Edwin Moses documentary set to premiere during Morehouse Film Festival
On Tuesday, the Morehouse College Human Rights Film Festival announced that it would conclude this year’s festivities by showing the world premiere of “Moses — 13 Steps,” about former Olympian and Morehouse graduate Edwin Moses, on Sept. 21.
The documentary tells the story of Moses’s life and legacy, including triumphs on and off the track that catalyzed significant social and scientific change and inspired generations to overcome barriers of all kinds.
The film will feature interviews with Moses, director Spike Lee, actor Samuel Jackson, Olympic greats Tommie Smith and Michael Johnson and more.
Click here to purchase tickets.
— Allison Joyner
Standing room-only send-off for philanthropist Anne Sterchi
The life of Anne Sterchi, executive director of the J.B. Fuqua Foundation, was celebrated on Aug. 26 at All Saint’s Episcopal Church with a standing-room-only crowd.
Sterchi, 69, died on Aug. 17 from complications associated with a viral infection.
During the service, Rex Fuqua joked that his father, J.B. Fuqua, resisted the idea of hiring a professional to oversee the family’s philanthropic giving and serve as a gatekeeper for all the funding requests. He remembered when Sterchi first met the elder Fuqua almost 25 years ago.
“I really felt bad about bringing Anne in,” Rex said during the service. “My father was a difficult person.”
But the younger Fuqua’s fears were quickly brushed aside.
“I could actually hear laughter coming from his office,” Rex said. “That was unheard of.”
Friends and family remembered Sterchi as a warm, loving person who loved music and nature.
“Anne was everyone’s best friend. Her laugh would light up 100 rooms and the holes she left in so many hearts will never be filled,” said her close friend Stephanie Davis.
— Maria Saporta
New president begins at MAP International
On Aug. 26, Chris Palombo began his new role as president and CEO of MAP International, a global health organization based in Brunswick with a strong presence in Atlanta.
Palombo is succeeding Steve Sterling, who will serve in an emeritus position through his official retirement on April 1, 2025. Sterling has led MAP International for 10 years.
“Chris Palombo shares MAP’s passion for increasing global healthcare access and is dedicated to serving the world’s most vulnerable populations,” Stirling said in a statement. “Chris has dedicated his life and career to consistently champion the cause of the medically underserved, both domestically and internationally.”
Palombo began his career as a missionary and minister to university students, then moved into the healthcare space, where he focused his efforts on developing infrastructure that serves low-income populations by reducing cost, expanding access, and improving outcomes.
Most recently, Palombo served for 13 years as the CEO of Dispensary of Hope, a charitable organization dedicated to increasing medication access for uninsured patients in the United States.
Susan J. Roeder, MAP International’s board chair, said she has full confidence that Palombo will lead the organization to new heights by providing access to medicine and health supplies to people in need around the world.
“MAP International is one of the most well-respected charitable medication distributors in operation today,” Palombo said in a release. “It is an honor to begin serving MAP’s beneficiaries, donors, partners, board, and staff at this critical moment in global history.”
— Maria Saporta
A new green carpet for PGA TOUR Championship
Chad Parker, president and general manager of the East Lake Golf Club, is breathing a sigh of relief. The world’s top 30 golfers have descended on East Lake for the TOUR Championship, which began Aug. 28 and will culminate on Sept. 1.
“It’s been something we’ve been planning for over a year,” Parker told the Rotary Club of Atlanta at its Aug. 26 lunch meeting. Parker has been with the Cousins’ organization for 28 years, and he’s been involved with the TOUR for 24 years.
East Lake has spent $30 million renovating the golf course in time for the TOUR Championship, spending 270,000 man-hours on the project, which Parker called a “monumental task.”
“It was time for us to do that,” Parker said. “We started on Aug. 31 of last year. And May 21 was our D-day.”
That was how long it was going to take for the grass to take hold in order to be ready for the TOUR.
“Why is all this important? It’s important because our mission of golf with a purpose is something we live, eat, breathe every single day. It’s something that was important to Tom Cousins. It’s important to me, and it’s important to the community,” Parker said. “We are so pleased to be able to host this week, to have the golf course ready.”
The Rotary program included Len Brown, a former Atlantan who is now the PGA Tour’s chief of global business ventures, and Matt Rapp, senior vice president of the PGA TOUR.
“We are thrilled about the remodel,” Rapp said. “We have been able to generate $56 million for the East Lake Foundation and the Cousins Foundation. The vast majority of that has been raised in the past five, six or eight years.”
The TOUR Championship, however, stands out because of its prize money. The 2024 FedEx Cup has a prize money pool of $100 million, and the winner of the TOUR will earn $25 million.
— Maria Saporta
Gwinnett Tech appoints new director to board
On Tuesday, Gwinnett Technical College announced that they have appointed Beverly Hunt to its board of directors.
Hunt is the chief nursing officer at Northside Hospital Gwinnett/Duluth, and she will bring her experience and commitment to educating students.
“Beverly brings valuable knowledge and expertise, along with a strong belief in the power of education to change lives,” said Glen Cannon, President of Gwinnett Technical College. “Her insights as an industry innovator and community leader will help us further Gwinnett Tech’s mission to provide career-focused education for real-world jobs.”
— Allison Joyner
Updates on MARTA projects
MARTA CEO Collie Greenwood shared updates on planning, procurement, and construction of transit projects during the City Council’s transportation committee meeting on Wednesday.
The discussion with council members included several mentions of preparing for the 2026 World Cup, including requests to make updates to the Garnett, Lakewood, and Oakland MARTA stations prior to fans descending on Atlanta.
MARTA’s presentation to the committee provided cost and timing estimates for several More MARTA Atlanta projects:
Summerhill Bus Rapid Transit (BRT): The Summerhill BRT route is currently under construction and expected to be in service by next summer. MARTA estimates that it will cost $34.5 million per mile for a route with 85% dedicated right of way.
– Total project budget: $86.4 million
Cleveland Avenue Arterial Rapid Transit (ART): MARTA will be seeking bids in October for this bus service along Cleveland Avenue and Metropolitan Parkway in Southwest Atlanta. This is the first project where MARTA is working together with the Atlanta Department of Transportation to address potholes and other roadway issues at the same time that MARTA builds out this route. Greenwood hopes the collaboration will result in stronger bids for the project, which is expected to begin construction in February 2025 and commence service in July 2026.
– Total project budget: $45.8 million
Bankhead platform extension: Axis Infrastructure, the final design consultant, is reviewing the 30% concept designs for an extension of the platform at Bankhead station to allow for full-length trains. MARTA anticipates that final design will be complete in September 2025, but is evaluating ways to accelerate the design and construction schedule.
– Total project budget: $71.5 million.
Campbellton Road BRT: The BRT line along Campbellton Road in Southwest Atlanta and the Greenbriar transit hub have been combined in an effort to secure more federal funding for multi-modal transportation and expedite the project, Greenwood said. MARTA expects the BRT line will cost about $60 million per mile with an in-service target of December 2030. Transportation committee vice-chair Marcia Collier Overstreet asked to speak with the MARTA team about residents’ concerns regarding a shared bike lane along the route.
– Total project budget: $319.5 million
Clifton Corridor High Capacity Transit (HCT): Councilmember Alex Wan pointed out that a December 2028 timeline for transit service along Clifton Corridor seems unlikely based on the progress thus far. Greenwood agreed that MARTA will need more time to deliver that project and shared that the agency must have further discussions with CSX before it can move ahead.
– Total project budget: $599 million
— Grace Donnelly
DeKalb school bus involved in crash leaving driver, 19 students injured
On Wednesday morning, DeKalb County School District bus was struck by a vehicle on River Road in Ellenwood, leaving the driver and students injured.
Bus #1929 was carrying students from Salem Middle School when it was found turned on its side in a ditch after hitting a pole.
DeKalb County School District officials said there were no serious injuries, but 19 students were taken to medical facilities for evaluation and treatment.
The district says the DeKalb County Police are investigating the incident.
— Allison Joyner
Star Forest to premiere at DragonCon
Star Forest, a multi-platform project spanning musical albums, music videos, animated content, podcasts, and a mobile video game, will premiere at DragonCon and is set to roll out over the coming months.
In an era where children are increasingly disconnected from nature and overwhelmed by technology, Star Forest offers a bridge between digital engagement and real-world wonder. It’s designed to combat “nature deficit disorder” by inspiring kids to explore, create and connect with the world around them.
At its heart is a virtual band of lovable misfits whose music transcends entertainment, becoming a gateway to imagination and self-discovery targeted for children aged 5 to 9, but may appeal to a range of music lovers.
“Star Forest isn’t just an album, a show, or a game — it’s an entire universe designed to captivate, educate, and inspire,” said Genevieve LeDoux, Star Forest creator and co-founder. “We noticed a significant gap in content for children who have outgrown preschool programming but aren’t ready for teen-oriented material. Star Forest fills this void with rich, multi-layered content that grows with the child.”
— Derek Prall
Spelman professor receives top award in dance industry
This week, Spelman College announced that T. Lang, its dance performance and choreography professor, is receiving the 2024 National Dance Educators Organization’s (NDEO) Outstanding Dance Educator in Higher Education Award in the “Established” category.
The award acknowledges dance educators who teach in higher education and inspire and motivate their students to significantly impact their school community.
“As I reflect on my journey of becoming a professor in dance, I think of the students with whom I’ve engaged over the last two decades,” Lang said. “These students greatly inspired me to “bring it, stay on top of it, and evolve it,” and because of their reciprocity of grit, service, and love of dance — I have endured.”
Lang will receive her award on Sept. 5.
— Allison Joyner
YMCA of Metro Atlanta opens enrollment for afterschool programs
The YMCA of Metro Atlanta today announced enrollment is open for its Y Explore Afterschool Programs for the 2024-2025 school year. The Y serves more than 53 metro Atlanta elementary schools and offers programs at 11 Y locations.
Y Explore Afterschool Programs include an innovative, learner-centered curriculum and programmed activities, club activities and imagination stations for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Y Explore programs support language and literacy and integrate social emotional learning.
“Y Explore Afterschool Programs are designed to help students grow their desire to learn, gain critical thinking skills and enhance their social emotional skills,” said Lauren Koontz, president and CEO of the YMCA of Metro Atlanta. “Through our afterschool curriculum, children will find new opportunities to learn and grow in a welcoming and accepting environment.”
The cost for children to attend is $85 full-time or $45 part-time. A free/reduced lunch rate is available for $55 full-time for those in need. The Y provides financial assistance to families in need.
Atlanta Falcons and Wells Fargo announce expansion of HBCU Fellowship Program
The Atlanta Falcons in partnership with Wells Fargo recently announced the expansion of the HBCU Fellowship Program, now in its second year. This paid eight-week initiative continues to provide valuable skills, career development and networking opportunities for students from Atlanta-based Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
Following a successful inaugural year, the program has expanded to include 15 fellows, up from 12, and now encompasses a broader range of departments within AMB Sports and Entertainment (AMBSE). New areas such as player engagement, live events and entertainment, stadium production, graphic design, brand communications, internal communications and employer branding, and corporate partnerships have been added, due to increased interest.
Participants will gain hands-on experience with the Atlanta Falcons and at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Additionally, the program includes mentorship from executives and associates at both AMBSE and Wells Fargo.
“The Atlanta Falcons and Wells Fargo are committed to creating opportunities for HBCU students by sharing insider access to the diverse careers within sports and entertainment,” said Latonda Henderson, chief diversity, equity, and inclusion officer of AMBSE. “Our first cohort was exceptional, and we are thrilled to expand this program and provide these talented students with hands-on exposure and in-demand skills.”
— Derek Prall
City of South Fulton creates ‘Use of Force’ committee
The City of South Fulton City Council approved a resolution to create a Use of Force Committee on Tuesday, August 27th introduced by District 3 Councilwoman Helen Zenobia Willis and City of South Fulton Police Chief, Keith Meadows.
The City of South Fulton Police Department Use of Force Committee seeks to increase transparency between the Police Department and community by reviewing evidence and details when a sworn officer uses force, including discharge of a firearm. Mayor and Council members of the City of South Fulton are positioned to select eight highly engaged and active community members for the training program — representing each of the districts. Active participants will have the opportunity to serve in individual cycles, on a rotational schedule as part of the committee, reviewing cases with law enforcement officials.
“I am excited to be a force in supporting these initiatives, bringing community engagement and oversight accountability into the City of South Fulton and its Police Department. Both the Police Citizens Academy and the Use of Force Committee showcase our commitment to maintaining a clear line of communication between residents and the City of South Fulton Police Department,” Councilwoman Willis said. “These increased opportunities for honest communication, community education, and trust-building will ultimately help our community remain a safe and desirable place to live, and is testament that we are committed to implementing the recommendations from 21 Century Policing Public Policy.”
— Derek Prall
City of Hope to host cancer walk to increase research funding, access to care
City of Hope, one of the largest cancer research and treatment organizations in the United States, will be holding its Walk for Hope, a nationwide cancer-ending movement to increase funding for lifesaving cancer research, broader treatment access and equitable care for all. This is the first year Walk for Hope takes place in Georgia.
Hundreds of patients, survivors, caregivers and advocates will walk together at City of Hope Atlanta in Newnan, Ga, on Saturday, Sept. 7. All of the net proceeds raised by Walk for Hope support City of Hope cancer research.
— Derek Prall
Atlanta Digital World Summit announces lineup
Event organizers recently announced the lineup for the 2024 Atlanta Digital World Summit (ADWS), set for Oct. 1 at Mercedes Benz Stadium. The event brings together visionaries, thought leaders, and industry experts from around the globe to explore the forefront of digital innovation and its impact on industry sectors such as film, television, music, gaming and money.
The ADWS attracts leaders in technology, finance, education and government. It creates an immersive platform where professionals, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts can connect, collaborate, and learn about the latest trends, advancements, and best practices shaping the digital landscape — including artificial intelligence, blockchain, sports technology, fintech, and gaming and Esports.
“We are really excited with the lineup for the 2024 Atlanta Digital World Summit,” said Sarah Smith, ADWS organizer and founder and CEO of Solution Road. “The digital infrastructure in Atlanta and surrounding communities has changed the business profile of the entire state and we are grateful to Mercedes Benz Stadium for giving us such a great venue for the event.”
Special Guests include:
- Todd Schmidt, Senior Producer, NFL Films
- Quincy Johnson, Vice President Of Distribution Partner Operations at Warner Bros. Discovery
- Allie Young, GameHers
- Ryan Broussard, Wrapbook
- Matthew Wilson, Partner, Arnall Golden Gregory, Entertainment & Sports
- Gordon Barfield – VP Strategy and Corporate Development, AMB Sports and Entertainment
- Wayne Kimmel, CEO, 76 Capital
- Michael Doyle, Head of Development, Daybreak Games
— Derek Prall
GreenLight Fund Atlanta receives funding from Bank of America
Bank of America recently renewed its commitment to GreenLight Fund Atlanta, enhancing its support for the organization’s work in the metro Atlanta community.
GreenLight Fund Atlanta has invested $2.4 million to date, reaching over 75,000 people in metro Atlanta this year alone with much needed programs and building strong, diverse community partnerships for immediate as well as sustainable, long-term impact. To date, the portfolio of social innovations, selected in partnership with the community, include:
- Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO): Launched in 2021, CEO provides comprehensive employment services to individuals recently released from incarceration to support building career capital and financial stability with a focus on reducing recidivism.
- The Literacy Lab’s Leading Men Fellowship: Launched in 2022, Leading Men Fellowship offers high-dosage early literacy interventions for pre-K students and introduces young men of color to the field of education, diversifying the educator pipeline.
- Inner Explorer: Launched in 2023, Inner Explorer provides daily audio-guided mindfulness practices for students and teachers, improving their mental well-being, school culture, and academic outcomes.
- Capital Good Fund: Launched in 2024, Capital Good Fund is a nonprofit, U.S. Treasury-certified Community Development Financial Institution (“CDFI”) offering equitable small-dollar loans to low-wealth families for a variety of essential needs while mitigating predatory lending and building credit.
“We are incredibly grateful for Bank of America’s continued support of GreenLight Fund Atlanta,” said Joli Cooper, Executive Director, GreenLight Atlanta. “Their investment and partnership has been key to enabling us to address pressing needs identified by our community with effective models. This generous grant enables us to expand our impact and continue addressing critical unmet needs in metro Atlanta.”
— Derek Prall
