Rumors have been swirling that Atlanta Police Chief George Turner has applied to become the city of Chicago’s top cop. Turner has released a statement to the media denying this rumor: “While the search for the next Chicago Police Superintendent is ongoing, the names of several top quality law enforcement executives across the country have been mentioned. As Chief of Police here in the great City of Atlanta, I am committed to continuing the important work that I started with our Mayor, the Honorable Kasim Reed. Contrary to recent rumors and media speculation, I have not applied for the recently vacated superintendent position in Chicago, nor have I expressed in any way my interest in leaving the City of Atlanta. I am one hundred percent focused on serving our Mayor and our city to achieve our mission of creating a safer, more prosperous Atlanta.”
Global software firm Salesforce has issued a statement saying it will reduce investments and move a big conference out of Georgia unless Gov. Nathan Deal vetoes HB 757 – the controversial “religious liberty” bill passed by the Georgia Legislature this week. Here is the statement Salesforce issued to the media: “Salesforce is calling on Governor Deal to veto HB 757 because the legislation creates an environment of discrimination and makes the state of Georgia seem unwelcoming to same-sex couples and the LGBTQ community. We were encouraged by Governor Deal’s recent comments that he would veto any bill that allows the perception of discrimination and we are now calling on him to stand by his comments and move quickly to veto HB 757. If HB 757 is not vetoed and instead becomes law, Salesforce will have to reduce investments in Georgia, including moving the Salesforce Connections conference to a state that provides a more welcoming environment for the LGBTQ community.”
Atlanta philanthropist Bernie Marcus will give $75 million to help Piedmont Healthcare launch a long-term expansion of its cardiac services, according to a report in the Atlanta Business Chronicle. According to Piedmont, the gift from The Marcus Foundation is the second- largest ever made to a community hospital in the United States.