RenderATL partners with Milk+Cookies for Kaytranada Live! Technology Conference
The RenderATL Technology Conference took place May 31st-June 2nd to present coders with an opportunity to broaden their skill base during Atlanta Tech Week. This conference presents an immersive experience where music and technology intertwine to create an unforgettable time. Attendees are greeted by incredible speakers, timeless activations at Ponce City Market and even a gaming lounging that they can interact with throughout the entire event. From state-of-the-art training sessions, the festival pushes the boundaries of creativity and transforms the traditional music festival concept. Throughout the conference tech professionals received an opportunity to network with companies such as Netflix, Delta, Zillow, and many more.
The Atlanta Voice recently had an opportunity to speak RenderATL founder/CEO Justin E. Samuels. He stated, “RenderATL focus is on coders learning new skills that they could then transfer to get a better job or actually level up in the job they're in. At that time when we created the conference, the conference was to focus all on tech and culture coming to together. Hence, we then we said, OK, how do we go bigger? And for 2023 we added a music festival on which is headlined by Kaytranada.” Render is a conference that travels all over the United States to bring opportunities to lovers of technology.
With his groundbreaking sounds and innovative approach to music production, the Grammy-winning Canadian DJ and producer, Kaytranada has captivated audiences worldwide. Kaytranada performed some of his hits including the remix “Be Your Girl”. The festival also featured incredible DJs such as DJ EU, DJ Shane Talon, and DJ Unruely. When speaking to RenderATL founder Justin, he explained a little about what makes this festival unique by stating,” I believe the thing that makes this festival unique compared to everybody else is that we have a concentrated group of technology and enthusiasts such as engineers or designers coming together to recruit their job pool at the conference. We even have our corporate partners such as people at like a Delta, Amazon, or anywhere in between coming together for a music concert with their employees or too. I don't know of a lot of other conferences that tell their employees, hey, you're trying to come to a concert or tonight, I'll pay for it.” music and technology lovers were able to come together and enjoy a time of fellowship with host such as Anisa Brenee, Cyrus Harbin, and Brianna Harmoh.
Although the event ended with an amazing concert this particular event was not only a festival for fun Kaytranada lovers, but it was also a conference that explored topics ranging from diversity in technology to entrepreneurship. Throughout each day of the conference tech enthusiasts were able to speak with companies such as Fanduel and Home Depot. When speaking with Home Depot they explained that their company employees thousands for careers ranging from software engineering to product management. Every single person that attended this conference received opportunities to not only broaden their skill base in technology but also put it to work with new opportunities and networking. If you missed this event you will be able to check out more from Render at festivals such as Coachella in the near future.
What is proper protocol for funeral processions in the South?
Funeral processions hold great significance in the Southern United States, embodying a tradition deeply rooted in respect and community. Understanding the protocol surrounding funeral processions helps individuals pay their final respects while navigating the roadways with courtesy and hospitality. The organization and order of a funeral procession in the South are crucial aspects of the protocol. The procession typically begins at the funeral home, with family members and close friends leading the way in their vehicles. The hearse carrying the deceased follows, accompanied by other mourners and their vehicles. It is custom for the procession to maintain a single-file formation.
Funeral processions in the South often incorporate the use of funeral flags, which are affixed to the lead vehicle. These flags signal to other motorists that they are encountering a funeral procession and serve as a respectful reminder to observe procession etiquette. Law enforcement officers or funeral escorts may be present to ensure the safety and smooth flow of the procession, halting traffic at intersections to allow the procession to pass unhindered. When speaking with Charles Huff of International Funeral Home he stated that they always have police escorts for their funerals. He says, “Police escort will stop the traffic going through intersections. People used to stop out of respect but now people aren’t aware. Upstate that is now a thing of the past but now days even in the South people are only paying attention to the red light.
According to Georgia Code Title 40, “Funeral processions shall have the right of way at intersections subject to the following conditions and exceptions: Operators of vehicles in a funeral procession shall yield the right of way upon the approach of an authorized emergency vehicle or law enforcement vehicle giving an audible and visual signal; and operators of vehicles in a funeral procession shall yield the right of way when directed to do so by a traffic officer.” Drivers are expected to come to a complete stop, if possible, and wait for the procession to pass before resuming their journey. It is considered impolite to cut into the procession or attempt to overtake the vehicles. Maintaining a safe distance and refraining from honking or unnecessary noise is an expression of reverence for the grieving family and the deceased.
In the South, funeral processions often foster a sense of community support and empathy. It is common for bystanders and other drivers to pull over to the side of the road as a procession passes, demonstrating solidarity and paying respects. The funeral procession protocol in the Southern United States emphasizes the values of respect, compassion, and community. Adhering to these customs during such solemn occasions helps ensure a dignified farewell for the departed and offers solace to grieving families.
Should Police Officers Engage and Take Photos with Political Candidates?
The intersection between law enforcement and politics can raise questions about impartiality, public perception, and the potential for conflicts of interest. The debate surrounding whether police officers should engage and take photos with political candidates is a complex issue that requires careful examination of the role of law enforcement in society. Law enforcement officers are expected to remain neutral and unbiased while enforcing the law. Engaging in photo opportunities or publicly aligning themselves with political figures can create a perception of favoritism or bias.
Police officers serve as representatives of the law, and their actions should reflect the principles of political neutrality. By refraining from actively engaging with political candidates, officers maintain a professional distance that is essential to their role. Engaging in political activities could compromise their ability to enforce the law without personal bias, ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly and equally, regardless of their political beliefs or affiliations.
Allowing police officers to engage and take photos with political candidates opens the door to potential conflicts of interest. Within the code of ethics Policy for the state of Georgia it states, “Members shall make every effort to avoid even the appearance of a conflict of interest. An appearance of conflict exists when a reasonable person would conclude from the circumstances that the member’s ability to protect the public interest, or perform public duties, is compromised by personal interests. An appearance of conflict could exist even in the absence of a true conflict of interest.” Meaning that officials are to not any sign of opinion or stance on situations. Political candidates may attempt to exploit the image of law enforcement officers to gain support or leverage in their campaigns.
Public trust in law enforcement is important for effective policing. The perception of police officers aligning themselves with political candidates can erode this trust, as it blurs the lines between impartial enforcement and political advocacy. By maintaining a professional distance from political campaigns, law enforcement can better fulfill their duty to serve and protect the community without taking photos or even getting autographs.
The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper Turns 18 Years Old!
When Waine A. Hailes decides he’s going to do something, he does it to its fullest extent without letting anything stop him. Growing up in New Hampshire, Hailes never had plans of starting his own publication, yet he knew something was in store for him. Hailes has always been a hard worker. From humble beginnings at McDonalds to working at the YMCA right here in Columbus, Ga, he has always been committed to service for minorities. Hailes life work begun at Ottawa University in Ottawa, Kansas where the once shy kid, hosted his own radio show. He studied under various majors including biology, youth ministry, until he finally decided on taking business courses to take a job at the YMCA. Unfortunately, the job was no longer available but there was bigger plans for him!
Through being persistent and keeping in touch with his networks he was able to land a job with the YMCA. After a few years and moving to Charlotte, NC he decided to stop working with the YMCA until someone offered him a position in Columbus, GA that he could not refuse! Hailes spent a few years working for the A.J. MCclung YMCA while also working part time at Davis Broadcasting where he has continuously worked for over 30 years. Following his work with the YMCA he decided to take a chance in the sales department for the Ledger Enquirer. Hailes states, “I never sold advertising before but man I was killing it!”. Waine A, Hailes is an exemplary you want it, you will go get it.
With no formal background in journalism and years of experience in sales for the Ledger, he eventually decided to branch off and start his own paper in March of 2004. Hailes saw a need for an educational and informative platform on the Black and minority communities within Columbus, Ga. Through that discovery came “The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper”. This newspaper was created out of Hailes desire to educate people on the real issues that other outlets wouldn’t speak on. Hailes states,” If they were doing wrong, we talked about it, if they were doing right we also talked about that.” Although Hailes had never touched a computer in his life, through the help of friends and collages he has been able to successful complete 18 years in business. Some of his greatest successes throughout the years would include being the only bi-lingual newspaper in the Tri-City area, publishing a weekly publication, serving as the 23rd president of the Columbus Branch NAACP, will soon have the communications building at Ottawa University named after him, and many more! Congratulations to Waine A. Hailes for 18 years in serving the community of Columbus, Ga and the entire Tri- State area.
Fun Summer Activities for Kids at the YMCA
The YMCA is a fantastic destination for children to have an enjoyable and engaging summer. With a wide range of activities and programs, kids can make the most of their time off from school. From sports and swimming to arts and crafts, the YMCA offers a diverse selection of options. Columbus, Ga YMCA locations have tons of activities for the summer for children to stay active and keep their brains moving while out of school. Children can participate in team sports like soccer or basketball, take swim lessons, explore their creative side through arts and crafts classes, or join educational programs that foster learning and growth. When speaking with Chris Bryant, President of YMCA Columbus, Ga, he stated, “It is important that kids stay active during the summer because when you look at kids who are more active and don’t have ideal hands, they are the ones who most often stay out of trouble and do very well at school.” YMCA Columbus, Ga locations are currently hosting activities for over 400 children and there is still time to get your children involved. The YMCA provides a safe and inclusive environment for children to stay active, make friends, and create lasting memories throughout the summer season. Below is a list of activities that you can get your children involved with this summer.
- Swim Lessons
D.A. Turner YMCA
John P. Thayer YMCA
- Summer Camp
D.A. Turner YMCA
John P. Thayer YMCA
A.J. McClung YMCA
- Starting July Summer Basketball and Bootcamp
D.A. Turner YMCA
John P. Thayer YMCA
A.J. McClung YMCA
- Starting in August Registration for Fall Soccer opens
D.A. Turner YMCA
John P. Thayer YMCA
A.J. McClung YMCA
One Music Fest celebrates music and progressivism in 12th year
One Music Fest returned to Atlanta with new artists, new vendors, and new surprises for Atlanta residents. This year’s festival took place on October 8th-9th at the historic Old Fourth Ward Central Park, a departure from last year’s location at Centennial Olympic Park. Headliners for this year’s festival included Lil Baby, Lauryn Hill, Jazmine Sullivan, Tye Tribbett, and more. The sold-out festival reached its 12th year in Atlanta as it continually brings artists and vendors from all over to celebrate music and culture.
The Stacey Abrams campaign team had a heavy presence as they educated festival goers on the importance of voting in the 2022 Midterm Elections. Her team gave out apparel to festival goers in exchange for signing up for a pledge that would commit citizens to voting early and getting their friends and family involved also. When speaking with Dani Cook, a team member with the Abrams Campaign, she informed attendees on what they could do to prepare for the election.
“You need to make a plan to vote,” Cook said. “ You can do that by going to StacyAbrams.com/vote and making a pledge to vote early. You also have a once-in-a generation candidate who is literally for all people and all things. It doesn’t come along that often that you get a politician and public servant in the same body.”
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Stacey Abrams, along with Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, each enjoyed Jeezy’s performance when he performed his hit records.
Many festival viewers joked, wondering if Lauryn Hill would show up due to her previous tardiness for other shows. However, Ms. Lauryn took the One Music Fest stage on day one of the festival. During her performance she sang hits from “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” and even a few songs from “The Score”, an album she released with her music group The Fugees. Grammy award winning artist Lauryn Hill shared a special moment with her son Zion during her performance. Hill was surprised by her eldest son and her grandchildren where they hugged and greeted the audience.
During the performance Hill states, “My God these children, they’re making me a very young grandma. I’m like listen, they call me ‘Meme,’ I’m too young to be a grandma.”
The event was held from 12pm-10pm on both days. There were over 35 vendors that sold products and some food lines had waits of over 2 hours long. When speaking with concert goer Naira Ade on why she felt it necessary to come to this year’s festival she states,” I had to come for the artist, they are legendary new and old artist. This year’s event was easier to get to than ever before.”
Tye Tribbett hit the Slutty Vegan stage on day two and performed songs from his newly released album “All Things New”. He states he wrote this album during the pandemic when God shut things down and told us we had to do things in a new way. He performed his hits, “Victory” and “If He Did It Before… Same God”.
The City Girls perform during One Music Fest at Central Park in Atlanta o Sunday, October 9, 2022. (Photo by: James Ivory Smith for The Atlanta Voice)
Other performers included Ja Rule, Ashanti, City Girls, Chloe, Juvenile, and Rich Homie Quan. The largest festival in the Southeast attracted over 45,000 attendees from all over the nation. Photos from the event can be found in our gallery.
2 Chainz performs at SiriusXM Small Stage Series
2 Chainz performs during the 146th Preakness Stakes horse race at Pimlico Race Course, Saturday, May 15, 2021, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Will Newton)
Tauheed Epps, better known as Atlanta rapper 2 Chainz, performed a special concert at Terminal West on June 17. The event was hosted by SiriusXM’s Small Stage Series. This series is a group of small venue concerts held all over the United States, that bring SiriusXM subscribers closer to their favorite artists, comedians and entertainers. 2 Chainz performed several of his hits to commemorate the fifth anniversary of his album “Pretty Girls Like Trap Music,” such as “No Lie” and “All Me,” while giving the audience insight as to how the songs were made and his journey within the music industry.
2 Chainz even discussed how the song “No Lie” started from a lie he told Drake, in an attempt to work with the Grammy-winning rapper on a new song. 2 Chainz pitched the idea of a collaboration with Drake on a song that he had not yet created. As a result, he had to rush to the studio that night to create something for Drake to consider.
During the event, 2 Chainz was also joined on stage by DJ E Sudd and drumming internet sensation Timothy Fletcher. The set design included the wheelchair that 2 Chainz used during his Pretty Girls Like Trap Music tour, as a result of a leg injury. The evening’s events allowed the rapper to pay homage to his certified gold album. At the end of the concert, each guest was presented with a 2 Chainz SiriusXM T-shirt and the infamous pink “TRAP” T-shirt. 2 Chainz is currently on tour, but will return to Atlanta for the HOT 107.9 Birthday Bash event held on July 17.
Why Black People Should Wear Sunscreen?
Some may say that a little vitamin D a day keeps the doctors away, and while that may be true, too much vitamin D may be dangerous, especially when used without protection such as sunscreen. As African Americans, we thrive off of the idea that black doesn’t crack, and although we are some of the most beautiful people to grace the planet, we must protect our skin and our bodies just the same as anyone else. Melanin is defined as our skin pigment and it also protects our skin from UV rays. Although our melanin is something that protects us, it is not enough to protect us from skin cancer. Some people think the things that you don’t see aren’t happening, but the effects of the sun most often lead to long-term damage. An article by the Huffington Post states,” That damage from the sun can come in many forms, from hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, dark spots, sunburns and even cancers.” Many people don’t seem to realize that many brown people deal with things such as hyperpigmentation and it can become worse when it’s exposed to sunlight. Although we believe that black doesn’t crack, extreme exposure to sunlight can cause early aging.
When taking into account all the terrible things that sun exposure can do to the skin one may ask, “So what am I supposed to do about it?”, and I believe I might have a few solutions. Some of the issues that most people of color have when dealing with sunscreens are that many of the more affordable brands leave a terrible residue on the skin and contain harmful chemicals. Fortunately, in today’s society black businesses are on the rise and are creating more and more products that are beneficial to black and brown people. In 2016 Black Girl Sunscreen was created in Miami, FL. It is one of the top sunscreens for black and brown people because it dries clear, is cruelty-free, and it protects our beautiful melanin from the sun. The best part is that this sunscreen is not only sold online but is also in Target retail stores. Black people have a tough enough time trying to survive in this world, the least we can do is protect our skin in order to continue to express are black magic!
Black Girl Sunscreen link https://www.blackgirlsunscreen.com/about/
Sources
Doggett, Jolie A. “Yes, Black People Do Need To Wear Sunscreen.” HuffPost, HuffPost, 15 Aug. 2019, www.huffpost.com/entry/black-skin-sunscreen-cancer_l_5d540570e4b0cfeed1a68cea.
Ancient Skin Care Remedies That Just Work!
Beauty is something that has always been important to people in society. No matter where you live or what culture you derive from you want to feel beautiful and feel good about yourself. One way to do that would be to take care of your skin and your body. Some ancient skincare remedies that just work would consist of rosewater, turmeric, and clay mask. Roses have holy beliefs in Iran. People call it the flower of Prophet Mohammed because they believe the smell reminds them of the Prophet. Dr. Bhardwaj states rosewater has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness, get rid of acne, and eczema. Another ancient remedy would be turmeric. 80% of the world’s turmeric if consumed by India and India makes most of it. Not only is turmeric used on the skin but is also used in orange juice, cereals, yogurt, and sauces. Turmeric is used because it’s believed to make the skin glow and remove bacteria from the body. Lastly one of the most commonly used ancient skincare remedies in modern-day would be clay mask, specifically bentonite clay mask. Bentonite clay comes from volcanic ash. Not only can it be consumed within the body to remove harmful bacteria and purify, but it can also be used as a skincare remedy. Bentonite clay is known to be used to remove impurities from the skin. Hannah Zahner from Camille Style states, taking a bentonite clay detox bath is a great way to remove heavy metals from the body. These are only a few ancient skincare remedies that still work today. I mean, if it weren’t for Cleopatra who’s to say it couldn’t work for you!
Sources
Berry, Jennifer. “11 Benefits of Bentonite Clay: How to Use It and Side Effects.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, 22 May 2019, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325241.
NaturalFindings.com. “The Storied History of Healing Bentonite Clay.” NaturalFindings.com, www.naturalfindings.com/blogs/news/96041734-the-storied-history-of-healing-bentonite-clay.
Prasad, Sahdeo. “Turmeric, the Golden Spice.” Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd Edition., U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1 Jan. 1970, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92752/.
Boskabady, Mohammad Hossein, et al. “Pharmacological Effects of Rosa Damascena.” Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, July 2011, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3586833/.
“Redirect Notice.” Google, Google, www.google.com/amp/s/food.ndtv.com/beauty/10-benefits-of-rose-water-you-need-to-know-1239785?amp=1.
To Sleep or To Parish
In March of 1965 African American civil rights activists such as Hosea Williams, Martin Luther King Jr., and Congressman John Lewis all marched across the Edmond Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama to protest the right to vote for African Americans. On March 1st, 2019 African Americans, civil rights activists, Greek Organizations, and many more all came together to reenact the 55th Anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery March and Bloody Sunday. Students from Clark Atlanta came to Selma, AL for the first time to experience and hear the stories of many civil rights activists that were physically present on the day of the march.
CAUTV was able to speak with multiple civil rights activists that could recount their experiences with the Selma to Montgomery March. 3Former Southern Christian Leadership Conference Vice President, Reverend Eric Terrell states, “I was small and as my grandmother and I came across the Pettus Bridge they skeeted the hose. The only reason why they stopped skeeting it on us was because they saw my grandmother had me under her coat. They were shifting the water and we fell. She then said stand still son. I asked her why they are doing this to us and that's when she told me just understand by and by. I can’t explain it to you right now, it’s just they don't want us to come across, but we will come across it anyway.” He expressed that he is not ashamed or afraid, but through the years he has seen a major shift in the way African Americans protest. He believes that it is important that more African Americans bring their children up showing and teaching them how to fight for injustice. “We are sleeping in a dangerous time and racism is on the rise. If our young people remain sleep, they’re going to parish tomorrow and if they keep on sleeping the dream of Martin Luther King Jr. is going to be a nightmare”, he stated.
Many presidential candidates are looking towards African Americans and young people for their votes. Black votership is one of the most targeted demographics within politics right now, because as African Americans they are the ones that are looked at the least due to be a minority. Within recent years political leaders have been able to see the impact that African Americans can have when they come together. For example, in the Black Lives Matter movement African Americans were able to come together and stir up major controversy. When politician Mike Bloomberg got on the stage during the church service on Saturday some visitors turned their backs to him. During this March many African Americans came out to hear their voices heard by people who may be our future president of the United States, therefore those who opposed his views showed that to him before his speech.
After the church service civil rights activist like Martin Luther King lll spoke to the press about why he believes the March is still important today. He stated, “Fifty-five years later we do not have the total incompetent right to vote because of voter suppression, and because of gerrymander in some communities. Unfortunately, we have to keep marching, and we have to keep being vigilant until everyone can vote freely and fairly.” Many civil rights activists came out to this event to educate black people on why their votes matter. The event was originally held on March 1st instead of March 7th for the purpose of educating people on voting and voter suppression before people head to the ballots on Super Tuesday. It was important for people to become well-informed in how to properly make sure their vote is counted, so that they can effectively participate in changing our communities.
Stacey Abrams is Angry
On Thursday January 23, Stacey Abrams, 2018 Democratic governor nominee was the featuring speaker for the Morehouse College Annual MLK Lecture Series Program. Aside from being a Spelman alumna, Abrams is widely known for running for governor of Georgia. In the 2018 governor elections, Abrams lost to Brian Kemp by thousands of votes. Abrams claims that the election was not fairly conducted due to voter suppression and sued the Georgia Board of elections.
Within Stacey Abrams lecture she discusses how she is promoting the values that Martin Luther King Jr. fought for. As one of seven children she states how her parents used the dreams of Dr. King to make a way for their children. Abrams continues to state, “Elections are not about candidates winning offices, elections are about people”. She states how after discovering that she had not won the opportunity to be the governor of Georgia, she gave a speech about how she would continue to fight. Abrams believes that her responsibility was not to get the job, but to follow through with the promises she made. She swore to never stop fighting for equality until every vote was counted. In order to follow through with the promises she made, she created a program titled Fair Fight. Fair Fight is a program that brings awareness to the public on election reform and engages in targeted voter registration. Fair Fight also has organizations on Morehouse and Spelman campuses.
Abrams continues to talk about how in her book there’s a chapter on fear. Fear to her is a natural part of trying and being afraid is not a reason not to try. When asked why she did not incorporate a chapter on anger she makes a comparison to the Avengers, where Bruce Banner states he is able to become the hulk because he is always angry. Stacey proceeds to state “I’m angry, I am angry because I believe poverty is immoral, I believe it is economically inefficient ...”, she even goes as far as to state how ideologies such as racism and homophobia stunts the growth of society.
During the Q & A round, Stacey was asked what role she intends on playing in the presidential election, and would she consider the role of Vice President. She responds by saying moving forward she will continue to fight for voters’ rights, and that she would be honored to take on the position of Vice President. Until then, people can look to see Stacey Abrams new book on voting rights come out next summer and watch her continue to fight for voter equality.