It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Civil Rights leader Rev. C.T. Vivian. He was two weeks from celebrating his 96th birthday. The former Atlanta City councilman and president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference dedicated his life to faith, service and equality. The C.T. and Octavia Vivian Museum and Archives, a local nonprofit showcasing Vivian’s legacy, announced that the funeral is scheduled for 11 a.m. Thursday, July 23, at the Providence Missionary Baptist Church in Atlanta. The service will be open only for the family, but local network WSB-TV is scheduling a livestream broadcast. View the video dedication below.
It is with great sadness that we mourn the passing of Civil Rights icon and American hero, Rep. John Lewis. He was 80 years old. Regarded as “the Conscience of Congress,” Congressman John Lewis steadfastly fought for equality as representative of the 5th District of Georgia for more than three decades.
As a central figure in the Civil Rights Movement, Lewis participated in the Freedom Rides of 1961 and in 1963, Lewis became chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee. That same year, he helped plan the March on Washington and was the youngest speaker at the event.
Over the course of his life, Lewis has been honored with over 50 honorary degrees and numerous awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2011, the Liberty Medal in 2016, NAACP’s Spingarn Medal in 2002 and the sole John F. Kennedy “Profile in Courage Award” for Lifetime Achievement.
In April 2019, Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and Hartsfield-Jackson honored Congressman John Lewis by unveiling “Good Trouble: A Tribute to Congressman John Lewis,” a multidimensional art exhibit in ATL’s Domestic Terminal atrium.
The idea for a tribute wall for the civil rights icon began in 2017 when Councilperson Andre Dickens authored legislation to create a task force for determining the best ways to honor Lewis. ATL’s Art Program recommended Gary Lee Super as lead designer of the tribute, who collected artifacts befitting the 25-foot space, including Lewis’ beloved chickens he preached to as a boy, his Presidential Medal of Freedom awarded in 2011, and the pen former president Lyndon B. Johnson used to sign the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which was gifted to the former Freedom Rider. Atop the display, a painting by artist Alexi Torres depicts images and icons of Lewis’ life.
Prior tributes to Lewis in Atlanta include the renaming of Freedom Parkway to John Lewis Freedom Parkway, a painted trail representing the Freedom Riders, and John Lewis Plaza.
To honor Lewis, several “Celebration of Life” ceremonies will take place in Alabama, Washington D.C. and Atlanta, which will be livestreamed on several platforms.
In light of the pandemic, the family encourages Congressman Lewis’s many supporters to organize John Lewis Virtual Love Events in their homes to watch the ceremonies. They will be live streamed on multiple platforms. To fully participate, all are encouraged to tie a blue or purple ribbon on their front doors or in their front yards to commemorate his life. They can post video, photos, songs, or any kind of virtual tribute to Rep. Lewis at #BelovedCommunity or #Human Dignity or leave a written tribute at johnlewislegacy.org. In lieu of flowers, visit http://johnandlillianmileslewisfoundation.org.
See the schedule below for upcoming events commemorating Lewis:
“The Conscience of the Congress” Monday and Tuesday, July 27-28 in Washington, DC
Special Ceremony Proceeding the Lying in State
Rotunda, United States Capitol
2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Congressman Lewis Lies in State
United States Capitol
3 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Open to the public. The family kindly is asking attendees to wear face and mouth coverings.
Lying in State
United States Capitol
Tuesday 8 a.m. – 10 p.m.
The family is asking attendees to wear face and mouth coverings.
“Atlanta’s Servant Leader”
Wednesday, July 29 in Atlanta
Special Ceremony Proceeding the Lying in State
Rotunda, Georgia State Capitol
2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Congress Lewis Lies in State
Rotunda, Georgia State Capitol
3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
8 p.m. – 8 a.m.
Open to the public. The family is asking attendees to wear face and mouth coverings.
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Omega Service
Rotunda, Georgia State Capitol
7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
“A Lifetime of Service”
Thursday, July 30 in Atlanta
A Celebration of Life
Ebenezer Baptist Church Horizon Sanctuary
11 a.m.
Interment
South-View Cemetery
To immediately follow Celebration of Life
Steve “Left Hand” Lewis picked up his first guitar at the age of four, which sparked the beginning of a musical career that has spanned over four decades. Known as “Left Hand” Lewis, Steve has the unique characteristic of playing his guitar upside down—a rarity among guitar players. Steve has shared the stage with international recording artists Shirley Caesar, Al Jarreau, Alex Bugnon, Michael Franks, Spyro Gyro, Jonathan Butler and Pamela Williams, just to name a few.
Steve has established himself locally and beyond as one of the most gifted musicians on the scene today. Some of his additional credits included performing for the Montreux Jazz Festival, Capital Jazz Festival, 100 Black Men’s Association and 1996 Olympic Jazz Concert. Steve also released a CD titled, “2nd Chance.” Steve’s motto is, “The tone is in your hands.” Steve plans to continue spreading the word to the least, the lost and the left out, letting them know that God is a God of a “second chance.”
John William, flautist, born John William Conner, is vastly emerging as one of the premier flautists in the music industry. The Atlanta native prides himself on producing a unique sound that keeps audiences captivated until the very last note. From the mesmerizing melodies to hypnotic harmonies, John believes that music is a conduit for one to achieve inner peace and tranquility.
John prides himself on the versatility of his performance repertoire, which includes the genres of gospel, light jazz, R&B, Motown oldies, soul, pop, hip-hop, light rock and neo-soul. With an ever-growing desire to entertain, John has performed all over Atlanta at establishments such as Apache Café, Kat’s Café, Venkman’s, Sweet Potato Cafe, FUMI Hibachi and Sushi Bar, along with a host of others.
Over the course of his career, William has galvanized thousands while performing for weddings, birthday parties, anniversaries, corporate events, graduations and reunions. Recently, John had the honor of performing the national anthem for the Women’s Blue Chip Basketball League’s Atlanta Monarchs, the WNBA Atlanta Dream, and the College Park Skyhawks. In 2017, he achieved a career milestone by contributing to the film soundtrack of “Superfly.” Produced by DJ Burn One and performed by Sleepy Brown and Scar, John had the opportunity to lace his dynamic style to the song titled, “If You Want It.” On May 8, 2019, the flautist released his debut album, “Melodic Ascension,” which can be found on all downloading and streaming platforms.
The musical gifts of Sir Darren Jon have been appreciated for almost 20 years. Beginning in the traditional setting of the formal church, he honed his talents under the tutelage of Dr. Charles Hudspeth. Continuing his studies at Morris Brown College and Georgia State University, he sought out other non-traditional avenues to broaden his musical outlook.
He interned at the famous Dopplar Studios in Atlanta. During his time there, he was able to grow in the technical areas of the music industry. From there, he went on to become a sought-out sideman in the Atlanta metro area. He played on several recordings for hip-hop artists including Young Jeezy, Fabolous, Freeway and Young Joc. You can hear his most recent works on the newly released project by the influential artist Big Krit.
When he isn’t in the studio creating timeless music, you can find Sir Darren Jon on any given tour with the likes of R&B juggernauts Jagged Edge or Monica. As his schedule fills with new opportunities to perform with nationally renowned artists in the coming months and beyond, he has also taken time out to release a musical project with collaborators DJ Jamal Ahmad and DJ Mark Angel (Dangerfeel Newbies). The project, “Hariet,” received rave reviews from music insiders and tastemakers alike; it garnered the attention of music supervisors which led to a feature in the hit show, “Being Mary Jane.” The full story has yet to be told on all that Sir Darren John will contribute to the world through music.
Aviation Commissioner George Berry in 2010 during the 30th anniversary of ATL’s Midfield Terminal in 2010.
By Doug Strachan
Innovation & Strategic Business Development Manager
When then-Mayor Maynard Jackson sought a dynamic, capable leader to guide construction of what would become the world’s busiest airport, he knew exactly who he wanted – George Berry, a high-powered but affable executive at Cousins Properties. Berry answered the call and agreed to leave the private sector to become Atlanta’s Commissioner of Aviation in 1978. Berry, an aviation legend in Atlanta, passed recently at the age of 82.
In 1978, after years of planning, the future of ATL’s midfield terminal—crucial to the expansion of not only the national airspace system, but also the growth and prosperity of the Atlanta region—was in question. Elected in 1973, Maynard H. Jackson, the first African American mayor of a southern city, boldly enacted a moratorium on any further midfield terminal development, contingent on a detailed plan for greater minority participation. Mayor Jackson needed an empowered, bold and willing airport team to construct a new airport that was built not only with steel and concrete, but also with diversity and inclusion. Mayor Jackson appealed to George Berry to leave the private sector and join his team as Commissioner of Aviation.
As one writer phrased it, whether he was working for the City of Atlanta, the state of Georgia or for Cousins Properties, Berry was one of the most influential leaders in the state for several decades — beginning in the 1960s and on through the 2000s.
After joining the Airport team, he and Mayor Jackson collectively asked another giant to join forces as Deputy Commissioner in charge of the Airport midfield construction program. Richard Stogner, who passed recently at 76, accepted the challenge. Together, they effectively assumed responsibility for the City’s largest-ever construction project in the center of what was then the second busiest airport in the world. Both men had a long career of City of Atlanta public service, in a number of progressively more responsible capacities.
With their challenge clear, Berry and Stogner achieved a brand new ATL — on time and within budget — while setting records for significant minority and small business participation. Berry and Stogner also played an indispensible role in generating equal opportunities at ATL in airport concessions, helping to create the contractor and subcontractor paradigm still used today.
George Berry, who was born July 5, 1937 and passed Sept. 7, served the City of Atlanta initially from 1962 to 1974, and again as Commissioner of the Department of Aviation from 1978 to 1983. Richard Stogner, born Feb. 26, 1943 and passed July 28, 2019, served the City of Atlanta from 1969 to 1983, and as Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Aviation from 1978 to 1983.
These two aviation giants will long be remembered for their mark on what is now Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
To encourage, uplift and restore are what saxophonist Jason Bitten describes as the inspiration for his music. Jason’s smooth and soulful sound touches the untapped emotions of his listeners. Those seeking inspiration and jazz enthusiasts may find Jason’s instrumental ballads the “calm after the storm.”
A native of Birmingham, Alabama, Jason began playing the saxophone at the age of 12. In 2002, Jason independently released his first CD titled “At Midnight.” He quickly became a sought-after musician accompanying and opening for national R&B and gospel recording artists and performing at conferences, churches, and jazz festivals internationally and throughout the U.S. Jason has performed for many dignitaries including former President Jimmy Carter, the late Mrs. Coretta Scott King and Vernon Jordan Jr. In 2016, he was invited to perform at the White House for the Obama administration White House holiday tours. Jason continues to perform nationwide and between touring, he can often be spotted serenading passengers at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.
Officials estimate over 10 million travelers move through Hartsfield-Jackson during the summer season.
By Jessica Green
Public Affairs Intern
With the summer solstice and Fourth of July in the rearview, the warm weather season is officially upon us. About 10.7 million passengers are expected to go through security checkpoints this summer at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, so to say the season is a popular time for travel would be an understatement.
Passengers are traveling through ATL to destinations all over the world.
The top 10 domestic travel destinations are:
New York
Orlando
Chicago
Fort Lauderdale / Miami
Tampa
Baltimore
Dallas
Washington D.C.
Philadelphia
Los Angeles
Concourses E and F are also quite busy this time of year. Here are the top 10 international destinations:
Toronto, Canada
Cancun, Mexico
Mexico City, Mexico
Montreal, Canada
Nassau, Bahamas
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Paris, France
London, England
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Montego Bay, Jamaica
And if you’re long overdue for a vacation, here are a few tips for your next getaway.
With increased traffic and ATLNext, the multibillion-dollar capital improvement program underway, ATL passengers are advised to arrive at the Airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure for domestic flights and three hours in advance for international flights. This allows for plenty of time to check luggage and get through security checkpoints.
Hartsfield-Jackson has several projects in development continuing through the summer. Workers are finishing up construction of the South Terminal canopy. The entire exterior of the Domestic Terminal is getting a face lift. Pedestrian bridges will create a bypass above the roadways and connect the Domestic Terminal to the parking decks, improving better traffic flow. Renovations to create space for additional gates on Concourse Tare taking place. And the ATL West Parking Deck, located near the Georgia International Convention Center (GICC), is currently under development.
With all the improvements being made to ATL, be mindful of temporary closures and cautious in construction zones. Visit next.atl.com for updates.
Whether it’s a weekend retreat or a month abroad, this summer is the perfect time to venture. Dust off your passport, grab your boarding pass, and enjoy traveling.
Senior Editor / Assistant Public Relations Manager
It’s no secret that as the economic jewel of the Southeast, Hartsfield-Jackson drives billions of dollars in business activity. A few miles away sits a lesser-known asset, a small but robust organization strategically grinding to catapult development surrounding ATL’s 4,700 acres.
Incorporated in 2014, the Aerotropolis Atlanta Alliance, consisting of a 39-member board that includes municipalities, nonprofits and corporate powerhouses such as Porsche, Georgia Power, SunTrust Bank and Delta Air Lines, seeks to drive economic investment, job growth and quality of life in the area.
While many areas north of 1-20 have experienced development and revitalization, areas south of the line remained stagnant. That is until Porsche broke ground on its $100 million North America headquarters in Hapeville in 2012.
“Porsche’s arrival solidified the aerotropolis concept,” Aerotropolis Atlanta Alliance President and CEO Shannon James explained, adding that multijurisdictional collaboration and cooperation were vital.
The organization was kick-started by a partnership with the Atlanta Regional Commission to publish a detailed blueprint outlining the vision, select stakeholders and identify transportation needs. Porsche Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary Joe Folz joined the burgeoning initiative and currently serves as chairman emeritus.
James, appointed as CEO in May 2018, spends his days and nights furthering the mission of Aerotropolis Atlanta Alliance to strengthen the region through economic development, education and workforce development.
The collaborative approach is working.
“We bring tons of benefit with public-private partnerships, all these cities surrounding the Airport and we’re in constant communication with them. So how do we make sure, if there are opportunities or challenges, how can we be a conduit?”
The entire Aerotropolis Atlanta area encompasses a 20-mile area surrounding the Airport. In addition to the Alliance, Community Improvement Districts (CIDs) also collaborate for further planning and development, such as a greenway network of trails, a transit study, and cargo mobility plans.
The Aerotropolis Atlanta CIDs and Alliance spearheaded a first for the area, the $12 million Diverging Diamond Interchange at I-285 and Camp Creek Parkway that promises to improve traffic flow and promote future growth. The project is expected to be completed in late 2019.
“CIDs are more horizontal in economic development – beautification, infrastructure and wayfinding,” James explained.
“We’re trying to bring vertical growth. When you have horizontal growth happening, it influences the vertical, so we are constantly working together.”
With ATL as a partner and advocate for Aerotropolis Atlanta Alliance, Airport General Manager John Selden said the alliance is a no-brainer.
“Ensuring the success of Aerotropolis Atlanta is a win-win for everyone,” Selden said.
“It just makes logical sense to be located in a thriving, vibrant region that is a world-class transportation hub.”
One major project set to break ground early next year is Airport City College Park, a 320-acre mixed-use development adjacent to the Georgia International Convention Center off Camp Creek Parkway.
“Now we’re bringing a couple of billion dollars to the area, which has never happened before, south of I-20,” James said.
“This project really speaks to the aerotropolis concept. You’re bringing real destination development to an airport area.”
So how can ATL best support Aerotropolis Atlanta? The former bank executive wants to make sure that visions and planning align while continuing to put Hartsfield-Jackson on a platform it deserves.
“[With ATLNext], I would love for us to coordinate more as we’re planning through growth and what that looks like,” James said. “This will lead to smart growth for decades to come while positively promoting the area.”
The organization recently won the 2018 Development of Excellence Great Place Award by the Atlanta Regional Commission.
Plans for the next big win are in Clayton County with Mountainview, a 700-acre mixed-use development opportunity west of Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal.
“We have a regional focus and want to strip the idea of competition amongst ourselves,” James said.
Senior Editor / Assistant Public Relations Manager
ATL and Delta once again did their part to make it easier for special needs passengers to keep climbing.
For the fourth year, ATL and Delta Air Lines hosted youths with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families for an ‘airport rehearsal.’ With a new program name and logo, “Wings for All” acclimates children and their families to air travel.
“This is an opportunity to come into the Airport, experience the sights and sounds, and give everyone the confidence to say, ‘Yes, I can take that family vacation and fly somewhere,’” Airport General Manager John Selden told a packed room on Concourse E.
“What makes travel better for people with disabilities makes travel better for everyone,” she said.
During the simulated flight, “passengers” learned about the aircraft’s features, safety protocols, and procedures. Ries shared his testimony as a father of a 12-year-old-son on the autism spectrum.
“I’m a parent first . . . before I’m a pilot,” the captain asserted, adding his son’s challenges amplified tearful episodes and meltdowns.
“We started on short flights and worked our way up.”
He’s now flown with his son over 60 times, offering tips and advice for families.
ATL Customer Experience Manager Carol Gaddis said understanding the Airport’s customers is essential for successfully enhancing customer satisfaction.
“We work closely with our partners to make this a priority for our operation, inclusive of persons with disabilities as well as the aging population,” the event organizer said.
