this additional backing from Disney Experiences results in a financial contribution totaling more than $1 million.

“This didn’t exist two years ago,” said Paul Wilson, Jr., RICE’s vice president of innovation and entrepreneurship, about the partnership and RICE’s annual excursion to Disney World. “(Disney has) taken a liking to us in a very special way.”

Digital RICE will feature many of the entrepreneurial resources featured in exist-

ing physical programs, as well as a virtual, self-paced component that allows users to internalize concepts from lessons on their own time while appealing to a variety of student learning styles. Digital RICE serves as an expansion of the Russell Center’s existing supplier readiness training curriculum.

Burunda Prince, chief operating officer at RICE, said that the objective for both RICE and Disney through this partnership is to grow their respective businesses while learning to collaborate with companies of different sizes.

“There may be the opportunity for some of our companies to acquire Disney as a customer, but more importantly, you learn

how you do business with a big corporation,” Prince said. “Because if you can be certified and qualified to do business with Disney, you can be certified and qualified to do business with Walmart, Target or any other major corporation.”

While RICE’s efforts to support entrepreneurs have traditionally been limited to the City of Atlanta, Disney’s sponsorship of Digital RICE will open the Russell Center’s resources to entrepreneurs in need of connections, education, and guidance based all across the country.

Wilson said that the program will ultimately prepare business owners to engage and work with all kinds of companies, even those of Fortune 500 status.

Blank Foundation grants $8M-plus to mental health awareness, education

BY DONNELL SUGGS

T

he Arthur M. Blank Foundation, one of the largest philanthropic organizations in Atlanta and around the country, has reached the $8 million mark in grant-giving under its mental health and well-being portfolio this year.

That amount is $3 million more than what was committed to mental health and well-being-focussed organizations last year, according to a release from the foundation. The announcement comes at a time when Americans are dealing with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) during the holidays, according to data provided by the Office of the Surgeon General.

Last year the Arthur M. Blank Foundation gave grants to organizations, both big and small, according to Brown.

The Carter Center received a half-million-dollar program grant to support its public education around mental health parity. Hopelab, a San Francisco-based social innovation lab focused on designing science-based technologies to improve the health and well-being of teens and young adults, received a $300,000 grant.

Up to 95% of youth ages 13-17 use a social media platform, according to the U.S. Surgeon General. A recent survey showed that teenagers spend an average of 3.5 hours a day on social media and

The Arthur M. Blank Foundation recently announced more than $8M to support mental health and well-being awareness and training across the country. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

when asked about the impact of social media on their body image, nearly 50% of adolescents aged 13-17 said social media makes them feel worse, according to the survey.

Another organization that the foundation has given funding to, Kate's Club, is geared towards supporting young peo-

ple. Kate's Club, an Atlanta-based organization that assists kids with grieving the loss of a loved one, received a $250,000 general operating support grant.

The Atlanta Voice spoke to an Atlanta-area pediatrician about the need for funding mental health education and training for youth/teens. "Mental health-

care often has poor reimbursement, especially for patients with Medicaid, so access is an issue," he said. "Nonprofits can help subsidize care."

Black Girls Smile, an Atlanta and New York City-based organization that works to encourage positive mental health education for Black women and girls, has been granted funding from the foundation.

Five to 10 years ago funding was going to healthcare organizations, with hopes that mental health education and training would be a part of the work being done. Now it's being earmarked for mental health specifically, Brown explained.

Future endeavors for the foundation's philanthropy include children and infant mental health, maternal mental health, climate anxiety, digital mental health, and loneliness.

"In the next year we are still learning quite broadly in this space," Beth Brown, Arthur M. Blank Foundation managing director of mental health and well-being told The Atlanta Voice. "We will have a more found strategy and a very specific role for the foundation."

The Arthur M. Blank Foundation recently reached the $1 billion mark in overall giving during the life of the organization.

A full list of grants from the 2023 Mental Health and Well-Being portfolio is available on the Arthur M. Blank Foundation website.

Page 12 • December 22- 28, 2023 • theatlantavoice.com

Sports

ONLINE

Hand Heart and Soul Project opens new learning spaces center for children and parents in Clayton County

CAU & Morehouse leave 2023 behind on highs and lows

BY DONNELL SUGGS

T

he first half of the Atlanta University Center men’s basketball season is done for the holidays. Both Clark Atlanta University and Morehouse College hosted Lane College over the past three days with both Atlanta teams winning their respective games. Clark lost its last game of 2023, while Morehouse won to finish the year.

CLARK ATLANTA The Clark Atlanta Panthers men’s basketball team defeated the Lane Dragons 77-73 Saturday night. The victory, the seventh of the season, was not only the end of a two-game losing streak but kept Clark Atlanta unblemished at home (5-0).

With the score tied at 71 with 1:23 remaining in the game, Panthers graduate senior guard Chris Martin was fouled while driving to the basket. His two free throws gave Clark Atlanta the lead and a blocked shot on the other end and a dunk the next on the following Panthers possession by sophomore forward Shemani Fuller secured the victory.

That undefeated home record lasted just past the weekend when the Panthers fell to visiting LeMoyne-Owen College 81-77 on Monday Night.

The Panthers will return from Christmas break with consecutive road games at Central State University on Jan. 4 followed by a game at Kentucky State University on Jan. 6. Clark Atlanta is 2-2 on the road this season. They return home to L.S. Epps Gymnasium on Saturday, Jan. 13 against Benedict College.

The Morehouse Maroon Tigers (7-4 overall) closed out the first half of the season with a 71-66 victory over Lane College on Monday, Dec. 18, 2023. Morehouse is 5-0 in SIAC play. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

The Clark Atlanta Panthers defeated visiting Lane College 77-73 on Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023. The Panthers are undefeated (5-0) at home this season. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

MOREHOUSE The Maroon Tigers are undefeated in conference play (5-0) following a 71-66 victory over Lane College on Monday, Dec. 18. With Morehouse ahead 69-66 and five seconds remaining in the game, freshman guard Damion Mitchell, Jr. made both of his free-throw attempts, putting the game away for the home team. Mitchell finished the game with six points, three rebounds, and three assists, while junior forward Amahn Decker scored a team-high 20 points (nine of which came from the free-throw line) before fouling out of the game.

Freshman Cedric Taylor III, the only Atlanta native on the roster,

contributed eight points to go along with a team-high nine rebounds.

Taylor’s layup made the score 68-63 late. The score came on the end of Morehouse skillfully breaking the Dragon’s press with less than a minute to play in the game.

Senior guard Keshawn Pegues and junior guard Demetrius Calip II each scored 11 points. With Morehouse ahead by three points midway through the first half, Calip II, a California native and East LA College transfer, connected on three consecutive three-pointers to give his team a 10-point lead for the first time in the game. That would be the last time the Maroon Tigers led by double-figures the entire game.

While both teams shot poorly from the field, they each made 21 free-throw attempts. That focus would be necessary as the game clock and shot clock malfunctioned early in the second half of the game. One of the shots that was missed was a windmill dunk attempt by Lane junior guard Muhammed Kora with his team behind 64-61. The Dragons' head coach Andre Turner and assistant coach Tyran Davis both put their heads in their hands as the ball bounced off the back of the rim.

Morehouse will return to the court with a road trip to Kentucky and Ohio. On January 4 they played at Kentucky State, before playing at Central State University two days later. The Maroon Tigers return home to Forbes Arena to host Allen University on Saturday, Jan. 13.

There is a mid-season break in the SIAC action when an exhibition against the Howard University Bison at Burr Gymnasium in Washington, D.C. is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 15.

Early Christmas gift or coal in the stocking: Falcons have to win v Colts on Christmas Eve

BY DONNELL SUGGS The Atlanta Falcons, 9-7 losers at Carolina Sunday, may be two games under .500, and a game behind the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints in the NFC South standings, but believe it or not there's still hope.

Atlanta has a winning record at

Mercedes-Benz Stadium this season (4-3) and on Sunday, Christmas Eve, the Falcons will play their final home game of the regular season against the Indianapolis Colts.

A victory on Sunday can either keep the Falcons in the running for the NFC South title or tie things

up considering what the Bucs and Saints do during week 16.

During the loss at Carolina, a rainy and cold affair, but a winnable game, Atlanta rushed for just 52 total rushing yards. Second-year back Tyler Allgeier accounted for 45 yards on 14 carries.

Falcons second-year quarterback

Desmond Ridder, who threw for a career-high 347 yards against Tampa last week, passed for just 152 yards in Carolina Sunday.

Here's where all three teams are playing next week: Atlanta will host Indianapolis, who are coming into the game following a 30-13 victory over Pitts-

burgh on Saturday. The Colts (8-6 overall) are one of three AFC wild card teams fighting for a postseason spot.

New Orleans will play at the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday night.

Tampa Bay will host the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday.

theatlantavoice.com • December 22- 28, 2023 • Page 13

Health

ONLINE

Southside Medical Center, in partnership with East Point expands services

Black leaders call for ban on menthol cigarettes

BY CLAYTON GUTZMORE

“D

elay is deadly. The delay means the tobacco industry can continue to target Black communities and profit from the expense of Black and other lives.

45,000 Black Americans each year die, and if Black lives matter, we have to get rid of menthol cigarettes,” said Yolanda Richardson, President and CEO of the Campaign of Tobacco-Free Kids.

A message that was echoed by other Black leaders of civic, faith, and health organizations on the White House delay of banning Menthol cigarettes. Adams and other leaders gathered for a virtual press conference on Thursday, December 7, to express their united disappointment in the White House’s decision to delay the final rule prohibiting menthol cigarettes. As promised, the press conference also called on the administration to issue a final rule this year.

“There is no reason to delay. This policy has been studied for over 12 years, overwhelmingly supported by scientific evidence, and will save hundreds and thousands of lives. The White House must stand up to big tobacco and issue this life-saving rule,” said Richardson.

Cigarettes are responsible for killing 480,000 Americans each year, according to the CDC. Forty thousand of that number are Black Americans. In April 2022, The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) formally proposed a ban on menthol cigarettes to Congress. The original date for this to go into effect was August 2023.

There have been several delays before it could happen. The latest one occurred Wednesday, December 6, without proper explanation. This delay raises concern and frustration because it comes two weeks after the tobacco industry and its lobbyists met with top officials at the White House.

“The ban should be instituted immediately. There are no civil rights institutions in support of menthol cigarettes. There are a bunch of people who are being paid to raise arguments that are fake and not in the best interest of the African American Community,” said Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of NAACP. Menthol cigarettes are more addictive than any other cigarette. Nicotine is the addictive component in cigarettes. According to the Campaign of Tobacco-Free Kids, menthol enhances the effects of nicotine on the brain, which makes it harder to quit. Menthol cigarettes cool and numb

Banning Menthol cigarettes would be significant in saving lives in the Black community and closing the racial gap in lung cancer deaths. Photo Credit: iStock.com/Szucinski

the throat. It masks the harshness of tobacco smoke, making it easier for kids to try smoking and eventually become addicted.

The campaign also reveals over 60 years, the tobacco industry has intentionally targeted the Black community with marketing for menthol cigarettes. The result of their efforts has led to 85 percent of Black smokers using menthol cigarettes.

“The tobacco industry has targeted Black communities with menthol for tremendous profit by researching and appropriating black culture. From free mental health give-

aways and ice cream truck-like vans in the 1960s to saturating urban neighborhoods with mental health advertising with low prices and coupons. Today, the industry has flooded and continues to target Black communities with this minty poison,” said Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II, founding director of the Center for Public Theology & Public Policy at Yale Divinity School.

The new target date to finalize the ban on menthol cigarettes is March 2024, according to the agenda released by the Biden administration. Banning Menthol

cigarettes would be significant in saving lives in the Black community and closing the racial gap in lung cancer deaths.

In an official statement from Campaign of Tobacco-Free Kids, The organization will continue to keep pressure on the White House through advertising, op-eds, mobilizing grassroots advocates to contact the White House and other tactics. We are making clear to the White House that Black organizations, elected officials, and other leaders nationwide strongly support a ban on menthol cigarettes.

Page 14 • December 22- 28, 2023 • theatlantavoice.com

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Aaccess 501.3C NON-While saving low-income patients moner Georgians and individuals living with disabilities—have to the PROFIT NEWSey on medical expenses, Medicare Adwith disabilities, particularly services and support they need to combat ORGANIZATION among low-income, minority, food insecurity in our communities. That vantage also provides a broader range of www.TheAtlantaVoice.com/Donate and traditionally underserved commuis where Medicare Advantage comes into health care, wellness, and supplemental nities. During my time on Atlanta City play. services and offerings that help Georgia Council, I have partnered with local and Now covering more than 31 million seniors and patients with disabilities adnational stakeholders to improve access Americans—or just over half of the entire to nutritious meals, Medicare-eligible resMedicare population—Medicare Advanidents can use open enrollment as an optage takes a more cost-effective, compreSCAN TO DONATE portunity to learn more about and enroll hensive approach to health care than train Medicare Advantage. ditional, fee-for-service (FFS) Medicare.

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theatlantavoice.com • December 22- 28, 2023 • Page 15

Lifestyle

Experts call for more diversity to combat bias in artificial intelligence

Welcome to the 2023 roundup!

BY DENNIS MALCOLM BYRON AKA ALE SHARPTON

I

n the compact SUV segment, we found the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XSE AWD and Lexus NX 350h Luxury AWD very impressive.

The Toyota RAV4 trim already has a legion of loyalists thanks to setting high standards Photo Courtesy of Toyota in the market for quality, reliability, and great value. In 2023, the Hybrid XSE AWD version rugged look going along with LED projector still maintains that reputation, while adding a headlights, a power liftgate, roof rack, and atlot more features and perhaps most importanttractive 18-inch sport alloy wheels hued in a ly, the Earth-friendly hybrid option loaded with stealthy black paint to make this practical SUV other great options in various trims.

SCAN TO DONATE not look, well, practical. theatlantavoice.com/donate The reviewed XSE version comes with nuAddressing the driving experience, the merous gracious amenities inside and out. hybrid option delivers a smooth ride with a The exterior frame provides an applauded more-than-adequate pep at 219 horsepower

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will get pampered even more with the Technology Package boasting wireless smartphone charging, parking assistance, 8-way power seat, and 12.3-inch color LCD gauge cluster.

If we had to nitpick, the cabin could be a bit more plush in terms of material quality, but that is what the following Lexus SUV specializes in. This XSE is about value, convenience, and providing the best bang for the buck complete with less gas station visits. In the end, the $40K price tag fully loaded greatly outweighs any minor detractions. In summary, the RAV4 XSE is a winner.

Price: $35,885 MSRP ($40,174 including XSE Weather Package, XSE Technology Package, and other additions) Fuel Economy: 41 city/38 highway/40 combined For more information, visit Toyota.com.

Check out next weeks wrap up on the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Luxury AWD

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