The Atlanta Voice E-Edition 062025

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Chess not Checkers

Orrin “Checkmate” Hudson (left, surrounded by students) founded Be Someone, Inc. to empower the minds of youth through chess.
Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

Teaching youth to ‘Be Someone’ through the game of chess

“S

ay never give up,” Orrin

“Checkmate” Hudson, a two-time world open speed chess champion, told a room of students one morning during summer break. Chess sets were spread across tables, with children and their parents raptly listening to Hudson’s booming voice. They repeated after Hudson, who sat at the head of the table wearing a shirt that read “Brains before bullets.”

“Say, my mind is a pearl. I can change the world. I have everything I need to succeed,” he continued as they relayed his words. “I have my mind. I have my ability. I have my talent, and I have time.”

The words of affirmation are a core part of the morning at the Be Someone, Inc. headquarters in Stone Mountain. A life-size chess board sits on the front lawn of the building, and motivational banners are plastered in and out of the nonprofit organization, making its goal clear: to empower children, help at-risk youth, and teach them to make the right moves through the power of chess.

Essentially, Hudson wants to motivate youth to “Be Someone.” It’s a goal that began 25 years ago in Queens, New York, when he heard the news that seven people were shot in a robbery over $2,000. That incident galvanized him into action, jumpstarting a mission to reduce crime and violence and stop the school-to-prison pipeline.

“Bad things continue to happen when concerned people fail to make boss moves. I made a boss move and started Be Someone to stop the violence and to teach young people the new weapon of choice: a king, a queen and a pawn, not a gun,” Hudson said. “My method is, think it out. Don’t shoot it out. The only way to fight is to use your head.”

He’s implemented that method through private coaching sessions, seminars, and parent-teacher workshops, teaching diverse communities of all ages. Hudson also hosts an annual summer chess camp to motivate students while they’re on break. and will take place on June 23-27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Through these programs, he’s trained over 100,000 kids to think critically, helped promote self-esteem, and built character; he said he’s on a mission to train one million.

It’s a full-circle moment as Hudson was once one of those at-risk youth. Hudson shared that he grew up in public housing and was constantly in and out of foster homes in his hometown of Birmingham, Alabama. As a teen, he was involved in a gang, committing petty crimes until one of his teachers, James Edge, pulled him to the side and told him that he wanted to teach him how to think independently through chess. Soon, Hudson

said he started making better decisions. Those decisions led him from a path of failure to being voted “most likely to succeed” in his senior year of high school.

After graduation, he served in the U.S. Air Force and worked as an Alabama State Trooper, but the game of chess never left his side. Hudson went on to become the first African American to win the Birmingham City Chess Championship in 1999 and 2000. Now, he’s teaching tomorrow’s champions.

“Teaching children to think makes my heart sing,” Hudson said. “It’s so rewarding getting children who are lost on the right track. I teach the children as though my life depends on it, because it does. And we have to teach children to pause, ponder, pivot, pray, and proceed because if you do the first thing that pops in your head, it’s usually a trap.”

As Hudson challenged his students to games of timed chess and wall chess, it was clear that the love of the game went both ways. Hudson stimulated their minds through rap songs and vocabulary, and they eagerly engaged with him while soaking in the skills needed to declare a checkmate. It was in their squinted eyes, thoughtful pauses and glances toward Hudson to see if they made the right move. He was constantly teaching, coaching his opponent and spectators with every shift of a chess piece.

“I’m always learning. I love chess because

The words of affirmation are a core part of what is taught at the Be Someone, Inc. headquarters (above), which is located in Stone Mountain. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice
“I teach the children as though my life depends on it, because it does,” says Be Someone, Inc. founder Orrin “Checkmate” Hudson (far left). Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

Thousands Gather in Atlanta for No Kings Rally

The crowd could be heard a mile away from where the rally was taking place. By microphone, megaphone, and word of mouth, chants of “Immigrants are welcome here” were loud and clear.

During a rally on March 22, Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff told a crowded room of supporters inside The Eastern, a live music and entertainment venue in the city’s Reynoldstown section, that “Georgia will bow to no king.” On Saturday morning in the shadow of the Georgia State Capitol, hundreds of people repeated that same message, but with the entire nation in mind.

One of the thousands of “No Kings” rallies occurred at the Georgia State Capitol’s Liberty Plaza. The rallies are part of a nationwide protest of many decisions by current and former United States President Donald J. Trump. The coordinated efforts around the country come on the heels of rampant deportations of Hispanic people and the riots that those deportation efforts have stirred up. Case in point: Los Angeles and, to a bit less dramatic, but equally as important, scale Atlanta.

On Saturday, “No Kings” rallies took place around Georgia, in big and small cities, including in metro Atlanta’s Decatur and further south of Atlanta in Fayetteville, Griffin, and McDonough. The rallies were also scheduled north of Atlanta in Gainesville, Marietta, Suwanee, and Woodstock.

In Atlanta, thousands of people gathered in Liberty Plaza. There were mothers and fathers with children in strollers and on their shoulders, elderly people using walkers and canes to make their way through the crowd, and young people holding signs and raising their fists in solidarity with the event’s speakers.

Those signs were colorful, large, small, on paper, cardboard, T-shirts, and hats. The messages were similar, but the delivery varied: “Kings are for Burgers,” “No humans are illegal,” “The Holocaust started as a mass deportation,” and “ICE melts in Georgia.”

Georgia State Rep. Dr. Jasmine Clark was one of the dozen speakers who asked the crowd to resist what was taking place around the country during the rally.

“Trump is a parasite to our Constitution,” said Clark. “Trump is a parasite to our country.”

During the rally, four people were seen making their way through the crowd, holding a yellow flag in opposition to the rally’s message. They were universally booed, but were not physically engaged. Shouts of “F%&k you, Nazis” could be heard as they continued their march.

On Saturday, “No Kings” rallies took place around Georgia, in big and small cities, including in Metro Atlanta, Decatur, Fayetteville, Griffin, and McDonough. The rallies were also scheduled north of Atlanta in Gainesville, Marietta, Suwanee, and Woodstock. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
Hundreds gathered at Liberty Plaza for a “No Kings” rally on Saturday, June 14, 2025. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice

America Urgently Needs a New Affordable Housing Agenda

President Donald Trump’s housing policy is shaping up to be both an economic and humanitarian disaster, and if leaders across the political spectrum don’t act soon, the damage may be irreversible.

To be clear, housing policy was already broken long before Trump returned to office. But instead of tackling the root causes — like the chronic shortage of Section 8 vouchers and affordable units — some policymakers chose to blame tools like rent-pricing software, which simply reflect the market’s conditions.

Rather than confront the real barriers to affordability, politicians have chosen to target the messenger. That never made sense, and it still doesn’t — a point that Democratic Governor Jared Polis made clear last week by vetoing a bill to ban such technology. If we want lower rents, we don’t need to ban software that reports current prices. We need to build enough housing so the data reflects abundance, not scarcity.

Unfortunately, President Trump has not gotten this memo, and he is making our broken housing system worse. He has already driven up lumber prices with protectionist trade wars and targeted immigrant communities who make up a vital part of the construction workforce. Now, the president is laying the groundwork for another housing crisis that could rival 2008.

In late May, Trump announced he is “giving very serious consideration” to taking Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac public again. These government-backed mortgage giants were central players in the last financial collapse. Under pressure to expand homeownership without oversight, they helped inflate the subprime mortgage bubble. Ten million Americans lost their homes. The institutions got bailed out. Families didn’t.

To prevent that kind of disaster from recurring, the government placed both firms under conservatorship. Releasing them now would create the same reckless incentives that crashed the global economy, and it would benefit deep-pocketed investors just in time for the 2026 elections. When the next economic crash comes, everyday Americans, and especially Americans in underserved communities, will be the ones paying the price.

And it doesn’t stop there. Trump’s proposed budget would cut federal rental assistance by about 40% at a time when nearly half of renters are spending more than a third of their income on housing. “We would see, I think, homelessness escalate in a way that has been really unprecedented,” warned Kim Johnson of the National Low Income Housing Coalition.

Remaining funds would be handed to states as “block grants,” echoing past efforts to gut safety net programs through decentralization and attrition. This is not a serious answer to the housing crisis. It’s an ideological move that risks

In late May, Trump announced he is “giving very serious consideration” to taking Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac public again. These mortgage giants contributed to the last financial collapse. Under pressure to expand homeownership, they inflated the subprime mortgage bubble. Ten million Americans lost their homes, while the institutions were bailed out but families were not. iStock.com/Paperkites

“You cannot be the party of working families when the places you govern are places working families can no longer afford to live.”
Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson, Authors of Abundance

deepening inequality and instability that will result in a type of “housing apartheid.”

Policymakers from both parties should reject this approach and unite around a new vision: one that builds. Writers Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson call this the “abundance agenda.”

In their book Abundance, they challenge local, state, and federal leaders to confront the self-imposed zoning restrictions and regulatory delays that have made it almost impossible to build enough housing.

“You cannot be the party of working families when the places you govern are places working families can no longer afford to live,” Klein

wrote. That means reforming exclusionary zoning, streamlining permitting, and shifting the political culture that demonizes developers while ignoring demand. It means prioritizing supply, not just subsidies. Because if we don’t solve the housing crisis ourselves, voters will turn to anyone who claims they will, even if the solutions are fake or destructive. The values are already there. What we need now is strategy and action. Increasing housing affordability and availability isn’t just good policy. It’s the only way to keep working Americans housed, the economy stable, and America’s future secure and inclusive.

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Spiritually Speaking : Setup to comeback

There is a phrase a minister friend of mine keeps reminding me of. He even wrote it in a book he gave me so that I wouldn’t forget it. Most often, when we get into these conversations where I’m seeking clarity out of my confusion, he tells me to remember that, “A setback is more often than not, a setup for a comeback.” He says God will give you a setback to set you up for a spiritual comeback. That sounds simple enough, but when you stop and think about it in those terms, it is a pretty awesome concept to comprehend. It means that even in the most dire circumstances, God is ever present for those of us who would profess a faith based upon the life, death, and eternal life of Jesus Christ. That gives a sinner, which we all are, a fundamental key to everlasting salvation, if only we use it. Let me explain as best I can. When we are surprised, tricked, or enticed back into our own ‘ways of this physical world’ and fail miserably in our own eyes, as we try to be good followers of Christ, the result can make us shy away from what Christ promised. We

A setback is more often than not, a setup for a comeback.

all remember getting caught doing something we had no business doing as a child. We knew what would happen once Mamma, Daddy, Grandma, or Big Mama learned about it. If the truth be told, we also knew how much it would hurt them because, deep down inside, we knew that whatever we were doing was wrong. Mama and Daddy and Big Mama and others had made an imprint on our character that made a difference in us as human beings, even at a very young age. Punishment aside, the “I’m sorry” due to them was equally understood and intended for ourselves. We knew better. And it hurt to admit that to our loved ones and ourselves. For the Christian who makes the sincere effort and still falls short, the reality of what I just described can become overwhelming and

“YOUR VOICE”

therefore seem impossible to accomplish. You’ve still got to admit to yourself and to God that what you did was wrong. Say “I’m sorry,” and believe, as you did with Big Mama, that she loved you enough to forgive you, because she knew that you knew what you did was wrong and taught you better. God, too, knows He has made a difference in your character. We are taught through Christ that His imprint on our souls is indelible, and His forgiveness is eternal. But we’ve got to acknowledge and then ask for it. The bible says, “They refused to listen and failed to remember the miracles you performed among them. They became stiff-necked and, in their rebellion, appointed a leader to return to their slavery. But you are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to answer and

abounding in love. Therefore, you did not desert them… even when they committed awful blasphemies.” Nehemiah 9:17. God never deserts us, just as your mother never gave up on you. When we understand this, we realize that there’s only one place to take our sins, even the ones we committed yesterday or this morning, even the ones we want to hide from. It is right and He expects us to because, without saying it, He also knows that we know better. Coming to Him validates who He is, and who we are in relation to Him.

May God bless and keep you always.

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

What are your thoughts on Trump banning travel from 12 countries of color, while allowing white South Africans to claim refugee status in Atlanta?

JEREMIAH TURNER

Atlanta

“Unfortunately, it sends the wrong message that color sometimes can equate to personality type. I think that because he is the brand, the view, the look of what America is, it gives this energy that America only supports a certain color, and that’s not the case. So, I think it has shown people that you can trust only certain types of people, which is not always true. So, moving forward, I think we should invite more people from diverse nations to show a collective of creative individuals who do not mind coexisting.”

SPENCER BONNER

Atlanta

“I think that it serves no benefit, no purpose, it dims a light on people who are true refugees in other countries that need to leave and come to the United States to seek asylum for safety. And we’ve also been told that the stories that are being told about the white farmers in South Africa are, in fact, untrue. So I think that mostly it’s a distraction to take eyes kind of and attention off the things that they’re doing in the country now and the complete missteps that the Trump administration is participating in.”

ERICA BLEVINS

Atlanta

“I don’t know if I’m the best person because I’m really like, with politics, not that involved. As far as what I feel about it, of course, it’s ridiculous. But you know. I’m just not surprised. Nothing surprises me right now, but I’ll try. I suggest getting together as people of color create communities with each other so that we can be supported when this stuff crashes, because it’s doing that. It’s imploding as we speak. So yeah, get together and make our community.”

KEISHA MCCLEAN

Atlanta by way of Charleston

“I think it’s just crazy. I don’t think we should be surprised at anything that he’s doing, but I do think it’s tied to, of course, you know, racial issues that we have. It’s no coincidence that the travel ban is on countries of brown and black people, and it’s no coincidence now that we’ve had such interest in South Africa, if it wasn’t for Elon Musk. So unfair, but I think we need to realize that this is just where we are, and I don’t know if it will get better or worse, but we’ll just have to wait it out and see.”

Atlanta

“If we’re not Caucasian, if we are not white, then we have to understand that we will have a level of oppression and a level of uncertainty in general. So honestly, the way that I feel about it is very unfortunate; there’s nothing we can do about it. And at this point, I think that we must stop caring about what color our skin is and where we’re from. I think we need to care about what you can’t see in life: love, togetherness, community, and just being happy.”

GIONNI FRANKLIN

In The Black

Started from the Ground Up: GoGo Junk Removal nears a decade in business

It’s 10:30 a.m. on a Wednesday morning in Decatur. The sky is slightly overcast, and birds chirp overhead in a large residential subdivision. A quiet lull settles over the cul-de-sac. But that wouldn’t last long.

A white F-250 with the words “GoGoJunkRemoval.com” in bright red, hauling a large dump trailer, came down the hill, stopping at a home. Tyron Holmes got out of the truck, greeted his client with a smile, and got to work.

“How you doing this morning?” Holmes said.

Holmes and his working partner, Zay, quickly cleared the debris from the client’s driveway, which included everything from old produce-filled grocery bags to an old ottoman.

Holmes told The Atlanta Voice that he’s not new to the junk removal business.

“Been running this business over eight years,” Holmes said as he and Zay drove the junk to the Seminole Landfill to recycle the abundance of throwaways in the back of his trailer.

For almost a decade, the company has been responsible for positively servicing metro Atlanta and surrounding cities across the state.

However, the concept of GoGo Junk Removal is one that even Holmes didn’t originally anticipate.

“I originally started out doing plumbing. I was a certified plumber,” Holmes said. “I was making a good amount of money plumbing.”

A native of Macon, Holmes learned the plumbing trade while incarcerated for ten years during his early 20s.

“I was young and just influenced by the wrong things in the street,” Holmes says with a grin on his

face. Perhaps the smirk is driven by the fact that over 30 years after being out of jail, he’s made a good name for himself as a 54-year-old business owner.

“God really had to sit me down and get me back on the right path,” he said while reflecting on that period of his life.

After being released from jail in the late ’90s, at around the age of 22, Holmes would go on to use the skills he learned from plumbing while incarcerated to earn his state plumbing certification.

“I became one of the top plumbers in Macon,” Holmes said. Holmes’ credibility would soon be heard about by a plumbing company in Atlanta, bringing him to the

city in the late 2000s.

It wasn’t until after over a decade of residing here in Atlanta that Holmes would birth GoGo Junk Removal.

“I noticed that after a lot of the plumbing repairs were done in houses, they needed someone to throw away a lot of the leftover trash,” Holmes said.

2017 marked the first year of business for GoGo Junk Removal, specializing in removing general junk, construction debris, and weather debris.

“It was OK at first starting out,” Holmes said, as the business was fairly small and had a well-established communal presence in Decatur.

“The more I started to grow and get commercial attention, my competition level went up,” Holmes said. GoGo Junk Removal began to face competition from large whiteowned national junk removal businesses, with GoGo being one of the very few Black-owned junk removal businesses.

“This business has its ups and downs,” said Holmes. Matters such as down seasons, a website hacking attempt, unexpected repair costs of equipment, and false generalizations about being Black-owned are

just a few of the obstacles Holmes faces as a business owner.

“Often people think because we’re Black, we’re going to slack,” said Holmes when reflecting on some of the common misconceptions he hears about Black-owned businesses.

“We been in business for over five years, and you know they say if a business makes it past five years, they’re likely to stay successful,” says Holmes, slowly followed by a mild chuckle.

Perhaps GoGo’s nearly decade of success comes as no surprise, as he prides himself on not just having a junk removal business to generate income, but to mainly help the community and those around him. A consistent churchgoer, Holmes mentions that he’s always giving free advice to the

youth at his church on starting a business and the value of working for themselves.

“I try to give the people in my community an opportunity,” said Holmes.

This is something his employees can testify to as well. “I learned from Tyron how to professionally conduct yourself when doing business, even in your appearance,” GoGo employee Lazarian Bloodsaw said.

Holmes’ motive in the junk removal business is deeper than just collection and disposal. Most importantly, it’s about treating people with respect and setting a good example for those that work for his business.

“It’s my responsibility to keep the business going and organized for them. They have kids and families to feed just like I do,” Holmes said.

Tyron Holmes, owner of GoGo Junk Removal, is dedicated to providing reliable and efficient solutions for all your junk hauling and property cleanup needs. Photo By Tabius H. McCoy/The Atlanta Voice
GoGo Junk Removal, a Black-owned business in metro Atlanta, has been serving the community for over eight years. It removes junk and debris while also providing valuable advice to the youth and setting a good example for those who work for the business. Photo By Tabius H. McCoy/ The Atlanta Voice
Photo By Tabius H. McCoy/The Atlanta Voice
Photo By Tabius H. McCoy/The Atlanta Voice

Quavo’s Rocket Foundation Summit Aims for Gun Violence Prevention

After its inaugural summit featuring former Vice President Kamala Harris, The Rocket Foundation hosted its second annual summit at the College Football Hall of Fame on Thursday, June 12. With a commitment to ending gun violence bolstered by the 2022 murder of rapper Takeoff, the day was filled with solution-backed conversations and highlights of community violence intervention (CVI) organizations, survivors, and local leaders and activists at the frontline of gun violence prevention.

Grammy-nominated rapper Quavo, founder of the Rocket Foundation, said the 2025 summit signals the change being fought for in the Atlanta community.

“We’ve got to step out. We’ve got to be outside. We’ve got to be front line,” Quavo said. “We’ve got to be vocal and verbal.”

At the heart of the event was a message of prevention and resources geared toward youth.

Students from the Atlanta area attended the summit, including the football team of Berkmar High School—the alma mater of all three Migos members—and students from Rocket Camp and Huncho Elite, two youth programs started by Quavo.

Malachi Lowe, a student from the Rocket Camp program aimed at motivating students with a passion for music, took to the stage to tell the story of how he spent 68 days in the hospital after being shot through his stomach. In a passionate plea, he told the audience to put the guns down.

The program featured four panels that explored the roots of gun violence, the journey of healing from grief and anger, and the changes being made on the ground, locally and nationally, to implement long-term change.

Marcus Ellis, deputy of impact at Cities United; Angela Ferrell-Zabala, executive director of Moms Demand Action; Amber Goodwin,

founder of Community Justice & CVI Legal Network; and Dr. Chico Tillmon, executive director of CVI Leadership Academy, were the keynote speakers on “The Urgency of Now” panel. Brent Bailey, national youth organizing manager at Community Justice; Jacquel Clemons with Atlanta Circle of Safety; Leonard Dungee, executive director of H.O.P.E. Hustlers; Deborah Daniels, co-founder of the Offenders Alumni; and Aaliyah Strong, founder and executive director of Tyme to Thrive, led the discussions for the “We are the Change” panel. Former NBA players Stephen Jackson and Matt Barnes, hosts of the “All the Smoke” podcast, also held a keynote conversation with Quavo.

The term that carried the day was CVI, an approach that uses evidence-informed strategies to reduce violence through tailored community-centered initiatives.

The critical need for CVI was emphasized by its panelists and by the audience. When Ellis asked how many people in the room had lost someone due to gun violence, more than half the room raised their hands. In attendance was Mia Jaye, the longtime partner of Memphis-based rapper Young Dolph, who was shot and killed in his hometown in 2021. Jaye started the campaign “Black Men Deserve to Grow Old” in 2020 after the murder of her brother and spoke to The Atlanta Voice about how she has turned pain into purpose.

“I feel like it’s very important for me on this journey to just be able to show how I’ve been able to manage to get out of the weeds. It’s been a journey. I don’t want to try to make it seem like you just pick yourself up and keep it going. There’s more to it than that,” Jaye said. “But I think being a voice to continue to advocate for

change to happen in our community and to be able to showcase what it means to be resilient and how to push through adversity is super important for our community — in every community — to be able to witness examples of that.”

Quavo started the foundation to honor the life and legacy of his late nephew and has turned his death into a mobilization for gun violence legislation. The 2024 summit was held on Takeoff’s birthday, June 18, and this year’s summit was held just days before the rapper would’ve turned 31. Throughout the day, family members of Takeoff and panelists formed the letter T with their hands to remember the

rapper who earned his stage name from his rap flow and ability to do a verse in one take.

“It’s getting bigger. It’s getting better. There are so many more people involved, and the message is reaching further and further throughout the country, and we know that turns into saving lives,” said Greg Jackson, president of The Rocket Foundation. “This year alone, violence in Atlanta is down 11 percent, and we know a lot of that is policy, but a lot of it is also culture and how we shift the narrative and how we talk about these problems differently.

“This message here is how we shift the culture and really shift policy in a real way.”

Stephen Jackson (back, left) and Matt Barnes (back, center) recorded an episode of their podcast “All the Smoke,” with Quavo (far right) at the Rocket Foundation Summit. Photo by Laura Nwogu/The Atlanta Voice
Quavo (center) is pictured with members of the Berkmar High School football team. He attended Berkmar as a youth. Photo by Laura Nwogu/ The Atlanta Voice
Mia Jaye (above), longtime partner of the late young Dolph, spoke on a panel at the Rocket Foundation Summit. Photo by Laura Nwogu/The Atlanta Voice

Vision turned reality: City of Fairburn opens Fire Station 23

The City of Fairburn welcomed its newest fire station to the family. Fire Station 23 is a state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance emergency response and community safety for its growing city.

Mayor of Fairburn Mario Avery said Fairburn was fortunate because it was ranked the 10th safest city in the state of Georgia, a reflection of their commitment to police and public safety.

“Two and a half years later, we stand here with one of the highest-ranking fire departments in the state of Georgia because of our extensive training and certified personnel,” he said.

City Administrator Tony Phillips said the grand opening for the new fire station is a “tangible example of turning a vision into reality”.

“This all started nearly nine years ago, in 2016, when the city had an aspiration to build a fire station, and a lot of things happened in the interim,” he said. “Fortunately, about three years ago, with the advent of this current administration, we were able to pull this off with a team of professionals with the support of our mayor and council.”

Phillips also said the new fire station will house multiple shifts across all days of the week.

“This is our first station on this side of Fairburn, which is rapidly growing. We’re excited about our firefighters being based in this facility and the services they will be providing,” he said.

Fire Chief Cornelius Robinson said the grand opening is a “joyous occasion” for the City of Fairburn.

“To have coverage on this side of town and on this side of I-85 is tremendous and a long time coming,” he said. “This is our first station on this side of town, and with all the new apartments,

businesses, and warehouses, a lot of our calls are beginning to pick up.”

He also said he reflects on March 13, 2006, as that started his path to where he is now, serving as fire chief in the city of Fairburn.

“On that day, I was excited, and I thought about the decision I made to become a member of the fire department in this city. Fast forward to this day, 19 years later, it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” he said. “The city of Fairburn gave me the opportunity to fulfill my personal and professional dreams. Today marks a local accomplishment for the city after years of planning, setbacks, and challenges. Today, we officially open Station 23.”

Robinson also says the grand opening has proven dreams can become a reality, and those men who fought for the station over the years symbolize the profound priority placed on security and the safety of Fairburn citizens.

“This station is born of law for the courage and commitment that truly form the foundation of this place,” he said. “There’s a challenge of safety and preparation that truly aligns protection and leadership as defined by our firefighter community.”

Additionally, he said Fire Station 23 is a true testament to the spirit of service and leadership as defined by the Fairburn Fire Department. Fire Station 23 is located at Milam Rd, Fairburn.

The City of Fairburn welcomes the newest Fire Station 23 (above), a state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance emergency response and community safety for its growing city. Photo by Isaiah Singleton/The Atlanta Voice
Mayor of Fairburn Mario Avery (center) said Fairburn was fortunate because it was ranked the 10th safest city in the state of Georgia, a reflection of their commitment to police and public safety. Photo by Isaiah Singleton/The Atlanta Voice

RebrandLand AI CEO Champions Equity in Tech

Former educator turned tech entrepreneur Kayla Life, 33, is leveraging artificial intelligence to transform how nonprofits secure funding and scale their operations, while simultaneously creating platforms for underrepresented founders to pitch their visions.

Life, CEO of RebrandLand AI, launched her company in 2020 after spending more than 15 years in education, including six years teaching technology at Excel Charter School in Brooklyn’s Canarsie neighborhood. Her transition from the classroom to the boardroom was catalyzed by the pandemic and her recognition of persistent technology gaps in underserved communities.

“We build and brand for social good,” Life said during a recent interview with The Atlanta Voice, “We want people to be able to use technology in a way that’s easy and intuitive for them, starting with our change makers.”

RebrandLand AI has worked with more than 450 nonprofits and changemakers, helping organizations scale up funding through its proprietary process. The company operates two AI models: HeyKrystal.ai, a grant strategist that helps organizations find and secure

Housing

funding, and KNMI.AI (pronounced “Nomi”), an event networking assistant.

The company’s success stories include Purelegacee in New York and New G Salon in Maryland, for which RebrandLand AI secured $600,000 in grant and RFP funding.

Life’s frustration with existing software solutions for nonprofits drove her company’s pivot from using third-party platforms to developing proprietary AI tools. “Nonprofits always get the bottom barrel of technology,” Life said. “We don’t get things that are designed for us or made for us or by us.”

A 2015 graduate of Spelman College with a degree in education studies, Life returned to Atlanta, which she considers home, to expand her company’s reach. Life is championing representation in innovation spaces through events like Pitch & Support Day: Rebrand Unfiltered, held on Wednesday, June 1, during Atlanta Tech Week at The Commerce Club. The event provides a platform for founders who need support beyond traditional funding opportunities.

“We want to bring this essence of community back into technology,” Life said, explaining her motivation for hosting the event.

Her educational background shaped her entrepreneurial approach. At Excel Charter

its proprietary process.

School, she discovered students lacked basic digital literacy, including email knowledge. She transitioned from school counselor to technology teacher, creating a curriculum that helped students earn coding certifications and start businesses.

Life’s philosophy remains consistent from classroom to boardroom: “If you can read and you can click a button, you should be able to use the software.”

Cypress 595 brings 77 affordable units to Old Fourth Ward

Cypress 595 is a 1500-unit preservation project across the Old Fourth Ward. The project, led by Wingate, has 77 “deeply affordable” units. Persons making less than 60% of the area median income can qualify, according to Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens. Many will accept Section 8 vouchers, which are used to subsidize rent for lower-income residents.

Dickens emphasized the importance of affordable housing, noting 6,700 units built and 5,000 under construction. His goal is to build 20,000 new affordable housing units by 2030.

“I understand the importance of providing our families with a safe and affordable place to call home and a place to raise our families,” Dickens said. “But that’s exactly what Cypress 595, delivers right here, safe quality, affordable housing.”

The Tangibles and Deliverables of Affordable Housing Affordable housing brings concerns about density, traffic and property values. Segura Jones, President of Atlanta Planning and

Advisory Board, believes growth can occur when residents are at the center of the strategy.

“With a superior growth model, when families can stay true and rooted children thrive in stable schools,”

said Jones. “Public transit becomes more accessible, and neighborhoods thrive and grow stronger together. As we celebrate today, let us recognize that showing how intentional, phased, community led,

equity focused redevelopment can work in Atlanta. This model will be replicated across neighborhoods facing similar histories.”

One of the keys for the affordable housing model to deliver results in Atlanta is fostering continued community partnerships between developers, local government, nonprofits, and residents. This is needed to ensure ongoing support and investment in the community’s development. Also, prioritizing resident voices in future development plans ensures that the community remains central to decision-making processes.

“We knitted together a lot of community players and federal and state and local resources to get to this point,” said Mark Schuster, Principal of Wingate. “That’s really been our contribution. We’re proud of it, and we’re here for the long term. We do not develop and buy properties and flip them and whatever we are. We are here to stay.”

RebrandLand AI CEO Kayla Life launched the company during the COVID pandemic. Photo by Noah Washington/The Atlanta Voice
RebrandLand AI has worked with more than 450 nonprofits and changemakers, helping organizations scale up funding through
Photo by Noah Washington/The Atlanta Voice
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens cuts the ribbon on during the Grand Opening of Cypress 595 on Tuesday, June 3, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. Photo By Itoro N. Umontuen/The Atlanta Voice

Discover Dominica, the hidden gem of the Caribbean

Marva Williams is the CEO of Discover Dominica, a Caribbean Island nestled between Martinique and Guadeloupe. Known as the “Natural Island of the Caribbean,” it is a hidden gem of stunning natural beauty with a lively and historied culture that is embedded in every preservation effort and diverse experience.

With a quick connection through Miami, Atlanta travelers can easily experience this lush destination.

The Atlanta Voice talked with Williams about its rich biodiversity, sustainability efforts, and its beautiful culture.

The Atlanta Voice: Dominica is called the “Nature Island of the Caribbean.” Can you talk about how it earned that name and the beautiful wonders that surround it?

Marva Williams: “It’s been the Nature Island even before I was born; it’s not just something we say. We literally are the Nature Island of the Caribbean. Sixty percent of Dominica is protected by UNESCO, which means we don’t occupy 60 percent of our land, and that is fully natural, fully tropical. Our natural state also extends to our 365 rivers, which give us so many waterfalls. We do not boast of the white sand beaches. We have the black sand beaches because we have nine volcanoes, but that gave us the sulfur springs we have people come take a bath in. That gave us the bubbling waters in the sea. So, all those attributes, coupled with the people who actually push the tourism, is what really defines us as the Nature Island.”

AV: And Dominica also has the second-largest boiling lake in the world.

MW: “Indeed. We have the largest boiling lake in the Caribbean and the second largest in the world. And with our naturalness, we also have the longest hiking trail in the Caribbean, which is

Marva Williams (above) is the CEO of Discover Dominica, a Caribbean Island nestled between Martinique and Guadeloupe. Williams visited WAREhouse Studios on The Atlanta Voice’s campus on Tuesday, June 10, 2025. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

like 14 segments. You can walk in nature, bask in the ambiance of nature, and do it as an exercise, all while taking in all the different sites and attractions. We have over 1,200 species of plants.

“We’re really into sustainability and that is why our tagline, the Nature Island, is so ideal, because we literally walk, talk, sleep, eat and dream nature. We’re actually investing in sustainability efforts in Dominica.”

AV: Can we talk more about how all these beauties and wonders feed into the preservation, the ecotourism and the climate resilience that Dominica is known for?

MW: “Our sustainability is really community-focused. No island can be sustainable without the community being involved. For us in Dominica, our community tourism is widespread. There are things happening in the north, south, east, and west — different activities — and that is driven by the people within the island. They’re the ones engaging in the food-to-table tours.

They’re the ones engaging in telling people about the locations.”

“I will give you an example: Dominica is one of two islands that still have indigenous people.”

AV: The Kalinago people.

MW: “Yes, the Kalinago. They used to be called the Caribs, but the Caribs, based on history, were affiliated with being fierce and always angry, and they wanted to take that away from them; they started to call themselves the Kalinago. We have about 3,000 Kalinago in Dominica, somewhere on the north of the island. They have their own territory and have that tourism offering. So. you can come to Dominic and live like a Kalinago. You can dress like them, eat their Kalinago food, immerse yourself in the whole Kalinago spirit, and even live in one of their houses.”

AV: It’s amazing that you still have the presence of the indigenous community there. How has that influenced Dominica’s cultural practices and traditions as the island continues to grow?

MW: “We respect the Kalinago and their culture and their manners of operation, hence the reason they have their own territory for themselves. With that respect, I can say that Dominica is still 60 percent Catholic. There are other religions. There are other cultures. For example, we have a little French influence. We have Spanish influence. We can say now that we have a bit of the Chinese and Japanese influence. But Dominica in general, we have our own identity,

and so do the Kalinago. The Kalinago have their own identity, how they live, how they speak, how they eat, how they engage with people from outside the territory. But it’s not something that has overpowered the overall uniqueness of the island; it is actually a compliment for us.”

“Dominica is the number one—and I say that we’re the number one — dive destination in the world towards the Southeast of the island only.”

AV: Sperm whales reside in Dominica year-round, and it’s a prime location for whale watching. Dominica will soon become home to the world’s first sperm whale reserve. What are the plans for that?

MW: “Dominica is the only Caribbean island with close to 300 residents from whales. We’ve called National Geographic once, and we said, ‘Hey, come here. We have this pool of sperm whales

in our waters. Tell us why.’ They couldn’t figure out why.

“We’re in the process of building a sperm whale sanctuary, and all that is adding to our sustainability efforts. We’re building our geothermal plants, and that is because we want to solidify our footing when it comes to the sustainability aspect already. We’re currently building a marina valued at over $200,000. When that Marina is complete, certain measures will be put in place to protect the land, to plant back trees, to make sure that there are fruit trees, trees that people can use in the near future. So, there’s a lot going on as it relates to Dominica being an eco-resort and eco-destination pushing luxury but also speaking sustainability and protection of our natural environment.

“Sustainability is also in our waters. Dominica is the number one—and I say that we’re the number one — dive destination in the world towards the Southeast of the island only. We have about 20 dive sites that divers really, really love. Over the past couple of months, we’ve seen an influx of people coming in specifically for diving. We boast that our underwater corals are not man-made, and with that, we always encourage keeping a clean and green destination.

“Do not litter, because if you throw things in the sea, then that is going to affect the whole coral and the coral restoration. We have some of our stakeholders who

See DOMINICA on page

The village of Scotts Head on the southern coast of the Caribbean island of Dominica. Taken from the top of Scotts Head Peninsula or Cachacrou on a clear, sunny day. Photo Credit: iStock.com/Alan Morris, Birkenhead

BE SOMEONE

Continued from page 2

it’s life. It’s about sacrifices. It’s about recognizing patterns. It’s about the moves you make determining the path you take. It’s about managing resources. The opposite of wealth is not poor; the opposite of wealth is mismanagement of resources,” Hudson said.

Hudson boasted that many of the students are on his level and on their way to becoming chess champions themselves. Irma Allen, the mother of two of Hudson’s students, said the introduction to chess began to positively impact her children over the last year.

“I started noticing that my eldest son wanted to start to emulate him [Hudson] a bit as far as leadership roles. He started working on his vocabulary. Then Leon was more introverted and soft-spoken. He’s actually started to project his voice more. It’s become much more than just chess at this point,” Allen said.

Hudson said hearing and witnessing chess’s impact on his students’ lives is the most rewarding part for him. He shared instances where his intervention over the years has saved young people from going to jail or committing violent crimes. “It’s rewarding having parents telling me, thank you for saving my child’s life, thank you for getting them out of the game. Thank you for showing him that there’s a better way. Thank you for getting him a job.”

Chess is a game of life, and Hudson is determined to win and bring as many people along with him as he can. His commitment to that has been recognized nationally. In 2012, he received the Dr. Martin Luther King Award for Social Justice and the FBI Distinguished Community Award in 2013.

He hopes to leave a legacy where the mention of his name brings tales of inspiration, fulfilled potential, and achievement of lifetime goals for children in underserved communities.

“My name is Orrin C. Hudson. The C stands for checkmate. Checkmate means it’s not over till you win. My commitment is helping people win,” Hudson said. “I just want people to say that because of Orrin. I didn’t give up because of Orrin. I made a better decision because of Orrin. I choose love. I choose peace. I’m not gonna do any violence. I want people to win. I’m living my dream.”

DOMINICA

Continued from page 11

engage in the coral restoration process.”

AV: You have all these Caribbean islands and countries that are far from monoliths. What, for you, makes the culture of Dominica so special, especially when it comes to food and music and the liveliness?

MW: “Everything we do is really traditional and really cultural. We carry that history and all that speaks to the naturalness of Dominica. Our cultural tradition is really celebrated

at the end of September, going into October, and we celebrate Dominica’s birthday on the third of November; you have about six weeks of independence and culture. That is when it really comes alive with the celebrations. That’s where you see people wearing the traditional wear, which is the “wob dwiyet,” yet you will see people wearing the “jupe,” which is the skirt and the petticoat. People are dancing cultural dances that align with our history and our tradition like bélé and quadrille.

“The sancoche, our national dish, is a mixture of different fruit crops and vegetables of which the coconut water, the salt fish and the

crabs are the highlight. In Dominica, we have two types of genres of music that belong to us. We have the calypso and then we have the buoyon. It flourishes during Carnival and the World Creole Music Festival. The language — Creole — comes alive. You feel an atmosphere of independence, pride, and power as a people.

“Our tradition, our culture, is very important to us. We always emphasize the authenticity of Dominica for its nature, its tradition, its culture, all motivated and pushed by the people within the island.”

AV: As more travelers visit Dominica, what are some things they should keep in mind to

not only enjoy all Dominica has to offer but also be respectful about it.

MW: “We’re looking for eco-friendly travelers who are also in love with nature, which means they will protect nature by embracing the power of sustainability and what it means.

“We want more people to discover this hidden gem right in the middle of the chain of islands in the Caribbean. It’s for families. We are safe for solo travelers, and it is an amazing destination for couples looking to get married or celebrate their honeymoon.”

This interview was edited for length and clarity.

A life-size chessboard sits on the front lawn of the building. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice
Orrin “Checkmate” Hudson (right) is a two-time world open speed chess champion. “Teaching children to think makes my heart sing,” Hudson said. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice

Dominique Thorne Embraces Leading Marvel’s ‘Ironheart’ Series

Very few properties have made their way into the cultural zeitgeist like the Marvel Cinematic Universe. With more than 30 projects, only a handful have been led by lack actors and actresses.

To date, only two projects, across both film and television, have featured nonwhite non/ male actors in lead roles, not including ensemble films: Ms. Marvel and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. That list is now growing with Marvel’s latest endeavor: Ironheart.

Ironheart is spinning off from the Ryan Coogler-directed Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. Dominique Thorne, 27, says she’s still keeping a low profile despite becoming the first Black woman to lead a Marvel Cinematic Universe series.

“I’m walking around the way I’ve always been — quiet in the cut, maybe a little cuter now, but very much still in the cut,” Thorne told The Atlanta Voice in a recent interview about her starring role in Disney+’s upcoming “Ironheart” series, which premieres on June 24.

The Cornell University graduate reprises her role as young genius inventor Riri Williams from “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever”. The show positions her character as a “techno mage” who navigates both advanced technology and magical elements.

be so proud of who we are,” she said.

Thorne described the transition from grounded, historical projects to Marvel’s fantastical universe as manageable, though she noted the extensive use of blue screens was “the trippiest part.” She said she worked to maintain the character’s humanity amid the larger-than-life elements.

“I do look for ways to kind of lean into that, like look for spaces and moments where we could bring that groundedness in, so that we do feel connected to her, that the humanity rings true,” she explained.

The actress hopes audiences will embrace the expanding Marvel universe and the diverse characters it now includes.

“The world is growing, the world is changing, and as it changes and as it evolves, there are people equally as brilliant doing incredible, amazing, earth-shattering things,” Thorne said. “It’s not something to be scared of, but it’s something to lean into, because when we lean in, that’s when we actually get to enjoy the ride.”

“The world is growing, the world is changing, and as it changes and as it evolves, there are people equally as brilliant doing incredible, amazing, earth-shattering things. It’s not something to be scared of, but it’s something to lean into, because when we lean in, that’s when we actually get to enjoy the ride.”

“To be in this world where tech and magic are in the same conversation is really, really exciting,” Thorne said, noting how the series builds on the magical elements introduced in “Doctor Strange.”

The actress, who previously appeared in “Judas and the Black Messiah,” acknowledged the significance of her groundbreaking role while emphasizing the importance of representation in entertainment.

“I think now that there is a young Black female lead in the MCU, that we should really enjoy that and own that and celebrate that, and just add it to the list of reasons that we have to

Riri Williams first debuted in Invincible Iron Man Vol. 2 #7, published in May 2016, created by writer Brian Michael Bendis and artist Mike Deodato. She officially suited up as Ironheart in Invincible Iron Man Vol. 3 #1, released in November 2016. Introduced as a 15-year-old genius who builds her own Iron Man–style suit at MIT, Riri quickly became a standout character, earning a dedicated fanbase and eventually leading her own solo comic series.

Addressing her supporters directly, Thorne expressed gratitude for the enthusiastic fan response she witnessed at recent conventions.

“Come to the front. Come to the front. I love you,” she said. “The people who are finally feeling seen and feeling loved and feeling like this is their time. This is their moment to stand in all that they are and get their friends together and be like, ‘Oh my God, it’s us.’ That’s what you deserve.”

“Ironheart” will debut with its first three episodes on Disney+ on June 24, 2025.

Dominique Thorne (above) is the star of the latest Marvel Universe project, Ironheart. Thorne sat down with The Atlanta Voice to talk about the series, which debuts on Disney+ “Ironheart” on June 24, 2025. Photo by Noah Washington/The Atlanta Voice
“Ironheart” will debut its first three episodes on Disney+ on June 24, 2025.Actress Dominique Thorne (above) sat down with The Atlanta Voice on Tuesday to talk about the series. Photo courtesy of Disney

The State of Black America’s Drug Overdose Epidemic

We call them addicts.

Users. Drug seekers — and we see them as less than human.

We often assume unhoused people living in tents under freeway overpasses are substance users. But it’s our neighbors, our loved ones, and our family. The reality is that most Americans know someone who struggles with substance use. And for Black America, there’s a drug overdose epidemic.

“We have historically criminalized substance use in Black and Brown communities — the view has been very harsh. It’s almost as if it’s a throwaway population,” says Saeeda Dunston, CEO of Elmcor Youth & Adult Activities, a Queens, New York-based nonprofit service agency focused on substance use, prevention, and recovery.

In the United States, the mortality rate for drug overdoses reached an all-time highin 2022. Over the past two years, deaths have declined by approximately 10% nationwide. But when broken down by different ethnicities, Black Americans are still dying at alarming rates.

Late last month, Trust for America’s Health, a nonprofit health policy, research, and advocacy organization, released its annual report, Pain in the Nation 2025: the Epidemics of Alcohol, Drug, and Suicide Deaths. In a 5-year snapshot, Black or African American people had the second-highest mortality rate of drug overdoses. Still, American Indian and Alaska Native people have the highest rates, nearly double the rate of white Americans.

Why Do Black folks keep dying?

Tekisha Everette, executive vice president of Trust for America’s Health, explains why overdose death rates are going down for white Americans but not Black Americans. Part of the problem is a lack of access to culturally relevant care and behavioral health services — which often work in tandem. And there aren’t enough prevention investments in Black neighborhoods, which include programs that support Black families vulnerable to substance use.

“We know what to do,” she says. “We just need to be able to properly fund those trainings and activities.”

Dozens of cities across the country have implemented programs to dispatch trained mental health professionals instead of police for certain 911 calls. Stanford researchers found it reduced criminalization of individuals struggling with substance use.

“There have always been resources in our communities who have been working for the betterment of us. But we need to invest in Black-lead and community-based organizations. They’re often not the shiny organizations people throw money at. We need to remember these are the tried and true that are going to be here.”
Melicia Whitt-Glover CEO of Council on Black Health

Synthetic opioids like fentanyl are leading the drug overdose epidemic — within five years, death rates doubled due to synthetic opioids. To reduce mortality rates, increased access to naloxone, methadone, and buprenorphine, all examples of harm reduction strategies, has been shown to reduce

overdose deaths.

On the other hand, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline expanded two years ago to support individuals with substance use and mental health needs. But with threats to cut specialized services from 988, it’s unclear where this resource stands. In April, the

Trump Administration terminated hundreds of grants, many of which provided federal support for substance use and mental health treatment.

“We’re going to have a huge loss there. My crystal ball is not clear. I can’t see into the future. But what I do know is that we stand to lose the progress that we have seen.” Everette says. “African Americans, American Indians, and Alaska Natives will be hurt the most and the worst from the impact of these cuts in their communities.”

What’s the Way Forward?

Melicia Whitt-Glover, CEO of Council on Black Health, an organization working to advance Black health equity, says the substance use epidemic in the Black community intersects with structural racism and access to housing and education. Oftentimes, substance users and their support people are left to navigate a system that is unnecessarily complicated.

To mitigate these challenges, Whitt-Glover says, it’s important to practice trauma-informed care and holistic support strategies. Part of that includes identifying the trauma that led people to substance use. It’s not just about abstinence or punishing people, she says; it’s about addressing folks’ individual needs.

“There have always been resources in our communities who have been working for the betterment of us. But we need to invest in Black-lead and community-based organizations,” she says. “They’re often not the shiny organizations people throw money at. We need to remember these are the tried and true that are going to be here.”

Last month, Elmcor, the Queens-based organization, held a media briefing on the State of the Overdose Epidemic in Black America. Dunston, who leads the organization, says that to decrease drug overdose deaths in the Black community, substance use needs to be seen as a public health issue and not a criminal justice issue.

“You can’t address any public health issue if you’re not going to discuss it, talk about it, or hide it,” she says.

Within the last three years, the mortality rates from substance use have declined for white Americans by about 3%. In part, Dunston says, is due to the awareness raised in that community — that same level of intensity needs to be applied in the Black community.

“No one’s gonna save us. We have to save ourselves,” she says. “It’s up to us to do the saving. We have to step up and be proactive. We have to be honest about what’s happening and have compassion for people in our communities that are using.”

In the last two years, drug overdose deaths have declined by about 10% nationally. But Black Americans are still dying at alarming rates. MoleQL

Faith and Follow Throughs: Atlanta Dream’s Mya Caldwell finds peace in her faith

The WNBA season, like many of its brother and sister professional sports seasons, can be a road of ups and downs. There are win streaks, losing streaks, big wins on the road, and blowout losses at home. Atlanta Dream veteran guard Maya Caldwell knows what it takes to make it in the W. During practice on Monday afternoon, Caldwell, a native of Charlotte, North Carolina, and a former University of Georgia Lady Dawg, went through drills, scrimmages, and shooting drills like she had something to prove. In her fourth season in the WNBA, Caldwell has seen her share of highs and lows, and doesn’t take a minute on the court, practice, or games for granted.

“My career has been very up and down, and I have been in and out of the league, so I rely heavily on my faith for my confidence and the strength to keep going,” Caldwell said. “Sometimes you run out of self-motivation, and when you’re in and out of the league like I have been, it gets tiring.”

Caldwell said she leans heavily on God in moments of frustration with her career. Drafted by the Indiana Fever in the third round of the 2021 WNBA draft, Caldwell played her first season in the W in 2022, starting seven of nine games for the Atlanta Dream. She moved on to the Fever and played an average of 10 minutes a game for 30 games during the 2023 season. During that season, Caldwell only started one game, but impressed the Dream brain trust enough to be signed again, this time for the 2024 season (25 games, 5.2 points per game).

She has never lost the faith that playing in the W was where she was going to be. Prayer and faith played a special.

“I lean heavily on God because He has shown me in the past, even before I got to the big leagues, that He’s faithful, His plan is always greater, and He has something for me,” Caldwell said.

Raised in a God-fearing home, Caldwell said she truly “surrendered” to God in college at Georgia. The transition from high school star to fighting to earn minutes as a collegiate undergrad can be difficult for many on the Division I

August 8 in Indianapolis.

level. Caldwell told The Atlanta Voice that it was one of the times during her career that she prayed the hardest and worked the hardest.

“I just allowed God to have His hand in my life and in my career,” Caldwell said. “I have to remind myself that this is not a forever thing, so I make sure that He is the center of everything that I do. There’s a lot of peace and comfort in that, and that part allows me to take a step back and relax.”

This season, Caldwell is averaging just under four points, two assists, and two rebounds per game.

Under first-year Dream head coach Karl Smesko, she has also started three of the Dream’s eight games this season. Caldwell has done a bit of everything for the team this season, including scoring a season-high 12 points to go along with a season-high six assists in a 79-55 victory over the Connecticut Sun at Gateway Arena on Sunday, May 25.

Last week in Connecticut, Caldwell had two blocks in an 84-76 loss.

The loss was the Dream’s only setback in their last four games. Caldwell played an average of 14 minutes

in the last two games, including a victory in Seattle.

She is finding a way to contribute every night and credits that resilience to her relationship with God.

“Probably 90% of my thoughts are me talking to God, in a game, in practice, driving down the road, all the time,” she said. “I just want to stay out of my head and in His will, and stay connected to Him.”

Caldwell credits her parents as the foundation of such a strong faith base. She said she watched her parents closely, and though both believe in God, they have different styles: her mother is a physical embodiment of prayer, and her father is the logical Biblical embodiment.

“He is very logical; everything that he says comes directly from the Bible,” Caldwell said of her father. “And if he doesn’t have the answer, that’s exactly where he goes.”

And her mother: “She kind of gives me, ‘this is what happened to me, this is how God answered,’ she said.

Caldwell also said her fiancé, Zach Ellwanger, helps balance her life. The couple are set to get married on

“I feel like he does a really good job of leading me spiritually and mentally in my game,” she said. “If I have a bad game or if I have a good game, pros and cons, what things can we talk to God about?”

Working on Sundays a lot as a WNBA player, Caldwell has to find time to either get to church service or find a peaceful place to pray. Luckily, she says she is OK with praying wherever she is.

“You have to sit down with God, you have to do your Bible studies, you have to watch sermons, I listen

to so much praise and worship music,” she said. “I know I don’t always get that time to sit in the church and be in His presence, but if He’s with you, He is with you.”

Caldwell said she and her fiancé enjoy attending church services when they can. Until the next time she sits down in a pew, she will carry on having church service on the court and off. No matter where she is she knows God’s watching and listening.

“The Lord does not condemn what he has already forgiven, so you have to give yourself grace,” Caldwell said.

Atlanta Dream guard Mya Caldwell’s peace on and off the court is based in her faith in God. “I rely heavily on my faith for my confidence and the strength to keep going,” Caldwell said.” Photo courtesy of the Atlanta Dream
Caldwell (33) averages just under four points, two assists, and two rebounds per game this season. She has also started three of the Dream’s eight games this season. Photo courtesy of the Atlanta Dream
“I lean heavily on God because He has shown me in the past, even before I got to the big leagues, that He’s faithful, His plan is always greater, and He has something for me,” Caldwell (center, with ball) said. Photo courtesy of the Atlanta Dream

Street Lines: 2025 Chevrolet Silverado Trail Boss

The wait for a pickup review is over, and the 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT Trail Boss is more than just a truck built for labor, with the comfort and generous tech components broadening the driving experience. With the combination of off-road-themed equipment and premium features, the Trail Boss delivers everything you’d want from the industry’s popular pickup sector.

Addressing the heart of this beast, the Silverado Trail Boss packs an upgraded 6.2-liter EcoTec3 V8 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, boosting both power and efficiency. Its factory-installed 2-inch suspension lift, Z71 off-road package, and Autotrac 2-speed transfer case give it the stance and performance needed to conquer challenging terrain with confidence. Paired with gangster Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tires on 18-inch black wheels, this truck has us ready to take on whatever nature has in store straight off the lot.

The exterior is impressive as well; it gets stealthy with blacked-out badging, a body-color grille bar, red recovery hooks, and LED lighting for a modern finish. Inside, the Trail Boss gets its pampering on with its upscale appointments. The 13.4-inch diagonal infotainment touchscreen and 12.3inch digital display bring a sleek, tech-forward feel to the cabin. Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto is a must nowadays and present here, along with Google built-in capabilities for top-notch connection.

Comfort and convenience shine with heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, and remote start, which are collectively perfect for all-season driving. The spray-on bedliner, rear corner step bumper, and EZ Lift power lock/release tailgate add functionality without sacrificing the Silverado’s style. The optional Assist Step and hard Tonneau cover to protect cargo come highly recommended as well, which were featured with this model.

Safety in the Trail Boss eases the mind as well, thanks to the signature Chevy Safety Assist suite. Customized and ideal for every truck owner, features include forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, following distance indicator, and front pedestrian braking. rear park assist and a high-definition rear vision camera for optimal visibility.

Fuel economy is respectable for this full-size 4WD truck, with 17 MPG combined, and a towing capacity well above 9,000 pounds.

Ultimately, the 2025 Chevrolet Silverado Trail Boss is the ideal combo of rugged durability, practicality, and modern luxury. Yup, it’s safe to say this pickup is truly a Boss. Look for the 2026 EV version coming soon as well.

Fuel Economy: 15 city/20 highway/17 combined

Price: The 2025 Chevrolet Silverado Trail Boss is $71,900 as reviewed with the engine upgrade, LT Trail Boss Premium Package, and Assist Step/Tonneau Package. For more information, visit Chevrolet.com.

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Rent Based on Annual Income Amenities, Great Location, and Convenient to Marta Please call for detailed information (404) 586-9098

APPLICATION DEVELOPER

Application Developer (Device Payment) (mltpl pos’s), US Bank, Atlanta, GA to guide the tech dsgn & dvlpmt of highly cmplx, cross-functional, & multiplatform, payment application s/w sys. Pos reqs a Master’s deg in CS, IT, or a rltd field, & 3 yrs in a S/w Dvlpr, or rltd, occupation. Must incl 3 yrs of exp w/ each of the following: 1. Dvlpng apps for embedded Verifone payment terminals; 2. Java & d/b prgmng for dvlpng payment apps on Android based devices; 3. Writing & debugging apps for EMV kernel envrmnts; 4. Mngng all phases of the EMV certification process; and 5. C, C++, Cygwin, CVim, GVim, Eclipse, Linux, PLSQL, Smart Card, & Unix. Teams may work from home & the office. Pay Range: $127,504 - $164,100. Applyonline https://careers.usbank. com/global/en or email recruiting.excellence@usbank.com, incl job req 2025-0009731 in subject line.

MARKETING & COMMUNICATION COORDINATOR

Thyssenkrupp Polysius North America Inc. seeks Marketing & Communication Coordinator for Atlanta, GA office. Req Bachelor’s or equiv in marketing, advertising, communications or closely rel field & 2 yrs exp in offered or similar position. Duties incl market analysis & adapting marketing plans to fit market trends. Up to 20% domestic & int’l trvl. Email resume w/ cvr ltr to alicia.stignani@thyssenkrupp.com, ref. job #MCC001.

ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY

Hottle Law Firm LLC seeks Associate Attorney for its Immigration Law practice in Atlanta/GA. Client representation in court/gvmt agencies; consult/advise; research/prepare legal briefs/docs, pleadings, petitions; manage cases; supervise paralegals. REQUIRED J.D. Law degree from a U.S. accredited school; GA Bar active license; fluent in English/Portuguese. Hybrid policy with WFH possible 1-2 days/wk. Email resumes to fernanda@ hottlelaw.com w/ word LAWYER in subject line.

PROJECT MANAGER, IT

Floor & Décor seeks Proj. Mgr, IT for Atlanta, GA office. Req. Bachelor’s or equiv in IT, Comp Sci, or closely rel field & 8 yrs wrk exp in offered or similar position. Duties incl managing projects using agile methods over multiple business divisions. May telecommute from anywhere in U.S.. To apply visit: https://bit.ly/FNDPMIT

FULTON COUNTY ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

Sealed Bids for 25ITB1393169C-GS Generator System

Maintenance & Repair Services for the Department of Real Estate & Asset Management will be accepted by the Fulton County Department of Purchasing & Contract Compliance online through the Web Grants System via BidNet Direct at https://www.bidnetdirect.com/georgia/fultoncounty on Tuesday, July15, 2025 at 11:00 A.M.. All Bids submitted must be received no later than 11:00 a.m. local (Eastern) time on the stated due date, see Zoom Link below.

Web Conference Link: Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/92232509335

Meeting ID: 922 3250 9335

Bid Bond: N/A

Scope of Work: Fulton County, Georgia “County” is seeking bids from qualified bidders to provide Generator System Maintenance and Repair Services.

The detailed scope of work and technical specifications is outlined in the Scope of Work, Section 4 of this bid document.

General instructions, specifications and/or plans for this project can be Downloaded Free of charge at https://www.bidnetdirect.com/Georgia/ fultoncounty under “Bid Opportunities”.

Fee: N/A

Term of Contract: 1 Year with 2 Renewal Options

Pre-Bid Conference, will be held online electronically via a Zoom Conference on Tuesday, June 24, 2025 at 10:00 A.M., to provide bidder(s) with information regarding this project and to address any questions. Web Conference Link: Gertis Strozier is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/s/95903547914 If you have any questions regarding this project please contact Gertis Strozier, APA via Phone: (404) 612-7916 or E-mail at gertis.strozier@ fultoncountyga.gov.

Fulton County reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids and to waive technicalities.

Wellstar Health System along with researchers at more than 100 other hospitals across the United States and other countries, are conducting a research study of bleeding in the brain called FASTEST. This research study may affect you or someone you know. Learn more about this research study by contacting the study team in your area at research@wellstar.org

2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 towing a trailer Photo courtesy of Chevrolet

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