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In conjunction with an ongoing effort to address the dearth of Asian American studies in K-12 school curriculums, Kennesaw State University professor Sohyun An is among a group of researchers recently awarded a prestigious $3.5 million Transformative Research Grant from the Spencer Foundation. The first of its kind awarded by the foundation, the grant supports a robust collaborative research effort focused on supporting the integration of Asian American studies in the classroom.

Through the grant, An will serve as a co-principal investigator on a multidisciplinary team that includes principal investigator Noreen Naseem Rodríguez of Michigan State University; and co-principal investigators Esther Kim of College of William and Mary; Soo-yong Byun of the Pennsylvania State University; Michael Brown of the University of Michigan; and Jennifer Higgs of the University of California, Davis. Together, they will conduct an extensive study across five states to explore how communities advocate for and implement policies mandating the teaching of Asian American studies in K-12 classrooms, and how these initiatives impact student learning.

Since joining KSU’s Bagwell College of Education in 2011, An has been a trailblazer in anti-racism social studies education and Asian American studies. Her contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including the 2023 Distinguished Researcher Award from American Educational Research Association, the 2022 Distinguished Professor Award from Kennesaw State University, and two Spencer Foundation Small Research Grants to conduct research on anti-racist education.

“We are fortunate to have a researcher of Dr. An’s caliber among our esteemed faculty,” said Adrian Epps, dean of the Bagwell College. “She serves as an inspiration for her commitment to building the educators of tomorrow and for her advocacy beyond the classroom. We very much look forward to seeing the impact her research has on educational practices across the nation.”

Beyond her academic achievements, An is deeply committed to community engagement and grassroots activism. She co-founded Asian American Voices for Education, a grassroots collective in Georgia dedicated to advancing Asian American and ethnic studies in K-12 schools. An works with Asian American students, educators, and community members to transform schools to be a space where students can see themselves and others as whole human beings, examine race in connection to power, and dream and act for a different future.

The Andrew Young School of Policy Studies (AYSPS) at Georgia State University has appointed Adam Pah as assistant dean for digital innovation, effective Aug. 1, 2024.

Pah has led digital innovation in the college since he joined it as the policy analytics lead faculty and clinical associate professor in the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology in August 2023. He has led coordination of the curriculum of the Digital Landscape Initiative across five academic units and the growth of research efforts in policy analytics and computational social science across AYSPS.

“Dr. Pah is an expert in applying computational approaches to understand decision-making in social systems and institutions,” Dean Thomas J. Vicino said. “He is well-positioned to advance the innovation of our work and its impact.”

In his newly expanded role, Pah joins the dean’s leadership team to elevate strategies for innovation in the digital space. He will continue to strategically lead and manage the college’s Digital Landscape Initiative. Additionally, in collaboration with its academic units and research centers, institutes and labs, he will lead the college’s efforts to advance the programmatic areas of policy analytics, big data, data ethics, open science, artificial intelligence and related areas across its portfolio of academic programs and research initiatives.

Pah’s research focuses on data science, complex systems and artificial intelligence and the applications of these methods to better understand decision-making in social systems and institutions. He is a co-founder of the Systematic Content Analysis of Litigation EventS Open Knowledge Network (SCALES OKN), an effort to transform the transparency and accessibility of court records funded by the National Science Foundation. He has won grants and awards from the National Science Foundation Cyberinfrastructure for Sustained Scientific Innovation, Georgia State’s Research Innovation and Scholarly Excellence (RISE) Challenge, the Public Interest Technology University Network and the National Science Foundation Convergence Accelerator Program. His articles have been published in journals that include Artificial Intelligence and Law, AI Magazine and Science.

Before joining Georgia State, Pah held the position of clinical assistant professor at the Kellogg School of Management and as clinical assistant professor of law at Pritzker School of Law, both at Northwestern University. He has served as an assistant research professor and associate director at the Northwestern Institute for Complex Systems (NICO) and as a data scientist with both TTX Corporation and Datascope Analytics in Chicago. He holds a Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Biological Sciences and a Certificate in Biotechnology from Northwestern University, and a B.S. in Molecular Biosciences and Biotechnology from Arizona State University.

“As we continue to advance the mission and strategic plan of the Andrew Young School in alignment with Georgia State University’s Blueprint to 2033: Our Place, Our Time, this appointment positions the college to expand our innovative programmatic and research enterprise,” Vicino said.

GreyOrange Inc., a leader in AI-driven fulfillment automation, announces a significant expansion of the company’s Intralogistics and Case Pick Ranger Portfolio. In response to the growing need for advanced automation solutions, GreyOrange has introduced new autonomous forklifts with the capability to handle closed pallets and manage multiple pallets or trolleys concurrently, thereby significantly improving operational efficiency and throughput.

“GreyOrange’s two new intralogistics and case pick robot solutions are the latest additions to our Certified Ranger Network™ (CRN) ecosystem that are powered by our GreyMatter fulfillment orchestration platform,” said Akash Gupta, Co-Founder and CEO, GreyOrange. “We are first in the market to launch these types of autonomous forklift solutions that can handle multiple trolleys and multiple pallets. These solutions will address critical market demands for heavy payloads, lifting up to four trolleys with combined weight of 3000 Kgs.”

GreyOrange’s latest market-proven and well-tested bots address a current market gap. The Ranger Forklift XXL for case picking and the Ranger Forklift AnyPallet for closed pallet handling offer quick go-live turnarounds within a few weeks, along with unprecedented increases in productivity. These newly patented Ranger Forklift bots are supported by GreyMatter’s pick assist and intralogistics service, creating the most intelligent solutions for the industry. These two autonomous forklifts are key intellectual properties for GreyOrange, currently being commissioned by strategic customers. They are in high demand due to their immediate return on investment and efficiency.

As market demand increasingly focuses on automation solutions that can efficiently manage multiple pallets or trolleys concurrently, these new autonomous mobile robot (AMR) variants not only streamline operational efficiency but also open up new business opportunities, strengthening the competitive advantage for both GreyOrange and its customers in the market.

“These collaborative AMRs are solutions for forklift replacement, making it much safer to operate in warehouses and reduce operational costs,” said Gupta. “GreyOrange is constantly seeking ways to overcome existing limitations for current and prospective customers so they can accomplish more work efficiently and safely.”

The introduction of these autonomous forklift bots that enable case pick and pallet movement applications marks a significant step forward in GreyOrange’s ability to meet market demands and address existing limitations. With these enhanced capabilities, GreyOrange provides efficient and competitive solutions across various industries, including retail, food and beverage, consumer goods and electronics, pharmaceutical, auto spare parts, as well as home improvement.

By aligning product development closely with client needs, GreyOrange continues to set the standard in transforming the intralogistics landscape and adding robotic classes. In addition to the Ranger Forklift bots, as of this year the CRN now includes a cycle counting solution, as well as cobot systems that work alongside the human workforce.

For more information on GreyOrange’s new Forklift variants and their benefits, visit www.greyorange.com.

 To address Atlanta’s critical affordable housing needs, the Atlanta Housing (AH) Board of Commissioners approved key resolutions to finance and construct 1,039 new housing units, of which 903 will be affordable, and preserve 140 affordable housing units across the city. These resolutions represent an AH investment of approximately $105 million in housing opportunities and resources, with a total development cost of approximately $326 million for new unit creation The new units will give families a quality place to call home, fostering sustainable community connections and stability. 

Since the beginning of the strategic planning period, Atlanta Housing has created a total of 1,585 units, of which 1,408 are designated as affordable. This includes the recently closed Heritage Village at West Lake, a redevelopment of the vacant Job Corps, formerly Waluhaje Hotel site, offering 102 fully affordable Home Flex units for households earning no more than 30% of the area median income. Since AH’s plan commenced, the agency has also preserved 3,058 affordable units, including a recent closing, which will substantially renovate Columbia Heritage Senior Residences at the former Perry Homes site. Today’s approved resolutions will further AH’s mission to create safe, quality housing options for those in need.

“With one of the most robust agendas that we’ve had over the last 5 to 10 years, we are driving progress,” said Terri M. Lee, Atlanta Housing President and Chief Executive Officer. “And while the unit numbers determined today are impressive, the Board’s approval of permanent supportive housing units will provide wraparound services to residents beyond the “sticks and bricks” of construction. This is at the heart of our work. We are urgently committed to using quality affordable housing as a vehicle for stability and empowerment for as many Atlantans as possible. “

Creation of Affordable Housing Units

Atlanta Housing is taking a proactive approach to combating the housing crisis in Atlanta. The Board approved several projects that will significantly increase the stock of affordable housing in Atlanta:

• Stadium Hotel: 231 affordable units with a Total Development Cost (TDC) of approximately $54 million and an AH investment of $18.2 million.

• Herndon Square Phase III: 178 units, with 151 designated as affordable, at a TDC of $76 million and an AH investment of $15.9 million.

• Sylvan Hills II: 233 units, fully affordable, with a TDC of $51.2 million and an AH investment of $10 million. This also creates 24 permanent supportive housing units as part of the development.

• Englewood Phase 1C: 81 units, including 16 affordable units, currently in predevelopment with an AH investment of $400,000.

• Magnolia Perimeter Bundles: 8 affordable units with a TDC of $2.4 million and an AH investment of $600,000.

• Quest Residences at Holly Hills: 9 affordable HomeFlex-Haven units for people experiencing homelessness. These units are part of a larger 40-unit development at a total development cost of $14.9 million, with AH providing 10 years of rental subsidies and an AH investment of $1.25 million.

• Civic Center: 148 affordable units for seniors with a total development cost of $58 million and an AH investment of $7.2 million.

• Bowen Homes: 151 units, with 107 designated as affordable, at a total development cost of $69.7 million and an AH investment of $18.7 million.

“Today’s investments are not just about providing housing; they are about building communities and creating an opportunity for Atlantans to thrive,” said Atlanta Housing Board Chairman Larry Stewart. “The significant advances recently made toward AH’s strategic goals are a testament to Terri Lee’s leadership. The Board will meet her call for urgency.”

Atlanta Housing’s recent development surge advances the agency’s goal to create or preserve 10,000 affordable units, as outlined in its 5-Year Strategic Plan. To date, AH has achieved approximately 44% of its housing goal in support of the City of Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens’ goal of creating and preserving 20,000 affordable units by 2030.

Additional information on the housing activity approved by the Atlanta Housing Board of Commissioners can be found here.

The board chairman of the Georgia Department of Corrections was among those killed in a plane crash in Wyoming late last week.

Larry Haynie, his wife Melissa, and three members of an Atlanta family gospel group died when a single-engine turboprop piloted by Haynie crashed near Recluse, a town in northeastern Wyoming.

The plane experienced an “autopilot issue,” according to initial findings reported by a spokesperson for the National Transportation Safety Board.

In a statement, Gov. Brian Kemp praised Haynie for a career of “valued service” in public safety.

“Larry’s impact on our state will not be forgotten,” Kemp wrote. “We will continue to hold his memory and that enduring commitment to his fellow Georgians in our hearts and memories.”

Three members of the family gospel group The Nelons also died in the crash. Kelly Nelon Clark, her husband, Jason Clark, and their daughter Amber Nelon Kistler were headed to the Gaither Homecoming Cruise to Alaska at the time of the crash.

Amber’s husband, Nathan Kistler, and Melodi Hodges, an assistant, were also killed.

Kelly and Jason’s other daughter, Autumn Nelon Streetman, who was also a member of the group, was not on the plane. 

The 19-member Georgia Board of Corrections postponed its schedule Aug. 1 meeting until Aug. 8.

Capitol Beat is a nonprofit news service operated by the Georgia Press Educational Foundation that provides coverage of state government to newspapers throughout Georgia. For more information visit capitol-beat.org.

Country stores are a staple of the South.

They are nostalgic, warm and have all the essentials: from your favorite soda to a gallon of milk or pet supplies. Some even have fresh baked goods, fruits or vegetables.

Read More At: Yahoo

The National League of Cities recently released it’s 2024 State of the Cities report. The report delves into the pressing challenges and innovative solutions cities, towns, and villages face nationwide. Now in its 11th year, the report draws from annual mayoral speeches and extensive surveys to provide a comprehensive view of the strategic objectives set by city leaders.

Key themes this year include economic development, infrastructure, housing, public safety, and health services, reflecting the top priorities and concerns of both residents and mayors.

This year’s report highlights the alignment between public sentiment and mayoral priorities, showcasing the strategic efforts to enhance economic growth, improve infrastructure, and address housing needs. By integrating data from surveys and mayoral addresses, the report provides a detailed look at the obstacles cities face and the innovative solutions being developed.

New research from talent solutions and business consulting firm Robert Half suggests hiring will keep pace for the remainder of the year. According to the company’s State of U.S. Hiring Survey, 52% of companies report plans to add new permanent positions in the second half of the year. Another 43% plan to fill for vacated positions, and 57% said they plan to increase the number of contract professionals on staff, down 10 percentage points from the first half of 2024.

View a breakdown of hiring plans by specialization and city.

Hiring Challenges Persist
According to the survey, the top factors influencing hiring decisions include company growth (57%), employee turnover (47%) and project-based work requiring skilled talent (42%). However, most employers (86%) report hiring challenges, and their major areas of concern include: 

• Lack of applicants with the required skills (48%)

• Hiring quickly enough to land the best talent (48%)

• Meeting candidates’ salary expectations (48%)

Given these challenges, nearly two-thirds (62%) of managers said they’d be willing to bend on years of experience if the candidate possessed the skills needed for the open role.

Read more about The Demand for Skilled Talent. 

“Today’s workers are more selective when it comes to making a career move,” said Dawn Fay, operational president of Robert Half. “Employers should have a strategic hiring plan in place and remain flexible in order to land in-demand talent and keep projects on track and workloads in check.”

Attracting Talent Requires a Strategic Approach
To land the best talent and stand out from the competition, hiring managers are implementing proactive strategies and offering:

• Hybrid jobs where workers can spend time at home and in-office (41%)

• Windowed work, allowing teams to work outside of typical business hours (41%)

• Higher starting salaries (38%)

Fay emphasized, “While hiring remains a priority, employers shouldn’t lose sight of their current workforce. Skilled talent is still in high demand, so it’s crucial to prioritize retention strategies to keep your best employees on board.”

The Carter Center is planning for a centennial celebration and they need your help!

Jimmy Carter’s 100th birthday will be on October 1st and the center is working to make a mosaic of photos and videos with birthday messages.

Read More At: WTOC11

Atlanta Ballet’s 2024|25 season offers one-of-a-kind opportunities to immerse the whole family in the world of dance. The fall season will kick off on Sunday, July 21, 2024 with the Centre for Dance Education’s annual Open House, where participants will have the opportunity to take free dance classes and sign up for brand-new class offerings for the fall. The season will also bring to the stage two beloved productions catered to all ages, with The Nutcracker in December and Atlanta Ballet 2’s The Swan Princess in February.

Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education to Host its Annual Open House

The Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education will host its annual Open House on Sunday, July 21, 2024, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at its Michael C. Carlos Dance Centre in Atlanta. Families are invited to visit the West Midtown studio to take free dance classes and meet the talented instructors from the Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education. The Open House will allow adults and children of all ages to experience the art form of dance, participate in fun activities, such as learning how to build the perfect ballet bun, and enroll in Fall classes offered at all three Centre locations (West Midtown, Buckhead, and Virigina-Highland). This year, the Centre will introduce brand-new class offerings, such as “Silver Swans”, a beginner-friendly 55+ adult dance program exclusively for those looking to learn about the art of ballet as an adult.

The Open House is free and will be held at the Michael C. Carlos Dance Centre at 1695 Marietta Blvd., NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 in West Midtown, Atlanta. Classes will be filled on a first come, first served basis.

For more information, including the schedule of classes, visit https://centre.atlantaballet.com/ or call 404.873.5811.

Atlanta Ballet to Present Annual Performance of The Nutcracker at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre

Under the artistic direction of Gennadi Nedvigin, Atlanta Ballet will premiere its annual production of The Nutcracker from December 7-26, 2024. The immersive family performance will feature original choreography by award-winning choreographer Yuri Possokhov, who reimagined the holiday classic exclusively for Atlanta Ballet in 2018. With intricately designed costumes, larger-than-life sets, high-tech lighting, and state-of-the-art life-like video projections, the production has been acclaimed as one of the most technically advanced versions of the show. The Atlanta Ballet Orchestra is also set to perform the iconic Tchaikovsky score, upholding Atlanta Ballet’s tradition of being one of the few regional Nutcracker ballet productions with live music. 

“Atlanta Ballet’s The Nutcracker offers an enchanting and memorable experience,” said Gennadi Nedvigin, artistic director of Atlanta Ballet. “We are proud to create a lasting tradition with our reimagined version of the beloved classic production.”

For more information about Atlanta Ballet’s performance of The Nutcracker and to purchase tickets, please visit https://www.atlantaballet.com/performances/nutcracker.

Atlanta Ballet 2 to Present the Short Family Ballet – The Swan Princess by Bruce Wells

Atlanta Ballet 2, the highest level of the Centre for Dance Education’s and a training ground for the next generation of dancers, will present The Swan Princess on February 15-16, 2025 at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. The show was created to be an introduction to the adored classic Swan Lake, the tale of Princess Odette who meets and falls in love with Prince Siegfried, only to fall under the spell of the wicked Count Von Rothbart and be turned into a beautiful swan. It is the story of Odette and Sigfried’s journey to true love.

The production will feature original choreography by acclaimed choreographer Bruce Wells, who has created over 50 ballets, including the previous captivating productions of Atlanta Ballet 2’s Beauty & the Beast and Cinderella.

“We are thrilled to bring The Swan Princess back to stage as it tells the classic Swan Lake story in a charming and delightful way,” said Wells. “The narration and condensed one-hour timeline of our reimagined version of the iconic three-act ballet provides an excellent way for younger audiences to engage with the performance and be introduced into the world of dance.”

For more information about Atlanta Ballet 2’s performance of The Swan Princess and to purchase tickets, please visit https://www.atlantaballet.com/performances/swan-princess.