The Atlanta Voice maintains full authority over editorial content to protect journalistic and business interests. We ensure a clear separation between news coverage decisions and revenue sources. Accepting financial support does not imply endorsement of donors or their products, services, or viewpoints. While we welcome contributions, grants, and sponsorships to support our work, our editorial decisions remain independent and unaltered by donor support. We may accept paid sponsored content from advertisers for specific subjects, but we maintain editorial control over such coverage. The Atlanta Voice retains the right to review, change, or modify editorial content, and does not permit unauthorized distribution of such material. When applicable, we disclose our donors and stakeholders in an editor’s note or within the report.
Move Fitness Complex is located in Happeville. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
HAPEVILLE, GA.- “Overjoyed and still humbled” are the ways Nick Miller, owner of Move Fitness Complex, and most importantly, a father of two, described receiving this year’s Daddy’s Home extreme makeover. Normally used to makeover homes for single fathers, this year’s award is going towards a Black-owned small business.
Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
Daddy’s Home, a charitable program run by M One Design Group, an Atlanta-based commercial interior design firm, was created to reward a single father with interior renovations and redesigns of their home or business. In the case of Miller, it was his business, Move Fitness Complex in Hapeville.
Miller told The Atlanta Voice that being nominated is taking some time to properly comprehend. Move Fitness Complex was anything but an actual complex until the makeover.
“To be nominated and to receive it is beyond measure,” he said.
The gym, which has been open for three years, is located in a prime location, just feet from the Hapeville Square and around the corner from the Academy Theatre. Miller spoke about the improvements to the space that will help him assist the hundreds of members of the gym in continuing to reach their fitness goals.
“This will give them a fresh space to call home,” Miller said. “The energy is family-oriented here.”
Family and fitness mean a lot to Miller. His daughter, Nickayla, 17, and son Nicholas, 8, are both athletes, and fitness is a family business. Nickayla, a senior, is the cheerleader captain at McDonough High School, while her little brother is a junior all-American track athlete and will be representing the United States in the World Flag Football tournament.
“The culture is big here,” Miller said of the gym, but could have been talking about within his family as well.
The “extreme makeover”, according to Mona Stephen, founder and principal creative director of M One Design Group, took six weeks and included renovations of what were once bays at a car dealership. There is also an addition of a small cafe.
“It has been a challenge, but we’re here and I’m glad that we are able to get to this point,” she said.
Move Fitness Complex owner Nick Miller opened the gym three years ago. “To be nominated and to receive [the extreme makeover] is beyond measure,” he said. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
A member of the gym after years of going to high-priced franchise gyms, Stephen said attending Move Fitness Complex for the past two years helped her combine working out with community. “I felt like I was at home,” Stephen said of Move Fitness Complex.
When she was thinking about who to nominate for the next Daddy’s House extreme makeover, Miller came to mind.
“We’re just glad that we were able to combine both sides to work it out,” she said.
Born and raised in Stockbridge, Williams says he wants to bring fresh ideas to the community he’s called home.
Williams told The Atlanta Voice he is focused on making Stockbridge a model for growth and opportunity, prioritizing economic development, public safety, housing, and arts & youth programs, all while preserving the city’s close-knit spirit.
Furthermore, Williams said his win against incumbent Mayor Anthony Ford has not completely hit him yet, but he feels ready to work.
“Beating a two-time incumbent is huge, and it just shows that Stockbridge is ready for some change,” he said.
Jayden Williams, current commissioner of Stockbridge, and a student at Clark Atlanta University is just 21 years old. Williams, the youngest candidate to run for mayor in Stockbridge, hopes to bring fresh ideas to the community he’s called home. Photo by Kerri Phox/The Atlanta Voice
Additionally, Williams’ ties to public service started early. In high school, he served as the Youth Council Mayor, and during college, he held several leadership positions. After graduating, he says he felt called to come home and make a difference.
“I watched a few council meetings and said, ‘This is not the standard I left when I went to Clark Atlanta,’ Williams said. “I knew we needed some change, and I decided to jump in for mayor.”
As mayor-elect, Williams says his focus will be on growth, infrastructure, and inclusion — making sure all residents feel represented and heard.
“I really want to see us grow into something where every single resident feels accommodated,” he said. “That includes new residents, young professionals, working families, our teachers, and our seniors. I want everyone to feel like they’re home.”
Williams says his win carries deep personal meaning for his family, given Stockbridge’s past. He said he hopes this next era for the city shows a collaborative front, especially with Stockbridge being deemed as one of the fastest-growing cities in the state.
“I want us to show we’re in unison, we’re all one, and we can work collaboratively, especially with an all-black council,” he said. “We’re ready to serve every single generation in this community, and for so long we’ve lacked one generation over another, and so I want to show that differentiability, diversity, and inclusion right here in the city.”
Williams also says he wants to tackle infrastructure and housing.
“I want to see how we can work with our planning commission to bring some meaningful ordinances and policies to put some standard opportunities of affordable housing here in the city,” he said. “Just like I ran my platform on the 80-20 rule, 80% housing and 20% townhomes and apartments with the will of the Council.”
Williams said his administration is putting major developments on infrastructure in Stockbridge that haven’t been fixed in 30 or more years.
To people who may underestimate Williams due to his age, he says to go back and review what he’s done in the past in his political career thus far.
“I’m not new to politics, nor am I new to the game. They can ask former bosses of mine, Representative Lydia Glaze, when I worked in the state house, but I’ve also served right here and as the youth council mayor,” he said.
Also, Williams said, although he has several policies he wants to look at, he’s focused on ensuring he’s protecting the current residents while also bringing in new ones.
“I really do want to work in protecting the characteristic trait of Stockbridge. The people have something to look forward to,” he said.
As a message to his constituents, Williams says he’s here to work for you.
“The campaign was just the job interview, but now that I have the job, we’re here to serve our constituents, which to me, I call all 36,000 plus residents my neighbors,” he said. “I’m looking forward to working with all of them and hearing their voices and concerns so we can push Stockbridge into a new era.”
For his first year as Stockbridge Mayor, he says he wants residents to see change, not immediate, but progressive change, and going in the right direction.
“I want to see Stockbridge become an urban suburban city in a smart way. I don’t want to see a mini-Atlanta, nor do I want to see a mini–New York City,” he said. “I want to see something that’s urban, hip, and up with the times, but also have those suburban opportunities where you can feel your neighbor next door and still have breathing room for your kids to play.”
For advice to anyone who may want to run for a political office, Williams says not to let anyone tear you from your dream.
“I didn’t let anyone tell me what I couldn’t do. I prayed before the election, before voting, and at the end of the election,” he said. “They said I couldn’t do it; I tell them to have a good day because you’re trying to stop down and process that. You don’t know how far I’ve come to get here, and so just continue to fight for your dreams and don’t push back.”
Rep. Ruwa Romman (center) with Royce Mann (to her immediate left), staff, and volunteers at a Southwest Atlanta canvassing event on Saturday, November 15, 2025. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
As leaves fell off the trees near the basketball court and onto the parking lot at Melvin Drive Park, Team Ruwa Romman staffers brought out a folding table from the trunk of a car and placed it under a tree. Next came boxes of voting material and the t-shirts for canvassers. The shirts resemble the glowing signs of a certain local restaurant chain and are given to any volunteers who sign up to help spread the word.
Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
Romman, one of a handful of Democratic gubernatorial candidates vying for the 2026 nomination, was canvassing in southwest Atlanta on Saturday afternoon. Romman sat down with The Atlanta Voice moments before the first of several canvassers arrived to begin their shifts. She had already been canvassing in metro Atlanta’s northern suburbs and was back in the SWATS to talk with volunteers about why this part of the city was just as important as any to knock doors in.
“We want to canvas everywhere,” said Romman, who has plans to be in Athens and Savannah on Sunday. The Athens canvass will take place a day after the Georgia Bulldogs will host the Texas Longhorns in one of the highly anticipated college football games of the season.
Romman (center) will host canvassing events in Athens, Savannah, and Atlanta this week. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
Romman represents west Gwinnett County and can be considered one of the key candidates in her district, but canvassing in the SWATS can be considered a strategic move because of some of the other candidates being more familiar in the state’s largest county.
“Building a statewide canvassing operation takes a long time,” Romman said. “And we’re just getting started. I think this is how you gain momentum.”
Erica Wiggins, a tall woman wearing black-frame glasses and her hair in a ponytail, spoke to the group of volunteers, staffers, Romman, and Royce Mann, a candidate for Board of Education Seat 8, about Saturday being her first time canvassing for a candidate. Wiggins, who lives in Fairburn, said she came to the canvassing even to do her part.
A woman who only identified herself as Ann was an experienced canvasser and said she decided to door-knock for Romman after hearing her on a podcast. Two male students from Emory University and Georgia Tech, respectively, were there to support Romman’s campaign and knock doors in the majority Black neighborhood. Neither of the young men was Black.
“These things grow exponentially,” said Romman of volunteer efforts. “The more we lean into people, the more they will have our back.”
Romman said there have been nearly 1,000 volunteers who have signed up. People like the ones in Melvin Drive Park that afternoon.
“I remember when we first started, we hit 500 volunteers in 40-plus counties, and now we’re at 1,000. It really goes to show how much energy and excitement there is right now. How much heart and soul there is right now, and the fact that people really do recognize that our state is not being represented by people who live like us.”
“I think primaries are healthy, and a good time for people to organize and talk to voters,” Romman (above) said. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
Romman added that she wasn’t just talking about age and race.
When the subject turned to the 2026 gubernatorial primary, which is scheduled to take place on May 19, Romman smiled.
“I think primaries are healthy, and a good time for people to organize and talk to voters,” Romman said. “Primaries are an amazing time to consider what is possible.”
Team Romman, led by Anna, her field director, will continue to grow their canvass base week by week, said Romman. The campaign has only been at it for a month, and the momentum is growing.
“We’re already in four cities,” she said. “Our hope is that come January, we want our organizers fully on board and hired on, and we want a consistent cohort of field leads.”
The Atlanta Voice maintains full authority over editorial content to protect journalistic and business interests. We ensure a clear separation between news coverage decisions and revenue sources. Accepting financial support does not imply endorsement of donors or their products, services, or viewpoints. While we welcome contributions, grants, and sponsorships to support our work, our editorial decisions remain independent and unaltered by donor support. We may accept paid sponsored content from advertisers for specific subjects, but we maintain editorial control over such coverage. The Atlanta Voice retains the right to review, change, or modify editorial content, and does not permit unauthorized distribution of such material. When applicable, we disclose our donors and stakeholders in an editor’s note or within the report.
“Disney’s Hercules” live performer Corey Bradford (above) took questions from the Black press aboard the Disney Destiny on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
CASTAWAY CAY, THE BAHAMAS – The live shows aboard the Disney Destiny include moments that feel more like family reunions or church services than simply actors, actresses, musicians, and singers plying their respective trades. The physical representation of Blackness in the performers on the Disney Cruise line isn’t new, for what is music and theater without Black artists? What is refreshing, however, is to see how Regina LeVert and Corey Bradford, for example, have taken the live viewing performance aboard the Disney Destiny and made it their own.
LeVert is one of the leads in “Feast of the Lion King” at the Pride Lands restaurant, which is located on deck five. Bradford plays Hercules in the live performance in the Walt Disney Theater. The Disney Destiny is better for having both performers involved in its live performances.
The Atlanta Voice had time to interview both LeVert and Bradford on Wednesday, Nov. 12, as the Destiny was preparing to dock at Castaway Cay.
The Atlanta Voice had time to interview both LeVert (above) and Bradford on Wednesday, Nov. 12, as the Destiny was preparing to dock at Castaway Cay. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
LeVert, a native of Los Angeles and member of the world-famous LeVert family tree, was a part of the very first all-Black show at Disneyland. She was part of the cast for “Feast of the Lion King” from the very beginning, rehearsing with the current cast in Toronto, Canada, in August 2025, after booking the role in August 2024.
“We were all very much aware of the impact and how important that was,” LeVert said. “When you do this, you just want to do it right.”
LeVert recalled one showing of Frozen, in which she plays the mother of Anna and Elsa, and locked eyes with a young girl in the audience. The stars of Frozen, arguably the biggest Disney movie in decades, are Anna and Elsa, but on this night in 2019, LeVert said the girl was focused on her and she on the girl.
“She was not about Anna or Elsa at all; she was looking straight at me. And I knew that what she was feeling was that she saw herself up there,” said LeVert, who added that she had to hold herself together when she got backstage.
LeVert remembers feeling the same way when she was “The Wiz” on stage in her native Los Angeles during her youth. She says that moment was foundational for her career, which spans many years around the world.
“There’s space for us up here, we can do this, and we can show up in a way in which we lift each other and tell our story in the way in which it is meant to be told.”
Bradford, a native of Elizabeth City, North Carolina, with over 300,000 Instagram followers, shares a similar story of representation. Seeing himself in performers like Leslie Odom, Jr. and actor/singer Jordan Fisher helped keep him encouraged as he moved from gig to gig, ultimately leading to his role as Hercules aboard the Disney Destiny. There hasn’t been a Black Hercules before him, and he understands the significance of that.
“No matter who you are, no matter what you have been through, keep going,” Bradford said about his career.
Following the premiere of “Hercules” on Tuesday night, Bradford received roaring applause during the curtain call. During the performance, Hercules is considered an outcast by the people in his village due to his exceptional strength, speed, and uniqueness. When Hercules began saving the village from monsters, he became accepted by everyone. Whether he knows it or not, Bradford is representing so many Black men who don’t fit into society’s box for them.
Bradford (above), an actor and singer, lists Beyoncé and Whitney Houston as musical inspirations. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
“That’s how I want to carry myself in this industry,” said Bradford, who has been training in the theater arts since he was five years old.
LeVert added about the amount of representation that is beautifully displayed on stage and live on the Disney Destiny, “This is something that should be happening.”
A mutual appreciation society is growing between the two performers. LeVert called Bradford “amazing” and said of the Hercules show, “I love how they reimagined the muses.”
On live performances and why they still feel so important in a world full of screens and apps, LeVert said that they can’t be duplicated. Every performance is one of one.
“You can’t replace it,” she said. “You can’t replace our engagement with each other.”
Entrance to the Tower Suite in the Disney Destiny, Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
There are rooms aboard the Disney Destiny, the latest addition to Disney’s cruise fleet, and then there are suites. To say the following residential experiences are just rooms on a cruise ship would be the precise definition of understatement. To be more precise, here is the exact Merriam-Webster’s definition of an understatement: a statement that represents something as smaller, less intense, or less important than it really is, or the act of making such a statement; a statement that understates something.
The Tower Suite and the Hero Suite inside the Disney Destiny are special in their own right. Both suites will provide guests with unique living quarters.
The Tower Suite has four bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, and an unbelievable view. Located in a funnel of the ship, the entrance is off the beaten path from guest traffic. And that is the point. Upon entering the suite, a brief climb up two short staircases opens up to a Tony Stark-themed kitchen and living room. Photos of Iron Man adorn the suite, and an Iron Man helmet rests on a shelf in the dining room.
Photos of Iron Man (above in the stairway) adorn the Tower Suite. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
The Hero Suite, located on the 13th deck of the Disney Destiny, also offers a unique vacation experience. There’s an outdoor hot tub, equally impressive views, a large kitchen, and a spacious living room. The dining table is made of marble and gives off a luxurious vibe akin to what the Greek Gods might eat at if they were staying aboard the newest Disney cruise ship.
Disney’s Hercules (above) reigns supreme inside the Hero Suite in the Disney Destiny. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
The Hero Suite has two bedrooms and two bathrooms. The living room couch can be pulled out into a third bed.
The outdoor hit tub in the Hero Suite. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
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On Monday, Nov. 10, the Pilates instructor will open the doors to her first studio, Grnd Pilates, which is located in Mechanicsville. Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice
Atlanta native Jharde Johnson is determined to create a safe and inclusive community in the fitness and wellness space, and she’s doing it through Pilates. On Monday, Nov. 10, the Pilates instructor will open the doors to her first studio, Grnd Pilates. Located in Mechanicsville, it is the only Pilates studio and Black-woman owned studio in the historic neighborhood.
For Johnson, her passion and love for Pilates transcends beyond a trend. The Atlanta Voice spoke with Johnson about feeling underrepresented in Pilates, creating community in her hometown, and the grind behind opening her first studio.
Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice
The Atlanta Voice: In a few days, Grnd Pilates will open its doors. How are you feeling?
Jharde Johnson: “Amazing. I feel like I’m living in answered prayers. This is our first studio location, but we’ve been in business for almost five years, doing a pop-up structure throughout Atlanta. We’ve been building community for over four years, and now we have our first home.
AV: You’ve been doing Pilates for a decade now and teaching for half of that. What was your personal motivation and your push to start Pilates?
JJ: “My mentor is Tanya Stephenson, the owner of Stretch ATL. She’s the first Black-owned Pilates studio in Atlanta, and my first introduction to Pilates. During this time, I was a flight attendant based in LA. When the pandemic hit, I was consistently going to Pilates classes on a regular basis. It was one of those things where I was literally the only person of color in these classes. There was a specific instance where I was in a reformer studio, and I just wasn’t receiving the proper attention that I deserved, unlike everyone else in the studio. Nobody was coming to check my form while they were checking everybody else’s. I actually nipped myself on the leg with the spring. It was just a mess. But again, it’s a practice that I love. So I’m still going.
“The pandemic hit. I got furloughed from my job, and I was just like, let me get certified. I genuinely enjoy this. I grew up running track and cross country, so movement is a part of my life. Pilates just introduced me to a new form of movement that I wasn’t used to, but felt amazing for my body. Once I got certified, I immediately started teaching virtually, then God was like, ‘You need to move back to Atlanta and build your business.’ So, I sold all my stuff, packed up my things, moved back home, and started on a weekly pop-up structure. I would rent out different spaces in the city and host them there. And I was like, let me just focus and pour into the community, because during that time, it was a complete full market for Pilates. But also, I knew it was something that Atlanta needed.”
Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice
AV: You took a leap of faith and look how it all worked.
JJ: “It’s beautiful. God has been the force behind all of this. When he told me to go, It’s like, let me move. No questions asked.”
AV: For the past few years, Pilates has experienced an increase in visibility, accessibility, and popularity, specifically for Black women who, little do many people know, popularized Pilates. How does it feel for you to be in this space where you’re helping to reclaim that narrative and help people feel more visible?
JJ: “First and foremost, visibility is extremely important. I think that it’s important for us to walk into spaces and see us, whether it’s coming from the instructor being one of us, or just the people in class. Pilates has been around forever. Right now it’s having a moment. Just like all trends, things die down, but Pilates will still be around. I think, somewhere along the way, people lost the plot of Pilates and basically painted this picture as if it was for this one demographic. That’s not the case. I created this space to make it inclusive and also more accessible, because it truly is for everyone. I feel like anybody who comes into Pilates, and it’s true Pilates that you’re doing, you feel it in your body. It just feels different. You feel amazing, and everybody deserves to feel that.
AV: Do you think there are any obstacles to entry that we still need to work on when it comes to this workout and making it more inclusive?
JJ: “Yes, it’s still so much work to do. Again, right now, it’s having a moment, but, we’re also in Atlanta. Our culture is completely different. If you were to step outside of Atlanta and really see what’s going on in the Pilates world, It’s very much still how it was when I first started my practice. Now you are able to go into spaces and see it filled with us, and that is the driving force behind Grnd Pilates?”
AV: For those that are unfamiliar, what are some of the benefits of Pilates, especially when it comes to wellness and fitness?
JJ: “I say this to all of my clients: when you’re doing true Pilates and you’re consistent with it, you see the benefits overflow into your daily life, whether it’s other modalities of movement that you do, or whether it’s everyday life. It’s great for your posture, great for your spinal health, for your pelvic floor. Pilates is low-impact but high-intensity. All of our focus is in our powerhouse, which is our core. A lot of people don’t know everything pulls from our powerhouse. It’s like the heartbeat of our body. When you get to really connect with your powerhouse, you’re able to move differently, more flexibly, and your posture improves. It’s endless. I love it. Pilates changed my life.”
AV: After people take the class, after they exit these doors, what do you hope that they take away from Grnd Pilates?
JJ: “I’ve been building community for years. We have over 3,000 clients that we service. I’ve had so many of my clients go through different obstacles in life. One of my clients, her best friend, passed away. The next day, she was here. She was like, ‘I just need to move my body. This is such a safe haven for me,’ and that’s always been the goal.
“I want this to be such a safe space for everyone and such a comfortable space. Once they leave, I want a weight to lift off their shoulders. Life can be a lot, so when you come in here, I want my community to know that this is for them. Whatever you have going in life, leave that at the door. Come in here and pour love into yourself.”
Classes for women and men are available to book at grndpilates.com.
The Atlanta Voice maintains full authority over editorial content to protect journalistic and business interests. We ensure a clear separation between news coverage decisions and revenue sources. Accepting financial support does not imply endorsement of donors or their products, services, or viewpoints. While we welcome contributions, grants, and sponsorships to support our work, our editorial decisions remain independent and unaltered by donor support. We may accept paid sponsored content from advertisers for specific subjects, but we maintain editorial control over such coverage. The Atlanta Voice retains the right to review, change, or modify editorial content, and does not permit unauthorized distribution of such material. When applicable, we disclose our donors and stakeholders in an editor’s note or within the report.
“The group project of Atlanta is unstoppable,” said Andre Dickens, still the 61st Mayor of Atlanta. Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice
At 9:23 p.m., Imara Canady, co-chair for Mayor Andre Dickens’ re-election watch party, took the stage inside the Hyatt Regency Atlanta to announce what the cheering crowd already expected: Andre Dickens had won a second term as Atlanta’s 61st mayor.
The Hyatt’s centennial ballroom glowed with celebration as supporters gathered around tables set with photos chronicling Dickens’ first term. A large screen replayed milestones from his administration, including the Moving Atlanta Forward agenda, affordable housing projects, and the mayor’s youth initiatives, serving as reminders of the groundwork laid since he was first sworn in as the city’s 61st mayor in 2022.
Polls closed across Atlanta at 8 p.m., and by 8:13 p.m., the Associated Press projected Dickens as the clear winner. He went on to secure more than 50 percent of the vote, defeating challengers Eddie Andrew Meredith, Helmut Domagalski, and Kalema Jackson.
Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice
The Victory Speech
Standing before an ecstatic crowd, Mayor Andre Dickens opened his victory speech with gratitude and reflection. “Mercy, God, thank you,” he began, beaming as supporters chanted “four more years” across the ballroom. “I’m so proud and humbled to serve the greatest city in the world,” Dickens said, recalling his journey from Adamsville to City Hall. “At 16 years old, I dreamed of becoming mayor. I looked up to Mayor Jackson and Andrew Young, and I stand on the shoulders of those giants.”
He thanked his campaign team, volunteers, and family, especially his daughter, who cast her first vote for him that day, “The group project of Atlanta is unstoppable.”
Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice
A Mandate from the People
Moments after his victory speech, Dickens spoke with The Atlanta Voice, calling the night “an awesome moment, a landslide victory, and a mandate from the people.”
“They want four more years of what we’ve given them already, working together as a group project,” Dickens said. “Over the next four years, it’s going to be about bringing people together, unifying folks, and making sure our city’s growth is balanced, especially on the South Side. That means improving transit, healthcare, food access, and quality education all over the city, so we keep Atlanta safe and affordable.”
Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice
Transformational Achievements
Under Dickens’ leadership, Atlanta achieved its first-ever AAA bond rating, marking the city’s strongest financial position in history. His administration launched theMoving Atlanta Forwardinfrastructure program, a multi-billion-dollar investment organized around four pillars: One Safe City, A City of Opportunity for All, A City Built for the Future, and Effective & Ethical Government.
A defining initiative of Dickens’ first term was his Year of the Youth campaign, launched in 2023 to expand mentorship, employment, and recreation programs for young Atlantans. The initiative created more than 3,000 youth job placements, extended recreation center hours, and funded new mental health and career readiness programs.
A City in Motion
With Atlanta preparing to host matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Dickens’ reelection signals continuity during a time of rapid growth. Co-chair of his re-election campaign, Ryan Wilson, co-founder and CEO of The Gathering Spot, called the victory “a pivotal moment” for the city.
“We need a leader who understands Atlanta and works every single day to make sure we’re prepared for what’s ahead,” Wilson said. “This re-election wasn’t about fear, it was about telling the story of what’s been accomplished and why he’s the right person to lead us forward.”
Among the attendees celebrating Dickens’ win was former Georgia Lieutenant Governor Geoff Duncan, who recently announced his campaign for governor as a Democrat. Duncan praised the mayor’s leadership and consensus-building approach.
“He’s tackled the tough issues, from public safety to affordability, and built real consensus along the way,” Duncan said. “He’s doing a great job, and he’s going to be rewarded for it.”
Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice
The Legacy of Leadership
Dickens’ reelection continues Atlanta’s six-decade tradition of two-term mayors. Since 1962, six of the city’s past eight mayors have won reelection, with Sam Massell being the last incumbent to lose, in 1973 to Maynard Jackson.
As the crowd’s chant of “Four more years” filled the Hyatt, Dickens smiled and summed up the spirit of the evening:
“This is about all of us,” he said. “Together, we’re going to keep building a city where everyone belongs.”
The Atlanta Voice has stood as a pillar of truth, empowerment, and advocacy in Metro Atlanta for six decades. As we celebrate our 60th anniversary, we invite you to invest in independent journalism that serves YOU. Every dollar fuels our mission to keep our stories alive.
The Atlanta Voice proudly celebrates the induction of Publisher Janis Ware and her late father, J. Lowell Ware (1928–1991), into the 2025 Atlanta Press Club Hall of Fame — honoring their powerful legacy of journalism, justice, and community impact.
The Atlanta Voice Publisher, Janis Ware (left), and her sister, Dr. Rhonda Ware (right). Photo by Jazmine Brazier/The Atlanta Voice
A visionary publisher and civil rights advocate, J. Lowell Ware founded The Atlanta Voice in 1966 after co-founding The Atlanta Inquirer, determined to amplify Black voices and tell stories the mainstream press ignored. He used journalism as a force for empowerment and progress, and co-founded the SUMMECH Community Development Corporation to help revitalize Atlanta’s historic neighborhoods.
Today, Janis Ware carries that mission forward as Publisher of The Atlanta Voice and Executive Director of SUMMECH. Under her leadership, The Atlanta Voice has evolved into a modern multimedia platform, and SUMMECH has built more than 1,800 affordable homes in Atlanta’s Mechanicsville community.
Their Hall of Fame induction is more than a milestone — it’s a celebration of family, legacy, and the unwavering belief that media can uplift and transform communities.
Together, Janis and J. Lowell Ware are the heart of Atlanta’s Black press — champions of truth, empowerment, and progress whose influence endures across generations.
September was National Suicide Awareness Month—a time when people across the country learn steps to prevent suicide, for themselves and those around them. But the conversation about mental health doesn’t start and stop with a calendar. It matters every day, at every hour.
Every day in the United States, more than 133 people die by suicide, and over 1.5 million attempts are made each year. It’s a topic many avoid because it’s heavy, emotional, and sometimes uncomfortable. But the more people understand it, the more lives can be saved.
When someone is in crisis—whether it’s themselves or someone they care about—help is available. Dialing 988 connects a caller to a local trained crisis specialist who can guide them through that moment. At the Georgia Crisis and Access Line (GCAL), specialists receive between 600 and 900 calls a day, and as many as 5,700 calls a week—each one different, each one a chance to help. The work these specialists do is quietly heroic: a few words, a listening ear, or a steady presence on the phone can support a mother, a child, a sibling, or a friend in ways that are hard to measure.
The Atlanta Voice recently spoke with Lydia Damte, a crisis referral specialist, about what her work really looks like—the emotional weight, the preparation, and the moments of hope. Even in the most heart-wrenching situations, she finds ways to support, guide, and sometimes save lives.
The Atlanta Voice recently spoke with Lydia Damte (above), a crisis referral specialist. Photo by Tabius McCoy/The Atlanta Voice
What motivated you to become a Crisis Referral Specialist?
I’ve worked in healthcare pretty much my whole career. I started as a nursing assistant and later worked with nonprofits focused on mental health and unsheltered communities. I’ve always cared about public health and helping people reach their full potential. Seeing so many people fall through the cracks is what pushed me toward public health. I want to be that bridge—helping people feel seen, heard, and connected to the care they need.
What’s the hardest part about the job?
I think one of the hardest situations is when we get calls from parents or schools about a child who is hearing voices or expressing thoughts of harming themselves. That always shakes me up. It’s heartbreaking—hallucinations, delusions, paranoia are difficult for anyone, but for a child, it’s especially devastating. Even talking about it now makes me a little emotional.
When I work with these kids, I like to talk to them directly whenever possible. I ask if I can speak to them and gently ask questions to understand what they’re experiencing. Hearing their small, sweet voices describing something so serious—it’s hard. That kind of case is definitely the toughest.
When a teen or minor reaches out to themselves, we handle it with extra care. We always try to involve a parent or guardian while still addressing the child’s immediate needs. Safety and support are always the priority.
Do you have a personal anecdote that drove you to help people?
Yes, actually—it happened a long time ago. I had just turned 12. My family is from Ethiopia, and when I visited, I saw so many people living in really hard conditions. Some were traveling to other countries to work as servants just to support their families.
I remember asking my dad why these girls—some around my age—were working. He told me they were from rural areas, leaving home to work abroad. That moment really stayed with me. I remember thinking, how can people not find work in their own country and have to leave everything behind just to survive?
From that age, I realized how many people fall through the cracks—how unseen they are. These girls weren’t in school; they weren’t getting opportunities. Meanwhile, I was going to school, playing sports, and living comfortably. I still think about their faces to this day. That experience opened my eyes to inequality and made me want to help people live healthier, more stable lives.
What protocol do you all follow when receiving calls?
We have something we call the “Big Five,” and we screen every caller for suicidal ideations, homicidal ideations, psychosis, substance abuse, and interpersonal relationship violence.
How do you deal with high-risk calls?
First, I would say I feel like leadership has my back. I’m well-prepared, well-trained, so I don’t get flustered. Sometimes emotional, yes—people share really deep things, and my heart breaks. Sometimes it’s a tearjerker.
I always start my shift with a prayer. My faith is big, and I ask God for empathy, patience, and precision, because there’s so much going on behind the scenes. People might think I’m just answering a call, but I’m listening, taking notes, doing an assessment, screening for the Big Five, and identifying risk.
I also do self-care. I’m super active, I like to work out, and in between calls, I might wash my face, go for a walk, or take a shower. Touching water, feeling cool—it helps me reset. Starting with prayer, leaning on leadership, and doing something active or grounding keeps me in a good place, in a good space.
Do you have your own personal approach to answering calls?
Honestly, my personal approach is—I just, I don’t know—I have a lot of confidence. I don’t feel anxious, I feel very well-prepared, and I just treat the person like a friend. Like, I’m just having a conversation.
We have reviews, and I’ve had comments a couple of times saying, “You’re so chill.” I just treat them like a friend. This is a person who’s calling because they have nobody else to call—they’re in crisis, they need help. I don’t want to scare them or make things worse. I try to act cool and calm.
How do the hours work for the crisis line?
Anyone can call at any time, day or night, no matter the size of the crisis. Someone will answer.
How many calls do you get on average?
I know that in the month of August, I took about 592 calls.
What are some moments that really stuck with you?
Ironically, it’s not always the dramatic calls. Sometimes it’s someone calling to get back on their medications after four years, or looking for therapy. Just seeing someone advocate for themselves—it’s really powerful. That willingness to get help makes me proud.
What’s something about mental health people don’t often think about?
People often judge superficially. Like, someone might look like they’re “just abusing drugs,” but there’s usually more—childhood trauma, job loss, other struggles. Mental health is layered. Society can do better by being patient, avoiding judgment, and understanding the intersections of people’s experiences.
The Atlanta Voice maintains full authority over editorial content to protect journalistic and business interests. We ensure a clear separation between news coverage decisions and revenue sources. Accepting financial support does not imply endorsement of donors or their products, services, or viewpoints. While we welcome contributions, grants, and sponsorships to support our work, our editorial decisions remain independent and unaltered by donor support. We may accept paid sponsored content from advertisers for specific subjects, but we maintain editorial control over such coverage. The Atlanta Voice retains the right to review, change, or modify editorial content, and does not permit unauthorized distribution of such material. When applicable, we disclose our donors and stakeholders in an editor’s note or within the report.
The time is here! Spooky season has officially begun, and the following are a few events that The Atlanta Voice picked out for Atlantans to enjoy during the spooky holiday season.
1.Bites, Booze, and Boos: Where to Eat, Drink, and Celebrate Halloween in Atlanta:
– Halloween isn’t just about candy and costumes; it is also a time to feast, toast, and make deliciously frightful memories. This October, Atlanta restaurants are making every effort to impress with glamorous Gatsby soirées, eerie pop-ups, rooftop masquerades, cooking classes, and arcade adventures that offer more treats than tricks.
· Buckhead: It’s masks on, lights low, and music high at Gypsy Kitchen on Friday, Oct. 31, from 8-11 p.m. The Buckhead rooftop transforms into a sultry masquerade, complete with velvet-draped corners, city skyline views, and a DJ fueling the night. Guests should dress to impress for a chance to win Best Mask and stay for an evening of enchantment, escape, and revelry under the stars. Reservations are available online.
· Step into the Roaring ’20s this Halloween at Gatsby at The Southern Gentleman on Friday, Oct. 31. From 7-10 p.m., guests are invited to don their most dazzling Gatsby-inspired attire—think pearls, fringe, feathers, tuxedos, and masks—for a night of dinner and drinks. Prizes await those with the best themed costumes. Reservations are strongly encouraged and can be made via OpenTable.
· The Blind Pig Parlour Bar invites guests to plunge into the shadows at The Wicked Pig: Haunted Harbour (pictured below), an immersive Halloween pop-up open Wednesday through Sunday through Nov. 2. The Buckhead speakeasy submerges guests into a world of shipwrecked glamour and phosphorescent frights, complete with eerie undersea décor, flickering portholes, and siren songs. The Wicked Pig menu boasts spine-chilling cocktails, such as the Red Blood Moon margarita, pumpkin-spice espresso martini, and Zombie Pig, as well as themed bites, including mummy dogs, spooky deviled eggs, and caramel apple pies. Reservations are recommended through OpenTable, and walk-ins are welcome at the bar on a first-come, first-served basis.
· Westside:Your 3rd Spot is turning Halloween into a full-blown celebration with Halloweek plus a third anniversary party, running from Friday, Oct. 24, through Sunday, Nov. 2. The arcade-meets-lounge transforms into a Tiki-Hallow playground with 100+ games, themed cocktails, and the haunting Treehouse of Terror photo booth.
· Dunwoody: For those who prefer their thrills in the kitchen, Vino Venue is hosting a Pumpkin Fright Fest cooking and wine pairing class on Friday, Oct. 31.
2.Haunted Seas at the Georgia Aquarium (Oct. 3 – Nov. 2 Downtown Atlanta)
· Enjoy a fully immersive Halloween experience with Haunted Seas at the Georgia Aquarium. This October the aquarium will transform with a spooky twist introducing new characters, legends, and sights. Join in to unlock the mystery.
3.Lincoln Memorial Cemetery Hosts Free “Trunk or Treat” – October 18
· Lincoln Memorial Cemetery, in partnership with the Center Hill Neighborhood Association (CHNA), will host the Westside Trunk or Treat, a free, family-friendly Halloween celebration on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 4:30-7:30pm. The event will take place at Lincoln Memorial Cemetery, 2275 Joseph E. Boone Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA, offering families a sweet (and slightly spooky) night of candy, costumes, and community fun in one of Atlanta’s most historic cemeteries.
4.House of Slaughter Haunted House by 21 Savage: Oct. 22-31
· Grammy award-winning, multi-platinum artist, and humanitarian 21 Savage, along with Slaughter Gang Entertainment and MBP Events team up for the immersive House of Slaughter coming to Atlanta. The House of Slaughter is an immersive experience where horror fans can experience a thrilling night filled with scares, screams, and surprises. Attendees must be 18 years or older or 13 accompanied by an adult.
· Haunted House Hours: 6 p.m. – 11 p.m. Monday – Thursday, 6 p.m. – 1 a.m. Friday through Sunday.
· WHERE: Electric Owl Studios – 3963 Redan Rd. Decatur, GA 30083
· This community festival blends Halloween fun with big scares. Families can enjoy food trucks, music, games, and vendors during the day, while thrill-seekers can purchase tickets for the haunted trail that runs after dark. Recommended ages: All. Location: 2275 Joseph E. Boone Blvd NW.
There are five stories of play space inside the new Ronald McDonald House which is scheduled to open for families in December. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
A new Ronald McDonald House is set to open for families in December. Move-in day is scheduled for Dec. 9 and 10. This will be the third Ronald McDonald House location in metro Atlanta, joining two other locations in Atlanta and Sandy Springs.
On Wednesday, Oct. 29, The Atlanta Voice was given a tour of the new 110-room, five-story facility at 2580 Briarcliff Rd. The new facility has 92 guest rooms each 350 square feet and 18 suites 655 square feet. According to Todd Myrick, the information technology program manager for Ronald McDonald House Atlanta, the increased capacity will help serve more families.
A look at the dining area. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
For the families who check into Ronald McDonald House, there will be an app-based and tablet check-in process that was designed for a faster process. The facility is similar to a hotel in many ways, says Myrick.
“We have a quasi-hotel/hotel/dorm room set up here,” Myrick said. The dining room looks to be able to seat dozens of people and is reminiscent of what diners can find on a cruise ship, for example. It’s a large space, and the facility has a chef-driven menu that is updated every day. The dining room staff will include two executive chefs and two sous chefs.
There are three glassed-in reserve dining areas for families who need privacy as part of the Marcus Autism eating program.
The outdoor play area. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
The new Ronald McDonald House also has an arts and crafts room, a game room, a wellness activities room, and an indoor play area called the playscape. The five-story playscape has different designs on each of the floors. There is also an outdoor play area that has a covered rest area and a grilling area.
“We try to replicate the home environment for the families,” Myrick explained.
The facility is currently under construction and will have 55-60 staff members on site when it opens. Myrick said staffers are scheduled to move in mid-November. The 3,000-square-foot community room can be split into two rooms in order to serve multiple parties or groups for meetings.
The community room is 3,000 square feet and will be used for everything from corporate events to parties. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
There are also multiple meeting spaces on the ground level of the $90-million project.
After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021, advocate Daphne Meyers decided to elevate her mission of creating safe spaces and encouraging early detection by launching EmpowHer and Him. The organization aims to empower those who have been diagnosed and increase the visibility of men in the breast cancer conversation.
The Atlanta Voice talked with Meyers about the organization’s annual brunch, the importance of early detection, and what it means to be on the frontline of this fight.
Photo by Laura Nwogu/The Atlanta Voice
The Atlanta Voice: EmpowHER and HIM recently held its annual breast cancer awareness brunch. What’s been the most important part of getting to see how much this organization and the people who support it have grown?
Daphne Myers: “When we started, it was called the Tatas and Tutus. I was an advocate for breast cancer, but had never really thought much about the men. It wasn’t until the second year that I was like, ‘Well, men can get breast cancer, so why am I not getting men to come to this event?’ The first year, none. In the second year, we probably had four, and one of them was my son. So I said, ‘Okay, I’m getting interest. Men are buying the tickets, but they’re sending their wives or sisters or daughters; they’re not coming.’
“I changed the name in the third year to Tatas, Tutus, and Ties. The most rewarding aspect of that is seeing how it has grown from year one to year five. We probably had at least 60 men this year, and that’s grown from having none, to a year of four, and then maybe double that the following year. And so now it seems as if we have just as many men in there.”
AV: “I love that. Let’s go back a little. EmpowHer and Him is about uplifting every fighter, men and women, going through this battle. Can you talk about how the organization began?
DM: “I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021. Based on my diagnosis, I thought, ‘I’ve always been an advocate, so where do I go from here to raise more awareness among men and women?’ Being diagnosed with breast cancer, you’re all over the place. First, you have to accept it, and then second, you have to figure out how to navigate. You’ve got to decide whether to do treatment or not, and how it’s going to affect your livelihood. So the questions that were in my mind as someone with breast cancer at that particular time prompted me to say, ‘You know what? If I had those questions, there are millions of other people who have those same questions. And if I have the answer to it, then I need to open up my mouth and be able to give the gift of awareness.
“This is bigger than me. It’s bigger than the Tatas, Tutus, and Ties. It’s about bringing about awareness, not just for women, but also for men. In the past year, I found myself doing a lot of speaking engagements, and a lot of men, just like women, don’t know about breast cancer. That’s where EmpowHER and HIM came about. I had to use this mouthpiece to bring about awareness so that people know that early detection is key. If I tell one person, then that person tells someone else; it becomes a domino effect. Your work is not done, but it keeps going.”
AV: I think that’s so admirable that your fight became perspective, and it became this thing about you wanting to lend a helping hand and be a support system for other people who may be going through their own breast cancer journey or fight.
When it comes to the aspect of men being diagnosed with breast cancer, why do you think there’s not a lot of visibility in their fight?
DM: “There’s no talk about it. Even from the medical profession, there’s not a lot of talk about it. I did an interview, probably about two or three weeks ago, and I was talking to this man about breast cancer, and he said, ‘Yeah, you don’t think about men with breast cancer.’ I said, ‘But you have a chest.’ He says, ‘OK, well, let’s maybe say breast and chest cancer.’
“People don’t understand that they have breast tissue; this is our breastplate. It’s not just prostate [cancer], and it’s not just colon. We have to come together and understand that yeah, it may be a small percentage, but it is there. When you see the Susan G. Komen’s or the American Cancer Society, you see women, and the men are in the background. With EmpowHer and Him, we’re both standing there side by side. So that’s why the ribbon is half pink and half blue. It’s about making it more relatable to them. Men don’t know that they can get a mammogram. When you go to fill out your paperwork, it says, when was your last period? How many pregnancies? You’re putting on this pink robe to get your mammogram, all of that. Our medical society doesn’t even pay attention to it as much as we should.”
AV: What do you think there needs to be more awareness about when it comes to breast cancer?
DM: “Early detection. That’s the key to anything. I know it sounds cliché-ish, but we have to start with checking our breasts and our chest at an early age, and especially if you have a history of it in your family. Because I was diagnosed with breast cancer, it kind of moves the scale up for my children to be checked.
“People of color, our breast tissue is more dense, so it goes undetected. On a regular mammogram mine was missed the first time. It wasn’t until I got the 3D that detected my breast cancer. Had I gone on and thought it was clear, I may not have been sitting here talking to you today.”
AV: For those that are looking for resources or someone to talk to, what can EmpowHer and Him be for that person?
DM: “I’m frontline, and what better person to be frontline than the person who’s actually going through it? I get calls every week of a new diagnosis, and I have to put a lot of hats on. I have to speak, because the one thing people want to know is, ‘What’s your suggestion?’ Do what’s gonna be best for you. Don’t just run with the first thing and then say, this is what I’m gonna do without checking deeper into it. The other thing is for resources. When you’re going through treatment, you’re not gonna feel good. I had to go through 18 rounds. You’re tired, you’re sad, you go into depression. So you have to battle with all of those things. There are several support groups that are out there, including with us.
“I found myself telling people to just start journaling. Do what makes you feel good to get you through that. Ask for help. It’s not a death sentence. Just because we’re diagnosed with breast cancer doesn’t mean that that’s our end. It’s actually a beginning. And it was a beginning for me, because I was on one side of the Richter scale as an advocate, to now I’m a surviving advocate, and my goal is to put this out there as much as possible and really help bring about this awareness with me.”
AV: What does it mean for you to be on the front line and to see what the organization has grown into?
DM: “I’m proud of myself. And a lot of times people say, ‘Oh, you shouldn’t brag.’ No, I am. I’m proud of myself, I’m proud of my friends, I’m proud of my family, because while I was a survivor of the disease, they were survivors of me, because they were there with me. I’m proud when that person comes to me and says, ‘Man, that event that you had opened up some doors. I’m gonna get tested.’ ‘I didn’t know that, because I’m a male…’ or ‘I didn’t know that just by changing your diet to this, that and the third could help…’ ‘I didn’t know how to do an exam.’
“My first scare, believe it or not, was when I was eight years old, so by the time I was diagnosed, that was my fifth surgery. So it’s here. Unfortunately they say that there’s no cure, but there are some things that we can change. We just have to take care of ourselves, love one another, keep down the stress, and survive this game.”
MARTA Interim GM/CEO Jonathan Hunt (above) said his main goals as interim general manager are to increase ridership and improve the customer experience. Photo by Isaiah Singleton/The Atlanta Voice
The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) will replace its entire fare collection system over the next six months, with a goal of spring 2026 for implementation and customer transition.
The system will keep the popular Breeze name, but fare media and fare collection equipment, including Breeze cards and tickets, faregates and validators, Breeze vending machines, and the mobile app, will be updated and modernized, along with fareboxes in later project phases.
MARTA Interim GM/CEO Jonathan Hunt said, as he mentioned before, his main goals as interim general manager are to increase ridership and improve the customer experience.
“The way to do that is by delivering safe, clean, and reliable service through routine excellence every day,” he said. “I want to continue beating the drum to ensure customers, partners, and stakeholders know MARTA is committed to these goals and committed to a customer-centered focus. The Better Breeze equipment marks a crucial step towards those goals.”
Hunt says the next generation of modern Breeze fare collection systems is easier, more flexible, and a more secure way to pay for service.
“It is a complete modernization of our entire system and fare gates and validators,” he said. “We have new ticketing vending machines, a new app, and newly designed Breeze cards. The state of technology has changed, and our customers have changed, and MARTA needs to meet our customers where they are.”
The system will keep the popular Breeze name, but fare media and fare collection equipment, including Breeze cards and tickets, faregates and validators, Breeze vending machines, and the mobile app, will be updated and modernized, along with fareboxes in later project phases. Photo by Isaiah Singleton/The Atlanta Voice
Between now and April 2026, Hunt says MARTA will continue the installation of hardware and software for the new system. Their first installation took place at Lindbergh MARTA Station, where MARTA officials displayed a preview of what the new system would look like. Currently, they are working on installation at the Doraville MARTA Station.
“The construction schedule has been developed to keep access to MARTA riders with the current Breeze system while installing the new one. You will see new equipment at rail stations in the coming months, but it won’t be ready for use yet,” he said. “You will still use your current Breeze card until we do the rollout in April 2026.”
Hunt says it’s great to keep fares unchanged for years, but not an entire fare collection system.
“MARTA is implementing some incredible projects and initiatives next year ahead of the World Cup, including new trains, a new bus network with on-demand transit zones, a new bus rapid transit line, and a new On the Go app and MARTA website,” he said. “We need to ensure our Breeze system is aligned with these once-in-a-generation improvements and ready for the future.”
Photo by Isaiah Singleton/The Atlanta Voice
In April 2026, according to Hunt, MARTA will have both systems up and operational to begin transitioning our customers from the old Breeze system to a better Breeze System and ensure everyone is ready in April when the launch occurs at the end of the month.
“Right now, we’re focused on getting everything installed. The new fare gates in red will be harder to tamper with and damage. They can be checked and adjusted remotely,” he said. “We want to be World Cup ready.”
MARTA Board Chair Jennifer Ide said they are thrilled to see an important project turn into a reality.
“The modernization of the Breeze System is part of the largest transformation in MARTA history,” she said. “By next Spring, MARTA will have a Veteran Care System as well as a completely redesigned bus network that prioritizes frequency and includes 12 on demand transit zones at first in our region.”
Additionally, MARTA will also have brand new trains on the track with open gateways and an officer on every train. MARTA will be launching a new app and website offering a more unified and user-friendly digital experience.
“MARTA will begin service of the region’s first-class rapid transit line from Summer Hill to Downtown, and while we put the deadline for these projects by the World Cup Series next year, including the veteran system, care benefits, and the overall improvements to the customer experience will last well beyond the World Cup and decades beyond,” she said. “This system is a true game changer for everyday rides, occasional riders, and visitors to our region.”
With the new app and system, patrons will be able to use the open payment option which is a more secure, safe, and enjoyable customer experience.
Here is what customers will enjoy with the Better Breeze system:
· New Equipment: New, contactless fare payment equipment that takes the guesswork out of where to tap. We are replacing faregates and fareboxes, validators, and Breeze vending machines systemwide. The Better Breeze faregates are harder to tamper with or damage. They can be checked and adjusted remotely, reducing incidents of fare evasion, resulting in a safer, more secure transit system and a better experience for everyone.
· New Payment Feature: Open payment where you can tap your bank card, smartphone, or mobile wallet to pay for your ride. Fare stays $2.50 for a one-way trip.
· New App: An updated app which customers will need to download and create a new account where they can buy fare.
· New Cards: New physical cards with a cool design (think orange!) and continued options of multi-day and monthly passes. Information on getting your new Breeze card will be shared in the spring.
Customers should continue using the existing Breeze mobile app, fare media, and equipment.
Access to all rail stations will be kept and there will be a monthlong period in spring 2026 for customers to transition from the current Breeze system to the Better Breeze system.
Information on ongoing fare equipment installation and instructions on how and when to transition to the new fare system will be shared in the coming months and into next spring.
The Shelby is a beachside resort in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, a five-hour drive from metro Atlanta. Photo by Jazmine Brazier/The Atlanta Voice
MYRTLE BEACH, SC – The Shelby Hotel at Myrtle Beach is just a five-hour scenic drive from metro Atlanta. This beauty boutique-style hotel ended up being the perfect getaway for this family of four. Greeted by these adorable Art Deco Miami vibes, we felt right on the beach. It’s the absolute perfect distance from a list of attractions, including the boardwalk area with a number of sites for all the family to enjoy.
Photo by Jazmine Brazier/The Atlanta Voice
Our room was welcoming and provided plenty of storage for the family. Traveling with two boys (5 and 8), we needed proper storage for toys and Beyblades. Our view from the room was stunning, with a quaint little sitting area with unobstructed views of the lazy river, pool, and, of course, the sunset on the beach. My oldest enjoyed some early morning gaming right on the deck.
It’s nestled right on the beach, just steps away from the sand, providing an easy opportunity to play in the water, catch a nice tan, and collect unique seashells. Of course, we took a bag of seashells home from our visit.
After enjoying the beach, the hotel offers the ultimate relaxation attraction: the lazy river beachside pool. The views of the beach continue all around the pool area, with plush day beds and poolside recliners. Don’t worry about packing pool towels; the hotel provides them.
Photo by Jazmine Brazier/The Atlanta Voice
The onsite restaurant, Palm and Pebble, offers bountiful breakfast and dinner options. Their signature Cinnamon Rolls were unavailable, so make sure you get there early. Honestly, this was the best breakfast we had on the trip. The menu hosts all the fan favorites of breakfast items. The French toast was flavorful and done to perfection, while my oldest enjoyed the hearty breakfast sandwiches with turkey sausage. There was no slight on the meal, leaving us stuffed and satisfied. The hotel even has special programming like music trivia on select dates to engage and entertain guests.
The fun did not end there. We spent hours at Ripley’s Aquarium, touching jellyfish, walking under shark tanks, and enjoying plenty of other interactive activities for everyone. Not to mention, we had a blast playing Cray Golf at Ripley’s Crazy Golf, Mirror Maze, and Illusions Lab. Unbeknownst to me, the illusion lab was a cool combination of science, fun, and interactive exhibits.
Photo by Jazmine Brazier/The Atlanta Voice
All of these attractions were minutes away from the hotel and in a prime area for other activities, such as restaurants, bars, and arcades.
We ended the day at the SkyView Wheel, 187 feet of stunning views of Myrtle Beach and the endless ocean. For a family-friendly trip full of fun, relaxation, and good food, visiting Myrtle Beach at The Shelby is the place to go.
The Atlanta Voice maintains full authority over editorial content to protect journalistic and business interests. We ensure a clear separation between news coverage decisions and revenue sources. Accepting financial support does not imply endorsement of donors or their products, services, or viewpoints. While we welcome contributions, grants, and sponsorships to support our work, our editorial decisions remain independent and unaltered by donor support. We may accept paid sponsored content from advertisers for specific subjects, but we maintain editorial control over such coverage. The Atlanta Voice retains the right to review, change, or modify editorial content, and does not permit unauthorized distribution of such material. When applicable, we disclose our donors and stakeholders in an editor’s note or within the report.
Ruwa Romman (above) stopped by The Atlanta Voice to discuss her candidacy for Georgia Governor and what she hopes to accomplish while speaking with voters across the state. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
The first Muslim and Palestinian woman to ever be elected to Georgia’s House of Representatives, Ruwa Romman, believes she is the candidate voters will need to elect as the state’s next governor. In the midst of a career of civic engagement and representation, Romman, 32, is looking to take a step toward not only representing her people and the people of the state’s 97th District, but all Georgians as a gubernatorial candidate.
“I think our jobs right now are to be moral leaders, and what I mean by that is that we should not be leading based on what’s trending and what’s popular. We should be leading based on what’s right,” Romman said.
On Tuesday, Oct. 22, Romman, who moved with her family to the United States from Jordan when she was seven, visited The Atlanta Voice to discuss her campaign and what she wants most for Georgia.
“Even in a moment when people are at first mad at you, if you’re willing to lead with morality, they do come around,” Romman said.
The Atlanta Voice: Rep. Romman, thank you for dropping by to chat. My first question of all of the candidates in this race is always the same: Why do you believe you are the best candidate for Georgia governor?
Rep. Ruwa Romman: I want to be governor of Georgia so that we can raise the minimum wage, feed hungry kids, reopen hospitals, invest in small businesses, and take homes back from corporations.
AV: That’s going to take a lot of work.
RR: I know. I think anyone who is running for this position had better be ready to work.
AV: On your campaign website, it says in part, “After 20 years of Republican rule, Georgians are worse off. We can’t build the Georgia we deserve with Republicans in charge.” Could you elaborate?
RR: If you listen to what I call Republican propaganda, because that is what it’s become, you will hear them talk about we are the number one place to do business. My immediate question is, ‘For whom?” To be clear, it’s not even the best place for small businesses, because we are one of the worst states for small businesses. Twenty-five percent of small businesses fail within the first year in Georgia. This is a very difficult place for small businesses and entrepreneurs.
Romman also listed the state minimum wage of $5.15 per hour, two dollars under the federal minimum wage. “The fact that we haven’t even had a conversation about it since I was four years old is an absurdity to me,” said Romman. “That shows how completely upside down Republican priorities have been. We need to start owning that, saying that, and being very plain about it.”
“Absolutely.If I didn’t think I was prepared for it, I wouldn’t be doing it. The reality of the situation is that, growing up in Georgia, I’ve had a lot of life experiences that have really prepared me,” Romman, a South Forsyth High School and Oglethorpe University graduate, said. Photo by Donnell Suggs/The Atlanta Voice
AV: Do you believe you’re ready for what’s to come?
RR: Absolutely.If I didn’t think I was prepared for it, I wouldn’t be doing it. The reality of the situation is that, growing up in Georgia, I’ve had a lot of life experiences that have really prepared me, whether it is growing up in Forsyth County before it became as diverse as it is today. Whether it is having to experience multiple unprecedented times for our generation. Way too many for any generation to experience.
There’s so much in my life that has brought me to this moment that has really called me to this moment.
AV: What, if anything, concerns you about the last woman who ran for the office of governor, who was equally as educated, energetic, and good at organizing people, and how those particular campaigns ended?
RR: It’s actually not a concern; it’s inspiration. I deeply believe that campaigns are building blocks and that even in the losses, if we nurture what we build, it can move us forward. I’m assuming you are referring to Stacey Abrams.
AV: I am.
RR: In 2018, she was the one who got the closest of any candidate that has ever run for governor. It’s deeply important to remember that. On her second turn, it was a year when the governor was an incumbent. If you look around the country, she lost by the smallest margin. Again, a loss is a loss, and I don’t only believe in moral victories, but the reality of the situation is that it’s a mixture of timing, context, and where people are.
Romman credits Abrams’ two campaigns as inspirations to her political career, saying, “I ended up going to grad school [at Georgetown University’s McCourt School of Public Policy] because of that campaign and doing work on voting rights.”
AV: You co-founded Georgia Volunteer Hub in 2020, which helped train thousands of volunteers for the Georgia Senate runoff that year. Flash forward to this year, how has that kind of work prepared you for what’s next as a candidate for governor?
RR: That work is going to influence my entire ethos. We are already going to start door-knocking on Saturday, Oct. 25. We will be launching in Norcross, and we will begin there and work our way out. Our goal is to recruit 5,000 volunteers by the end of the primary.
Romman told The Atlanta Voice that there have already been 300 volunteers signed up from dozens of counties.
AV: We are in the early stages of the gubernatorial race with the primaries still more than seven months away. Where have you held campaign rallies, and why did you choose those cities and counties?
RR: We haven’t done a campaign rally because of logistics and cost, but we just were in Savannah for “No Kings” last night [Monday, Oct. 20], we were in Athens, and we expected 10-15 to show up. We had over 40 people show up. Our goal is to be everywhere as much as possible.
AV: I saw that you spoke at a “No Kings” rally in Savannah last Saturday. I covered the rally here in Atlanta. What are your thoughts on how Americans expressed themselves last weekend? Do rallies like that really help change things?
RR: There is a starting point for everybody. I believe that. We never know what someone’s starting point is going to be. For example, I started out doing interfaith work and volunteering with those of other faiths, learning about the importance and the beauty of different people coming together towards a common and shared goal. We never know what an entryway for somebody is and where it can lead. To me, that’s what I see in these protests.
It’s a reminder that there are way more of us than them.
AV: What should potential voters know about you that they might not know if they don’t know you personally, have heard you speak, or don’t live in your district?
RR: I hope they come to learn that I am somebody who will never back down from a fight. Somebody who will always have their back, and someone who, regardless of what negotiating room I’m in, will put them before any special interests or corporation.
That’s been a deep belief of mine for as long as I can remember, and one that I intend to take into that Governor’s Mansion.
Romman said that people who will be seeing her in person for the first time while campaigning might immediately see her Hijab before they see anything else. And that’s OK, as long as they understand its importance in her life.
“At the end of the day, this to me is no different than wearing a cross or any other sign of faith,” Romman said. “I hope that they recognize it for what it is, which is a grounding thing in my life that has been very consistent in my life. This head scarf reminds me that there is something bigger than us. It is a reminder that we need to be our best selves in every place that we go.
