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www.theatlantavoice.com • Vol. 56 Issue 53 • FREE
THE ATLANTA MAY 13, 2022 INSIDE
Greenwood
acquires The
Gathering Spot
Page 6
METRO Atlanta | Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for the latest local news: @theatlantavoice
Higher Heights for
America endorses
Abrams for governor
Abrams receives Black
women-led endorsement | Page 2
2 May 13 - 19, 2022 www.theatlantavoice.com
METRO
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around Atlanta | Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for the latest local news: @theatlantavoice
Stacey Abrams delivers a speech at The Gathering Spot on Monday, March 28, 2022 in Atlanta. (Photo: Itoro N. Umontuen/The Atlanta Voice)
Stacey Abrams receives endorsement
from Black women-led PAC
BY ITORO UMONTUEN to abortion, access to reproductive justice, NARAL Pro-Choice Georgia. Lead, Carr has fostered a powerful coalition
Wednesday morning, Georgia Democrat is about our dignity, our welfare, our health, President and CEO of Higher Heights that has inspired Black women to run for
Stacey Abrams received an endorsement and our autonomy. for America, Glynda C. Carr, attended the and win high offices. Moreover, the High-
from Higher Heights for America. Higher And so I am not only going to fight round table. Carr, along with Kimberly er Heights-powered #BlackWomenVote, a
Heights is the only political action commit- against this decision, I’m going to fight Peeler-Allen, co-founded Higher Heights nonpartisan voter-activism campaign has
tee exclusively dedicated to electing more for the women of Georgia who deserve the in 2011. Its objective was to address the sys- helped eleven Black women to the U.S. Con-
progressive Black women at the federal and right to make decisions about their bodies, temic deficit of organizing resources for gress–including one to the Senate, accord-
statewide levels. decisions about their future. And we know politically active Black women and the lack ing to their website.
Abrams hosted an intimate conversation especially for Black women, maternal mor- of support for those who were considering Joining Abrams at the brunch discus-
over brunch at Nouveau, a Black-owned tality rates are already the highest in the na- seeking elected office. Since then, the orga- sion were State Senator Gail Davenport, Su-
restaurant in Jonesboro, which focused on tion. And this will do nothing to abate that, nization has developed several innovative kari Johnson – Founder and CEO Passport
voting rights, health rights, reproductive in fact, it will accelerate the challenges for programs and efforts that have quickly so- Moms LLC & Chair of Clayton Dems, Phar-
care and the economy and how each issue is Black women.” lidified its reputation as the political home macist and Doctor Courtney Jones, Juanita
centered around Black women. The Abrams campaign recently an- and go-to resource for progressive Black Marry – CEO of Accession and Distributing
During an exclusive interview after the nounced they have raised $11.7 million in women. Training and an Army veteran, Janice Dix-
brunch, Abrams explained her position fol- the three months ended April 30. Abrams, “We are looking to invest in leadership on, real estate agent Archie Emerson, and
lowing the leak of United States Supreme who is running unopposed in the Georgia that looks like Stacey Abrams, we’ve nev- Clayton State University student, La Chan-
Court Justice Samuel Alito’s drafted opin- Democratic gubernatorial primary, told the er elected a Black woman governor in this tell Allen Shepard.
ion that signaled the striking down of Roe Associated Press she had more than $8 mil- country’s history,” Carr said. “Currently, “We were with her in her first run for Gov-
vs. Wade is imminent. Abrams said com- lion in cash on hand. there’s zero Black women serving in the ernor,” Carr explained. “We organize our
munities would only experience equitable After the leaked draft opinion by U.S. Su- US Senate; we’ve only elected two in our members and Black women to ensure that
healthcare based on their geography. preme Court Justice Alito, Abrams paused country’s history. Diverse decision making she continues to bring our voice to public
“What that means is that if you live in fundraising and directed her donors to give tables make better decisions, and we help policy. And so we look forward to the final
the state of Georgia, you have to travel at to five organizations that advocate for the more Black women lead by encouraging drive to election day, primary and then
least 250 miles to access a medical service,” reaffirmation of Roe: The Feminist Wom- them to run for office and then supporting straight to the general election to ensure
Abrams said. “But more than that, it is a en’s Health Center, SisterSong, ARC South- them as they govern.” that we are uplifting the voices of Black
commentary on your quality of life. Access east, Planned Parenthood Southeast and With hashtags such as #BlackWomen- women voters in this election cycle.”
www.theatlantavoice.com May 13 - 19, 2022 3
LOCAL
Micahel Eric Dyson serves
as keynote speaker at 100
Black Men of Atlanta event Senior primary care
centered on
Joyce
“I feel like CenterWell
provides me with the
personal care that
I need.”
Joyce, CenterWell patient
Keynote speaker Dr. Michael Eric Dyson addresses attendees at the 100 Black Men of
Atlanta event (photo courtesy of the Atlanta Voice).
THE ATLANTA VOICE the 1619 Project, and the recent U.S. Supreme
Staff Report Court Roe v. Wade decision leak, among oth-
The dozens of people inside the ballroom er subjects.
at the Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel As per usual, Dyson blended hip-hop and Meet Dr. Andrea Brown
listened intently as Keefe Gordon began tell- R&B lyrics into a sermon-like diatribe about
ing his story. A senior mentee with 100 Black the boys in the room that have gone through • Dr. Andrea Brown is a leader
Men of South Atlanta, Inc., Gordon has been the yearslong 100 Black Men of South Met-
in senior primary care
in the program since he was an eighth-grad- ro Atlanta, Inc. mentorship process. “We • She is Board Certified in
er, and is an example of what can happen have to claim these boys like you are doing Family Medicine with 26 years
when mentors come into the lives of young tonight,” said Dyson. “The larger communi- of experience
Black men in need of leadership. ty has to be celebrated. We have to love our • She completed her residency
Gordon was tasked with giving the invoca- children so that they can thrive.” at LSU Medical Center Dept.
tion and blessing the food, and his story put Also among the topics of discussion were of Obstetrics & Gynecology
an exclamation on the event’s purpose. His local politics and the upcoming midterm Dr. Andrea Brown, CenterWell Morrow and Baton Rouge General
father was deported in 2018, and his moth- elections. Regarding Republican senatorial Family Medicine
er, who was in attendance, was tasked with candidate Herscel Walker, a former Universi-
being a single parent of a young, Black man. ty of Georgia star running back and National
His mother enrolled him in the 100 Black Football League player, Dyson asked that he 7 locations throughout Atlanta:
Men of American mentorship program, “stick to the gridiron.” The comment drew
and four years later, he was demonstrating laughs and applause from what felt like a Adamsville | Greenbriar | Grove Park | Morrow
the kind of leadership that the program is pro-Senator Raphael Warnock (D-GA) room. Old National | Stone Mountain | Wesley Chapel
known for. The young men being celebrated Satur-
Before asking all of the mothers in the day night are preparing to enter Historical-
room to please stand for recognition, Gor- ly Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)
don said about his fellow mentees: “You and local universities, on either full or par- Become a patient
don’t have to be afraid to be Black, because tial scholarships. Program graduate Ryan
Black is powerful.” Kennedy Hendricks plans to attend Georgia
or schedule a tour today
The 100 Black Men of Atlanta’s South State University and major in journalism. Call 470-410-6550 or visit
Metro Atlanta Celebration of Excellence Escorted by his parents, Floyd and Phyllis SeniorFocusedAtlanta.com
returned to in-person gathering Saturday Hendricks, Ryan traveled to Africa for a mis-
night after two years of remote celebrations. sionary trip, where he volunteered at an or- Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm
11Alive news anchor Aisha Howard and au- phanage during his time as a 100 Black Men
thor Michelle Taylor Willis were mistresses mentee. CenterWell Senior Primary Care accepts Aetna, Cigna, TM
of ceremonies, and 100 Black Men of Ameri- New chapter president-elect Joe Swan- Humana and Wellcare Medicare Advantage plans.
ca, Inc. chairman Thomas Dortch, via video, son was introduced, and current president
gave the welcoming remarks. and CEO, Rafiq Ahmad, who was honored Follow us @CenterWellPrimaryCare
The evening’s keynote speaker, public earlier in the evening, delivered the closing to learn about activities and events
intellectual and professor Dr. Michael Eric remarks.
Dyson, touched on a number of topics under The event was sponsored by Georgia-Pa- CenterWell does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex.
the banner of the “State of Black America.” cific, Wells Fargo, Chick-fil-A, Kroger, Publix ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística.
Dyson spoke to the room full of parents, chil- Super Markets Charities, Pepsi and South- Llame al 1-877-320-2188 (TTY: 711). 注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費獲得語言援助服務。請
dren and mentors about voter suppression, 致電 1-877-320-2188 (TTY: 711). GHHLDXVEN
west Airlines, among others.
2022_CTW-30455_ROY_Print_Atlanta_Atlanta Voice_ENG_5.1875x13_04-29-22.indd 1 4/26/22 10:32 AM
4 May 13 - 19, 2022 www.theatlantavoice.com
FOUNDED
May 11, 1966
FOUNDER/EDITOR
Ed Clayton
Immortalis Memoria
VOICES "Justice is what love sounds like when it speaks in public."
—MICHAEL ERIC DYSON
PUBLISHER/EDITOR
J. Lowell Ware
Immortalis Memoria
The Atlanta Voice honors
the life of J. Lowell Ware.
Mental Health in a Pandemic – Take it Seriously
The 2020 pandemic highlighted the significance of prioritizing mental health, yet the number of those walking around untreated continues to grow.
PUBLISHER
Janis Ware
jlware@theatlantavoice.com
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MANAGING EDITOR, DIGITAL BY SANDRA CHARITE
Itoro Umontuen struggling with depression doorstep, but I was able to famous celebrities or the dealing with mental health
iumontuen@theatlantavoice.com
Within the past couple has increased. Sadly, the overcome them with an neighbor next door, these challenges or substance
DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL MEDIA
of years, this country has majority of adults with a awesome support team. I deaths were a result of sui- use. What’s alarming is
Alexis Grace
agrace@theatlantavoice.com been facing a crisis that mental illness do not re- had people speaking life cide. more than 50 percent of
DIRECTOR OF VISUALS can no longer be ignored. ceive treatment, totaling into places where I felt Unfortunately, these adults with mental health
Trarell Torrence While advertising cam- over 20 million adults in dead- many people don’t. suicide cases are getting concerns are not receiving
t.torrence@theatlantavoice.com paigns have been created the United States who are It’s important for us to younger and many attri- treatment.
and celebrities have front being untreated. White be honest about the men- bute that to the rise of so- The percentage of peo-
ADVERTISING, SALES lined endorsements to dis- youth with depression tal health crisis. It’s easy cial media. Sadly, some ple experiencing severe
& CIRCULATION cuss this issue, the num- were more likely to receive to have these slogans like these individuals have mental illness has jumped
ADVERTISING ADMINISTRATOR ber of people dealing with mental health treatment “Take care of your mental been dealing with their but many Americans with
Chia Suggs mental health continues to while Asian-Americans health” but what does that mental health issues for a mental illness are unin-
advertising@theatlantavoice.com
grow. youth were least likely to mean to a mother who just a quite some time then fi- sured. In order to fully treat
CIRCULATION MANAGER
Terry Milliner Depression, self-harm receive mental health care. had a baby and is dealing nally succumbed to those the mental health crisis,
SALES and suicide are rising So many people are still with postpartum depres- suicidal thoughts leaving we must address all issues
R.D.W. Jackson among young people. The recovering from Covid-19 sion? What does that mean loved ones with unan- that prevent full, holistic
rdwadman@gmail.com 2020 pandemic highlight- and the challenges of 2020. to someone who is battling swered questions. treatment. We must ensure
SUBMISSIONS ed the significance of pri- Personally, the pandemic bipolar depression, on a Witnessing a mental that resources are acces-
newsroom@theatlantavoice.com oritizing mental health took a toll on my mental fixed income, and can’t af- health crisis can be unset- sible to all the individuals
yet the number of those health. I found myself ford the $40 copayments tling, yet the number of who need it the most.
CONTACT INFORMATION walking around untreated going to work and coming for the therapy session ev- cases continues to rise in Sandra Charite is a Hai-
633 Pryor Street, S.W.
continues to grow. At some home to my empty apart- ery two weeks? What does our families, among our tian-American author and
Atlanta, GA 30312
point, we will have to real- ment. that mean to the person co-workers and church poet. Her first published
Office: 404-524-6426
ize that mental health is a Although creative ways who has trust issues and is members, and loved ones. book, “Broken Crayons
Fax: 404-527-5464
serious crisis in our coun- to virtually stay socially fearful of confronting past According to the Cen- Still Color,” was released in
try. connected were imple- traumatic events they’ve ters for Disease Contro and 2016. She is also the author
According to Mental mented, it still wasn’t encountered in their lives? Prevention (CDC), a study of “The Lies I Told Myself:
Health America, suicidal enough like having people In the past month, head- released in August 2020 Only Truth Can Set You
ideation continues to in- physically present. There line news articles have that showed that over 40 Free,” a non-fictional mem-
crease among adults in the were times when anxiety showcased a series of percent of adults in the oir written to inspire and
U.S. The number of youth and depression visited my deaths. Whether they were United States reported refresh the spirit.
www.theatlantavoice.com May 13 - 19, 2022 5
EDUCATION
Prominent Black clergy endorse Alisha Thomas Searcy for state superintendent
BY MAYNARD EATON
A
three school age children. "Earning the
s activist Atlanta preacher support of pastors across our state is an
Rev. Timothy McDonald ac- incredible honor,” Searcy says. “Some of
curately recounts, education them have been friends and mentors for
has been the heartbeat of the more than a decade. I am grateful for their
Civil Rights Movement. It fu- support over the years. I am humbled by
eled it, contends the former President of the belief in me from this august body of
the Concerned Black Clergy of Metropoli- preachers and community leaders.”
tan Atlanta, and launched his ministry. Those leaders include the likes of Rev
“I probably got arrested more than any- Valerie Thompson of Columbus, who tells
thing else because I believed in fighting this reporter, “Our rural areas get over-
for education,” he reveals. “The key to up- looked and our children are suffering, I be-
ward mobility in our society, particularly lieve, especially in Columbus, because we
for African Americans, was education. And are being overlooked. We are in a state of
our parents, who did not even have high emergency.”
school diploma’s stressed education. If you For 17 years Rev. Thompson has pastored
look at who really made the Civil Rights the Revelation Missionary Baptist Church
Movement, it was students, particularly and recently became “the first woman to sit
high school students. So that right to vote on the Cabinet” of the General Missionary
enabled them to have a better education, Baptist Convention of Georgia. She is a po-
better opportunities to advance themselves tent political influencer in Columbus.
and their families and generationally. But “My question is: how are we going to
that is under attack now. It's not even be- come together and make this work for our
ing raised as much in the African-American children?” she asks rhetorically. “I think
community as it used to be." Alisha will be able to bring a different fla-
That is why the politically savvy and vor because of where she has been, because
seasoned McDonald has enthusiastically she knows politics, and because she has
endorsed the candidacy of former Georgia collaborated with people in higher places.
State Representative and school super- She has a heart for the children, and she
intendent, Alisha Thomas Searcy as the has a heart for education. She has closed
quintessential candidate to win election as some gaps for children, where people have
Georgia’s State Superintendent of Schools said that it is impossible.”
in November. Apostle Darryl Winston, the influential
"I think she brings a newness to it, an activist pastor of Greater Works Ministries,
excitement to it,” opines Rev. McDonald, echoes that sentiment. “I've watched Mrs.
pastor of First Iconium Baptist. “She un- Searcy in the earlier days of her political
derstands parents, she understands teach- Alisha Thomas Searcy, candidate for state superintendent career cut her teeth on the steel wheel of
ers, she understands students. She's able to Georgia politics as one of the youngest Af-
connect the dots now, which I don't believe rican Americans elected,” Winston says.
the other candidates are able to." “Her uncanny ability to work across the
A plethora of other prominent pastors aisle at a critical juncture in the history of
throughout Georgia echo McDonald’s sen- State politics caught my attention. As we
timents, while passionately urging their contend with the widening achievement
parishioners and friends to vote for Searcy gaps in our educational system, coupled
in the May 24th Democratic Primary. Three with the devious plan to deny the children
challengers oppose her. of this state a true and accurate view of his-
“I remember meeting her as a young, tory, we need courageous leadership who
vibrant, excited young woman who was will come out of the corner of political ex-
willing to offer herself even then,” says one pediency and fight!”
of Georgia’s most revered religious lead- Rev. McDonald believes that since
ers, Rev. Dr. Cynthia Hale, pastor of Ray the 2020 elections, “the Black church is
of Hope Christian Church. “She has strong re-emerging as a key player” in electoral
convictions, and her heart is for children politics. Education is critical to our democ-
and for education. And so much so that she racy. “We’ve got to get education right,”
is offering herself again for this position. McDonald preaches. “And Georgia is at the
She is that committed. This is a critical po- Pastor Jamal Harrison Bryant, New Birth Missionary Church bottom in nearly every category as it re-
sition, particularly for us as African Amer- lates to education. The State Superinten-
icans. I am supporting and endorsing and dent’s race is critically important.”
have already contributed to the campaign paign thus far.New Birth’s popular pastor and change does my heart well, of knowing That is why the candidate, Alisha Thom-
for Alisha Thomas Searcy. I believe in her. I Rev. Jamal Bryant told a group of fellow that another generation is now taking the as Searcy solemnly concludes. “For me,
believe in her heart. ministers on a recent Zoom call that he has torch and setting mediocrity ablaze. I stand this show of support is beyond a political
Searcy, formerly known as Alisha Thom- known Searcy since she was 15 years old, not just for her but with her and whole- endorsement,” she opines. “I am running
as Morgan, made history at age 23 by when he was her NAACP Youth Director. heartedly put the heft of whatever weight I my campaign just as I will run the office
becoming the first African American to “Going back even to then she was al- may carry behind her because she has been of the State School Superintendent. This
represent Cobb County in the Georgia Gen- ways fiery but focused,” he preaches. “She consistent and I really believe, without fear statewide list is a roadmap for our work to
eral Assembly. She was raised in the Black always was a natural-born leader of her of contradiction, that Alisha was born for partner with the faith community to bolster
church during her youth in Miami and has peers, even back then. For me to relocate this. support for public education and empower
visited and/or spoken at more than twen- here to Atlanta and to see her still on the Endorsements such as that have been parents to truly engage in the educational
ty-five churches during her statewide cam- vanguard, and the precipice of leadership humbling and inspiring for the mother of experiences of our children."
6 May 13 - 19, 2022 www.theatlantavoice.com
BUSINESS
Greenwood, Inc. acquires The Gathering Spot
BY CRAIG ALLEN BROWN
Greenwood is a fintech or-
Greenwood, a digital ganization founded by civil rights
banking platform created to ad- icon and former Atlanta mayor An-
dress the banking needs of Black drew Young, Grammy-award win-
and Latino communities, recently ner Michael “Killer Mike” Render
acquired ownership of The Gath- and Bounce TV creator Ryan Glov-
ering Spot, a private membership er. The organization currently has
network that focuses on event host- 700,000 people on a waitlist for its
ing for Black professionals. services.
According to a statement Paul Judge, a technology
by Greenwood, Inc., the acquisi- entrepreneur and board member
tion of The Gathering Spot has re- at Greenwood, sees the acquisition
sulted in a collective community as an important move in terms of
of over one million people, making Black financial empowerment.
Greenwood the largest combined “The future of finance is commu-
fintech and community platform nity,” Judge said. “The Black com-
for Blacks and minorities. munity has been a cultural leader
Ryan Wilson, co-found- L-R: Ryan Glover, Ryan Wilson, TK Petersen and Paul Judge (photo courtesy of Ryan Wilson/The Gathering for a long time. It makes sense that
er and CEO of The Gathering Spot Spot) it now becomes more of a leader
and chief community officer of can celebrate each member and wealth.” The Gathering Spot also has clubs in business and in the future of fi-
Greenwood, characterized the ac- connect them to the resources and The Gathering Spot is located in Washington, D.C. and nance.
quisition as an investment in com- networks they need to build on comprised of event-driven facili- Los Angeles. Previous participants “It is an important milestone to
munity, and a pathway to financial their successes, Ryan said. “Joining ties that provide access to an ex- at events hosted at The Gathering have two Black-owned companies
security for an often-underserved with Greenwood is a commitment clusive network of professionals, Spot include Gabrielle Union, film on both sides of an M&A (mergers
community. to our community, and we share creatives and entrepreneurs, cu- director/producer Will Packer, U.S. and acquisitions) transaction. It
“The Gathering Spot Greenwood’s vision in empower- rated experiences, exclusive con- senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) Cory brings a new meaning to the term
prides itself on building an inten- ing people and helping them to tent and other high-end amenities. Booker and gubernatorial candi- ‘Black-on-Black.’”
tional community, one where we build opportunity and generational Along with its Atlanta location, date Stacey Abrams, among others.
BUSINESS
Bitcoin crash is crushing Coinbase. Stock plunges again
BY PAUL R. LA MONICA
CNN BusinesS result of SEC rules.
Coinbase is arguably the most
(CNN) -- The bitcoin crash is hit- high-profile cryptocurrency com-
ting Coinbase really, really hard. pany. It generated a lot of attention
The cryptocurrency brokerage re- earlier this year for a bizarre (but
ported a first-quarter loss late Tues- buzzy) Super Bowl ad featuring
day and revenue that fell 27% from a nothing more than a QR code that
year ago, missing Wall Street's fore- moved around the screen for 60 sec-
casts. Coinbase shares plummeted onds.
more than 25% Wednesday and hit Coinbase said in its earnings re-
their lowest level ever. port that the ad "resulted in signif-
Coinbase stock is now down more icant improvements in our brand
than 75% this year and is trading awareness, favorability and consid-
nearly 85% below its all-time high eration."
price from November. Shares have Coinbase has also been busy add-
lost more than half their value in ing other cryptocurrencies to its
just the past week alone. The cryptocurrency brokerage reported a first-quarter loss and revenue that fell 27% from a year ago, miss- platform, such as cardano. And it
The plunge in Coinbase's stock ing Wall Street's forecasts. (Michael Nagle/Bloomberg/Getty Images) also has launched a marketplace for
coincides with the massive drop in non-fungible tokens (NFTs), digital
the value of bitcoin, ethereum and "The first quarter of 2022 contin- ruptcy risks. and clear up any confusion about assets that have become increasing-
other cryptocurrencies over the past ued a trend of both lower crypto The company said that "in the the bankruptcy talk. In a series of ly popular in the art and collectibles
few months. Coinbase said in its asset prices and volatility that be- event of a bankruptcy, the crypto tweets late Tuesday night, Arm- world.
earnings report that about 48% of gan in late 2021," Coinbase said in a assets we hold in custody on behalf strong wrote that "your funds are None of this has been enough to
its transaction revenue came from letter to shareholders. But the com- of our customers could be subject to safe at Coinbase, just as they've al- stop the massive slide in Coinbase's
bitcoin and ethereum in the quarter. pany added that Coinbase remains bankruptcy proceedings and such ways been" and added that "we have stock, however.
Bitcoin prices fell below $30,000 "as excited as ever about the future customers could be treated as our no risk of bankruptcy." The company went public last
Wednesday following the Consumer of crypto." general unsecured creditors." Armstrong wrote that the com- year through a direct listing of its
Price Index report on inflation. Still, investors appeared to be That would imply that customers pany was required to include the shares on the Nasdaq and was im-
As a result of the volatility, Coin- alarmed by new language in Coin- would not be able to access funds if bankruptcy warning language be- mediately worth nearly $100 billion.
base reported steep drops in the base's quarterly earnings filing with Coinbase declared bankruptcy. cause of "a newly required disclo- Coinbase's market value is now hov-
number of users, trading volume the Securities and Exchange Com- But Coinbase CEO Brian Arm- sure for public companies that hold ering around $15 billion.
and assets from the fourth quarter. mission that warned about bank- strong tried to reassure customers crypto assets for third parties" as a
www.theatlantavoice.com May 13 - 19, 2022 7
BUSINESS
Woodhouse Spa Buckhead owner Stacey Howell brings
people together through health and wellness
THE ATLANTA VOICE
S
Staff Report pany of Sola Salon Studios, the world’s be a patio added that will be able to be
tacey Howell wants to show largest salon studios franchise, pur- booked for private parties and gather-
her visitor the salt room. chased Woodhouse Spa and all of the ings.
“You have to see this,” she company's locations in July 2020. With 12 employees, nine working on a
says, as she leads her guest As the hospitality industry claws its full-time basis, Howell said there will be
to a therapy room bathed way back towards 2019 occupancy and an additional six to 10 new jobs available
in gold light. “Depending on what color revenue levels, the resorts and spas that at the spa. Woodhouse Spa Buckhead is
you like, it can be changed by remote make up the industry's drive-to and currently in the hiring phase, according
control,” said Howell, the owner of walk-in business continue to thrive. Re- to Howell.
Woodhouse Spa Buckhead. Woodhouse Spa Buckhead owners Hollis and Stacey Howell (photo courte- sorts and extended-stay hotels remain The spa will offer guests massages,
Set to open later this month, Wood- sy of Tom Baylark) high on the list of investor demand, facials, traditional manicures and ped-
house Spa Buckhead is not only the of the World Series champion Atlanta chise, Woodhouse Spa has 75 locations driving more lodging industry sales this icures. There will also be a quiet room
neighborhood’s newest spa, it’s one of Braves. Something in Howell’s spirit around the country, including two in year, according to industry experts. and a ground-floor patio.
the few owned by a Black woman. On told her to keep looking in Buckhead. Georgia: Alpharetta at Avalon and in "We have to take care of ourselves," After giving a tour of the spa, Howell,
the heels of the failed Buckhead City “The whole world is here [in Buckhead], Dunwoody. This is Woodhouse Spa's said Howell, who owns the spa with her a mother of four with three stepchildren
secession movement, Howell is open- and I want to be in a community that first Buckhead location. Lone Star husband, Hollis. "I want this business to from her current marriage, wanted to
ing a business that is much more about speaks to diversity,” she said. Funds, a Dallas-based private equity thrive and to be able to give back to the share a story of a conversation she re-
bringing people together than keeping Buckhead is 11.7% Black, according to firm with a presence in 11 countries, community," she said. cently had with a Black mother. The
them apart. “I feel like I have something a 2019 U.S. Census Bureau estimation. purchased The Irby apartment build- Woodhouse Spa Buckhead has leased mother wanted to have Howell meet her
to give back and to teach people,” she Howell has her work cut out for her, but ing, which Woodhouse Spa is attached the ground floor space at 65 Irby Ave. for daughter in order for the child to see a
told The Atlanta Voice. “My dream is to she says she is ready to serve clients of to, for $115.5 million, according to Ful- 10 years, a sign that the Howells are in Black, female, Buckhead business own-
bring everyone together.” all races, creeds and colors. Tapping her ton County property records. Lone Star this for the long haul. The 5,000-square- er in the flesh. “My kids are my inspira-
When asked why she chose a retail heart, Howell said, “This is a place to Funds secured a two-year, $75 million foot spa has 12 treatment rooms, a retail tion too, so I understood what she was
space in Buckhead, Howell said she help people get back to healing. We are loan from Virginia-based national lend- shop, and a private couples massage doing,” Howell said. “They have to see
looked at spaces around metro Atlanta, ambassadors of health and wellness.” er Capital One for financing. room. Following completion of exteri- this; our children have to see that this is
including near Truist Park, the home A 21-year-old Texas-based spa fran- Radiance Holdings, the parent com- or construction on the site, there will possible.”
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8 May 13 - 19, 2022 www.theatlantavoice.com
ENTERTAINMENT
Young Thug's song lyrics are being used as evidence in his gang indictment
BY LEAH ASMELASH
CNN he conspired to murder another rapper.
Not everyone supports allowing prosecu-
(CNN) -- Grammy-winning rapper Young tors to use lyrics as evidence. In "Rap on Tri-
Thug's lyrics are being cited as evidence in a al: Race, Lyrics and Guilt in America" by Erik
sweeping 56-count gang indictment, again Nielson and Andrea L. Dennis, rapper Killer
raising a debate over whether lyrics are pro- Mike argues that rap as an art form is a safe
tected free speech. space where raw emotions can and should be
According to the 88-page indictment ob- expressed.
tained by CNN, lyrics from the rapper's pop- "Left unchecked, it has the potential to si-
ular songs -- including "Slime Sh*t," "Origi- lence a generation of artists who are exercis-
nal Slime Sh*t," and "Anybody" -- were used ing their First Amendment right to express
as examples of "overt acts," some of which themselves," he wrote. "These are voices we
constitute racketeering. Prosecutors allege should be encouraging, yet our criminal jus-
that Young Thug, real name Jeffery Wil- tice system has consistently looked for ways
liams, founded the gang Young Slime Life to punish them."
in late 2012 and was a key figure in various Killer Mike also noted that other artists
YSL activities. Rapper Gunna, real name from genres other than rap are often cele-
Sergio Giovanni Kitchens, is also charged in brated for their dark lyrics, while rappers are
the document. Williams was arrested at his vilified.
home in Atlanta on Monday, police said. Last year, state senators in New York in-
Most notably, prosecutors said that in 2015, troduced the bill "Rap Music on Trial," which
Williams rented an Infiniti Q50 sedan from would prevent art -- including song lyrics
Hertz, which was later used in the murder -- from being used as evidence in criminal
of a rival gang member. There are also refer- cases. Jay-Z, Meek Mill, Big Sean and Kelly
ences that paint Williams as the leader of the Rowland all supported the bill, as did other
YSL gang, as two associates discussed how to musicians.
obtain his permission to attempt to murder But Fulton County District Attorney Fani
rapper YFN Lucci while he was incarcerated. Grammy-winning rapper Young Thug's lyrics are being cited as evidence in a sweeping Willis sees it differently.
"I'm prepared to take them down," "mur- 56-count gang indictment, again raising a debate over whether lyrics are protected free "I believe in the First Amendment; it's one
der gang sh*t," and "I never killed anybody speech. (Michael Tullberg/Getty Images) of our most precious rights. However the
but I got something to do with that body" are First Amendment does not protect people
just a few of the dozens of lines referenced in Williams has been booked into the Fulton been used by criminal prosecutors. In 2019, from prosecutors using (lyrics) as evidence if
the indictment. County jail and charged with conspiracy to prosecutors questioned Brooklyn rapper it is such," Willis said during a press confer-
Lyrics from other popular rappers refer- violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Tekashi 6ix9ine about lyrics for his song ence Tuesday. "In this case, we put it as overt
encing ties to Young Slime Life are also quot- Organizations Act (RICO) and participation "GUMMO," asking if it included threats to ri- and predicate acts within the RICO count be-
ed in the indictment, along with social media in criminal street gang activity. vals. In 2017, prosecutors tried to use Drakeo cause we believe that's exactly what it is."
posts. This isn't the first time song lyrics have the Ruler's "Flex Freestyle" as evidence that
ENTERTAINMENT
'Sex Education' actor Ncuti Gatwa named as next 'Doctor Who' lead
BY AMARACHI ORIE, CNN this year's BAFTAs, will now become the
(CNN) -- Ncuti Gatwa, who is best known 14th Doctor in the show.
for his performance in Netflix's "Sex Ed- Up until now, he is best known for his role
ucation," will replace Jodie Whittaker as as Eric Effiong in "Sex Education," a fictional
the next lead in "Doctor Who," the BBC an- series which follows students seeking advice
nounced Sunday. from an underground sex therapy clinic at
"There aren't quite the words to describe school. Gatwa was awarded the Best Actor
how I'm feeling. A mix of deeply honoured, Award at the Scottish BAFTAs in 2020 for his
beyond excited and of course a little bit role in "Sex Education."
scared," Gatwa said in a BBC press release. "Doctor Who" showrunner Russell T Da-
"This role and show means so much to so vies said in the press release: "Sometimes
many around the world, including myself, talent walks through the door and it's so
and each one of my incredibly talented pre- bright and bold and brilliant, I just stand
decessors has handled that unique respon- back in awe and thank my lucky stars.
sibility and privilege with the utmost care. I "Ncuti dazzled us, seized hold of the Doc-
will endeavour my utmost to do the same." tor and owned those TARDIS keys in sec-
Whittaker became the first woman to play onds."
the Doctor when she was appointed as the Gatwa joins the long-running sci-fi series
TARDIS-traveling Time Lord in 2017. Last -- which follows an alien Time Lord who
July, the BBC said that she would be bowing travels across space and time -- ahead of its
out of the show -- leaving what she said was 60th anniversary in 2023.
"the best job" she ever had -- after season 13. Ncuti Gatwa, pictured in November, will become the next Doctor in "Doctor Who." (Carlo The new generation of Doctors has includ-
Gatwa, who has been nominated for Best Paloni/BAFTA/Shutterstock) ed Christopher Eccleston, David Tennant,
Male Performance in a comedy program at Matt Smith and Peter Capaldi.
www.theatlantavoice.com May 13 - 19, 2022 9
POLITICS
Biden mourns 1 million US Covid
deaths as 'irreplaceable losses'
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the difference.
BY SAM FOSSUM, NIKKI CARVAJAL senior administration officials said.
AND MAEGAN VAZQUEZ The event, which is also co-hosted by
CNN Germany, Indonesia, Senegal and Belize,
(CNN) -- President Joe Biden on Thursday is calling for countries to invest in the new
mourned 1 million American deaths from Global Pandemic Preparedness and Health
Covid-19, using the occasion to again urge Security fund at the World Bank, and the US
Congress to pass additional funding to con- announced that its pledge will increase to
trol the pandemic. $450 million, up from the initially promised
While other official tallies have placed the amount of $250 million. The summit will
figure a bit short of that mark, Biden marked also highlight an additional $3.1 billion in
the moment during the White House's latest new funding commitments from countries
virtual Global Covid-19 Summit, reflecting around the world to combat Covid-19.
on the pandemic's devastation on the nation But as Biden, Vice President Kamala Har-
after more than two years. ris and other Cabinet-level officials take part
"This pandemic isn't over. Today, we mark in Thursday summit, which will urge other
a tragic milestone here in the United States wealthy countries to ramp up their coro- A doctor’s office focused on the needs of seniors:
-- 1 million Covid deaths. One million empty navirus relief efforts in support of poorer
chairs around the family dinner table. Each countries, the Biden administration's efforts
irreplaceable, irreplaceable losses. Each to secure further funding from Congress
leaving behind a family, a community, for- to support coronavirus relief efforts will be
ever changed because of this pandemic. Our front and center.
hearts go out to all those who are struggling," Throughout the summit, administration
Biden said during his opening remarks at the officials on Thursday will issue a "loud call"
Specialist Convenient
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the world, many more millions have died" as not empty words," one senior official said.
a result of the pandemic. "If the US is to remain a leader -- protecting
The President told attendees that the Americans and the world from dangerous Coming soon to Adamsville
global community has "to start working to disease threats -- we need Congress to act
3571 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. SW
prevent the next variant, and the next pan- now to provide more funding for the Covid
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"That's why I continue to call on Con- In addition to the summit's two overarch-
gress here at home to take the urgent action ing goals, there are three key priorities that
to provide emergency Covid-19 funding will guide Thursday's gathering: preventing
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being developed," he said, later highlighting This will be the second global Covid-19
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In a proclamation issued Thursday order- Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Follow us @CenterWellPrimaryCare
ing flags to be flown at half-staff to mark the Thomas-Greenfield, Secretary of Health to learn about activities and events
milestone, Biden wrote that the nation "must and Human Services Xavier Becerra, USAID
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2022_CTW-100057_Print_DeNovo_Atlanta_Atlanta Voice_ENG_5.1875x13_05-13-22.indd 2 5/10/22 7:15 PM
10 May 13 - 19, 2022 www.theatlantavoice.com
HEALTH
The national baby formula shortage is getting worse
and parents are desperate for it to end
Originally Published: 11 MAY 22 14:04 ET
BY ALISHA EBRAHIMJI,
CNN
(CNN) -- Bryan Lambillotte knows the
anxiety-induced hunt for baby formula all
too well amid the ongoing national short-
age.
He and his husband Chris are new par-
ents to 2-month-old twins Brecon and Lon-
don, who have been formula-fed since birth.
The couple chose not to have their surrogate
breastfeed them because they wanted the
babies' diets to stay consistent.
Lambillotte has searched online retailers
and manufacturers' websites for the formu-
la instead of panic-driving store-to-store
around San Diego. But by the time he gets
to the check-out on most websites, the prod-
ucts are unavailable, he told CNN.
The worsening nationwide baby formula
shortage is affecting parents coast to coast,
including those who choose not to or can-
not breastfeed and those whose medically
fragile children can't tolerate other nutri-
tion sources. Beyond scouring the internet,
parents tirelessly search store shelves near
and far daily, coordinate formula exchanges
through Facebook pages and spend count-
less hours -- and sometimes huge sums of
money -- to make sure their children have
food. A baby formula display sits nearly empty at a Target store in Orlando. (Paul Hennessy/SOPA Images/Sipa USA/AP)
The problem, rooted in the tight supply
chain, is exacerbated by a production halt cans US customers can buy per transaction. need to survive on formula for years, she nor milk from a milk bank until Hutkin's
at an Abbott Nutrition facility in Michigan. Target has limited online purchases of the said. wife's supply came in. In the hospital, Chloe
Abbott is seeking to restart the plant after products. The family, in Katy, Texas, now gets half and Nicolas partially ate breast milk and
it recalled three popular brands of pow- In Georgia, Courtney Houston breastfed the hypoallergenic formula Regina needs partially ate formula. After they were dis-
dered infant formula in February following her 11-month-old daughter Raelyn until last through health insurance, said Estrada, charged, they moved to formula only.
reports four infants who ate formula man- week, as she couldn't physically produce who's been trying to supplement the differ- "It's pretty hard to build up a supply
ufactured at the facility got sick with rare anymore, she said. Even before the ma- ence herself. But the formula isn't sold in breast milk supply for twins, and it's really
infections caused by Cronobacter sakazakii jor recall, she'd started noticing a formula stores, and substitutes haven't worked well. difficult to do when you're working and it's
bacteria and died. shortage in Dawsonville, 60 miles north of Estrada now has eight cans, which will just a lot of pressure on my wife," he said.
Other manufacturers now say they're Atlanta, she said. last her a little over two weeks, she said. But "So she made the decision to suppress her
producing at full capacity and making as After experimenting with a few brands, the formula shortage worries her. milk supply, and they've (the twins) been on
much formula as they can -- but it's still not going to grocery stores every day, getting "There's people on eBay actually reselling formula since they came home."
enough to meet demand. family and friends to check their local stores formula, but it's like three cans for $200 or Nicolas is still on a feeding tube, so his
Counting cans and numbering days and even venturing to other towns to check something like that. And two cans is only formula is provided through the family's
After experimenting with a few different supply, Houston transitioned Raelyn to going to last for four days, so that's not going health insurance, Hutkin said. The twins eat
brands of formula, Lambillotte found one cow's milk. The American Academy of Pe- to solve my issue for the month," she said. essentially the same formula that's geared
that agreed with his twins, but with the diatrics recommends infants be fed breast "It is so frustrating that nothing seems to toward premature babies, he said, but it has
shortage, finding it has been hit-or-miss, milk for the first 6 to 12 months. be done and not enough attention is being been especially difficult to find in its powder
he said. On a recent trip to a Target in San "It would get to the point when you go to a given to the issue when there are many med- form, which is what they need for the caloric
Diego, he got lucky, documenting his expe- store you just cry," Houston said. "And that ically fragile babies and kids that cannot content.
rience on TikTok. sounds crazy and pathetic and people are survive without these special formulas," she "Just seeing the shelves just bare, it's pret-
The shelf had only six cans -- so he took like, 'Well, you can just try a different brand said. "We're scared that we might run out of ty nerve-racking, especially when you start
three for his family and left three, know- or try a different type,' and we tried." options." getting down to your last couple of cans and
ing another desperate family was probably Ana Estrada's twin daughters were born Alex Hutkin, the dad of 4-month-old you're just not sure what you're going to if
around the corner. prematurely, at 25 weeks. One of them, Re- twins Chloe and Nicolas, also is trying to you can't find that formula," he said.
"Even though my babies come first and gina Orozco, only weighed 14 ounces and find formula to supplement what his health "We're in a situation where our children
foremost and I would do anything for them spent nine months in the hospital with insurance doesn't provide, he told CNN. are on this formula because of the calorie
... at the same time, I wanted to make sure health complications that made it impossi- Born prematurely, Chloe spent 64 days in content of it -- not because they have food
that I was thinking of other families that ble for her to eat anything by mouth. a newborn intensive care unit near their allergies -- so if we really needed to, we
were struggling in need as well," he said. Now 2, Regina exclusively relies on for- home in Arlington, Virginia; Nicolas spent could put them on a different formula -- but
Indeed, retailers including CVS and Wal- mula and eats through a feeding tube, and 84. only if we needed to ... There are a lot of fam-
greens are limiting the number of formula doctors have told Estrada the child may Just after the pair were born, they ate do- ilies that don't have that option."www.theatlantavoice.com May 13 - 19, 2022 11
BUSINESS
The Gallery at South DeKalb is under new management
BRIA SUGGS
T
The Atlanta Voice
he Gallery at South DeKalb
was sold to the Namdar Realty
Group during a December 2021
auction, for roughly $19.3 mil-
lion. The mall’s previous owner,
Thor Equities, defaulted on a commercial
mortgage-backed securities loan, leading to
the recent sale.
The mall opened in 1968 and has recent-
ly acquired several vacant storefronts, in-
cluding anchor tenants such as Macy’s. The
Namdar Realty Group specializes in regional
malls and other commercial real estate. The
company has partnered with Mason Asset
Management to oversee leasing efforts.
"Namdar Realty Group does not own the
former Macy's box, but we are actively work-
ing on backfilling the former movie theater Caption.
and Fallas Discount Store," said Igal Nassim,
director of leasing at Mason Asset Manage- “The property has transitioned to new decision, being that this mall has been a pil- lery at South DeKalb can make a significant
ment. ownership; [I was] approached to be involved lar in the community for a very long time.” positive impact on the surrounding commu-
Donna Smiley is the lead commercial bro- with this project several weeks ago,” Smiley Her responsibilities will consist of sourc- nity.
ker working with management and owner- said. “I reached out to The Gallery at South ing a diverse new set of tenants that will "The mall is committed to serving DeKalb
ship to aid with the revitalization of The Gal- DeKalb inquiring about a space for one of hopefully bring a renewed energy to the mall. County, and is looking forward to hosting
lery at South DeKalb. The mall spans 71 acres my existing clients. During the negotia- Smiley’s goal is to bring more entertainment, events that benefit and bring the community
and over 800,000 square feet. There is open tion, management reached out and asked if food court options and more national brands together,” general mall manager Tene Galle-
space for a movie theater, and potential spac- I would be interested in leading the leasing to the shopping center. more said. “We are currently holding early
es for an event center and gymnasium. efforts for the mall. For me, that was an easy Mall management is hopeful that the Gal- voting on the property through May 20th."
Be seen.
Albert G. Edwards, Board Chair &
Leona Barr-Davenport, President & CEO
Ceremony Co-chair Ceremony Co-chair
Tad Hutcheson Tai A. Roberson
Be heard.
Cordially Invite You
to the
rd Annual
CEO Awards
Luncheon
Tuesday | May 24, 2022 | 11:30 AM, Networking
12 Noon Awards Luncheon | A Hybrid Event
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For more information, visit https://cvent.me/2EM44r | (404) 584-812612 May 13 - 19, 2022 www.theatlantavoice.com SPORTS Atlanta-raised Harris shines for US Virgin Islands national team BY ROSELYN EBERHARDT AND CRAIG ALLEN BROWN Texas-born, Atlanta-raised Zahmyre Har- ris is using his talent as a soccer player to dismantle barriers and positively influence generations on and off the soccer field. From playing at a young age, to now competing in the World Cup and Olympics Games for the U.S. Virgin Islands nation- al team, Harris has become a trailblazer in a sport not normally embraced by African American males. “I started playing soccer when I was 3,” Harris said. “When you’re young, you don’t really see it as very serious. You just have fun with it.” As Harris started to further develop his soccer skills, he began to compete alongside older players in youth programs. “Moving here, I didn’t really know the ins and outs of soccer. I just had natural tal- ent,” he said. “Eventually, I found the right leagues and teams and coaches. I was play- Atlanta-bred Zahmyre Harris (foreground). (photo by Danny Del Gaudio ing at the highest level possible in the state the U.S. fessional level because they didn’t have the said. of Georgia and in the nation.” “I feel like the problem that comes with [resources].” When asked how soccer can be better Harris later attended Woodland High soccer in America as opposed to other From the time Harris began playing, he supported throughout Atlanta’s Black com- School in Stockbridge, where he would go countries is that soccer is more so a sport has seen an improvement in terms of fi- munities, Harris said,”When I first moved to on to score 45 goals and rack up 27 assists for wealthier people,” Harris said. “A lot of nancial support for soccer players. Teams Atlanta, I would always hear somebody say, during his career. He would eventually earn times, you have a lot of players that are good, are now offering more financial aid through ‘You’re Black, and you play soccer? I’ve never all-conference and all-region honors, along but a lot of them don’t get the same oppor- scholarships and other means, which en- heard of that.’ with an offensive player of the year award. tunity if they’re not able to afford to pay to ables more athletes to compete. “I would like to show kids from Atlanta Though Harris had a number of coaches play for these teams. That’s the problem I “It’s good that kids can have an opportu- that soccer is a sport for any race. There are that aided in the development of his talents, feel like a lot of people have seen with soccer: nity to play this sport, and everyone has an kids who wouldn’t even think about playing he attests that no one’s support was as im- you may have somebody who is really good, opportunity regardless of their family’s in- soccer, so I would like to spread that [idea] portant as his father’s. [but] you will never see them reach the pro- come, which I think is a good thing,” Harris within the community.” “I was playing basketball and football… Along with changing the mindset of Black in ninth grade,” Harris said. “My father told youth about soccer in his hometown, Harris me I needed to focus on one sport, and the also wants to affect change in Europe. He way he explained it to me was as if he already contends that soccer would be an effective knew what sport I should choose. And from vehicle in combating racism there, given ninth grade on, I never partook in any other the popularity and potential influence of the sport. I just decided I was going to put my all sport. into soccer.” “I feel like soccer would be the perfect Harris would go on to play collegiate soc- sport for that,” Harris said. “You have a lot cer at Georgia Southwestern University and of people in Europe who will be a fan of a Georgia Southern University. Black or African American player, and then At the age of 18, Harris became able to the minute that player [doesn’t] have a good compete with the U.S. Virgin Islands national game or makes a mistake, [fans] may use a soccer team because his father and paternal derogatory or racist term towards them.” grandparents were natives of the territory. Harris continues to note the growth that As with most Caribbean territories, soccer is soccer has made within the country, and the most popular and most celebrated sport takes pride in the love and support that has among residents of the Virgin Islands. come with it. The Virgin Islands national team is rela- “It’s a good thing; it’s really nice to see tively young; most of the team’s players are that it’s growing,” Harris said. “When I first 25 years old or younger. moved to Atlanta, there was no professional “It’s a long process,” Harris said. “It’s a team, only a semi-professional team. Watch- young team that’s growing together, build- ing the transition and how things changed ing chemistry. With time, we [will] get better and grew so fast with soccer - not just in At- and better. The future is very bright.” lanta, but in the country - it’s a nice thing While maintaining a genuine appreciation to see, because I feel like people around the for the sport of soccer, Harris has also iden- world love this sport.” tified socioeconomic barriers that may have Harris advances the ball downfield. (photo by Danny Del Gaudio) possibly prevented the growth of the game in
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