Staff Report, Author at The Atlanta Voice https://theatlantavoice.com Your Atlanta GA News Source Wed, 17 Jan 2024 14:22:03 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://theatlantavoice.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/cropped-Brand-Icon-32x32.png Staff Report, Author at The Atlanta Voice https://theatlantavoice.com 32 32 200573006 Atlanta mourns the loss of Diane Larché, successful businesswoman and PR representative https://theatlantavoice.com/diane-larche-atlanta-businesswoman/ Tue, 16 Jan 2024 19:34:44 +0000 https://theatlantavoice.com/?p=153484

Diane Larché, owner of Larché Communications and Footittr specialty shoe store, died at the age of 65 after battling pancreatic cancer.

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Atlanta businesswoman Diane Larché died on Friday, January 12, at the age of 65, after battling pancreatic cancer. Larché was the owner of Larché Communications, an Atlanta-based public relations agency that she operated for over 20 years.

Larché also owned Footittr specialty shoe store with her husband Joseph Larché. 

During her decades working in public relations, marketing, and advertising, Larché was able to represent many clients in politics, entertainment, and sports, including Home Box Office (HBO); Dallas Mavericks Guard Jason Terry (formerly of the Atlanta Hawks); S.T.E.P.S. Events Planning Firm President & CEO Jamahl King; Divine Mill/ Warner Bros. Recording artist Jaheim; 2001 NAACP Image Award nominated actress Krysten Leigh Jones of the blockbuster movie Remember The Titans; and more. 

Larché was not only considered a successful businesswoman but an important member of the Atlanta community. She was also a dear friend to The Atlanta Voice and a huge supporter of the Black Press. 

A native of Philadelphia, Larche earned bachelor’s degrees in English and Political Science from the University of Pittsburgh and a Certificate in Publishing from Howard University. She started her career as a newspaper and radio journalist. 

While in Pittsburgh, she served as a founder and former board member of the National Association of Black Journalists Pittsburgh Chapter. Larche was also a member of the Atlanta Association of Black Journalists, Public Relations Society of America, Atlanta Sports Council, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, Atlanta Press Club, Junior League of Atlanta, Inc., and Atlanta Commission on Women. 

At the time of her passing,  Larché was the founding and current president of the Greater Atlanta Section of the National Council of Negro (NCNW), the largest section ever to be chartered in the 83-year history of NCNW.

She served on the board of directors of the League of Women Voters of Atlanta-Fulton County, the National Association of Black Cardiologists Center For Women’s Health, and the Lupus Foundation of America, Georgia Chapter.

Larché was also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Atlanta Alumnae Chapter and Ben Hill United Methodist Church.

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Amerigroup Georgia invests in Thomas W. Dortch Jr. Foundation’s efforts to develop minority leaders https://theatlantavoice.com/twd-investment-amerigroup-georgia/ Fri, 12 Jan 2024 14:19:27 +0000 https://theatlantavoice.com/?p=153653

The Thomas W. Dortch Jr. Foundation has received a $200,000 investment from Amerigroup Georgia to support and expand its educational programs focused on financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment.

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The Thomas W. Dortch Jr. Foundation (TWD) recently announced a significant investment of $200,000 from Amerigroup Georgia. This investment will advance their mission of supporting and developing a new generation of leaders from underserved and minority communities. Amerigroup’s donation will help to grow and expand TWD’s various educational programs for students, focused on financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment.

“With the support of community partners like Amerigroup Georgia, we continue to develop programming and educational opportunities that empower young people with the tools, resources, and support they need to make a lasting impact in their own communities,” said the Chairman of the Board, Emmanuel Lewis. “These programs extend beyond their immediate participants. We are developing leaders that are dedicated to revitalizing, developing, and ensuring the prosperity of their local communities by providing them skills to bring about positive change.”TWD’s programs feature a mix of interactive lessons, practical activities, and business simulations to ensure students have the knowledge and skills that are essential to informed financial decision-making and entrepreneurship. Continuing the legacy and vision of Founder and Chairman Emeritus Thomas W. Dortch Jr., TWD focuses its programming on personal finance, budgeting, investment strategies, and entrepreneurial opportunities, with the intent that students will use these skills to make a positive impact in their local communities.

“Financial literacy and overall health are closely connected, influencing mental and physical well-being, relationships, work, and long-term financial stability. Providing financial and economic education can have widespread positive effects on individuals and their communities,” said Mel Lindsey, President, Amerigroup Georgia. “Amerigroup is proud to support the Thomas W. Dortch, Jr. Foundation’s efforts to make their educational programming available to everyone. This investment reflects our ongoing commitment to address all aspects of the social drivers of health affecting communities’ well-being.”In 2023 alone, Amerigroup has invested over $5 million across Georgia to support various initiatives, programs, and partnerships that improve the health and well-being of communities throughout the state.

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Atlanta music entrepreneur tapped to teach at Georgia State University https://theatlantavoice.com/atlanta-music-entrepreneur-tapped-to-teach-at-georgia-state-university/ Mon, 08 Jan 2024 18:51:59 +0000 https://theatlantavoice.com/?p=147274

Georgia State University recently appointed Atlanta music entrepreneur and professional, Richard Dunn, to instruct its new Touring & Concert Management course, which is being offered for the institution’s Spring semester at its School of Music. The inaugural course will last for 16 weeks.  Dunn currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) for The Atlanta […]

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Georgia State University recently appointed Atlanta music entrepreneur and professional, Richard Dunn, to instruct its new Touring & Concert Management course, which is being offered for the institution’s Spring semester at its School of Music. The inaugural course will last for 16 weeks. 

Dunn currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) for The Atlanta Voice, one of Atlanta’s oldest Black-owned newspapers founded in 1966 by his grandfather J. Lowell Ware. 

“It’s truly an honor to be able to use my decades of experience in the music industry to educate the next generation,” Dunn said. “It’s an even bigger blessing that I get to do it at Georgia State University, which is one of the biggest colleges in the state of Georgia located right in the heart of my hometown Atlanta. I never thought that my passion for music and the things that I did professionally in the music industry would allow me this opportunity.”

Offered to undergraduates, the course will consist of teaching students about the relevant financial and business decisions when planning and operating a tour, booking live gigs, event and venue management, and interacting with booking agencies and artist managers.

An Atlanta native, Dunn’s impact in the music industry spans over 20 years. He is mostly known for the Muddy Water Group, a company he started in 2007 that specialized in artist bookings, grassroots promotion, project management, digital marketing, artist management, and general entertainment consulting. 

Prior to the Muddy Water Group, he co-founded Groovement Inc., an artist management and event production company that focused on the soul scene. The company helped launch the career of Indie Arie. 

He later partnered with Michael McQuary (co-founder of Mindspring) to start Brash Music in 2004.  Brash Music served as an indie label that included the likes of ColdPlay, PJ Morton, Aaron Shust, and Anthony David. 

“I am thrilled to have Richard Dunn join our music industry faculty here at GSU,” said Al Thrash, a program coordinator and Professor of Practice in Music Management for the School of Music at Georgia State University. “Our students will benefit greatly from his wealth of knowledge and experience in the touring and live music production space.  Richard has played a major role in the success of countless artists, and he embodies both the business and creative culture of Atlanta that continues to influence the rest of the world.”

Dunn’s accomplishments in entertainment continue as he most recently served as Film/TV & Brand Sync A&R for United Masters.

He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Pinky Cole Foundation, ATL Collective and ReimangineATLl.  He also is the Head of Cultural Development at RYSE Creative Village.

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Hawks Announce GRAMMY Award-Winning Artist Killer Mike to Perform at Halftime as Part of ‘MLK Game Presented by Chase’ https://theatlantavoice.com/killer-mike-hawks-mlk-game/ Mon, 08 Jan 2024 15:23:44 +0000 https://theatlantavoice.com/?p=146523

The Atlanta Hawks today announced their plans to host their annual ‘MLK Game presented by Chase’ at the award-winning State Farm Arena on Monday, Jan. 15. Nominated for the Best Rap Album, Best Rap Performance and Best Rap Song at this year’s 66th GRAMMY® Awards, hip-hop icon and Atlanta native Killer Mike will perform a special […]

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The Atlanta Hawks today announced their plans to host their annual ‘MLK Game presented by Chase’ at the award-winning State Farm Arena on Monday, Jan. 15. Nominated for the Best Rap Album, Best Rap Performance and Best Rap Song at this year’s 66th GRAMMY® Awards, hip-hop icon and Atlanta native Killer Mike will perform a special tribute at halftime which will celebrate and honor the life and legacy of Atlanta’s most favored son, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. All fans in attendance will receive a Hawks-branded tote bag courtesy of Chase.

During warm-ups, Hawks players and staff will join teams throughout the league in wearing special MLK shooting shirts that feature a quote from Dr. King. The Hawks, who will wear their Fly City Edition uniforms, are set to play San Antonio at 3:30 p.m. Limited tickets remain for this game and purchased at Hawks.com/tickets.

“As an Atlanta native and fellow Morehouse Man who is also a Hawks fan, performing for Atlanta during the MLK celebration is the homecoming dream of a lifetime,” said Killer Mike.

Killer Mike gets recognized for many things – being an Outkast protégé, a member of rap powerhouse Run The Jewels, one of Atlanta’s biggest advocates and, perhaps most importantly, a voice of reason in an increasingly insane world. Some might know one or two of those sides of Mike, but with his new album ‘MICHAEL’ he has finally introduced the world to the totality of Michael Render. Killer Mike has a growing empire of barbershops, including one at State Farm Arena, where fans can get a cut and a shave in the S.W.A.G. Shop, a four-chair barbershop that overlooks the court.

“We are beyond excited to have world-renowned and Atlanta’s own Killer Mike perform as part of this special annual MLK Game presented by Chase,” said Melissa Proctor, Chief Marketing Officer for the Hawks and State Farm Arena. “We encourage Hawks’ fans to come downtown for the early afternoon tipoff to and join us in celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.”

Prior to the game, the Hawks are hosting a special panel at 1:45 p.m. presented by Chase titled, “A Transparent Conversation About Homeownership in Atlanta” featuring panelists Terri M. Lee (Chief Operating Officer, Atlanta Housing), Corey Mason (Head of Chase Home Lending for Atlanta) and Latresa McLawhorn Ryan (Chief Executive Officer, Blackbird Strategy Group). Chase is the official bank, credit card, wealth management and investment banking partner of the Hawks and State Farm Arena. Moderated by Rohit Malhotra (Founder and Executive Director, Center for Civic Innovation), the panel will focus on how to increase home ownership rates among Black Americans in the Atlanta area. This discussion will be open to fans who have a ticket for the game and have RSVP’d to attend the panel. Fans who purchase tickets will receive an invite link to RSVP. The panel will also be livestreamed at Hawks.com/stream.

“Chase is honored to stand alongside the Atlanta Hawks and Killer Mike to pay tribute to the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by actively championing the path to financial freedom for all,” said Corey Mason, Head of Home Lending for Chase in Atlanta. “Our pregame panel aims to enlighten Hawks fans about homeownership, emphasizing its role as the cornerstone of building robust communities and fostering generational wealth.”

To tip off the festivities, the Clark Atlanta University Philharmonic Society will sing the Hawks’ player introductions along with the national anthem.

During the game and through social recognition, the Hawks and Chase will honor local Black and woman-owned marketing and communications firm, Communiqué USA. Communiqué USA provides flexible marketing and communications services for corporations in need of relief for their overworked and understaffed teams.

In honor of recognizing the courageous activism of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Olympian Dr. Tommie Smith will also be honored by the Hawks during the game. Dr. Smith along with fellow American John Carlos, placed gold and bronze respectively in the 200-meter race at the 1968 Mexico City games. Standing on the medal podium, Dr. Smith and Mr. Carlos, shoeless in black socks (representing Black poverty in America), adorned with one black glove, and wearing pins supporting the Olympic Project for Human Rights on their jackets, raised one fist during the national anthem. This symbolic act not only reflected their dedication to the Civil Rights Movement but also echoed their broader commitment to human rights worldwide and athlete activism.

In October 2022, the Atlanta Hawks and JPMorgan Chase announced a new agreement to expand and grow their integrated partnership. As part of the expanded agreement, Chase became the presenting sponsor in two key experiences: the Chase Concert Club: the arena’s ultra-premium space for enjoying the world’s best live entertainment and NBA action.

In January of 2023, the Atlanta Hawks and Chase hosted a special MLK Day panel, “Advancing the Legacy: Investing in the Next Generation.” The Hawks also played their annual ‘MLK Day Game presented by Chase’ and honored local small business, Tracy Nicole Clothing, recognized civil rights and pioneer broadcast executive, Xernona Clayton, and more. In January of 2022, the Hawks and Chase hosted a special MLK Day panel, “Advancing the Legacy: Realizing the Dream”. The Hawks also played their annual ‘MLK Day Game presented by Chase’ and unveiled a new ‘MLK Wall’ as part of the team’s annual tribute of Dr. King’s life and legacy.

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Join our team at The Atlanta Voice as a social media intern reporter https://theatlantavoice.com/social-media-internship-atlanta-voice/ Fri, 05 Jan 2024 16:47:16 +0000 https://theatlantavoice.com/?p=146240

The Atlanta Voice Newspaper is seeking a Social Media Intern Reporter to gain hands-on experience in digital journalism, social media management, and brand promotion.

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The Atlanta Voice Newspaper is a reputable news organization dedicated to providing insightful and relevant news coverage to the diverse communities of Atlanta. With a rich history and a commitment to journalistic integrity, The Atlanta Voice is a vital source of information for the local population.

Internship:

We seek a highly motivated and enthusiastic Social Media Intern Reporter to join our team. As a Social Media Intern Reporter, you will have a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in digital journalism, social media management, and brand promotion. You will be an essential part of our team, responsible for expanding our online presence, engaging with our audience, and creating compelling content that aligns with The Atlanta Voice’s values. 

As a Social Media Intern Reporter, you will work closely with our Publisher, Editor-in-Chief, Digital Editor, and Audience Engagement team. You will have the opportunity to receive professional development and mentorship, as well as guidance and feedback on your work. You will be responsible for creating, scheduling, and posting content on our social media platforms, monitoring and reporting on social media analytics, and engaging with our audience by responding to comments and messages. 

There will be opportunities for pitching and writing stories, conducting interviews, and contributing to our digital publication. You will have the chance to cover various topics.   

To succeed in this role, you should have excellent written and verbal communication skills, a strong understanding of social media platforms, and a keen interest in digital journalism. You should be a team player, able to work collaboratively with others, multitask, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. 

Key Responsibilities:

  1. Content Creation: Generate engaging and informative content for various social media platforms, including but not limited to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
  • Social Media Management: Monitor and manage The Atlanta Voice’s social media accounts, responding to comments, messages, and interactions in a timely and professional manner.
  • Brand Awareness: Develop and implement strategies to increase brand awareness and audience engagement through social media channels.
  • Digital Journalism: Contribute to the creation of digital news content, including short articles, interviews, and multimedia features, with a focus on social media-friendly formats.
  • Analytics and Reporting: Track and analyze social media metrics to assess the effectiveness of campaigns, identify trends, and provide regular reports to the editorial team.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with the editorial team to align social media efforts with content strategy and news coverage.

Qualifications:

  1. Enrollment in a relevant degree program (Journalism, Communications, Marketing, or related field).
  2. Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  3. Familiarity with major social media platforms and their best practices.
  4. Basic understanding of journalism principles and news reporting.
  5. Creativity and the ability to think strategically about social media content.
  6. Detail-oriented with excellent organizational skills.
  7. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and relevant social media content examples or digital journalism work to csuggs@theatlantavoice.com. Please include “Social Media Intern Application” in the subject line. Applications will be accepted until February 15th, 2024.

Note:

This internship opportunity is available to candidates from a diverse range of backgrounds. It is an unpaid position that requires the selected candidate to attend a mandatory weekly Monday editorial meeting with the Publisher and/or Editor, although remote work is an option. The Atlanta Voice Newspaper is an equal-opportunity employer, and we encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

Please note that while this position is unpaid, it offers the opportunity to gain valuable experience in a professional setting. As such, we seek candidates committed to excellence, possess strong communication skills, and demonstrate a passion for the field.

If you apply for this internship, please ensure your application materials are complete and submitted by the deadline. We appreciate your interest in The Atlanta Voice Newspaper and look forward to reviewing your application.

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“Grind to Greatness”: Ross Y. Dixon’s memoir on pivoting in business https://theatlantavoice.com/ross-y-dixon-grind-to-greatness/ Wed, 27 Dec 2023 19:54:22 +0000 https://theatlantavoice.com/?p=143704

Ross Y. Dixon, an award-winning entrepreneur and visionary, has released his first book, "Grind to Greatness", which is a compelling read for young entrepreneurs and dreamers alike, offering advice and guidance to aspiring expats looking to move out of the United States and still operate business here.

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Picture this: a young, ambitious, brimming with ideas yet bound by the economic constraints of his background. This is where the story of Ross Y. Dixon begins a narrative that has now culminated in the release of his first book, “Grind to Greatness,” set to release on  Amazon on December 30th.

But who is Ross Y. Dixon, you might ask? An Atlanta native, an awarded entrepreneur, and now a newly published author, Dixon is not just a man with a success story; he’s a visionary who chose to create his own destiny. His memoir, a compelling read for young entrepreneurs and dreamers alike, is more than just words on a page. It’s a journey, a mentorship, and guide to aspiring expats looking to move out of the United States and still operate business here.

In a candid conversation, Dixon shared his thoughts on the book: “Grind to Greatness isn’t just a book; it’s a blueprint showing my mistakes and wins. It’s for those who like to think outside of the box, for those who seek a life beyond the ordinary. It’s for the go-getters, the game-changers, and black families.”

The narrative of “Grind to Greatness” is as intriguing as it is motivational. It’s the story of Dixon’s own transformation: from a young black adolescent grappling with financial challenges in Atlanta to becoming a successful entrepreneur and real estate strategist.  Dixon’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is precise: “Leverage your skill sets and stay agile. Learn how to pivot as business is a constantly evolving arena, and to stay ahead, one must align with the right people.”

What makes “Grind to Greatness” stand out is Dixon’s blend of personal anecdotes with actionable strategies for success. He doesn’t just inspire; he guides. And it’s not just his business acumen that he shares. Dixon also delves into his life-changing decision to move his family abroad, offering insights into international living and its impact on spiritual and professional growth.

“Sharing my story through ‘Grind to Greatness’ is more than a recount of my life. It’s about igniting that spark of greatness in every reader,” Dixon remarked.  As we eagerly await the release of “Grind to Greatness,” one thing is clear: Ross Y. Dixon is not just an author; he’s a trailblazer setting the path for others to follow. For more on Dixon’s remarkable journey and to order his book, visit www.rossydixon.com.

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Call for artists: Create a contemporary sculpture and indoor mural for Atlanta fire station #22 https://theatlantavoice.com/atlanta-fire-station-art-projects/ Thu, 21 Dec 2023 13:54:16 +0000 https://theatlantavoice.com/?p=142563

The City of Atlanta's Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs and Department of Enterprise and Asset Management are seeking qualified artists to design, fabricate, and install a large-scale indoor mural and sculpture at the new Fire Station 22.

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The City of Atlanta’s Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs (OCA) is partnering with the City of Atlanta’s Department of Enterprise and Asset Management (DEAM) to invite artists to submit their qualifications for two separate art projects. 

The first project is a large-scale indoor mural, on panels, that will be installed in the new Fire Station #22. The purpose of this artwork is to provide a cultural experience for staff and visitors to the space. The selected artist will be responsible for the design, fabrication, and delivery of the artwork to the site, and payment will be all-inclusive.

The second project is for a new sculpture to be installed at the entrance of the same fire station. The selected artist will design, fabricate, and install a large-scale sculpture. The artist’s fee will be all-inclusive. The sculpture should be visually pleasing and contemporary, and can reflect the purpose of the building or the historical significance of the community it serves.

Click here for full RFQ, Eligibility Requirements, Scope of Work and Timeline for mural project

Click here for full RFQ, Eligibility Requirements, Scope of Work and Timeline for sculpture project

Artist will be selected based on the following criteria: 

  • Artist’s merit and technical expertise. 
  • Demonstration of successful, and effective approach to a similar scope.
  • Ability to successfully execute this project under a defined timeline.
  • Project management skills.
  • Availability to start project upon notice.
  • Artwork must be low maintenance and have a normal-life expectancy.

All proposals must be received by 1/8/2024 at 5:00 PM EST

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3D Girls, Inc. Hosts 9th Annual Holiday Giveback Event to Spread Joy and Empower Single-Parent Families in Metro-Atlanta https://theatlantavoice.com/3d-girls-holiday-giveback-event/ Tue, 19 Dec 2023 15:08:25 +0000 https://theatlantavoice.com/?p=142243

3D Girls, Inc. is hosting their 9th Annual Holiday Giveback Event to restore dignity and spread holiday cheer to 106 single-parent families and 255 children experiencing hardship.

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While the holidays are a time for celebration, many families in our community struggle to make ends meet, especially with the current economic challenges. Recognizing this need, 3D Girls, Inc., a local non-profit dedicated to empowering girls and mothers in metro-Atlanta, is bringing back its cherished holiday tradition. Their 9th Annual Holiday Giveback Event is a shopping experience designed to restore dignity and spread holiday cheer to 106 single-parent families; 255 children experiencing hardship.

“We understand that asking for help can be difficult, especially during this time of year,” says Raioni Madison, Executive Director of 3D Girls, Inc. “But we want families to know that they are not alone. 75% of our network is facing unemployment, and many are experiencing this need for the first time due to inflation and economic uncertainty.”

This year, the organization’s annual holiday shopping event is taking place in person. The nonprofit team has created a pop-store in their office space for families to shop for toys and goodies for children ages 0-12. Dedicated volunteers serve as ‘personal shoppers’, gift wrappers, and childcare support to allow parents to receive a joyful holiday experience.

“We don’t want families to feel like they’re just picking up a handout,” explains Madison. “We want them to feel celebrated, empowered, and most importantly, loved. This in-person shopping format allows us to deliver holiday cheer while restoring the dignity of choosing gifts for your child..”

The event, taking place on Sunday, December 16th, boasts thousands of toys donated by generous partner agencies and individuals. 3D Girls, Inc. volunteers have transformed the space into a magical winter wonderland, complete with festive decorations and holiday spirit.

“This is about so much more than just toys,” says Madison. “It’s about showing families that their struggles are seen, their needs are heard, and they are not alone in this journey. We want to bring them joy and hope during this holiday season.”

3D Girls, Inc. is still accepting toy donations for the event. To learn more about how you can support their mission, visit their website at www.3dgirlsinc.org or follow them on social media @3dgirlsinc on Facebook and Twitter.

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Heru Akil Yafeu ventures into film production with authentic relationships and innovative ideas https://theatlantavoice.com/heru-akil-yafeu-film-production/ Tue, 05 Dec 2023 16:19:12 +0000 https://theatlantavoice.com/?p=139747

Heru Akil Yafeu, formerly known as Herm Harris, has successfully made a mark in the film industry, earning an Emmy nomination for his network debut as a television producer, and is now exploring film production with his charismatic and fearless character.

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ATLANTA, 2023 – Heru Akil Yafeu, formerly known as Herm Harris, announces his exciting venture into the world of film production. With his charismatic and fearless character, Yafeu has successfully made a mark in the film industry, earning an Emmy nomination for his network debut as a television producer.

Having been a prominent figure as the manager of the iconic gentlemen’s club, Magic City, Yafeu is no stranger to the glitz and glamor of the entertainment world. His nearly decade-long tenure at the club in the early 2000s solidified his position within the prestigious Atlanta entertainment scene. Yafeu’s journey is adorned with unforgettable encounters, including breakfast with the legendary 87-year-old boxing promoter, Don King, and a seasoned relationship with hip-hop’s legendary boss, J Prince. His ability to cultivate authentic relationships has been instrumental in his success.

Yafeu’s venture into the boxing world led him to develop a close bond with Hall of Fame champion Roy Jones Jr and other prominent figures in the industry. NBA legend Allen Iverson regards him as a brother, and Yafeu fondly recalls the valuable learning experience of running around with Iverson during his teenage years. “Having all these relationships at a young age, I always understood I needed to build my Rolodex. As I got older, I realized… I can connect these dots. I had all kinds of plugs in different types of industries… all over the world.”

With an Emmy nomination for his network debut as a Producer, Yafeu is poised to bring innovation to the screen while challenging the status quo. His vibrant career evolution showcases the endless possibilities that lie ahead. The journey from Magic City to the Emmys has been paved with risk, redemption, and perseverance. As Yafeu ventures into the world of film and television, the industry can only guess at his next move.


Reflecting on his career, Yafeu states, “I think that the ability to move organically, identify situations and opportunities, then build things around that- I think that’s one skill set that I’ve probably excelled at the most.” 

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Amerigroup Georgia and 100 Black Men of America, Inc. Collaborate for Transformative Partnership to Improve Quality of Life for Communities Across Georgia https://theatlantavoice.com/amerigroups-250000-donation-expands-education-and-economic-opportunities-for-african-americans-in-georgia/ Fri, 17 Nov 2023 15:00:44 +0000 https://theatlantavoice.com/?p=134946

Amerigroup’s $250,000 donation expands critical education and economic opportunities for African Americans throughout the state. ATLANTA (November 17, 2023) – Amerigroup Georgia has taken a momentous stride towards empowering communities and advancing education by contributing $250,000 to the distinguished organization 100 Black Men of America, Inc. (100BMOA). This collaboration aims to uplift the lives of Georgia […]

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Amerigroup’s $250,000 donation expands critical education and economic opportunities for African Americans throughout the state.

ATLANTA (November 17, 2023) – Amerigroup Georgia has taken a momentous stride towards empowering communities and advancing education by contributing $250,000 to the distinguished organization 100 Black Men of America, Inc. (100BMOA). This collaboration aims to uplift the lives of Georgia residents through targeted efforts in financial literacy and educational development.

Financial literacy and education are integral components of well-being, impacting people’s mental, emotional, and physical health. When equipped with these skills, individuals can achieve economic security, reduce their stress, and enhance their mental and emotional wellness. Bridging health disparities through financial empowerment helps bring about better access to critical resources and support. Beyond personal transformation, financial literacy and education can help strengthen family dynamics, build resilience, and propel future goals. Ultimately, it can serve as a powerful tool to help build a balanced, secure, and fulfilling life. 


“We are immensely excited about our collaboration with Amerigroup Georgia—a powerful testimony to our dedication to enhancing the lives of Georgia’s residents. This partnership honors the legacy of the late Tommy Dortch, former chairman of 100BMOA, whose vision was to drive positive change through strategic partnerships,” shared 100BMOA Chairman Emeritus Albert E. Dotson, Jr. 

With Amerigroup’s support, 100BMOA expanded its suite of critically important supports and resources that empower young minds to be financially savvy, fostering skills in leadership, management, research, problem-solving, and team building, including

·       Dollars and $ense Youth Investment Program: this financial literacy program provides high school students in grades 9 through 12 with invaluable knowledge and application of saving and investing strategies. The program equips students with practical skills to navigate financial decisions, promoting responsible financial habits from an early age.

·       Collegiate 100® Program: Designed to provide continued mentoring as students transition from high school to college, this program ensures that the positive influence of the 100BMOA extends seamlessly into higher education. The Collegiate 100® program reinforces the Mentoring The 100 Way® Across Lifetime™ initiatives, empowering students to overcome challenges and excel in their academic and personal journeys.

·       Economic Empowerment: The 100BMOA envisions economic self-sufficiency and the cultivation of generational wealth as critical components of building just societies. Through comprehensive curricula and training, the organization equips its mentees with financial literacy, career development skills, investment management, and entrepreneurial mindsets. This commitment fosters financial planning, fiscal responsibility, and an entrepreneurial mindset from a young age.

·       Stock Market Competition: This initiative introduces high school students to the world of investments and stocks through the Stock Market Game—an online simulation of global capital markets. The game engages students from grades 4-12, equipping them with essential knowledge in economics, investing, and personal finance. This initiative empowers young minds to be financially savvy, fostering skills in leadership, management, research, problem-solving, and team building.

“Amerigroup is proud to support 100 Black Men of America in our shared mission to drive positive change throughout Georgia. Together, we’re striving to elevate education and economic opportunities to make a lasting impact across the state,” said Mel Lindsey, President of Amerigroup Georgia. “Thank you, 100 Black Men of America, for your enduring commitment and work in literacy, training, program development and advocacy. Through our collaboration, we are helping to create a more inclusive future that benefits everyone.” 


This collaborative endeavor stretches across diverse counties, making a lasting impression in areas including Albany, Atlanta, Augusta, Columbus, Macon, Savannah, and more, and represents a profound commitment to social progress and empowerment. It exemplifies the extraordinary potential of collective action to shape a brighter future for Georgians across the state. 

With an impact touching the lives of over 2,000 individuals, including over 600 youth and 1,550 Collegiate 100® participants, this partnership holds the promise of significant transformation and empowerment.

About Amerigroup Community Care of Georgia 

Amerigroup Community Care of Georgia helps improve healthcare access and quality for more than 580,000 low-income Georgians by developing innovative care management programs and services. Members are assured care that is not only accessible but also accountable, comprehensive, integrated, and patient-centered. Amerigroup Georgia provides ongoing community relations and outreach to encourage members to become active participants in their health care. Through health education programs, members are empowered to choose and sustain a healthy lifestyle. For more information about Amerigroup Community Care of Georgia, visit www.myamerigroup.com/ga

About 100 Black Men of America, Inc.

100 Black Men was founded as an organization in New York City in 1963. The national organization, 100 Black Men of America, Inc. began with nine chapters in 1986 as a national alliance of leading African-American men of business, public affairs, and government with a mission to improve the quality of life for African Americans, particularly African-American youth. These visionaries included businessmen and industry leaders such as David Dinkins, Robert Mangum, Dr. William Hayling, Nathaniel Goldston III, Livingston Wingate Andrew Hatcher, and Jackie Robinson. Since its inception, the vision emerged and grew to over 10,000 members, impacting over 125,000 underserved, underrepresented minority youth annually. Visit www.100blackmen.org for more information on the programs and initiatives of 100 Black Men of America, Inc. and their global network of chapters.

The post Amerigroup Georgia and 100 Black Men of America, Inc. Collaborate for Transformative Partnership to Improve Quality of Life for Communities Across Georgia appeared first on The Atlanta Voice.

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