Truth Seekers Journal

Decatur Unveils Statue of Civil Rights Icon John Lewis

Decatur, GA Unveils New Statue Honoring Civil Rights Legend John Lewis: A new monument dedicated to John Robert Lewis has been unveiled in Decatur Square, celebrating his extraordinary journey and lasting impact on civil rights.

Decatur, GA – August 28, 2024

On Saturday, August 24, a very large crowd witnessed the Decatur Square unveiling of a new statue honoring civil rights legend John Robert Lewis. This monument, crafted by renowned artist Basil Watson, replaces the Confederate obelisk that was removed from the square in 2020.

Organizations such as the Beacon Hill Black Alliance for Human Rights and Hate Free Decatur had been advocating for the removal of the monument since the fatal 2017 white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia.

This monument was part of a broader national trend where such structures became focal points for demonstrations against police brutality and racial injustice, especially after George Floyd’s death in May of 2020 at the hands of Minneapolis police officer, Derek Chauvin who now serving a twenty-one year prison sentence . Consequently, the city of Decatur requested a Georgia judge to mandate the monument’s removal, citing frequent vandalism and graffiti that had turned it into a public safety concern.

The new statue in Decatur Square is a tribute to John Lewis, the “Conscience of Congress,” celebrating his extraordinary journey and his lasting change in pursuing civil rights.

The statue pays tribute to Lewis’ enduring legacy of seeking “good trouble” and his lifelong dedication to freedom, justice, and equality. The unveiling ceremony was marked by speeches from prominent figures, including Georgia’s US Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock, Congresswoman Nikema Williams, civil rights activist Xernona Clayton, and Ambassador Andrew Young. Dr. Rashad Richey, an award-winning talk radio personality, was master of ceremony for the event.

L to R DeKalb County Georgia CEO, Michael Thurmond, US Congressman, Sanford Bishop, US Senator, Reverend Raphael Warnock, US Congresswoman, Nikema Williams

The monument resulted from four years of planning by the John Lewis Commemorative Task Force, which conducted a global search to find the right artist. Watson’s design reflects Lewis’ significant role in the civil rights movement, symbolizing his profound impact on the pursuit of equality.

John Lewis, born to Alabama sharecroppers, faced the harsh realities of segregation in the Jim Crow South. Inspired by figures such as Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King Jr., he rose to prominence through his courageous activism. Notably, on Bloody Sunday, March 7, 1965, Lewis just twenty-five years old, played a pivotal role in the Selma to Montgomery marches, where he sustained a skull fracture during a brutal confrontation with law enforcement.

Despite these challenges, Lewis remained steadfast in his advocacy for civil rights, serving diligently in the U.S. Congress for Georgia’s 5th congressional district from 1987 until his death in 2020. His leadership extended beyond the Selma marches, encompassing participation in the Nashville sit-ins, the Freedom Rides, and the 1963 March on Washington. Lewis was a crucial figure in the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and one of the historic march’s “Big Six” organizers.

Unidentified audience listening to the speakers

Lewis’s legacy is a testament to his perseverance and unwavering commitment to justice. His humble beginnings did not hint at the global impact he would achieve, yet his efforts have inspired countless individuals to confront and overcome adversity. In recognition of his contributions, President Barack Obama, the first African American President, awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom, signing a commemorative photo with the words: “Because of you, John. Barack Obama.”

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More video highlights from the unveiling.

Beverly H. Burkes, Mayor – Clarkston, GA

Kai Williamson: Revolutionizing Interior Design with Elegance and Impact

Kai Williamson, founder of Studio 7 Design Group, revolutionizes luxury interior design with her innovative approach, creating “livable luxury” spaces for high-profile clients, while also dedicating herself to community service.

Atlanta, GA – August 27, 2024

When discussing the elite echelons of interior design, one name emerges with undeniable prominence: Kai Williamson. She has made an immeasurable impact on the luxury interior design landscape, her work reflecting the same grandeur and innovation as the towering residences and buildings she has helped to design or transform.

As the principal of Studio 7 Design Group, a firm she founded in 2014, Williamson has carved out a niche in the world of high-end interiors. The firm’s ethos revolves around creating “livable luxury,” a concept that seamlessly merges aesthetic appeal with practical functionality. This philosophy has enabled Studio 7 to cater to a diverse clientele, from celebrities to corporate executives, ensuring each space is both beautiful and practical.

Williamson’s rise in the design world has been nothing short of remarkable. Her firm has experienced consistent growth year-over-year, a feat made even more impressive considering the challenges posed by the pandemic. This success can be attributed to Williamson’s innovative approach and strong client relationships, primarily fueled by referrals. Studio 7’s portfolio is a testament to its success, featuring high-profile residential and commercial projects across major cities including Atlanta, Los Angeles, Nashville, San Francisco, New York, and Miami.

The impact of Williamson’s work extends beyond the confines of her design projects. She has garnered significant media attention, appearing on HGTV’s Luxe for Less, the Essence Festival, and being featured in prestigious publications such as Forbes, Architectural Digest, Black Enterprise, Georgia Tech Alumni Magazine, Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Atlanta Business Chronicle, Deadline, and others.

Her ability to captivate and influence through design is matched by her dedication to community service. Williamson’s commitment to community service is a cornerstone of her personal and professional life. For over two decades, she has been a staunch advocate for out-of-school, disconnected youth in metropolitan Atlanta. Her past leadership as Executive Director of Youth Enhancement Services, Inc. (YES) and her current role as Chair of the Board of Directors highlight her dedication to empowering the next generation. This commitment reflects Williamson’s belief in giving back and using her success to create meaningful change.

For more information about Kai Williamson and Studio 7 Design Group, visit their website.

The Rebel Girls Triumph at BronzeLens Film Festival as Best in Festival

BronzeLens Film Festival Recap: The 15th annual festival honored films like “The Rebel Girls” and “A Little Hope for Chicago,” recognizing excellence in acting, visual storytelling, and social justice through various award categories.

Atlanta, GA – August 26, 2024

The 15th annual BronzeLens Film Festival (the Festival) culminated on Sunday evening, August 25, 2024, at the Ray Charles Performing Arts Center on the campus of Morehouse College, where The Rebel Girls, a film that resonated deeply with the audience, was honored with the prestigious Best in Festival award.

This powerful film tells the true story of the 1960s Civil Rights movement through the eyes of the young girls who revitalized it with their magical thinking, friendship, faith, and determination. It captivated audiences and earned a thunderous response inside the auditorium.

Nika King, who delivered a compelling performance in The Rebel Girls, was awarded Best Actress, further solidifying the film’s impact at the Festival.

Kevin Nichols accepts award for Best Actor

The Best Actor Award was presented to Kevin Nichols for his leading role in the film, A Little Hope for Chicago Directed by Leon Lozano. The film follows the journey of a grounded kid from inner-city Chicago transform into a young street hustler in pursuit of quick money, face the tough lessons that lifestyle brings, and ultimately grow into a reformed man, father, and college graduate.

The Festival paid tribute to the legendary Bill Duke with the Bronze Excellence in Acting & Visual Storytelling Award. Duke, an actor, director, producer, writer, and humanitarian, has devoted over 30 years to producing critically acclaimed film and television content through his company, Duke Media Entertainment. His dedication to bringing quality ‘edutainment’ to global audiences has left an indelible mark on the industry, and his recognition was a moment of deep respect and appreciation.

Bill Duke accepts award from Mistress of Ceremony Portia Bruner as board chair W. Imara Canady looks on.

Another evening highlight was the presentation of the Andrew Young Cinema & Social Justice Award to How to Sue the Klan, directed by John Beder. This award acknowledges excellence in filmmaking and honors the legacy of Ambassador Andrew Young, a Civil Rights and Social Justice advocate.

The complete list of BronzeLens Award winners includes:

Best Actor Award: Kevin Nichols – A Little Hope for Chicago – Directed by Leon Lozano
Best Actress Award: Nika King – The Rebel Girls – Directed by Felicia D. Henderson
Founder’s Award: Gil Robertson, IV
Founder’s Award: Shaunya Chavis-Rucker
Best Short Documentary Award: The Dancer: The Beautiful and Tragic Life of Gerald Alexander – Director Ryon Justin Horne and Tyson Alan Horne
Best Documentary Award: A Time to Yell: More Than a Statue – Directed by Daniel B. Levin and Eric Newman
Best Student Film: Grace – Directed by Natalie Jasmine Harris
Best Web Video: – Our Voices, Our Lives, Presents Therez Fleetwood – Directed by William Feagins, Jr.
Best Music Video Award: Algorithm Takedown – Directed by Alex Budovsky
Best Dance Video Award: Burn from the Inside – Directed by Mthuthuzeli November
Best International Feature Film: Kipemboi – Directed by Charles Uwagbai
Best Feature Film: Albany Road – Directed by Christine Swanson
Georgia Filmmaker Award: William Feagins, Jr.
Andrew Young Cinema & Social Justice Award: How to Sue the Klan – Directed by John Beder
Bronze Excellence in Acting & Visual Storytelling Award: Bill Duke

All of the award-winning films, along with over one hundred other screened films, are now available for virtual viewing on the BronzeLens website.

This exciting opportunity allows you to experience the magic of these films from the comfort of your own home at your own pace.

Please visit the official BronzeLens Film Festival website for more information about the Festival, its mission, and upcoming events.

Atlanta Dream Squeak Past Seattle Storm in 83-81 Thriller

Atlanta Dream Secures Dramatic 83-81 Victory Over Seattle Storm. In a nail-biting finish, Tina Charles sank the game-winning shot, marking a milestone in her career and improving the Dream’s all-time record against the Storm.

Atlanta, GA – August 18, 2024

In a nail-biting finish, the Atlanta Dream secured a dramatic 83-81 victory over the Seattle Storm at the Gateway Center Arena Friday night, with a game-winning shot by nine-time All-Star Tina Charles.

With just 10.7 seconds left on the clock and the Storm trailing by three, Jordan Horston inbounded the ball to Skylar Diggins-Smith, whose three-point attempt fell short, landing in the hands of Jewell Loyd. Loyd, in a desperate attempt, dribbled through heavy traffic, launched a high-arching three-pointer from the right wing in front of the Storm’s bench, that swished through the net, tying the game at 81 with only 4.6 seconds remaining.

Following a timeout, the Dream executed a perfectly drawn-up play. Jordin Canada, returning from a broken finger injury that had kept her sidelined since early July, inbounded the ball to Charles. With one bounce, Charles rose and sank the decisive basket, sealing the win for Atlanta.

The game marked the return of both teams from the Olympic break, with the Storm entering the contest with a 17-8 record and the Dream struggling at 7-17. Seattle’s starting lineup featured Skylar Diggins-Smith, Jewell Loyd, Jordan Horston, Nneka Ogwumike, and Ezi Magbegor, while Atlanta started Jordin Canada, Allisha Gray, Rhyne Howard, Naz Hillmon, and Tina Charles. Due to injuries, this starting lineup was a first for the Atlanta Dream.

Seattle took control early in the game, with Diggins-Smith scoring 10 points in the first four minutes. The Storm led 22-18 at the end of the first quarter, with Diggins-Smith continuing her strong performance throughout the first half, finishing with 17 points, 2 assists, and 2 steals.

Despite Seattle’s dominance early on, shooting 50% from the floor and forcing 14 Dream turnovers in the first half, Atlanta fought back in the second half, led by Rhyne Howard’s stellar 30-point performance. Howard’s three-point shooting in the third quarter and a crucial free throw in the fourth gave Atlanta its first lead of the game.

Charles’ final shot not only clinched the victory but also marked a milestone in her career, as she became the second player in WNBA history to reach 3,000 career field goals.

This victory improves the Dream’s all-time record against the Storm to 18-23 overall and 13-8 when playing in Atlanta. For Seattle, it was a hard-fought game, but they couldn’t hold off the resurgent Dream in the closing moments.

The 25th game of the season for the Dream marked their first match since the nearly month-long Olympic break. During the 2024 Olympics in Paris, Rhyne Howard represented her country as a member of the USA Basketball 3×3 Women’s National Team, helping the team secure a bronze medal for their performance.

Both head coaches were also active during the Olympics. Tanisha Wright of the Dream served as a scout for Team USA, while Noelle Quinn, head coach of the Storm, contributed as an assistant coach for Team Canada.

Video courtesy WBNA Atlanta Dream

Atlanta Dream Overpowers Second Ranked Connecticut Suns

Atlanta Dream Extends Post-Olympic Winning Streak to Two Games: The Atlanta Dream defeated the second-ranked Connecticut Sun with a decisive 19-2 run in the fourth quarter, showcasing their resilience and determination in the WNBA season.

Atlanta, GA – August 19, 2024

The Atlanta Dream extended their post-Olympic break winning streak to two games after a hard-fought victory over the second-ranked Connecticut Sun on Sunday. The Sun, who entered Gateway Arena with an 18-6 record and a number two WNBA ranking, faced a determined Dream squad fresh off a win against the Seattle Storm.

Although the Sun won the opening tip-off, but Atlanta quickly set the pace with a top-of-the-key three-pointer from Rhyne Howard scored six points in the first quarter while Tina Charles matched her with six points, added five rebounds to her tally, as Atlanta outpaced Connecticut in fast-break points, 5-2. The Dream led by as many as seven points during the opening period, with Marina Mabrey’s layup finally putting the Sun on the board at the 6:55 mark. However, a scare came when Cheyenne Parker-Tyus took a hard fall and had to be assisted to the locker room with five minutes remaining in the quarter.

In the second quarter, the Atlanta Dream seized control with a 12-4 run spearheaded by Jordin Canada, who contributed six points, two assists, and created four additional points from her assists in just five minutes. Charles added five more points as the Dream dominated the paint, outscoring the Sun 12-6 and forcing 10 turnovers while committing only six turnovers themselves. Atlanta also recorded six steals in the first half, including two by Howard. The Dream had a five-point lead at the half.

Tina Charles releases jump shot over three Sun defenders.

The Dream maintained their lead throughout the third quarter, bolstered by eight points from Canada and five from Charles. Despite Connecticut trimming the lead to just one point with four minutes left, Atlanta responded with three consecutive three-pointers—two from Canada and one from Charles—giving the Dream a seven-point cushion heading into the final quarter. The Dream continued to dominate in transition, outscoring the Sun 7-0 in fast break points.

In the fourth quarter, the Sun briefly tooked the lead, 68-63, but Atlanta countered with a decisive 19-2 run. Alisha Gray, who scored seven of her 11 points in the final period, ignited the run with a basket and a bonus point. In the final minute, Charles secured a crucial jump ball at midcourt, passing it to Gray, who found Howard for a three-pointer that pushed the Dream’s lead to six. Canada and Charles then sealed the victory by going 2-for-2 from the free throw line, as the Dream shot an impressive 10-for-11 as a team in the fourth.

With this win, the Atlanta Dream showcased their resilience and determination, toppling one of the league’s top ranked teams and solidifying their momentum as the season progresses.

Naz Hillmon puts up shot against three Sun defenders, Marina Mabry, Brionna Jones & Tyasha Harris

Next up for the Atlanta Dream is the Phoenix Mercury on Wednesday, August 21, and Friday, August 23. As of August 19, 2024, the WNBA has the Mercury ranked sixth in the nation and fourth in the WNBA Western Conference at 15-13. The Phoenix team won two of its last three matches by double digits. The Mercury has momentum and confidence at their backs.

When head coach Tanisha Wright was asked with two days to prepare for Phoenix, how do you keep the team’s confidence up? “They will take a day off for sure, the day off will allow their bodies to repair, then we will prepare like we prepare for any other team. We will focus on ourselves and look at anything that we need to cleanup. Then focus on the challenges that Phoenix presents, but most of all focusing on ourselves.”

Mark Cuban Launched an Online Pharmacy

Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company launches online pharmacy, offering significant savings on generic medications with a fixed 15% markup plus $3 fee, aiming to disrupt the pharmaceutical industry and improve public health.

Atlanta, GA – August 16, 2024

On January 19, 2024, the Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company (MCCPDC) officially launched its much-anticipated online pharmacy. The company aims to disrupt the pharmaceutical industry by offering significant savings on prescription medications. As a registered pharmaceutical wholesaler, MCCPDC is uniquely positioned to bypass traditional middlemen and eliminate the excessive markups often associated with prescription drugs.

The company’s business model is straightforward. MCCPDC’s online pharmacy offers a wide range of generic medications at steep discounts. For instance, commonly prescribed drugs such as fluoxetine (for depression) and lisinopril (for high blood pressure) are available at a fixed markup of just 15% plus a $3 flat fee. Notably, MCCPDC does not offer brand-name drugs and does not accept insurance, meaning patients pay for their medications out of pocket. However, the cost savings are significant enough that many patients may find the out-of-pocket expenses lower than their insurance co-pays and deductibles.

In its press release, MCCPDC highlighted several medications, showcasing its commitment to affordability. For example, Imatinib, a drug used to treat leukemia, typically costs $9,657 per month at retail and $120 per month with a voucher. In stark contrast, MCCPDC offers the same medication for just $47 per month. Similarly, the ulcerative colitis treatment Mesalamine, which has a retail price of $940 per month, is available for $32.40 through MCCPDC. The gout medication Colchicine, priced at $182 per month at retail, is offered for just $8.70.

The need for such an innovative approach is clear. According to a 2019 Kaiser Family Foundation survey, three in ten adults reported not taking their medications as prescribed due to cost concerns. A September 2021 Gallup poll revealed that 18 million Americans were recently unable to afford at least one prescription medication, and one in ten had skipped doses to save money. The launch of MCCPDC’s online pharmacy marks a significant milestone in the effort to make medications more affordable for millions of Americans.

Partnering with digital healthcare company Truepill, MCCPDC ensures a seamless, secure online patient experience. Truepill’s digital health platform powers the pharmacy’s website, while its nationwide pharmacy network handles prescription fulfillment and delivery, promising reliable service nationwide.

High drug prices have been a persistent problem in the United States, with government efforts to address the issue moving slowly and often proving ineffective. MCCPDC’s entrance into the market represents a bold attempt by the private sector to fill the gap, offering an alternative to the traditional, often costly, pharmaceutical model.

The Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company’s mission extends beyond profit, reflecting its status as a public-benefit corporation. By charging a transparent, standard markup on all drugs, the company aligns its business goals with a broader social mission to improve public health. Launching its online pharmacy is just the beginning. It plans to expand its inventory of affordable generic drugs and complete the construction of a state-of-the-art pharmaceutical factory in Dallas by the end of 2025. With these initiatives, MCCPDC is poised to impact the pharmaceutical industry and provide much-needed relief to patients burdened by high medication costs.

Atlanta Prepares for the 15th Annual BronzeLens Film Festival: A Sneaker Ball & Global Film Showcase Awaits

BronzeLens Film Festival 2024: Atlanta’s premier event for filmmakers of color, featuring 150+ films, workshops, and the Inaugural BronzeLens Filmmakers Ball, celebrating diversity and excellence in the film industry.

Atlanta, GA – July 15, 2024

The BronzeLens Film Festival (BLFF) is gearing up for its highly anticipated 15th annual event, which will take place from August 21-25, 2024, in Atlanta, GA. Known for showcasing the work of filmmakers of color, this year’s festival promises to continue its tradition of excellence while introducing exciting new elements.

Over the course of the five-day festival, BLFF will present nearly 150 films, including features, shorts, documentaries, international films, music videos, dance videos, and student films. These screenings will occur at the Tara Atlanta, 2345 Cheshire Bridge Road NE. In addition to the diverse array of films, the festival will offer more than twenty workshops and panel discussions designed to educate, inspire, and entertain attendees.

A new highlight of this year’s festival is the Inaugural BronzeLens Filmmakers Ball, dubbed the “Sneaker Ball.” Hosted by the Mayor’s Office of Film Entertainment & Nightlife, this festive event will debut at Atlanta City Hall on Saturday, August 24. This lively celebration honors the Atlanta and Georgia film community, featuring music, dancing, and a unique atmosphere that blends formal and casual elements.

Kathleen Bertrand, Executive Producer of BLFF, reflects on the festival’s evolution, “Each year we have been able to say that these films are the best we have ever seen. With stars like Jamie Foxx, Ben Crump, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Morris Chestnut as producers or executive producers, the quality of our selections is outstanding.”

When asked what goes into having a great film festival? “Having a talented and remarkable team is factor one, people that are dedicated and passionate about the work that we do. Factor two is having great films; we get submissions from all over the world because we appeal to stories created by and for people of color. We had films submitted from 59 countries. The decision to have a film at the festival gets harder each year because they all score so highly. Factor three is having great workshops. We have always strived to have activities, including workshops and panel discussions, that would educate, enlighten and also entertain. We have always known that we have to grow our film community.”

Bertrand also noted that the festival’s format has adapted due to external factors. “The pandemic led us to develop a virtual component, which has been running for three years now. This virtual aspect has broadened our reach, allowing us to showcase films globally.”

One significant change this year is the move of the Women’s Super Stars Honors Gala to March, a result of last year’s strikes. This adjustment elevated the gala to a standalone event highlighting women’s achievement. The change also paved the way for the new Filmmakers Ball. Both changes help to celebrate the film community in a fresh and engaging way.

The festival will culminate with the BronzeLens Awards Show at the Ray Charles Performing Arts Center on the campus of Morehouse College. The center, named after the iconic musician and located at 900 West End Ave SW, features the 650-seat Emma and Joe Adams Concert Hall, among other state-of-the-art facilities.

Since its inception in 2009, the BronzeLens Film Festival has become a vital platform for filmmakers of color and has significantly contributed to Atlanta’s reputation as a thriving hub for the film industry. The festival’s impact is evident with accolades such as being named one of Film Freeway’s Top 100 Best Reviewed Festivals and receiving the Best Showcase for New Filmmakers award from Atlanta Magazine in 2018.

Please visit the BronzeLens Film Festival website for more details about its mission and upcoming events or to register for the Fifteenth Anniversary edition.

Vice President Kamala Harris Picks Minnesota Governor Tim Walz for running mate

Vice President Kamala Harris announces Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate, marking a historic moment in the 2024 presidential election and setting the stage for a campaign tour across the Midwest.

Atlanta, GA – August 7, 2024

Vice President Kamala Harris made a historic announcement Tuesday, naming Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her choice as her choice for running mate. The statement was made during a high-energy campaign rally at the Temple University basketball arena in Philadelphia, where Harris and Walz addressed a capacity crowd of approximately 10,000 supporters.

Vice President Kamala Harris & Governor Tim Walz

Standing alongside Walz, Harris declared, “I stand before you today to proudly announce I am now officially the Democratic nominee for President of the United States. And so now, we have some work to do. We have to move to the general election and win that.”

Walz, who is 60 years old, has been serving as the 41st Governor of Minnesota since 2018. His background is diverse and includes notable achievements such as introducing statewide free school meals, protecting reproductive rights, expanding voting rights, making significant strides toward Minnesota’s goal of achieving 100% clean electricity by 2040, implementing tax cuts for the middle class, and expanding paid leave for workers.

After graduating from Chadron State College with a degree in social science in 1989, he spent a year teaching English and American history at a high school in China. He then returned to the U.S. to serve full-time in the Army National Guard and took on a high school teaching and coaching position. Walz met his future wife, Gwen Whipple, also a teacher, while teaching, and the couple moved to Mankato in 1996. In Mankato, Walz helped coach the Mankato West High School football team to its first state championship and was the faculty advisor for the Gay-Straight Alliance.

His military career is noteworthy; he served 24 years in the Army National Guard, retiring as a Command Sergeant Major in 2005. He transitioned to a political career when his students encouraged him to run for political office. Walz said, “his students saw in him what he was trying to instill in them.” He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for Minnesota’s First Congressional District in 2006. Walz was re-elected five times, serving the district until he assumed the governorship in 2018.

The selection of Walz as Harris’s running mate is seen as a strategic move to bolster Democratic support in key Midwestern states. Harris and Walz are scheduled to embark on a campaign tour across the Midwest, starting Wednesday in Wisconsin and moving to Michigan. This tour aims to rally younger, diverse, and labor-friendly voters crucial to President Joe Biden’s 2020 victory. However, recent tensions over Biden’s handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict have led to some divisions among these voter groups, particularly in Michigan.

The rally in Philadelphia and a previous one in Georgia underscore Harris’s ability to attract large crowds and energize her base. Yet, her upcoming challenge will be to address pressing national and international issues, including economic uncertainties and potential geopolitical conflicts, as evidenced by a recent stock market decline and rising concerns about the Middle East.

Walz’s selection is also seen as a strategic choice for Harris, hoping his appeal will help secure critical Midwestern states such as Minnesota, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin.

Pennsylvania’s governor, Josh Shapiro, one of the individuals previously considered for the running mate slot, spoke at Tuesday’s rally, expressing his support for Harris and Walz. “I love being your governor,” Shapiro said. “I am going to be working my tail off to make sure we make Kamala Harris and Tim Walz the next leaders of the United States of America.” He also praised Philadelphia as an ideal location to launch their campaign, calling it the city of brotherly love and sisterly affection and the birthplace of real freedom.”

As Harris and Walz prepare for the next phase of their campaign, their focus will be on unifying the Democratic base and addressing the concerns of a diverse electorate, all while navigating the complexities of a challenging political landscape. Harris said, “Our campaign, this campaign, is a fight for the future. We fight for affordable health care, we fight for a future with affordable housing, affordable childcare, and paid leave. We fight for a broad-based economy where every American has the opportunity to own a home, start a business, and build wealth. We fight for a future where we bring down prices that are still too high and lower the cost of living for American families so that they have a chance not to just get by, but to get ahead.”

Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo Celebrates 40 Years of Tradition and Excellence

The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo celebrates its 40th anniversary with a Legacy Tour stop in Conyers, Georgia, honoring Black cowboy culture and history with thrilling events and a $200,000 prize purse.

Atlanta, GA – August 4, 2024

The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo (BPIR), widely celebrated as “The Greatest Show on Dirt,” made a Legacy Tour stop at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers, Georgia, this past weekend, marking its 40th anniversary with three sold-out performances. The rodeo, which took place on August 3rd and 4th, showcased a dazzling array of events and underscored its ongoing commitment to honoring Black cowboy culture and history. The BPIR’s Legacy Tour, travels across the United States, bringing its unique blend of history and excitement to new and returning audiences.

The Conyers stop included two thrilling shows on Saturday and a final, exhilarating performance on Sunday. Audiences were treated to a spectacular lineup featuring Ranch Bronc and Bareback Riding, Bull Dogging, Lady’s Barrel Racing and Breakaway, Lady’s Steer Undercoating, and the crowd favorites, Junior Barrel Racing and Peewee Barrel Racing. The weekend’s events highlighted the rodeo’s rich tradition but also the diverse skills of its participants, leaving the audience in awe of their talent and dedication.

https://truthseekersjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Acynthia-Villery-2024.mp4

Founded in 1984 by the late Lu Vason, the BPIR has become a hallmark of rodeo entertainment and cultural celebration. Vason, a native of Berkeley, California, and a trailblazing figure in event marketing brought over 50 years of experience to his innovative venture. His move to Denver in 1977 set the stage for creating the BPIR, inspired by his experiences at the Cheyenne Frontier Days in Wyoming and his discovery of Bill Pickett’s legacy at the Black American West Museum of History.

Valeria Howard Cunningham, President and Chief Executive Officer, was elevated to the helm after the passing of her husband, Mr. Vason. Under her leadership and guidance, the BPIR, the only touring Black rodeo, continues growing in size, scope, education, and entertainment value. When asked why the tour does not go to every major city, she said, “I would love to be able to go everywhere. This is a huge ship that we have to turn. We try to look at those cities that have large populations that look like us and have first class facilities that we can offer a first-class rodeo.

The whole reason the BPIR exists is because of the Black cowboys and cowgirls. We have four and five generations of cowboys and cowgirls that have traveled with us the last forty years. And that’s because we have elevated their presence in the community. People did not know that there were Black cowboys and cowgirls. We’ve created the platforms for them to perform and reach higher levels in this rodeo sport.

I am so excited and proud of these cowboys and cowgirls, especially our little peewees, who are three to five years old and already participating in the rodeos. I think we are building a foundation for them so that one day they will be running this rodeo.”

Willie M. Pickett (Bill Pickett), a pioneering figure in rodeo history, is credited with developing steer wrestling, also known as bulldogging. Born in 1870 in Travis County, Texas, Pickett and his brothers formed the Pickett Brothers Bronco Busters and Rough Riders. They gained fame for their expertise in taming wild cattle. Pickett’s contributions laid the groundwork for the rodeo traditions the BPIR celebrates today.

The BPIR’s Legacy Tour’s final event will feature a significant increase in prize money. Contestants are competing for a total of $200,000. This year’s prize purse marks a historic achievement for the BPIR, representing the most significant sum ever offered by a Black-owned rodeo. Contestants qualify for this prestigious event through top placement at rodeos held in Memphis, TN; Oakland, CA; Los Angeles, CA; Denver, CO; and Conyers, GA (Atlanta). At the final bell, over 280 cowboys will have participated, each vying for a share of the substantial prize money.

Acynthia Villery, a key figure in the BPIR’s history, has been with the rodeo for over 37 years. As the Social Media Director and the first African American female rodeo announcer with the Bill Pickett Rodeo, Villery’s contributions have been instrumental in the organization’s success. “This milestone year is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in the BPIR,

Villery said. We’re thrilled to celebrate 40 years of rodeo excellence and cultural pride.”

Throughout its history, the BPIR has served not only as a premier rodeo but also as a cultural event that educates and entertains. It provides a platform for families to embrace and enjoy cowboy culture while learning about the contributions of Black cowboys and cowgirls to the American West. By highlighting these stories and celebrating this vibrant tradition, the BPIR continues to make history with every performance, leaving the audience feeling enlightened and entertained.

The BPIR’s Legacy Tour, celebrating four decades of education and entertainment, travels across the United States, bringing its unique blend of history and excitement to new and returning audiences.

“A testament to the richness in tradition and appeal is the fact that many families plan their vacations and family reunions around the BPIR dates and schedule,” said Margo Wade-Ladreww, National Development/Sponsorship Director.

The Legacy Tour will culminate at the 5,800 seat Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro, MD, on September 20-21, 2024. Both Saturday shows are already sold out.

This final event of the tour promises to be a grand conclusion to a landmark year, highlighting the enduring appeal of Black cowboy culture and the BPIR’s role in preserving and celebrating this vital heritage.

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Atlanta Dream Partners with Barack and Michelle Obama Academy for Annual Backpack Drive

tlanta Dream Teams Up with Barack and Michelle Obama Academy for Annual Backpack Drive: Equip students with new backpacks and school supplies, featuring a mini-resource fair, voter registration, and more, on July 31 at Gateway Center Arena in Atlanta, GA.

Atlanta, GA – July 29, 2024

The Atlanta Dream is teaming up with the Barack and Michelle Obama Academy for their Annual Backpack Drive. They are equipping students in the metro Atlanta area with the necessary resources to start the school year. The event will take place on Wednesday, July 31, from 9 a.m. to noon at 970 Martin St SE, Atlanta, GA 30315.

This year’s initiative is a testament to the Dream’s unwavering commitment to community support. The Dream collected new backpacks during three home games at the Gateway Center Arena and welcomed online donations. Students attending the event will receive a new backpack filled with school supplies, and teachers will be given additional supplies to enhance their classroom environments.

In addition to the backpacks, the event will feature the Atlanta Fulton Public Library Bookmobile, which will allow students to get a new book for the first day of school. The Dream will also host a mini-resource fair, including a voter registration table, health and wellness resources, and more.

Key partners contributing to the event include:

Jim Ellis Buick GMC Atlanta – school supplies.

HoneyPot – school supplies and resources for parents.

Zaxby’s – food for families and staff.

Atlanta Fulton Public Library Bookmobile – available to provide new library books and assist with parent library card registrations.

Founded in 2006, the Atlanta Dream is the only Womens National Basketball Association (WNBA) franchise in the Southeast. They currently play their home games at the Gateway Center Arena, College Park, GA. The team, featured on Peachtree TV and Peachtree Sports Network, boasts a record of 11 WNBA All-Stars, three first-place regular-season finishes, nine playoff appearances, and three WNBA finals appearances.

For more information about the Atlanta Dream, visit dream.wnba.com and follow them on social media @AtlantaDream on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok.