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DECEMBER 19-25, 2025 • Vol. 60 Issue 32 • FREE

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Usher joins Carversations premier

PAGE 6

Unity Through Giving

Love Beyond Walls founder Dr. Terence Lester (far left) and members of The Atlanta Voice staff contributed to one of the many community engagement efforts that took place in metro Atlanta this week. Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice

Page 2 • DECEMBER 19-25, 2025 • theatlantavoice.com

Metro

In Full Support: Atlanta Gives Back By DONNELL SUGGS

n 2024, the official poverty rate in the United States decreased by less than half a percentage point to 10.6 percent. According to the United States Census Bureau data, there were still 35.9 million people in poverty in 2025. Georgia ranks 38th in the nation in household poverty levels, according to the United Health Foundation’s America’s Health Rankings. During 2025, with all of the financial insecurity brought on by inflation, cuts to government programs, and the rising costs of living taking place in the United States, giving back to anyone in need has become more important. This week has been a great week of giving in Atlanta. From food drives to clothing drives to a new home for the holidays, there were plenty of opportunities to give back to the city we love. Here are a few of those moments. WEST END, ATLANTA, GA. Finch Elementary School is scheduled to close following the 2025-26 school year. The closure is part of the APS 2040 plan to consolidate schools which are facing dwindling attendance numbers. The people whose kids attend the school year after year, the educators that make up the foundation of the school, and volunteers and education advocates beg to differ. “If I was on the school board I’d be fighting to keep this school

During 2025, with all of the financial insecurity brought on by inflation, cuts to government programs, and the rising costs of living taking place in the United States, giving back to anyone in need has become more important. Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice

open,” Love Beyond Walls founder Dr. Terence Lester said. “When you’re not close to the struggle, it’s easier to make decisions on what to do with the struggling people.” On Wednesday, December 17, Love Beyond Walls and the staff of The Atlanta Voice teamed up to stock the shelves of the food pantry at Finch with dry goods, nonperishable foods, fruit, and more. Finch Principal Dr. Tara Spencer, the 2024-25 APS Principal of the Year, was also there to lend a hand. She believes the heart and soul of Finch is in its people. “I’m grateful to Love Beyond Walls and Dr. Lester because he heard the need and jumped into action immediately,” Spencer said.

The Atlanta Voice staff members gathered goods for the food pantry at Finch Elementary in West End on December 17, 2025. Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice

“He made it happen.” The food will go to the families of Finch students who have demonstrated need and for Lester, that is what the holiday season is about. With full stomachs and their mind off of their next meal or snack, students at Finch can focus on other things like book reports and computer projects, says Lester. “This resource room helps the students connect to their education,” Lester said. SOUTHWEST ATLANTA, GA. - On the previous Monday, December 15, Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation (BLMGNF) and Fab 5 Foundation hosted what was being called “Filling Carts, Lifting Hearts.” BLMGNF Chairwoman Cicely Gay and Fab 5 Foundation founder and V-103 radio personality Jazzy McBee made their way around the Kroger in the Wesley Chapel Square shopping center, handing out gift cards to unsuspecting customers. Customers, including a mother and daughter standing near the checkout line, were taken aback and brought to tears when they were given their card. “Can I have a hug?” asked McBee. The three of them shared a group hug before Gay and McBee moved on to present gift cards to other customers. “Filling Carts, Lifting Hearts” took place at the Walmart on Gresham Road, another Kroger location on Cascade Road, and finally the Walmart a t 1105 Research Center

Santa Claus was on hand to hear from the kids. Photo by Donnell Suggs/ The Atlanta Voice

Drive in southwest Atlanta. SOUTHEAST ATLANTA, GA. - On Tuesday, former Atlanta Falcons star Warrick Dunn and his Warrick Dunn Charities reached the 250 mark of delivering homes to first-time homeowners. Dunn’s “Homes for the Holidays” program, which began in 1997, is a nonprofit organization that focuses on providing homes to single parents. Standing on the front porch surrounded by the family who was moving into the home and the other organization who helped with making the house a home, Aarons, Dunn said he was getting emotional. 250 homes in and he still gets emotional. “When I first started this charity it was a passion for not wanting a kid to go through what I went

through,” Dunn said. “Creating that stability, for me, it’s vital.” In this case, Quanta, a mother of an 11-year-old son, Jerrod, and oneyear-old daughter, Aniya, received the keys to their new home and that piece of the American dream. Standing on the porch, Quanta was shocked by all of the people there to welcome her family home. She could barely muster a sentence as she took the microphone to address the crowd. “This, this is just wow,” she said. “I mean, wow.” All of the furniture and appliances were provided by Aaron’s. Warrick Dunn Charities has now delivered 250 homes in 33 cities in 17 states.

See GIVING BACK on page 5

theatlantavoice.com • DECEMBER 19-25, 2025 • Page 3

Metro

ATLDOT showcases winter weather readiness strategies for upcoming season By ISAIAH SINGLETON

he Atlanta Department of Transportation (ATLDOT) displayed the City’s inclement weather response preparations in advance of the 2025-2026 winter season during a press conference. Media outlets had the opportunity to capture visuals of winter weather equipment, salt domes, and operational staging areas, as well as speak with department leadership about readiness strategies to ensure safe mobility during a winter weather event. Allen Smith, ATLDOT deputy commissioner, said last year was “definitely” an anomaly to say the least, referring to the two different snow/ice storms in the previous winter season. “We had one storm and another one right after that, but we are glad we were prepared. Then we handled that storm and the other one very well,” he said. “Every year, we prepared a plan for snow and ice yearround because our goal is to be fully staffed and prepared, from an equipment standpoint, material standpoint, staffing standpoint, and to ensure we are well ahead of any winter weather.” ATLDOT has the same thing planned for this cycle of winter weather coming up as well. Smith says they are making sure they have the essential equipment in place and ensuring they have contractor support if Atlanta experiences a situation like it did last year. As far as equipment, Smith says they have great partnerships with the National Weather Service and other forecasting methods.

Media outlets had the opportunity to capture visuals of winter weather equipment, salt domes, and operational staging areas, as well as speak with department leadership about readiness strategies to ensure safe mobility during a winter weather event. Photo by Isaiah Singleton/The Atlanta Voice

“What that allows us to do is get a good feel of what’s to come. Earlier this year, we were able to get out ahead of the storm and use what is called a brine application, which is just a saltwater solution,” he said. “It lets us pretreat the roads, so when the snow falls, it has a bit harder time freezing over, which really helped us because once the snow fell, we were able to get out with our salt trucks.” Currently, ATLDOT has 11 salt trucks on

The Atlanta Department of Transportation (ATLDOT) is preparing for the winter season by ensuring it has the necessary equipment, staffing, and contractor support in place to handle any snow or ice storms, as well as pretreatments to make roads safer. Photo by Isaiah Singleton/The Atlanta Voice

hand and nine brine trucks, as well as contract support and vendors to call upon for additional resources, according to Smith. Additionally, Smith says ATLDOT does not handle interstates; the Georgia Department of Transportation does. “We handle our priority one routes and our priority two routes within the city, which are our main thoroughfares. If we do have an event that lasts a little bit longer, I believe the second event earlier this year lasted a little bit longer than we expected,” he said. “We will treat the park one route and the priority two routes, and then we will start getting into the local streets to give those residents some relief.” The last winter weather in Atlanta brought two storms, one snow and the other, ice. Smith says snow is a bit easier to deal with, while ice is much more challenging. The good thing, he says, is that ATLDOT maintains the same approach with a pre-treatment phase. “If we can get ahead of the storm and clear the roads to make it a little easier and less likely to freeze over, we will do that a lot of the time. Down in Atlanta, we normally get freezing rain a lot of the time, and that can be troublesome, but we’re always going to try to pretreat the roads ahead of time,” he said. Smith says during these winter weather storms for drivers should stay off the road and stay home, which makes their jobs easier to get out in the streets to dissolve the ice and clear the roads. “If you don’t have to be on the road, please don’t be on the roads,” he said. “I know a lot

The Atlanta Department of Transportation (ATLDOT) displayed the City’s inclement weather response preparations in advance of the 2025-2026 winter season during a press conference. Photo by Isaiah Singleton/The Atlanta Voice

of times people might want to chance it, but our advice is to watch the forecast and prepare for the worst. Stop by the grocery stores and get supplies ahead of time because the weather can change at the drop of a dime, and before you know it, you can find yourself in a slick situation.” For updates throughout the winter weather season, visit https://atldot.atlantaga.gov.

Page 4 • DECEMBER 19-25, 2025 • theatlantavoice.com

Voices

Georgia Offers a Lesson in What Black Voter Power Really Means By ALEXSIS RODGERS

FOUNDER/EDITOR Ed Clayton Immortalis Memoria

his November, Georgia delivered a message. When Black voters organize around issues that hit our wallets and our daily lives, we can change the balance of power. In a little-watched race with big consequences, Georgians elected two new members of the state’s Public Service Commission (PSC), rejecting incumbents who approved six rate hikes in just two years. The PSC isn’t a headline-grabber race, but it wields enormous influence: this five-member board decides what 2.7 million Georgia Power customers pay each month to keep the lights on. These new commissioners will serve six-year terms, shaping the cost of living for millions of Georgians. Energy Justice Became BallotBox Energy For months, we worked alongside the Black Voters Matter Fund and other partners to mobilize and educate voters about the direct link between their ballots, their bills, and the local officials who make those decisions. In Valdosta, our canvassing teams went door to door, meeting families who showed us power bills that were higher than their rent. Parents told us about having to choose between paying utility bills or buying groceries. Many had voted in presidential elections, but rarely in local ones. But this year, something shifted. As people understood that their votes could literally lower their electric bills, energy justice became ballot-box energy. When the polls closed, voter turnout in the Valdosta communities where we organized had jumped 47%. That’s what happens when you connect democracy to people’s lived experiences. The results in Georgia are proof that when Black communities, especially in rural areas, are informed, resourced, and organized, we reshape political power. For decades, many local and state-level leaders have taken Black turnout for granted while campaigns focused resources almost exclusively on big metro areas. But Georgia’s results showed that rural Black voters are key to winning and sustaining economic justice statewide.

FOUNDED May 11, 1966

PUBLISHER/EDITOR J. Lowell Ware

Immortalis Memoria The Atlanta Voice honors the life of J. Lowell Ware. ––– PUBLISHER Janis Ware PRESIDENT/ GENERAL MANAGER James A. Washington 2018-2024 EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO PUBLISHER Chia Suggs csuggs@theatlantavoice.com EDITOR IN CHIEF Donnell Suggs editor@theatlantavoice.com GENERAL ASSIGNMENT REPORTERS Isaiah Singleton isingleton@theatlantavoice.com Laura Nwogu lnwogu@theatlantavoice.com Noah Washington nwashington@theatlantavoice.com BUSINESS REPORTER Tabius McCoy tmccoy@theatlantavoice.com A down-ballot election revealed the impact of engaging voters on issues that shape daily life —from utility rates to the rising cost of living. Photo by The Atlanta Voice

A National Story of Growing Black Political Power Georgia’s election was part of a larger story about Black political power nationwide. Across the country, Black voters played decisive roles in Tuesday’s contests from New York City to the Deep South. New York recorded its highest mayoral turnout in decades, with nearly 2 million votes cast. Exit polls show that 84% of young Black voters supported Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani, helping drive his victory and underscoring the growing civic engagement of Black youth. Similar patterns emerged in New Jersey, Virginia, California, and key Southern cities, where Black turnout was pivotal in tight races and coalition‑building efforts. In many of these communities, economic inequity, rising cost of living, and inflation were top issues motivating voters. The victories in Georgia also underscore something national strategists often overlook: lower-profile races like the Public Service

Commission can have concrete, kitchen-table impacts on Black households. When people understand that, they show up, and when they show up, we win. A Starting Point for Sustained Power The results are a milestone and a starting point. For too long, government agencies like the PSC have operated with little public accountability — despite their power to make decisions that shape everyday lives. That time is over. The newly elected Public Service Commission members now must reverse course from the Commission’s recent actions and make energy affordability a top priority. Communities are watching. Black voters in Georgia proved that local democracy works when everyone has the tools to participate fully. But our job isn’t done. At Black to the Future Action Fund, we’ll continue organizing to ensure the PSC delivers on its promises and that communities

remain at the table when major economic decisions are made. Beyond Georgia, the lesson is simple: If we want to build sustained Black civic and political power, we must invest in local organizing year-round, not only in campaign season. It means supporting programs that connect civic engagement to real issues, like the rising cost of energy, access to housing, food insecurity, and the growing burden of inflation on working families. And it means treating Black voters not as a turnout metric, but as partners in designing and leading policy solutions that work for everyone. Georgia’s Black voters showed us what’s possible when we connect civic participation to collective struggles and individuals’ agency. The next step is to turn that momentum into sustained power, one election and one issue at a time. Alexsis Rodgers is the political director for the Black to the Future Action Fund.

EDITOR AT LARGE Stan Washington swashington@theatlantavoice.com –––

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theatlantavoice.com • DECEMBER 19-25, 2025 • Page 5

GIVING BACK Continued from page 2 TUCKER, GA. - Later that day, Atlanta Falcons rookie Jalon Walker is planning to host a coat and toy drive back in his hometown of Salisbury, North Carolina on December 23. But first, he took time to give back to his adopted home of metro Atlanta. On Tuesday morning, Walker helped distribute bags of nonperishable food and wrapped gifts to local families in Tucker. Wearing a navy blue sweatsuit and a wide smile, Walker greeted people and posed for photos in between filling trunks outside of Rehoboth Baptist Church. He told The Atlanta Voice that giving back brings “a smile to my heart.” “It’s always great to give back. It never gets old,” Walker said. “Seeing that smile on people’s faces, especially this time of year.” Along with the host organization, United Health Care Community Plan of Georgia, Walker, staff members, and volunteers served over 250 people. Falcons mascot Freddie the Falcon and a pair of Falcons cheerleaders were also on hand to help. MARIETTA, GA. - Comcast partnered with Girls Inc. of Greater (GIGA)Atlanta to host the 6th annual Brunch with Santa, a holiday event for 150 children, ages 6-17, and their families from across Cobb County. The festive community celebration blended holiday festivities with hands-on STEM learning, digital skills-building, and family support services. The STEM activities included deciphering Jr. engineer secret codes, creating digital Christmas cards and binary code candy canes, and making L.E.D. circuit ornaments. For that activity, kids were dying copper tape to create a pathway for the circuit on their ornaments. In each of the rooms, tables were full of kids working on their projects. The brunch took place at the GIGA Marietta Center, where the event was so well-attended by parents and kids who pre-registered that the parking had to be extended to a small lot up the street. Along with the breakfast and STEM training, the three-hour event included a surprise for the kids in attendance.

Warrick Dunn (right with check) gives a new home owner a check and the keys to the 250th “Home for the Holidays” as part of the Warrick Dunn Foundation and Aaaron’s decades-old partnership. Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice

“This is important because Girls Inc. started to build safe spaces for girls in the community,” Girls Inc. Chief Executive Officer Tiffany Colli-Bailey said. “An event like this circles right back around to why we began.” A check presentation took place, where Comcast’s Director of Government Affairs, Shaneak Brown, announced a $30,000 grant from the tech company to Girls Inc. The 150 kids who completed their STEM training that morning were also awarded brand new laptops. “Just seeing this room full is why we love supporting this event,” Brown said as she stood in front of a table loaded down with laptops ready for distribution. Along with The Atlanta Voice, local radio station 1380 WAOK was also in attendance to cover the event. Girls Inc. is preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026. At the same time, The Atlanta Voice will be celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2026.

Atlanta Falcons rookie end Jalon Walker (center) volunteered to distribute gifts and food at Rehoboth Baptist Church in Tucker on Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

A mother and daughter share a hug inside the Kroger on Wesley Chapel Rd. on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. The pair received a gift card moments later. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

Page 6 • DECEMBER 19-25, 2025 • theatlantavoice.com

Life

Usher joins Carversations premiere to discuss social media and parenting By TABIUS McCOY Report for America Corp

hursday evening at Pullman Yards drew a crowd of adults, parents, and children, from grade-schoolers to teens, for the premiere of Carversations, Instagram’s new series that focuses on fostering honest conversations between parents and teens about social media and online life. The series is designed to make these discussions feel more approachable. Grammy-winning singer Usher was the featured guest of the night, joining a panel with his sons, Naviyd Ely Raymond and Usher Raymond V. The discussion, moderated by radio personality Kenny Burns, focused on the challenges families face in a world increasingly influenced by social media. Usher shared his perspective on parenting and the lessons he has learned along the way. “The hardest conversation I have to have with my kids is the opinions of others—they don’t define you,” he said. “You can learn from them [his kids] and not let the trauma of our past determine how they turn out.” His sons also contributed, offering their own experiences growing up in the prime of social media. Kristin Hendrix, Meta’s VP of Strategic Partnerships for Trust and Safety, explained the purpose behind Carversations, saying the series is designed to help parents navigate online safety, screen time, and digital boundaries alongside their teens. By having these conversations side by side, sometimes even in a car, parents and teens can address topics that might otherwise be difficult to start. “Technology isn’t going anywhere,” Hendrix said, “and these conversations shouldn’t either.” She highlighted Meta’s family-focused tools, including teen accounts with default privacy settings, parent supervision features, and content moderation options for younger users, which aim to give parents insight into their teens’ online habits while still allowing teens space to explore safely. The first episode also underscored that these conversations are ongoing. Parents had the opportunity to

Grammy-winning singer Usher was the featured guest of the night, joining a panel with his sons, Naviyd Ely Raymond and Usher Raymond V. Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice

see how their teens view the digital world, and teens could share their perspectives without fear of judgment. Hendrix added that seeing figures like Usher engage with their children openly can serve as an example and encourage families to have similar discussions at home. Overall, Carversations gave

attendees insight into bridging generational gaps in a digital age. By showing how parents and teens can communicate openly about social media and online life, the series demonstrated that these talks, while sometimes challenging, can be constructive and meaningful later on.

Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice

Grammy-winning singer Usher joined his sons and Meta’s VP of Strategic Partnerships for Trust and Safety at the premiere of Instagram’s new series Carversations to discuss the challenges families face in the digital age and how to have constructive conversations about social media and online life. Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice

theatlantavoice.com • DECEMBER 19-25, 2025 • Page 7

Food

Lewis Barbecue brings Texas flavors to Atlanta By LAURA NWOGU

he Lowcountry’s Lewis Barbecue is making its debut in Atlanta on Dec. 8, bringing the flavors of award-winning Central Texas-style barbecue to the heart of Georgia. Located in Ansley Mall and connected to the BeltLine, owner and pitmaster John Lewis is spreading his love of smoked meats to the South. The opening of an Atlanta location marks the third Lewis Barbecue location, following those in Charleston and Greenville, South Carolina. From juicy and tender sliced prime beef brisket, pork spare ribs and turkey breast to sides such as collard greens, green chile corn pudding, and cowboy pinto beans, diners can expect a variety of dishes to create their perfect spread, whether they’re dining in indoors or on the patio or grabbing takeaway from the to-go counter located on the side of the building. The menu also features sandwiches and weekly lunch specials. The magic behind these dishes is what Lewis calls the first-of-its-kind rooftop smokehouse. A set of steps takes you up to the rooftop where six custom-designed smokers sit. Lewis began his passion project of designing and constructing his own smokers at the age of 18, launching

Located in Ansley Mall and connected to the BeltLine, owner and pitmaster John Lewis is spreading his love of smoked meats to the South. Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice

a culinary journey steeped in the tradition and creativity of barbecue. Twenty-two feet long and made of decommissioned 1000-gallon propane tanks, the smokers run 24 hours a day in three shifts. Pitmasters regularly stoke the fires with wood logs imported from Central Texas, ensuring every step of the process is a nod to Lewis’ Texas roots. Lewis said he’s not in the business of long lines and making people wait for their food, so his focus is on making sure the meats are fresh and never-ending. “A lot of it is trade secrets that I’ve developed. Those barbecue pits that I design and build,

The Lowcountry’s Lewis Barbecue is making its debut in Atlanta on Dec. 8. Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice

you can’t buy those anywhere,” Lewis said. “It was years of trial and error, building different types of barbecue pits. Brisket will come off better in those pits than any other barbecue pit.” The restaurant also features a bar located right across from the main building. While Lewis described the dining area as a “Texas dancehall,” he described Bar Lewis as a stop

at a motor lodge on Route 66. Designed with his help, it features a bar that takes up almost the entire extent of the building with cozy nooks where guests can enjoy a drink, bar bites and socialize. “My biggest thing is consistency, that no matter what day of the week or what time you come, everything will be fresh off the pit.”

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Page 8 • DECEMBER 19-25, 2025 • theatlantavoice.com

Politics

Senate study on impact of social media and AI on kids By DONNELL SUGGS

he 2026 Georgia Legislative session is still a month away, but there are still discussions to be had on the Senate floor. On Wednesday, December 10, a study committee led by Senate Co-Chairs Sally Harrell (D-District 40) and Shawn Still (R-District 48),alongside committee members Marty Harbin (R16), Sheikh Rahman (D-5), and Ed Setzler (R-37 ) explored the impact of social media and AI on children. During the public meeting, which was held in room 450 of the State Capitol, platform privacy protections were also discussed. “We are very optimistic that we are going to have some legislation to protect our kids in this state,” said Still. According to data in the report, the average time a child spends on their cellphones, whether on social media or communicating, is five hours. The committee is made up of parents and grandparents. “Our kids instead are online constantly in a defensive state,” Harrell. “This comes at a great cost for our kids.” The report brought forth by the committee featured five topics that made up the most important chapters. Those topics included education, parental controls, social media and gaming, privacy and design, and digital ownership. One component of the report will address extending the bell-to-bell cellphone restrictions that were put in place last year to include high school students. The report was unanimously approved by the committee during the half-hour meeting. “This is going to be a bipartisan bill,” Still said. Following the unanimous approval of the report, which now has to make its way down the pathway that is the Georgia Legislature, Still said there has already been internal and external pushback about the report and to expect more. “This will be one of the last times we are together and unscathed,” he said. “The technology companies don’t want this.” Rahman added, “We need to protect our children and hopefully this becomes a bipartisan bill.” After the meeting, Rahman told The Atlanta Voice about social media, “Our children know a lot more than we will ever know. Things change so fast.” The first Muslim lawmaker in Georgia, Rahman, stated that in private, tech companies and their representatives have expressed equal concern for young people on social media and the use of artificial intelligence. Still, in private, they don’t want bills like the one the committee will push forward to succeed. “The stock prices are their concern,” he said. “It’s about greed for them. We are

On Wednesday, December 10, a study committee led by Senate Co-Chairs Sally Harrell (center, D-District 40) and Shawn Still ( to her right, R-District 48), alongside committee members Marty Harbin (R-16), Sheikh Rahman (D-5), and Ed Setzler (R-37 ) explored the impact of social media and AI on children. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

looking to protect our children. We are going to need support from the people.” Janice Mathis was sitting in the gallery, taking notes and nodding along with the senators as they spoke about why the report, and ultimately a bill, was critical. A grandmother of a 13-year-old boy, Mathis, knows how much time her grandson spends on his phone and online. She, too, is concerned. “He’s a smart kid, but I worry that the time spent crowds out the other things he likes to do,” Mathis, an employee at Clark Atlanta University and a lawyer, said. In many cases, the amount of social media dependence has nothing to do with the quality of parenting, said Setzler. “This report is a responsibility scheme, not a regulatory scheme,” he said. “It’s not either or, it’s both and.” In 2026, an election year in which key Georgia seats, including the governor’s, are up for grabs, there will be many topics on the table this coming legislative session. Despite the Capitol being split by two Republican chambers, there might not be as much agreement as that would lead people to believe. This is also the final legislative session for current Republican Georgia Governor Brian Kemp. It may also be the final session for current State Senators Ruwa Romman (D-97) and Derrick Jackson (D68), who are running for Governor. Former State Senators Jason Esteves (D-35) and John F. Kennedy (R-18) are no longer holding their respective seats as they focus on campaigns for governor and lieutenant governor, respectively. “We are at a critical point when we can either turn this around or it’s going to get worse,” Harrell said.

“We need to protect our children, and hopefully this becomes a bipartisan bill,” said Sheikh Rahman (D-5) (right). Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

theatlantavoice.com • DECEMBER 19-25, 2025 • Page 9

Local

Chamblee reopens Dresden Park after 18-month renovation By NOAH WASHINGTON

he sun shined and unseasonable warmth pushed aside December’s usual cold Saturday as Chamblee celebrated the reopening of Dresden Park. The City of Chamblee officially reopened Dresden Park on Saturday, Dec. 13, after 18 months of construction, marking the completion of a sweeping, multimillion-dollar renovation that city leaders say reflects both long-term infrastructure investment and the cultural identity of the surrounding community. The ribbon-cutting ceremony, held at the 24-acre park on Dresden Drive, drew residents, city officials and community advocates to celebrate the transformation of one of Chamblee’s most visible public spaces. The project was funded primarily through $10.8 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds, which city officials said were critical to bringing the redevelopment to completion. The renovated park now features a three-tier playground, artificially turfed rectangular fields, tennis courts, a dog park, walking trails, new lighting, terraced seating, a pavilion, expanded parking and a new community center intended to host after-school programs, public meetings and neighborhood events .

Mayor Brian Mock said the reopening represents years of planning, persistence and coordination between city leadership and residents. He noted that even before the city formally assumed control of the park, local officials recognized the need for significant reinvestment. “This isn’t just a park,” Mock said. “If it wasn’t for the American Rescue Plan, we would not be standing here today amongst this incredible new property,” he said, adding that early phases of the project focused on stabilizing the site itself, including more than a year of streambank restoration to prevent erosion and flooding . According to Mock, the scope of the renovation expanded as planning progressed. City leaders identified the need for a dedicated community building, ultimately allocating an additional $2 million from city funds to construct the center now located within the park. “Where is the place where our residents, our neighbors, can gather?” Mock said. “Where can kids have after-school camps? Where can we have community meetings? The building behind us is that answer,” he said . City officials also emphasized that the reopening marks a milestone rather than an endpoint. Future phases include expanded sidewalks, additional trail segments and

long-term plans to connect Dresden Park to a larger regional network of greenways and pedestrian paths, including the Peachtree Greenway, allowing residents to travel safely between neighborhoods without relying on roadways . As part of the reopening celebration, the city unveiled a new public art installation titled Project Monarch: The Flight of Fortitude (Proyecto Monarca: El Vuelo de la Fortaleza) by Georgia-based sculptor William Massey. The monarch butterfly sculpture, fabricated from reclaimed metal, was shaped through a community-driven process that included interviews and storytelling sessions with local residents, particularly from Chamblee’s immigrant communities. The approach reflects the city’s demographics, where nearly 39% of residents identify as Hispanic or Latino, making the monarch a culturally resonant symbol of movement. “I’m not a fan of an artist saying, ‘This is what should be here,’” Massey said. “I want to ask the community. You tell me what represents you. You’re looking at it every day,” he said . Massey said the monarch butterfly emerged organically during conversations with residents as a shared symbol of movement, perseverance and hope, particularly within Latin American and Spanish-speaking

cultures. The piece took nearly two years to bring from concept to completion. Community liaison Tony Guerrero, who helped gather stories and perspectives for the artwork, said the sculpture reflects lived experiences often overlooked in public spaces. “No one migrates for fun,” Guerrero told attendees. “People migrate because staying costs more than living, because what lies ahead carries more hope than what was left behind. The monarch reminds us that borders may divide land, but they do not divide humanity. City officials said the combination of recreational amenities, infrastructure investment and culturally responsive public art positions Dresden Park as a central gathering place for one of Chamblee’s most diverse neighborhoods. “This isn’t just a park,” Mayor Brian Mock said. “We wanted a place where our residents and neighbors can gather, where kids can have after-school camps, where we can hold community meetings and really make this the heart of the community” Officials encouraged residents to explore the park, participate in upcoming programming and view the installation as a symbol of Chamblee’s evolving identity. “This park reflects who we are now,” Mock said, “and where we’re going.”

Entertainment

Raekwon and Havoc celebrate 30 years of hip-hop By DONNELL SUGGS

u-Tang Clan’s Raekwon and Mobb Deep’s Havoc hit the stage at Tabernacle on Thursday, Dec. 11. The tour stop was a celebration of three decades of hip-hop music and New York rap at its finest. From start to finish, the crowd was into the show for every minute. Raekwon’s debut studio album, “Only Built For Cuban Linx,” was released on August 1, 1995, on Loud and RCA Records. Long before buying music involved tapping screens on your phone, albums were readily available in cassette form and could be purchased at your local Sam Goody. In New York City, they were also available at Beat Street, located in downtown Brooklyn. That’s where I bought the purple tape. If you know, you know. “Cuban Linx” was distributed on a purple cassette, and not only did it look like nothing I had ever seen before, but it also sounded original in its own right. That music blasted from the speakers, and it felt nostalgic, according to Raekwon. “I’m feeling like I’m 17 years old right now,” he said, followed by a laugh. “What’s going on, I’m 56.” Raekwin performed verses from “Glaciers

of Ice,” “Verbal Intercourse,” and the classic, “Heaven & Hell.” Mobb Deep’s second studio album, “The Infamous,” hit the streets on April 25, 1995. Hit songs from the album include “Survival of the Fittest,” “Eye for an Eye,” and the timeless track “Shook Ones Part II.” The latter remains one of the signature rap songs of the ‘90s. All of those songs and more were performed on this night. Both albums were brought to life despite the absence of Prodigy, the other half of Mobb Deep. Prodigy passed away in Las Vegas in 2017 at the age of 42. His signature flow, combined with Havoc’s production, was a key factor in the group’s consistent success, resulting in gold and platinum albums. The set list also included “Right Back at You,” which featured Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, and Big Noyd, who accompanied Havoc on some songs while on stage. The show was a New York show through and through. The special guests for the evening included Benny the Butcher, Cormega, and Mr. Cheeks. Each performed verses from popular songs, and all three were roundly applauded while on stage. When Cheeks performed two verses of “Lights, Camera, Action,” the hardcore hip hop show turned into a dance party.

The tour has already made stops in Portland, San Diego, Los Angeles, Denver, Houston, Dallas, Chicago, and Detroit. There are dates in St. Petersburg and Miami after this show in Atlanta. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

During the show, which was scheduled to start at 8 p.m. but began at 9 p.m., Raekwon and Havoc performed songs not featured on their albums. On “It’s Mine” off the platinum-selling “Murda Muzik” album, Havoc performed his verse and brought the already standing crowd further on its feet. There was a moment where it felt like prodigy was in the room when DJ Scratch played the beat to one of the new songs off the latest and most likely last Mobb Deep

album, “The Infinite.” Prodigy’s verse on “Against the World” was rapped by the crowd word for word. “One finger in the air for Prodigy,” said Havoc. “It’s Mobb Deep against the world.” The tour has already made stops in Portland, San Diego, Los Angeles, Denver, Houston, Dallas, Chicago, and Detroit. There are dates in St. Petersburg and Miami after this show in Atlanta. If they are lucky, it will be as good as this one was.

Page 10 • DECEMBER 19-25, 2025 • theatlantavoice.com

Sports

Atlanta Falcons have plenty to play for heading into final three games By DONNELL SUGGS First, there was a one-point win over rival Tampa Bay on Thursday Night Football, and now there are three more opportunities to potentially spoil other teams’ seasons. The Atlanta Falcons (5-9 overall) will be back in action in Arizona against the Cardinals on Sunday, December 21, and with no playoff hopes in sight, there’s still something to play for. Atlanta will be without quarterback Michael Penix, Jr., the rest of the way, but that hasn’t stopped several Falcons from having career years. Running back Bijan Robinson is on pace for a 2,000-yard season from scrimmage despite only having four 100-yard rushing games this season. He had 93 yards rushing on Thursday night. With that, Robinson currently has 1,174 rushing yards (fourth in the NFL) and 684 receiving yards. Robinson is currently among the top 25 in receptions and is behind only San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (86) for the top spot among running backs. Tight end Kyle Pitts, Sr., much maligned for his play and overall effort during his four years with the Falcons, is also in the midst of a strong season. Pitts, with 73 receptions, is third amongst tight ends in receptions behind the Arizona Cardinals tight end Trey McBride (105) and Dallas Cowboys tight end

Falcons running back Bijan Robinson (above) is currently among the top 25 in receptions and is behind only San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (86) for the top spot among running backs. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

Jake Ferguson (77). An argument can be made that McBride and Ferguson are featured targets for their teams, where Pitts, Sr. has only recently become a primary target for the current Falcons starting quarterback, Kirk Cousins, over the past few weeks. On Thursday night in Tampa, Pitts

finished the game with 11 catches for 166 yards and three touchdowns. All were season highs by a long shot. A week earlier, in a loss to Seattle, Pitts had six catches, and he had seven during a road loss at the New York Jets. Before the season highs against Tampa, Pitts had a nine-reception game against the

Dolphins in a blowout loss at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on October 26. Falcons rookie defensive end Jalon Walker said he wanted to finish his rookie season on a high note. Asked if winning the final three games of the year would be an efficient high note, Walker, who was volunteering at a holiday event in Tucker on Tuesday, said, “That’s my goal. That’s how I want to end the last chapter of my rookie season.” Walker, a former University of Georgia standout, has 5.5 sacks and 21 tackles this season. His fellow rookie and first-round pick, James Pearce, Jr., has eight sacks. The Falcons will close the 2025 regular season with back-to-back games at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, beginning with a meeting with one of the best teams in the NFC (at least on paper), the Los Angeles Rams. It will be a reunion of sorts for Falcons head coach Raheem Morris, who was the Rams’ defensive coordinator before taking the job with the Falcons two seasons ago. The Rams are 11-3 and looking for a bye to start their playoff run. Atlanta, on the other hand, will be looking to get over .500 at home. The Falcons are 2-4 in The Benz and can even out that record and end the season on a high note with wins over the Rams and rival New Orleans Saints in the season finale on January 4.

Sports

Braves Fest 2026 free tickets are available now By DONNELL SUGGS

he annual preseason celebration of all things Atlanta Braves will be here before you know it, and the free tickets are available now, according to a recent release by the franchise. Braves Fest 2026, which takes place at Truist Park and The Battery and features free events, interactions with former Atlanta Braves players, and more, won’t take place until Saturday, January 31. However, free tickets to the event are available here. Along with the live entertainment that takes place at Braves Fest, there will be photo sessions, Q&A panels, and an MLB The Show live competition for the gamers and fans of the popular video game. Braves Fest offers the casual baseball fan and the diehard Braves superfan the chance to experience the energy of Major League Baseball before the team departs for spring training at CoolToday Park in North Port, Florida. Pitchers and catchers are scheduled to report for spring training in early February.

The season opener for the Braves against the Kansas City Royals will take place on Friday, March 27, at Truist Park (7:15 p.m. first pitch). There will also be a few new wrinkles to Braves Fest. The opportunity to welcome the players participating in Braves Fest during the player walk & rally will kick off the daylong celebration. Fans can sit in on a recording of the Behind the Braves podcast and the Braves Country Convos podcast. The latter will be making its debut at Braves Fest. Both shows will feature special guests and what the release describes as “special moments.” Along with the food and drinks that are sold at The Battery, there will also be a paint & sip with the Braves. Braves Bingo, baseball & softball instructional clinics, and a content creation corner are also scheduled to take place. Tickets to the autograph sessions with Braves players and coaches go on sale (keyword: SALE) a few weeks before Braves Fest begins on Wednesday, January 7. Braves Fest is presented by Delta Air Lines, and all proceeds will benefit the Atlanta Braves Foundation.

Braves’ Fest 2026 tickets are available now. The event will take place at Truist Park and The Battery on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

Page 11 • DECEMBER 19-25, 2025 • theatlantavoice.com

Health

Faulty Glucose Monitors Linked to Deadly Errors By JENNIFER PORTER GORE Word In Black

medical device manufacturer is warning that certain models of its glucose monitors may be giving users erroneous readings, a malfunction that it says is responsible for seven deaths and more than 700 injuries worldwide. The diabetes care division of the manufacturer, Abbott Laboratories, issued an announcement stating that faulty readings from its FreeStyle Libre 3 and FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensors could lead people with diabetes to mismanage their disease due to incorrect information. Misleading Readings Customers who confirm their device is affected “should immediately discontinue use and dispose of it,” according to a

company press release. The mishap, it said, has led to an estimated 736 serious injuries and 7 deaths worldwide as of its November 24 announcement. More than 38 million children and adults, or 11.6% of the total U.S. population, had been diagnosed with diabetes as of 2021, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Almost 15% of all adults, and just over 12% of all Black Americans, are diabetic. Last week, FDA officials warned that falsely low glucose readings could lead people with diabetes to make decisions about diet or insulin that trigger bad outcomes. These could range from eating too many carbohydrates or skipping or delaying insulin doses. Mismanaging blood glucose can result in serious illness or hospitalization. Almost 9 million U.S. adults who tested as having the disease were unaware or did not report having it. People with diabetes

DECEMBER 19-25, 2025 • www.theatlantavoice.com

SENIORS

are advised to use a fingerstick test if their symptoms don’t match what their glucose monitor indicates. Individuals should adjust the treatment decisions accordingly and quickly contact a healthcare professional if needed. Check Serial Numbers Abbott Diabetes Care has warned that roughly 3 million of the sensors in question could give users false low glucose readings. Approximately half of those devices are estimated to have expired or been used, Abbott said. The company will replace any potentially affected sensors free of charge. Consumers wearing a FreeStyle Libre 3 or FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor can find the serial number in the app or reader. The serial number could also be on the label on the bottom of the sensor applicator or carton. The affected model numbers are the

FreeStyle Libre 3 sensors with model numbers 72080-01. The FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensors have model numbers 78768-01 and 78769-01 and unique device identifiers 00357599844011 and 00357599843014. Website Available For sensors connected to an insulin delivery device, check the connected insulin delivery device user manual on how to locate the sensor serial number. Consumers can also confirm if current or unused sensors are affected by visiting Abbott’s website and selecting “Confirm Your Sensor Serial Number.” Be sure to select “United States,” or the country where you purchased the device, from the dropdown menu that’s at the very top right of the site. The company’s customer service is also available at 1-833-815-4273, available seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EDT.

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Page 12 • DECEMBER 19-25, 2025 • theatlantavoice.com