ORR PULL-OUT BUSINESS DIRECTORY Pages 7-10

THEThe Official CONDUCTORNewspaper of The Overground RR!!® VOLUME 6 No.2 Second Quarter ABOVE ALL THINGS MINISTRY WORSHIP TheORR centers and the “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper The Call and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” - III John:2

Anointed Word Evangelistic Tabernacle Ariel Bowen UMC Response Believers’ Bible Christian Church Ben Hill UMC ® Beulah Missionary Baptist Church THE OVERGROUND RR!! IS READY. ARE YOU? Big Miller Grove Missionary Baptist his organization’s call for an “Overground spending is projected to top $1.1 trillion, a 34 spending show that we, as a people, are not Church TRailroad” is a continuation of the Under- percent increase over the five-year period. How- practicing affirmative action for ourselves. Butler Street Christian Methodist Episcopal ground Railroad from America’s slave his- ever, the gross revenues of Black businesses ap- Through the ORR, our people are called to- Calvary United Methodist Church tory of the 19th century. The Under- practice Kitchen Table Affirmative Cascade UMC ground Railroad boldly organized Action™(KTAA). and led by Harriet Tubman delivered Christian Fellowship Baptist Church As a result of the ORR, our people Chosen Generation Christian Church our people to physical freedom. The Overground RR!!® is delivering our have made some remarkable discover- Columbia Drive United Methodist Church people to economic freedom. The ies. Do you know about North Carolina Covenant Ministries ORR has come a very long way Mutual? It is one of the largest insur- Crusade Dominion Church since it began in 2001 (first as the ance companies within the African- Dodd-Sterling UMC Black Agenda Business Re- American community and one of the Elizabeth Baptist Church source Center). However, it still has most successful businesses within the Emmaus Road Missionary Baptist Church a long way to go. national business sector. And now it Enon Church is on board with the ORR. Our people First AME Church African-Americans are the only have found that this well-established First Iconium Baptist Church people in this country without an insurance company is an excellent economic infrastructure. An eco- source within our own community for Friendship Community Church nomic infrastructure is an effective life insurance needs. A person who Grace Community Fellowship Church system by which people can meet was about to purchase a $1 million life Greater Heights Christian Church their needs with resources provided Harriet Tubman led us to physical freedom... The Original artwork by insurance policy from a company out- Overground RR!!® will take us to economic freedom. Paul Collins Greater Mount Carmel AME by the people of their own com- side of our community found out about Greater New Life Baptist Church munity. This fact is the reason that proximate only 3% to 5% of that amount. North Carolina Mutual. He decided to Greenforest Community Baptist Church Blacks control only a very small percentage of purchase his policy through the latter, and is Headland Heights UMC their economy. According to the Selig Center We want the Coca-Cola Company, UPS, Delta now one of their very satisfied customers. See Hillside International Truth Center, Inc. for Economic Growth, in 2007 Blacks spent and other major corporations to practice affir- the North Carolina article on page 14. International Christian Fellowship approximately $845 trillion and by 2012, that mative action. However, the statistics for our continued to page 2 Jackson Memorial Baptist Church Jesus Christ is Lord Ministries Life Changing Ministries Light of the World Christian Tabernacle Sweet Auburn Springfest Love Life Christian Fellowship Church Midway Missionary Church Mission On The Move Key to Revitalizing Landmark Business District Mt. Calvary Baptist Church by Jeremy House Muhammed’s Mosque No. 15 walk down Atlanta’s Auburn Avenue is a New Beginnings Ministries Awalk through some of the richest history New Jerusalem Baptist Church that Atlanta has to offer. The street belongs to Omega Holiness Church a host of African-American created enterprises Poplar Springs Baptist Church that were founded and flourished during some Powerhouse of Deliverance Cathedral of the darkest years of Black American life. Providence Missionary Baptist Church From one side of the street to other, institutions Ray Of Hope Christian Church such as the Atlanta Daily World, the Royal Salem Bible Church Peacock nightclub, and the Auburn Avenue Simmons Chapel AME. Zion Church Library sit at the helm. Each institution touts St James Missionary Baptist Church an undeniable record of concretizing layers of St. John Baptist Church African-American life that had yet to be real- St. Mark AME Church ized. St. Mark Lutheran Church St. Philip AME Church Big money financial institutions like the At- The Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church lanta Life Insurance Co. (now the Atlanta Life Financial Group), Citizens Trust Bank and the The True Light Baptist Church Mutual Federal Savings & Loan Association Victory Praise Cathedral founded by black financiers opened lines of Wheat Street Baptist Church credit previously withheld from blacks. These Woods Memorial Baptist Church institutions fueled a wave of home ownership World Covenent Christian Center and entrepreneurship that caught national at- Zion Hill Baptist Church tention. In 1956, Fortune 500 Magazine report- ed that Auburn Avenue was the “richest Negro street in the world” and that the street “shat- tered the myth” that blacks were irresponsible State of the Community with money. Address “By the 1950’s there was real evidence that these Black Americans were capable of real Concerned Black enterprise,” said Francine Henderson, direc- Clergy of Metro- ® tor of the Auburn Avenue Research Library on politan Atlanta, Join the Overground RR!! at the Business and Techonology African-American Culture and History. “Many Inc. continued on page 18 venue at this year’s Sweet Auburn Springfest. Monday, January 26, 2009 ORR A • L • L • I • A • N • C • E • S 100 Black Men of Atlanta, Inc - 100 Black Women of Atlanta - All Empowered Inc. - Atlanta Be Someone - Atlanta Business League Remarks by Atlanta Quest - City of Atlanta, Minority Business Opportunities - Cleveland Ave-Roy L. Yancy, Sr. Public Library President, the Rev. Concerned Black Clergy - FACAA - Fulton County Workforce Development - Black Chamber of Commerce - GABEO Ga. Coalition of Black Women, Inc - Girl Scout Troop 9216 - Greater Atlanta Economic Alliance Darrell D. Elligan LAMA Inc - Making The Transition, Inc. - MACEO’s Kids Foundation - M.E.N.S. Wear Inc - NAACP of Georgia - National Action Network Ropheka Rock of the World, Inc - Save Kids of Incarcerated Parents Inc - SCLC Women - Show and Prove Youth Organization - SKIP, Inc Soul Food Museum - SPARC - The B-Aware Foundation - The Grapevine HIV/AIDS Foundation - The Owens Center For Excellence The Spirit of Sweet Auburn - Urban Business League See speech on page 5 1 THE CONDUCTOR Second Quarter 2009 The Official Newspaper of The Overground RR!!® www.overgroundrr.com

Letter From the Chairman he evolu- The Call and Response continued from page 1 Ttion of the Why not practice KTAA by seeing if your life community organizations to come together. are vast reservoirs Overground insurance needs can be met by North Carolina of outstanding pro- The Overground RR!!® has been uniting RR!!® move- Mutual? grams and events churches and mosques along with businesses ment has been that the entire com- And there are numerous other opportunities and community organizations since 2001. munity should be nothing short to practice it within Atlanta’s Black business Some 68 churches and one mosque are now of remark- able to experience. community. If you need office furniture, HA part of the ORR. Many of the ser- able. Those Office 515 is an excellent choice. Need heat- who have been To address the perception that the products and mons preached in ing and air conditioning, contact AD Heating the pulpits of our onboard for & Air. services of Black businesses are inferior, ORR a while know businesses commit to binding arbitration as a churches are lifesav- that it was ini- Or, you want to use an event planner for your condition of membership. If disputes cannot ing, enriching and life changing. Our Aaron Turpeau, ORR Chairman tially known next big gathering, call Von Creations. These be resolved between businesses and consum- people need to hear as the BRC, businesses and many other capable profession- ers, then the latter has the option of having these sermons. The ORR is working with the which was an acronym for The Atlanta als are ORR members and listed in the direc- the dispute mediated by an arbitrator outside churches so that these sermons and events will Black Agenda Business Resource Center. tory. of the ORR. This arbitration is provided at no cost to the consumer or the business. Business be web cast, catalogued and archived. Furthermore, the BRC was born from an No community can control its destiny, provide organization known as The Atlanta Black members of the ORR can be suspended or dis- Additionally, activities of our community or- for its people, or care for its children without barred. Now, that’s accountability. Agenda. strong and vibrant businesses owned by mem- ganizations oftentimes are not known through- out the Black community. Few of our people Through this movement a central con- bers of that community. Our businesses can- To promote the ORR business directory, the not be strong and vibrant without support from ORR has evolved into a unique communica- know that the Concerned Black Clergy have necting point for the entire Black Atlanta been meeting every week for 26 years. Impor- community is taking shape. The ORR is their community. tions network. In addition to the Conductor newspaper, it publishes an e-newsletter called tant community issues are discussed and vital now the connecting point for every as- There are two basic problems hindering the information is presented at these pect of our community, be it the churches, SPARKS. Subscriptions are free. Simply call growth of Black businesses: 404-346-0808, or e-mail us at vbenamin@orr. businesses or community organizations. Meetings every Monday morning, 9:30 to 1. Lack of awareness in the community that the org. Or you can register on the web site: www. 11:30 a.m. These meetings soon will be web It has a staff of 8 people who are dedi- business exists; and overgroundrr.com cast and reported on the ORR website. The cated to providing the community with a This web site is being ORR will provide similar services for as many reliable central business directory which 2. Perception that the products and services are upgraded with cutting of the ORR alliances as possible. is published throughout the community inferior to those provided by businesses owned edge media and so- by print and cutting edge technology. To by members of other communities. The ORR is an excellent place to volunteer. cial hosting technol- This exciting movement is growing at an as- attract and encourage us to use the ORR For our people to be aware of the businesses ogy which will unite tounding pace. business directory, the staff produces this in our community, a central business directory the Black community in newspaper The Conductor, an e-news- is necessary. It must be a directory which is innovative ways. Look Like the Underground Railroad, the Over- letter SPARKS, and a dynamic website, continuously updated and broadly circulated for the upcoming an- ground RR!!® is delivering our people to free- overgroundrr.com. The last issue of the throughout the community. nouncements launching dom. If you are a business owner, by joining Conductor printed 35,000 and was dis- the new website. the ORR for just $1 a day, you vastly increase As with any great Black movement, the church tributed to 179 locations in addition to be- the likelihood that the community will be is an essential element. Contrary to often re- ing available on the website. To remind us to prac- aware of your business. peated statements, Black churches recognize tice KTAA, ORR floor stands will provide a This issue is a major milestone for the this important fact. How many times have continuous presence in member churches. The Before you put this paper down, pull out the ORR. 100,000 copies have been printed you heard that Blacks need to support their floor stands identify the churches as stations on ORR business directory to start implement- and is now being distributed. It’s so much own businesses? Haven’t you heard it said that the Overground RR!!® and their pastors as the ing your own personal program of KTAA. If more to tell. But I’ll stop right here for Black churches should support Black busi- “Conductor” of that station. For example, on you patronize a Black business which is not an now. I am proud of how far we’ve come nesses? I’ll bet you have also heard it said that the Cascade United Methodist Church (UMC) ORR member, take the paper to the business and the tracks which are being laid to take Blacks will never come together. Well, just as floor stand, Rev. Marvin Moss is presented as and get it on board. Make sure your church us to where we are going - Economic we’ve seen our people delivered from physical the Conductor for that station. is part of the ORR, as well as any community Freedom. Get On Board!! slavery, and Blacks rise to positions previously organization you are involved in. believed to be impossible, the time has arrived The ORR is increasing its capacity to web cast for Black churches, businesses, institutions and church sermons and activities. Our churches The Overground RR!!® is ready. Are you? Inside this issue... The Call and Response ...... Pg 1 Sweet Auburn Springfest ...... Pg 1 Letter from the Chairman ...... Pg 2 Church The ORR welcomes our new members CBC Continues Lead in Public Service ...... Pg 3 New ORR Business Members Cascade UMC Holds “Law Day 2009” Alfonso Dawson Mortuary, Inc Que It Worship Service ...... Pg 3 Attorney Daryl Von Yokely Royal Crown Barbershop/Holistic Creating Wealth to Do God’s Work ...... Pg 4 Reviving Black Religious Art ...... Pg 4 Che Parker Painters Cleansing Center Miracles, Miracles and More Miracles ...... Pg 4 Circle of Wellness Soul Vegetarian Restaurant GRACE Will Lead Us Home ...... Pg 5 Dr. James T. Walker III, LLC The Institute of Financial Freedom State of the Community Address ...... Pg 5 Essentia Legal Investment Solutions Business Georgia Black Business Expo The Wealth Engineer Essentia Legal Offers Top Notch Legal Services .....Pg 6 Highly Favored Ministries Willie A. Watkins Funeral Home Morehouse Business Law Group ...... Pg 6 Odd Fellows Building Business Directory ...... Pg 7-10 Thanks, for getting aboard …. A Town Day ...... Pg 11 Atlanta MLK Day Parade ...... Pg 11 ORR Destinations ...... Pg 12 Willie A. Watkins Funeral Home ...... Pg 13 THE CONDUCTOR STAFF Che Parker Company ...... Pg 13 Publisher Overground RR!!® Dr. James T. Walker, III ...... Pg 13 Managing Editor H.J.A. Alexander Who Needs Life Insurance ...... Pg 14 Operations Manager Elgintine Dudley The Conductor is not responsible for unsolicited GABEO’s Annual Moore’s Bridge March ...... Pg 14 Editor Gwendolyn Davis manuscripts, art, and photographs. Views and opinions Atlanta Business League ...... Pg 15 Associate Editor Jeremy House expressed are not necessarily those of the newspaper. Design, Graphics & Photography Community Larry M. Newton Contributing Writers Clem Williams For more information contact: Youth Advocate Orrin Hudson Uses Chess ..Pg 16 Angela Harmon The Business Resource Center Alphonso Dawson Mortuary ...... Pg 16 Phala Herron-Nazarine A Royal Crown In Glory ...... Pg 17 Membership & Marketing Rep. Angela Harmon (404) 346-0808 The Soul Vegetarian Experience ...... Pg 17 Administrative Coordinator Vivian Benjamin Ask Your Nutritionist ...... Pg 17 Distribution Phala Herron-Nazarine www.overgroundrr.com The Lena Baker Story ...... Pg 18 Finding Secrets to Healthy Life ...... Pg 19 THE POWER TO PRODUCE WEALTH IN OUR COMMUNITY THROUGH SPIRIT-BASED COLLABORATION AIDS Watch ...... Pg 19 Creating Economic Power in Our Community • Business Directory Giving Power to the Ordinary Man ...... Pg 20 Jobs in the Community • Consumer Satisfaction • Church Centers for Business Referrals Business/Consumer Accountability Membership Benefits • Email Newsletter • Referral Service • Arbitration of Disputes

2 Second Quarter 2009 THE CONDUCTOR www.overgroundrr.com Church Official Publication of the Overground RR!!® Concerned Black Clergy Continues Lead in Public Service, Confronts Critical Community Issues by Phala Herron-Nazarine At a regular CBC meeting in March, the Edu- Franklin at her Faith-Based Roundtable at St. disclosed alarming numbers which stunned the oving forward in the second quarter of cation Chairperson announced that Atlanta Luke’s Episcopal Church. Many area commu- listeners, and prompted many to inquire about M2009, the OvergroundRR!!® follows its School Superintendent Dr. Beverly Hall had nity leaders and activists came out to partici- how they might get involved. partner in faith and its alliance in business – been named the “2009 National Superinten- pate in this information-sharing and planning Atlanta’s Concerned Black Clergy (CBC). The dent of the Year.” Hall has headed the Atlan- session. Among the organizations participat- CBC has always had the homeless problem CBC continues to lead the masses in its mis- ta Schools since 1999. She was honored on ing was Meeting the Challenge, Inc, which at the forefront of its mission and as a major sion of confronting hunger and homelessness, February 20, at the American Association of presented many solutions to the country’s cause for action. Outside of its weekly meet- among other critical issues in Atlanta’s urban School Administrators (AASA) National Con- economic crisis. Mayor Franklin announced ings, CBC operates similarly to the NAACP neighborhoods. ference on Education in San Francisco. that Federal Stimulus Act funds have been re- in its mission to assist the working poor, dis- The Association, along with its sponsors the leased and ready to be distributed throughout enfranchised and the homeless. CBC partners the community. She explained that millions of with other outreach programs to provide shel- dollars have been delegated to Georgia’s coun- ters, food banks and other emergency services. ties for the unemployed. Further, she added CBC assists in raising funds to work on spe- that Atlanta’s Workforce Development Agency cial issues, notably the campaign to cap rising (AWDA) is slated to receive funding for youth prices on the medications prescribed by Grady workers. [It was noted that the agency has not Memorial Hospital for its largely low-income only extended the age of participant eligibility or indigent patients. Community leaders and (now 14 to 24 years old vs. 2l years old), but it fellow pastors call on the CBC to assist with also has waived the poverty-level requirement. initiatives dealing with HIV/AIDS, corporate As such, youth with unemployed or displaced injustice, child prostitution and voter registra- working parents can apply for jobs in the coun- tion. In turn, the CBC offers a venue and fo- ty-funded program.] rum for organizations to come and share their missions with the people of Atlanta. Among other organizations making presen- tations before the CBC last quarter was the On April 25, 2009 the CBC organized the “6th Street GRACE Ministry. Its mission deals Annual Clergy and Community Health Walk.” with child exploitation and prostitution, as re- Hundreds of walkers and runners helped raise flected in the acronym GRACE: Galvanizing awareness of the health disparities plaguing Resources Against Child Exploitations. This the community. Participating church congre- Rev. Elligan addresses a community conference conducted by the CBC ministry is a non-denominational alliance of gations, area organizations and individual sup- churches dedicated to supporting, enlarging porters gathered at 9 a. m. The four-mile walk and allying with others interested in joining started at the VICARS Community Center and This advocacy group is composed of religious ARAMARK and ING Foundations, celebrat- the struggle to rid communities of this ever- ended at Kroger’s supermarket at I-285 and leaders, church members, activists, the elders ed the contributions and leadership of public growing, horrific problem. Street GRACE is a Cascade. A Health Fair immediately followed and the youth, and the public-at-large. The school superintendents. grassroots alliance that seeks to eliminate these the Health Walk in the Kroger plaza. CBC has been serving the metropolitan area conditions and circumstances here in Atlanta for 25 years, and President the Rev. Darrel El- On March 26, the CBC joined Mayor Shirley and across the globe. The panel discussion ligan offers that the ministry “…is the leader Conductor Message in bringing about healing and holiness in our The CBC continues to deal with community.” the hard issues and proceed with healthy solutions through action. Every Monday morning, from 9:30 to 11:30 There is no doubt that they are in- a.m., CBC holds a forum open to the public. deed a force with which to unite. Doors open promptly at 9:30 a.m., with tables If you reside in the Atlanta or sur- set for a complimentary continental breakfast rounding cities (or are visiting the for members and visitors. Shortly after the area, CBC invites you to stop by opening -- the welcome remarks, prayer and The VICARS-Community Church introductions of all attendees, the committee of God at 838 Cascade Road At- reports are presented by various chairpersons lanta, GA any Monday morning concerning issues that vary from health and between 9:30 and 11:30. public safety to international affairs and voter registration practices. The official agenda lists The ORR recommends that you committees dealing with economic develop- join with the Concerned Black ment, education, housing, health, public safety, Clergy and other partners in work- juvenile justice and religious affairs. Registration team for the CBC Heath Walk, from l to r: Karen Rawls, ing to heal the community’s ills. Seandra Rawls, Shunta Swift and Vivian Moore Cascade UMC Holds “Law Day 2009” Worship Service by Jennifer Thomas ationally televised Judge Penny Brown Moore, now retired from the Superior Court of es began as a mission to create a ministry of torneys (Sonja Natasha Brown, President). NReynolds of Family Court with Judge Fulton County, Georgia. lawyers, paralegals and law enforcement per- Penny will join Georgia lawmakers, members sonnel to support church families and their The Rev. Marvin A. Moss serves as senior of Georgia’s bench and bar, and the Greater At- This year’s program theme is “A Legacy of surrounding communities. The observance of pastor at Cascade United Methodist Church. lanta community to celebrate Law Day 2009 Liberty: Celebrating Lincoln’s Bicentennial.” Law Day and the creation of Legal Ministries Fulton County Superior Court Judge Kimberly This special Law Day service is free of charge at Cascade United Methodist Church on Sun- throughout many Atlanta area churches have and open top the public. For more information day, May 10th at 11:00a.m. Reynolds will be Esmond Adams and Avarita L. Hanson, Esq. been greatly appreciated and again supported are co-chairs for this program. about the service and other church programs, featured as the guest speaker of the Law Day by Atlanta’s bench and bar -- the Gate City Bar call 404/691-5770, or check the Cascade web worship service, a continued tradition started The tradition of observing Law Day at church- Association (Willie Lovett, Jr., President) and site at www.cascadeumc.org. in 1981 by Judge Thelma Wyatt Cummings the Georgia Association of Black Women At-

3 THE CONDUCTOR Second Quarter 2009 Official Publication of the Overground RR!!® Church www.overgroundrr.com Creating Wealth to Do Reviving God’s Work Black The Conductor Religious Art ega churches are a rapidly growing phe- The Conductor Mnomenon of the religious movement. With church pews packed with anywhere from rt has always been the tool by which 1,500 to nearly 50,000 people, even praise and groups of people define their cultures. worship demand organization. And like any A Several philosophers have noted the power of institution that maintains the equilibrium of artists whose art became a model archetype by thousands of people and thousands of dollars, which people molded their lives. Someone who good financial planning determines the success takes that job seriously is Sandra Blackwell, of these churches. No one knows this arena bet- creator of Rishona Inspirational Wear. Rishona ter than William Parker, founder of The Wealth Inspirational Wear, is more than a name of a Engineer-ABG Financial Services Inc. business, it is an art form that Blackwell has Sandra Blackwell, creator of been perfecting for years. Rishona Inspirational Wear Parker’s company specializes in guiding churches through various financial endeavors. Rishona art isn’t new. However, the style is After 18 years, Blackwell has amassed a rigor- Though ABG services individuals and other rare, and one that many people haven’t seen ous collection. There are countless notebooks, institutions, churches are the market Parker in years. It’s quirky and fun! Blackwell’s ani- containing pages upon pages of character most wants to service and the market he wants mated interpretation of common worship prac- drawings, all waiting to be brought to life by to see profit. tices illuminates an inherited light-heartedness Blackwell. in her otherwise serious religious themes. The church market constantly grows, wait- “The purpose of my business is to highlight ing for someone to strike lighting. The right Religion equals art for Blackwell. Her char- various aspects of life,” said Blackwell. “I pastor, with the right message, is destined to acters, themes, and animations encompass an would like to establish a gallery.” make millions. Parker’s company assures that upbeat rhythmic representation of the world. Singing, dancing and hallelujahs weave Recently, Blackwell’s religious t-shirts are the the church donations and revenue can be ef- Dr. William T. Parker fectively utilized to do God’s Work. Scores of through the religion infused paths of her char- primary sales vehicles for her art. She began acters. Though she considers herself a Black distributing her art by putting it on shirts and young ambitious pastors work independently, Currently, Parker’s expertise is highly rele- Jew, Jesus is a common centerpiece in her art. selling them to the public. That’s the thing of only to discover that the pitfalls of financial vant. A graduate of Shaw University, Parker’s now. The things for future are vast, in Black- unpreparedness will severely limit future am- vast education spans two decades. His training Blackwell received the inspiration to dive head well’s vision. Besides a gallery, Blackwell has bitions. Just last year, Congress investigated a includes institutions like the American Col- first into her art from a discussion on Black Talk sketched a cartoon segment and has several set of powerful pastors for suspicious financial lege, Business Insurance Advance Sales Insti- Radio. Host of the radio program, Bob Moore, other creative ideas in the wings. practices, and others have been challenged for tute, Investment Training Institute, and Roch- reminded listeners that the key to a healthy mishandling their congregations’ enormous ester Institute of Technology. givings. Black community laid in the success of Black Creatively, Blackwell has the goods. Moving businesses. Blackwell heeded Moore’s call and those creative ideas to fruition is the next task The ABG motto is to “Add more than it takes.” combined it with her creativity. The result was of Rishona Inspirational Wear. One thing for Parker said, “We work with churches through- Parker believes there is no other way to do an enterprise which would be a release for her sure, she has the art portfolio to make it hap- out the United States. There are several mega business. artistic talents and one which would help sus- pen. churches throughout the Atlanta area that are tain the needs of her community. our clients.”

Miracles, Miracles and More Miracles 2009 Purple Ball Honoree Awards Banquet

he Miracles, Miracles and More Miracles ernacle, received the TMinistry presented its “7th Annual Purple “Ambassador Award.” Ball Awards Banquet.” on Saturday April 4 at the Holiday Inn Select Hotel in downtown At- The Purple Ball Ban- lanta. More than 200 representatives from area quet was highlighted churches, faith-based organizations and other by the appearances of ministry supporters attended the banquet pro- renowned gospel artist, gram. Ms. Dorothy Norwood, and Ms. Demetria Founded by Evangelist Sandi Collins, the Larry Tinsley McKenney, a co-star on Tyler Perry Studios’ “House of Payne” show. Ms. Norwood was honored with the “Legend Award,” and Ms. McKenney was presented with the “Entertain- ment Achievement Award.”

Pastor Mark A. Couch and Evangelist “We were delighted to have the opportunity to Sandi Collins present these outstanding community servants provide food, clothing and shelter with the Purple Ball Award,”stated Evangelist for those in need, along with a 24- Collins. “Their well demonstrated service ac- hour, call-in prayer line and other tivities are very much in keeping with the work support. Bishop Margaret Wilson and Willie A. Watkins of the Miracles Ministry.” Evangelist Collins and her “Miracle Team” Tune into Evangelist Collins ev- Miracles Ministry selects 16 outstanding indi- ery Thursday on WYZE -1480 viduals each year to recognize for their active, AM Radio at 9:00am; a repeat dedicated service benefiting others. broadcast is aired at 9:00pm. You also may attend her “Miracles Among this year’s honorees was mortuary ser- Service” every second Sunday at vice owner Willie A. Watkins, a member of the Emmanuel Tabernacle, 823 Dill Overground RR!!; who received the “Ambas- Avenue Atlanta, Ga.. sador Award.” Noted gospel announcer Larry Tinsley, who is an affiliate of the ORR!!, received the “Radio Angel Award.” Other hon- orees included: Bishop Margaret Wilson re- ceived the “Pioneer Award”; and Pastor Mark Dorothy Norwood and Sandi Collins A. Couch, senior pastor of Emmanuel Tab-

4 Second Quarter 2009 THE CONDUCTOR www.overgroundrr.com Church Official Publication of the Overground RR!!® GRACE Will State of the Community Address Concerned Black Clergy of Metropolitan Atlanta, Inc. Lead Us Home Monday, January 26, 2009 The Conductor Remarks by President, Rev. Darrell D. Elligan

he road to the ministry for Frederick Caldwell, who serves as senior pastor. “We o the Board of Directors of Concerned but we do have a permanent interest in the to- TCaldwell was painstaking, and he took the see it as our calling to be a community builder, TBlack Clergy of Metro Atlanta, to all elected tal well being of every individual, family, and process seriously. Step by step, not sure that it somebody that builds bridges that connect officials, past presidents of CBC, to all fellow church that makes up our community. was his calling, Caldwell sought advice from folks together. We see a larger vision of reach- clergy, to all business and community leaders, several acquaintances in ministry. Some who ing out.” members of CBC and friends represented here Our mission is the protection of the poor. We gave counsel had known Caldwell for years. today. It is an honor and a privileged for me to deal and hold accountable, with systems of They all knew that the preaching bug pursued Connecting people matured Caldwell’s personal deliver to this very distinguished audience, The power and privilege that often oppress, margin- Caldwell with relentless vigor. As Caldwell will theology. He witnessed amazing occurrences State of the Community Address for 2009. We alize and discriminate against people resulting humorously acknowledge, church leaders in his when diverse people convened together under a rise to give all glory and honor to God, Jesus in exclusion instead of inclusion. circle patiently waited for Caldwell to realize his common goal of serving God. Most importantly, Christ and the Holy Spirit. We recognize all God-driven purpose. With a few smirks, words connecting the haves and the ‘have nots’ became faiths represented today. Joshua 3:5 of advice and other positive reinforcement from a central theme of his work. For Caldwell, like Sanctify yourself, tomorrow the Lord will do his colleagues, Caldwell surrendered to his Dr. King, this divide is the ‘great hill to climb,’ wonders among you. divinely inevitable path. if he is to save his congregation. The context of our conversation today is cen- “I had this thing that wouldn’t let go of me…I “I’m in an area were there are lots of people (and tered around the German word, “Zeitgeist”. couldn’t just not do it,” Caldwell said. “As it families) who live in hotels,” Caldwell said. Zeitgeist is a term that references to the general relates to pastoring and starting a church -- I intellectual, moral, cultural and political climate believe it was about five or six years into being And those are the ugly and gritty needs that of an era. Zeitgeist is a word that reflects the in the ministry, when the Lord called me to his Caldwell perpetually reminds others about when taste, outlook and the defining characteristics people.” he speaks. When conversing about ministry, of a generation. Zeitgeist captures the prevail- he repeatedly focuses on the social ills, such ing mood or attitude of a given period. Zeit The call made unto him was somewhat differ- as homelessness, mental disabilities, physical means “time” and geist means “spirit” simply ent than his influences. Caldwell created Grace handicaps and hunger. These are the often- put, Zeitgeist has to do with the thought, thesis Community Fellowship Church nine years ago. ignored concerns of too many churches that Rev. Darrell D. Elligan or title of this morning’s message – “The Spirit Till this day, Caldwell’s ministry recognizes have become too big, too bourgeois and too of the Times.” obvious but ignored gaps in traditional church busy to take seriously, Caldwell notes. I bring you greetings as the President of the ministries. For him, much of the needed healing Concerned Black Clergy of Metropolitan At- The Zeitgeist for Google.com recorded the larg- for God’s flock is actually ‘racial healing.’ One Grace initiative is “Dinner with the Com- lanta, Inc. Our mission is to provide leadership, est volume of engine searches in 2008 as “who munity.” This effort feeds people, of course; but advocacy and service to the homeless, helpless is Obama”? My Zeitgeist highly expensive $20 Racial healing is a poignant divide in the Caldwell uses the event for a broader goal. Eat- and hopeless in our community. chronological watch with Obama face on it says American churches; however, racial healing ing and feeding is not the primary objective for it’s Obama Time! symbolizes the numerous divides that inhibit the the feast. More than the hungry are welcomed. The Concerned Black Clergy has been the true and total healing of mankind. Caldwell’s In fact, if you are already eating well, Caldwell prophetic voice on behalf of the community As I stood out on the morning of January 20, egalitarian theology approaches Martin Luther wants you there most of all. The event connects for over 25 years with only one agenda and that 2009 from 6 am to 12 noon waiting to person- King’s ideology and other prophets who testified the hungry with those who are not. is the Kingdom of God’s Agenda. All of our ally view the oath of office of the 44th President that the inability to love one another’s differ- work, witness, and wisdom are progressively of these US of America, I was dressed in my ences would create unstoppable destruction. Caldwell said, “The rule was that you don’t principle-centered to promote God’s Kingdom thermal ware, two pairs of socks, a long sleeves come just to feed people. You come to make on Earth as it is in Heaven. We do not have a shirt, a sweatshirt, a hooded sweatshirt, a long “The mission of Grace Community Fellowship community with one another. You would be sur- Democratic nor Republican Agenda. We do wool coat, a skull hat, scarf, and two pairs of Church is to reconcile people to God, people prised with how many people come to unite.” not have a conservative, a moderate or a liberal gloves to keep me warm on the outside, but it to people, and churches to churches,” says agenda. We have a Kingdom of God’s Agenda. We do not have permanent friends or enemies continued on page 18

“What do you want from “Now your bank? A variety of products You Have A and services to choose from—giving you the opportunity Albany Branch 301 West Oglethorpe Blvd., Albany, GA 31701 Choice.” to make adjustments as your Mon-Thurs: 9AM-4PM Fri: 9AM-6PM Sat: 9AM-12PM 229 420-4557 financial position changes. Augusta Branch And then there’s service. You 1268 Broad Street, Augusta, GA 30901 Mon-Thurs: 9AM-4PM Fri: 9AM-6PM Sat: 9AM-12PM want to be treated like a person, 706 432-0024 Cascade Branch not a series of numbers.” 2358 Cascade Road, Atlanta, GA 30311 Mon-Thurs: 9AM-4PM Fri: 9AM-6PM Sat: CLOSED 404 755-4254 Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport Branch 2000 Terminal Rd., Atrium, Ste. S-4, Atlanta, GA 30320 Mon-Fri: 9AM-6PM Sat: 9AM-1PM Sun: 2PM-6PM 404 766-8111 Peachtree Branch 94 Peachtree Street, Atlanta, GA 30303 Mon-Thurs: 9AM-4PM Fri: 9AM-6PM Sat: CLOSED 404 589-1719 Savannah Branch 339 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Savannah, GA 31401 Mon-Thurs: 9AM-4PM Fri: 9AM-6PM Sat: 9AM-12PM 912 232-9670 Branch 5674 Memorial Drive, Stone Mountain, GA 30083 Mon-Thurs: 9AM-4PM Fri: 9AM-6PM Sat: 9AM-1PM 404 298-7711 West End Branch Banking at Your Fingertips! 562 Lee Street, Atlanta, GA 30310 Visit us at capitolcitybank-atl.com Mon-Thurs: 9AM-4PM Fri: 9AM-6PM Sat: 9AM-1PM 404 752-6067

5 THE CONDUCTOR Second Quarter 2009 Official Publication of the Overground RR!!® Business www.overgroundrr.com Morehouse Business Law Group Seeks to Aid Black Law Students, Raise Graduation Rates

fter graduating from Morehouse College, Cheryl George, Attorney Harold Alexander of AKenneth Torrence attended the University the Alexander Law Firm, and entertainment Essentia Legal Offers Top-Notch Legal of Arkansas Law School. He was the only Af- lawyer Evita Kaigler. rican American to graduate his law class. Tor- Services, Affordable Rates To Commnity rence entered law school as one of only three The panel discussed the critical need for more African Americans. According to Torrence, black lawyers, noting that the number of black “the other two guys guys just failed.”

It’s an all too familiar story. Among these students who choose to face the rigors of an American legal education, African Americans are much more likely to dropout or finish in the bottom half of their class. Over the years, sev- eral pre-law fraternities and law groups have sprung up to aid students through the process of enrolling and graduating law school. Never- theless, numerous black American lawyers— including Torrence—will say these institutions “don’t address the needs of our community.”

“A lot of students are just on their own,” Tor- Life and Law Symposium Panel rence explains. attorneys is sharply less than the black com- Torrence is now the professor of business law munity’s 14 percent segment of the country’s at Morehouse College and determined to cre- total population. Attorney Cuffie explained ate a new path—at least for his alma mater. Us- that the disparity of too few black lawyers is ing his class as a springboard, Torrence jump not healthy for the black population. started the Morehouse College Business Law Group. The Business Law Group approaches Currently, the Business Law Group at More- its second year as the semester ends. Torrence house has about 15 members. However, the hopes the organization will evolve into a vital group’s vice president, Trenton Dockery, sus- Essentia Legal bridge between Morehouse students and law pects that’s once the word gets out about the school. need the numbers will rise dramatically. obert Arrington, Latif Oduola-Owoo, and served as Managing Senior Attorney at the RMichael Mason began the Essentia Legal U.S. Patent and Trademark Office in Washing- Recently, the Business Law Group held its Dockery said, “I think a lot of students want to law firm with similar principles in mind. Ar- ton D.C.; he is a graduate of Duke University second annual “Life and Law Symposium” attend law school because of the opportunities rington wanted to aid small business owners in Law. Founding partner Odulola-Owoo was a focused on getting in and out of law schools. that come with a JD and also the job security becoming become more successful. Odulola- physicist before choosing a legal education in Featured panelists included former Atlanta that it can give a person.” Owoo sought to purse “equal justice.” And the late 1990’s. Now president of the Geor- City Councilman Thomas Cuffie, Director of Mason possibly sums up all their feelings by gia Association of Nigerian Lawyers. Odulola the State Board of Workers Compensation Vio- “We are trying to broaden our appeal to people saying, “I thought I could do a greater good by graduated from Brooklyn Law School. Ar- la Drew, Director of Admissions for GSU Law outside of business majors” Torrence added. serving people in my community.” rington attended Howard Law School and is a National Bar Association Scholar. The trio is the central forces behind Essentia Legal P.C. Before opening their firm in the Essentia Legal has met an unexpected level of summer of 2008, the three attorneys pursued need in the communities it serves. In just a year, their individual dreams of providing viable le- Essentia Legal has grown beyond its founders’ gal practices for their communities. Founding expectations, and the people continue to seek partner Arrington was the brain child of the Es- their services. The firm is located in Camp sential P.C. Having already worked with Oduo- Creek Marketplace in Atlanta’s south Fulton la Owoo and Mason at the prestigious King & corridor. Essentia Legal deals with a number Spalding law firm in Atlanta, he convinced his of legal areas, including estate planning, litiga- two associates to organize the practice. While tion, intellectual property, bankruptcy and debt at King & Spalding, all three had worked on a management. number of cases involving fortune 500 compa- nies and other high profile cliental. ORR members and patrons seeking affordable, highly experienced corporate attorneys and le- Essentia Legal’s partners all have stellar gal professionals need look no further . They backgrounds. Before starting the firm, Mason can find them at Essentia Legal P.C. Morehouse College Business Law Group

6 ORR BUSINESS DIRECTORY JOIN THE ORR TODAY! The following businesses are members of the Overground RR!!®. The ORR Business Directory is your community guide to utilizing members of the Black community who are dedicated to recycling How to Join the Black dollar back into our communities. Each business listed ® has agreed to legally binding arbitration should there be a problem To become a business member of The Overground RR!! with their product or service. Binding arbitration does not apply • The appropriate application for membership must be made and is subject to ap- to torts or banking members. proval by the Board of Directors of The Overground RR!!®. • An organization must verify that individuals of African-American descent hold a Accounting Attorneys, continued majority of the company’s ownership McGee CPA Group, The Attorney Joseph A Roseborough, LLC • Membership may be declined for any reason deemed appropriate by the Board and 3180 Franklin St., Ste A 3695 Cascade Rd. Ste F 308 Avondale Estates GA 30002 Atlanta GA 30331 the decision is not subject to review. 404-643-5061 • Members agree to binding arbitration and pre-paid annual membership dues Advertising E. C. London & Associates ($360). 101 NW, Christian Business Pages, The Suite 3310 Key Membership Benefits 3871 Rainover Dr. Atlanta GA 30303 Decatur GA 30034 404-688-6607 For your annual investment of only $360 you will receive: 404-286-9028 eclondon.com • One free listing in the ORR Business Directory included in each edition of The Con- ductor (printed and distributed quarterly); Lighthouse Promotions, LLC Foster Firm, The 116 Bethsea Rd. Ste 104 Criminal Def., Personal Injury • One free web page that may include a photo, a video greeting, contact information Fayetteville GA 30214 and Real Estate and 25-word business description with link to your existing website; 770-461-9345 3485 N Desert Dr Bldg 3 Ste 105 • Business Spotlight in The Conductor (300-word business profile w/ photo); www.lighthouse-promo.com East Point GA 30344 404-559-8325 • Free listings in the events calendar; Southwest Atlanta Home & U www.tfflaw.net • A three-minute Promotional Video produced by the ORR; Magazine • Exclusive advertising rights in The Conductor (quarterly newspaper), SPARKS bi- 5055 Montcalm Drive SW Law Office of Donald P. Edwards weekly e-news letter on www.OvergroundRR.com for a small additional fee; Atlanta GA 30331 Personal Inj., Medical Malpractice 404-349-1959 and Wrongful Death • A $1435 Mutimedia Marketing Campaign package for a small investment of $360, 170 Mitchell St over $1000 in savings. Atlanta GA 30303 Architectural Design 404-526-8866 www.donaldpedwards.com *Please note that ad placement is only available for purchase by members in good Washington Design Group 3225 Shallowford Rd, Suite 410 Law Office of Daryl Von Yokely standing and not open to the general public. Marietta GA 30062 127 Peachtree St, Suite 1010 404-432-1818 Atlanta GA 30303 Art 404-876-5458 Picture This PO Box 16285 Mathis Law Firm, The ® Atlanta GA 30321 3575 Piedmont Rd OVERGROUND RR!! 678-472-7938 Building 15, Suite 1560 Connecting Church, Business & Community Atlanta GA 30305 Name: ______Best Dressed Walls Art & 404-523-5000 Custom Framing www.mathislawoffices.com 749 Jasper Cove Title: ______Riverdale GA 30296 Thomas, Kennedy, 404-436-6034 Sampson,& Patterson Company: ______Medical Malpractice, Person Inj. Tania’s Gallery of Art and Comml Real Estate 3762 Campbellton Rd SW 3355 Main St Type of Business: ______Atlanta GA 30331 Atlanta GA 30337 404-344-8874 404-688-4503 Products / Services Sold: ______www.tksp.com Ware International How Long in Business: ______410 Nicklaus Cr Leroy R Johnson P.C & Assoc Social Circle GA 30025 Personal Inj.,Criminal and Traffic 404-295-3457 Violation, Civil Litigation Address: ______3915 Cascade Rd SW, Ste 260 Attorneys Atlanta GA 30331 City: ______St: ______Zip:______404-691-1069 Alexander Law Firm Personal Inj., Wrongful Death Phone: ( )______Auto Body 2160 High Point Tr Atlanta GA 30331 V’s Customs Fax: ( )______404-346-0834 3781 Cambellton Rd www.alexanderlawfirm.com Atlanta GA 30331 404-344-6687 Email: ______www.vscustoms.com/ Andrews Law Firm LLC, The Real Estate Auto Services 1115 Mt Zion Rd., Suite D Send Membersip Inquiry To: ® Morrow GA 30260 Fantastic Tire & Auto Service Inc OVERGROUND RR!! 770-968-7380 6169 Old National Hwy 3485 N Desert Dr, Bldg. 2 Suite 109 College Park GA 30349 Atlanta, GA 30344 770-994-1761 Attorney Bernadine Layne LLC Civil, Corp., Immigration Fantastic Tire & Auto Service Inc Questions? 1401 Peachtree St NE, Ste 300 6751 Londonderry Way Please call (404) 346-0808 Atlanta GA 30309 Union City GA 30291 404-231-1477 770-964-8500 Fax: (404) 684-0229 www.spizzirrilaw.com email: [email protected]

7 THE CONDUCTOR Second Quarter 2009 Second Quarter 2009 Official Publication of the Overground RR!!® www.overgroundrr.com www.overgroundrr.com

Auto Services, continued Check Services Contractors Debt Management Financial Services, continued

Fantastic Tire & Auto Service Inc Checks No Problem H J Russell & Company Debt Management Consultants Integrated Funding International 4789 Redan Rd PO Box 43007 504 Fair Street SW 1571 Helmer Rd PO BOX 360955 Stone Mountain GA 30088 Atlanta GA 30336 Atlanta GA 30313 Riverdale GA 30296 Decatur GA 30036 404-299-7643 404-691-7394 404-330-1000 678-887-1624 678-499-6801 www.checksnoproblem.com www.hjrussell.com Miracle Auto Glass Repair & Installa- Dentists The Wealth Engineer tions Cleaning Services Quality Environmental Mgt. Inc #2275, 5 Concourse Parkway PO Box 669 PO BOX 54818 BBE Orthodontics Atlanta GA 30328 Total Approach Cleaning Service Ellenwood GA 30294 Atlanta GA 30318 Highland Grove Office 770-395-3737 23 Randolph St NE Condominiums wealthengineer.com 678-715-5596 Atlanta GA 30312 404-688-0239 Counseling 3614 Highland Parkway S&J Automotive Repair LLC tacclean.com Smyrna GA 30082 Florist 7056 B Highway 85 Serene Reflections 770-432-6070 Riverdale GA 30274 Clothing Designer 1750 Peachtree ST NW Ste 204 www.beorthodontics.com Bussey Florists 770-996-3698 Atlanta GA 30309 2358 Candler Rd House Of Michael Doron, The 404-892-2205 Family & Childrens Dentistry Decatur GA 30032 sandjautomotiverepairllc.com 1844 Petite Lane serenereflections.org 2440 Fairburn Rd Suite 301 404-659-2968 Lithonia GA 30058 Atlanta GA 30331 Banking 678-472-3233 Counseling & Hypnotherapy 404-349-7777 Tre’Nita’s michaeldoran.com 836 Oak St. SW, West End Mall Capitol City Bank & Trust Aaron Turpeau, PH.D Designs Atlanta GA 30310 562 Lee St Commercial Leasing 600 West Peachtree St., Suite 404-758-2200 Atlanta GA 30311 1570 AmBaisi’s Designs Odd Fellows Buildings 404-758-7519 Atlanta GA 30308 741 Deer Oaks Drive Willis’ Flowers and Memoirs, Inc. 236 Auburn Avenue, Ste 103 www.capitolcitybank-atl.com 678-522-6548 Lawrenceville GA 30044 6130-C Old National Hwy Atlanta GA 30303 www.drturpeau.com 770-978-6438 College Park GA 30349 Citizen’s Trust Bank 404-525-5027 theoddfellowsbuildings.com 770-991-6460 75 Piedmont Ave, Couriers Direct Mail & Design willisflowers.com Atlanta GA 30303 Computer Purchase 404-659-5959 Frontier Courier Dove Mailing, Inc. & Maintainence Framing www.ctbconnect.com 1524 Church St Suite E 5601 Fulton Industrial Blvd Decatur GA 30030 Atlanta GA 30336 Compu-teks Best Dressed Walls Art & Cus- 404-699-0341 Bridal 4290 Bells Ferry Road tom Framing www.dovemailing.com Suite 106, PMB 28 Court Reporters/Video 749 Jasper Cove Wedding Firm of Jeffery Bost Kennesaw GA 30144 Riverdale GA 30296 and Atlanta Realtime Reporters, LTD 678-921-9481 Direct Sales 404-435-6034 Associate, The 925 B Peachtree St Ste 380 www.compu-teks.com 5400 Lawrenceville Highway Atlanta GA 30309 Blessed Hands Enterprises 2003 (Highway 29) Suite E1 Construction 770-908-9821 3033 Continental Colony Pkwy, Funeral Services Lilburn GA 30047 #1115 404-786-5333 Gaitor Construction Inc Dance Atlanta GA 30331 Alfonso Dawson Mortuary, Inc www.theweddingfirm.blogspot. 800 Wendell Ct. Ste E 678-768-0536 3000 M. L. King Jr. Dr. com Atlanta GA 30336 Ballethnic Dance Company Inc Atlanta GA 30311 770-981-1588 2587 Cheney St Dry Cleaner Phone: 404-691-3810 www.dawsonmortuary.com Bridal/Custom Tailoring East Point GA 30344 Consultants 404-762-1416 Ponder’s Cleaners O’B Tucker’s www.ballethnic.org 4473 Campbellton Rd SW Donald Trimble Mortuary Bryant & Associates LLC 1522-B Dogwood Dr. Atlanta GA 30331 1876 Second Ave 4060 Peachtree Rd. D413 404-349-6464 Decatur GA 30032 Conyers GA 30013 Atlanta GA 30319 770-388-9644 404-371-0772 404-869-6312 www.donaldtrimblemortuary.com www.tuckersbridal.com www.bryantandassociates.com Electrician

E. Ray Britton Electrical Willie A. Watkins Funeral Home 158 Fairview Rd Ste C 1003 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd Elllenwood GA 30294 Atlanta GA 30310 678-289-5522 Phone: 404-758-1731 www.williewatkins.com

Event Planning Graphic Design A Regal Event 2745 Mount Zion Rd Suite 105 LMN Art & Design Jonesboro GA 30236 3030 Contl Colony Pkwy #1301 404-437-8807 Atlanta GA 30331 404-397-9064 Added Pizzazz 1934 Patton Place Onyx Creative Lithonia GA 30058 2451 Hogan Road 770-322-3597 East Point GA 30344 404-936-0884 The Atrium on Sweet Auburn Mark your calendars! The Overground RR!!® Monthly Business 236 Auburn Ave. NE, Suite 102 Greeting Cards Builders is a networking event like no other. The third Thursday Atlanta, GA 30303 of each month starting June 18, the Overground RR!!® is hosting 404-524-7921 Toucharose monthly Business Builders to provide our members with real op- [email protected] 4454 Catalina Circle or portunities to increase their enterprise with other member businesses PO Box 490335 and guest. Planning with a Purpose East Point GA 30349 • Showcase your business 5596 Cascade Hills Loop SW 678-642-9209 www.toucharose.com • Build new business relationships Atlanta GA 30331 • Increase your bottom line Financial Services Hair Care Products • Circulate the Black Dollar • Meet other black business owners Corp One Financial FBB Inc/ Take DownFBB Inc PO BOX 962188 PO BOX 115331 • Turn your expenses into investments Riverdale GA 30296 Atlanta GA 30310 678-222-1718 770-424-8189 Overground RR!!® members and guest will meet from www.millresources.com/take- 6pm-8pm at Michon’s Loft 1155 Virginia Avenue Hapeville, Ga. The Institute of Financial Free- down beginning June 18, 2009 dom & Investment Solutions 862 Clay Road (Members are free! Non-Member are only $10.00) Mableton GA 30126 Hair Salons, Barber Shop & Spas Contact ORR for more info. 678-508-9782 404-346-0808 www.jeanrahman.com Carolyn& Co Hair Studio 6157 Memorial Dr Stone Mountain GA 30083 770-879-7666

8 Second Quarter 2009 Second Quarter 2009 THE CONDUCTOR www.overgroundrr.com www.overgroundrr.com Official Publication of the Overground RR!!®

Hair Salons, Barber Shop & Spas, Health, Wellness & Fitness, Information Technology, Investigations Marketing continued continued Internet, Internet Video &Tele- Clip Appeal communications, continued Direct Investigations, Inc Aaron Group, Inc. Heavenly Body Products 739 Ponce De Leon Ave Ste l PO BOX 361939 754 Woodson St. 2571 Park Central Blvd Atlanta GA 30306 Digi-Path Decatur GA 30036 Atlanta GA 30315 Decatur GA 30035 404-892-6209 4995 Montcalm Dr. SW 770-922-7888 404-622-4308 404-286-6700 Atlanta GA 30331 www.directinv.net www.aarongroup.us Eugene Of Detroit Hair 404-502-2001 Holistic Cleansing Center 2905 Campbellton Rd Suite E Faye Coffield TAG TEAM Marketing, Intl 879 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd Atlanta GA 30311 Lan Technology Corporation PO BOX 360453 3465 N. Desert Drive Atlanta, GA 30310 404-349-7458 165 W. Wieuca Rd, Ste 213 Decatur GA 30036 Building 4, Suite 102 404-484-8136 Atlanta GA 30342 770-484-0193 East Point GA 30344 Hair A La Parisienne 404-643-0889 404-305-0300 Melaleuca “The Wellness Investments 1862 Washington Rd www.tagteammarketing.com Company” East Point GA 30344 Net One Stop PO BOX 1032 Grin, INC 404-559-1511 1561 Virginia Ave Ste 208 A Marketing and Managing Jonesboro GA 30237 College Park GA 30337 PO BOX 128 678-768-5871 Acworth GA 30101 Employee Benefit Services Hair Effects 404-669-3600 770-966-5235 2375 Wesley Chapel Rd Suite 5 www.netonestop.com Heating & Air Jeweler Toni Stith Agency Decatur GA 30035 3384 Brookside Lane Numillennium Telecommunications, 770-987-2106 Jonesboro GA 30236 A D Heating & Air Inc. Burks Jewelers, Inc 934 Harte Dr 1188- A Glenwood Ave SE 770-968-4414 Prestige Beauty Salon 2567 Park Central Blvd Atlanta GA 30310 Atlanta GA 30316 5970 Fairington Rd Decatur GA 30035 Massage Therapy 678-887-6787 404-622-6090 Lithonia GA 30038 404-965-7914 404-617-4816 Massage Masters,Inc. Home Health Care Strick Software Inc Legal Services PO Box 304 Quintessence Hair Design PO BOX 4717 Forest Park GA 30287 Bridges Personal Care Home Essentia Legal P. C 2390 Park Avenue Atlanta GA 0 404-784-7658 Group 3645 Marketplace Blvd Suite Austell GA 30106 404-273-9634 233 Mitchell St Suite 420 170 770-438-0085 www.stricksoft.com Media Consulting Atlanta GA 30303 Atlanta GA 30344 www.quintessencehair.com 770-774-9128 Inspirational Wear 404-549-6771 Vince Bailey Productions www.bridgespchgroup.com www.essentialegal.com Roni Artistic Hands PO Box 492011 6319 C. Memorial Dr. Rishona Inspirational Wear Lawrenceville GA 30049 Exodus,Inc Stone Mountain GA 30083 102 W. Lake Ave SW Suite A 770-864-7135 PO BOX 487 Limousine Service 678-365-7166 Atlanta GA 30314 www.vincebaileyproductions. Union City GA 30291 ronisartistichands.webs.com 404-753-5441 com 770-774-9128 Atlanta Chauffeur Service 6370 East Stubbs Rd Simply Wanda’s Hair Weaving Insurance Modeling, Talent & Booking Health Companions Inc College Park GA 30349 961 N. Hairston Rd Donna Tate & Associates Agencies 2364 Candler Rd 770-969-9988 Stone Mountain GA 30083 PO Box 170565 Decatur GA 30032 acslimo.com 770-465-6211 Atlanta GA 30317 HOP Models & Talent Agency 404-284-1768 770-879-6342 5825 Glenridge Drive, Ste 218 www.healthcompanions.com Nealey Executive Limousines Royal Crown Barbershop Atlanta GA 30328 4324 Bexley Drive 889 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd 404-297-6638 Home Care Georgia St Mountain GA 30083 Atlanta GA 30310 Marketsearch Insurance Agency www.hopmodels.com 1280 Winchester Pk Way Ste 770-808-7432 404-758-4283 974-7 N Hairston Rd 210 www.nealeyexecutivelimousines. Stone Mountain GA 30083 Lance Boyd Talent Agency Smyrna GA 30080 com Sir Charles Professional Touch 5015 Old National Highway, 770-384-0494 4467 Campbellton Rd North Carolina Mutual Life Ins. Suite 112 homecaregeorgia.com Person 2 Person Limo Atlanta GA 30331 Co. College Park GA 30349 PO Box 2543 404-629-5760 1580 Phoenix Blvd, Ste 250 678-851-8669 Right at Home Atlanta GA 30301 College Park, GA 30349 www.lanceboydtalent.net 678-463-3636 Styles Of Zuri 41 Marietta St Suite 600 770-991-8831 www.person2person.us 4819 Rockbridge Rd Suite 17 Atlanta GA 30303 Stone Mountain GA 30083 404-522-0029 404-298-7133 www.rightathome.net/atlanta Home Improvement Totally U Hair Salon/ Style and Beyond A & A Home & Stucco Inspection 1514 East Cleveland Ave Suite 2638 Kings Way 111 Lawrenceville GA 30044 East Point GA 30034 678-231-7479 404-768-0936 B & B Services Health, Wellness & Fitness 1828 Giben Road Atlanta GA 30315 B.E.S.T. Health and Wealth 404-622-5751 60 Oaks Landing Dr Covington GA 30016 Beeks Service Company 678-539-7135 1570 Niskey Lake Atlanta GA 30331 Body By Inches 404-346-0443 6703 Shannon Pkwy Ste 3 Union City GA 30291 Platron Services Marble & 770-964-0032 Granite www.bodybyinches.com 220 Den Ric Dr McDonough GA 30253 Circles of Wellness Inc 678-898-1511 2572 Wiggins St. www.ronplatt.net Lithonia GA 30058 Hospitality 646-322-3987 www.thewatertruth.com/henrietta Hartsfield Hospitality, LLC 3485 N. Desert Drive Future Leaders Now Building 2, Suite 100 336 Adington Street SW East Point GA 30344 Atlanta GA 30310 404-768-9073

Hands on Personal, Inc 4287 Memorial Drive Ste G Information Technology, Decatur GA 30032 Internet, Internet Video & ® 404-297-2060 Telecommunications Need a service and or product? The Overground RR!!

Contl Technology Connections business directory provides you with a host of businesses 2889 Cocklebur Cove Court Decatur GA 30034 to choose from. www.continentaltechnology.com 9 THE CONDUCTOR Second Quarter 2009 Official Publication of the Overground RR!!® www.overgroundrr.com

Mortgage Pest Control Real Estate, continued Security, continued

Atlanta Integrity Mortgage Dependable Termite & Pest Sevices LowCom Development, Inc Vision Security Inc 1316 Boat Rock Road S,W. 5701 Mableton Pkwy Ste 3E 541 Tenth Street #158 1307 North Crossing Way. Atlanta GA 30331 Mableton GA 30126 Atlanta GA 30318 Decatur GA 30033 404-310-5913 & 404-344-7911 770-745-0000 770-997-2848 770-771-9789 www.dependabletermite.com Signs Highly Favored Ministries, Inc Dr. James T. Walker III, LLC 3675 Crestwood Pkwy, Ste 400 Ever-Redi Exterminating, Inc. 2125 County Line Rd A+ Signs Duluth GA 30096 6380 Old National Hwy Atlanta GA 30331 4191 Snapfinger Woods Dr. 770-935-6257 College Park GA 30349 404-281-8052 Decatur GA 30035 highlyfavoredonline.org 770-909-7000 drjames.info 404-284-8444 www.everredi.com Rental, Props Moving Service Indigo Signs N.W.O Will Kill Pest Management Creative Props Rental 3853 Lawrenceville Hwy Suite G B&B Movers 3665 Cherry Ridge Blvd 2311 Cascade Road, SW Tucker GA 30084 2587 Gresham Road Decatur GA 30034 Atlanta GA 30311 770-939-0902 Atlanta GA 30316 404-241-7619 404-758-9091 www.indigosigns.net 404-212-0819 Restaurants www.bbmovers.com Physicians Simon Sign Systems IHOP 3034 Lakewood Ave Museum Allwell Physicians, Inc. 2841 Greenbriar Parkway Atlanta GA 30310 118 N. Avondale Road Atlanta GA 30331 404-766-5208 Soul Food Museum Avondale Estates GA 30002 404-346-0407 372 Auburn Ave, NE 404-499-0005 Sound & lighting Atlanta, GA 30312 Q-Time 678-508-9478 Joann Donaldson, MD 1120 Ralph David Abernathy AEE Productions www.atlantasoulfood.com 249 Fielding Lane S.W. Atlanta GA 30310 1073 Huff Rd Ste A Atlanta GA 30311 404-758-2881 Atlanta GA 30318 Music, Musicians and 770-908-3449 http://q-timerestaurant.com 404-352-2201 Composers www.aeeproductions.com Regency Health Associates Spa Delores Burwell 2191 North Lake Pkwy Soul Vegetarian Restaurant 901 Bolton Road #H1 Bldg 11, Suite 22 879 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd Spa L & Colon Therapy & Skin Therapy Atlanta GA 30331 Tucker GA 30084 Atlanta GA 30310 2345-4 Cheshire Bridge Rd 404-696-5889 770-414-8005 Atlanta GA 30324 404-752-5194 404-321-3228 Phala Herron-Nazarine Plumbing www.kingdomofyah.com Black To Eden Shaunn Smith Tax Service 404-454-2764 RSK Plumbing Soul Vegetarian Restaurant L & B Tax Service, Inc. [email protected] 1772 Soapstone Ct. 185 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Ste108 Decatur GA 30034 652 North Highland Ave Mableton GA 30126 Faye Raye 770-633-1915 Atlanta GA 30306 678-213-1141 PO BOX 42850 [email protected] 404-875-0145 Atlanta GA 30311 L & B Tax Service, Inc. www.kingdomofyah.com 404-805-5888 Printing 1745 Phoenix Blvd www.fayeraye.com Retail Sales College Park GA 30349 Perfect Image, Inc. 678-216-0212 Music Promotion 503 Commerce Park Dr., Ste D D.I.V.A.S Marietta GA 30060 126 N Avondale Rd L & B Tax Service, Inc. Bobby Hurd & Company 770-422-4221 ext.25 Avondale Estates GA 30002 5300 Memorial Drive 3011 Rainbow Drive, Suite 155 www.perfectimageprinting.com 404-299-2394 Stone Mountain GA 30083 Decatur GA 30034 678-704-6780 404-241-3030 Shades of Truth Sanitation P.O. Box 414 Professional Tax Advisors Office Furniture Norcross GA 30091 DreamSan, Inc. 7311 Cardiff Place 770-991-7660 2380 Burdette Road Jonesboro GA 30236 HA Office 515 Inc. College Park GA 30349 770-472-9998 1582 Stoneleigh Hill Rd Public Relations 404-559-9700 professionaltaxadvisors.net Lithonia GA 30058 Security 770-879-8420 Rixter-Tate Public Relations Tradeshow www.haoffice515.com P.O. Box 529 Monitor One Security Systems St Mountain GA 30086 1372 Lamont Rr., SW Georgia Black Business Expo Oil Change 770-469-7550 Mableton GA 30126 P. O. Box 38027 770-819-3040 Atlanta GA 30334 Oil Butler Phone: 678-467-7536 P. O. Box 311621 Real Estate Security Protection Investigation Services www.gbbexpo.com Atlanta GA 31131 PO BOX 310387 404-629-2020 B & L Communities, LP Atlanta GA 31131 Transportation www.oilbutlerinternational.com 6181 Memorial Drive 770-274-9468 Stone Mountain GA 30083 www.spisinc.com Atlanta Chauffeur Service Painter 6370 East Stubbs Rd Home Solution, LLC System 5 Electronics College Park GA 30349 Che Parker Painters P O Box 83053 1761 R D Abernathy Blvd 770-969-9988 7820 N Spalding Lake Dr Conyers GA 30013 Atlanta GA 30310 Video Atlanta GA 30350 770-572-0099 404-756-0736 269-924-9197 www.system5electronics.com Focus on Video,LLC PO Box 1828 Stockbridge, GA 30281 770-957-4299

Hayes Technical Services Inc. 9043 Jenni Circle Jonesboro GA 30238 770-210-4677

Youth Program

Que It! 2785 Dodson Lee Dr. East Point GA 30344 404-259-9277

10 Second Quarter 2009 THE CONDUCTOR www.overgroundrr.com Community Official Publication of the Overground RR!!® “A-Town Day” A Monumental Day to Remember The Conductor

he B-Aware Foundation is one of ORR’s Tnewest alliances in 2009. When founda- tion head Brian Glasper heard about all of the OvergroundRR’s!! promotional benefits and its potential for lifelong business relationships, he was excited and eager to get on board. Early in the week before the third annual “A- Town Day” event, the ORR staff went out to Turner field to interview Glasper as he shared the history of his movement and foundation. Glasper was inspired to launch an annual Day Crowds gather for performers at A-Town Day Concert of Awareness after the untimely passing of his father Eugene Glasper, due to diabetes com- He made this vision a reality at the second “A- use the spoken word to teach, and I enjoyed plications. The Georgia General Assembly Town Day” event in 2008. blessing the mic for a purpose like this one” through House Resolution 1658 cited the pro- Along with big name artists such as Rich Boy, With over 65 entertainers keeping it clean and gram as a positive event for the city of Atlanta Keri Hilton and the Grand Hustle Camp, there informative, this family- oriented event was and the state of Georgia. was a host of talented independent local musi- certainly non-stop fun from 12 noon until the He gained support for his event from organi- Brian Glasper, Founder of the cians, dancers and poets/spoken word artists. crowd of thousands was promptly ushered out zations such as the Atlanta Braves , the Fal- B-Aware Foundation Among the spoken word artists was ORR’s after the final performances at 8p.m. own Phala Nazarine, founder of Black to Eden, cons, V-103 Radio, Rolling Out magazine, This past March 21, Glasper’s organization McDonald’s, Wal-Mart, MARTA, the Atlanta the Georgia Transplant Foundation. Glasper’s a health conscious movement inspired by her own story and personal mission. Ms. Naza- made history again with the third annual “A- Fire Department, the U.S. Army and Navy, mission is to serve the community by uniting Town Day.” This day of awareness brought to- The Red Cross, Grady Hospital and over 30 the Medical and Entertainment industries with rine, known in Atlanta’s poetry circle as “Heir- ess Ocean,” stated that “it was an awesome gether over 7000 people from the community local health organizations. Since the first A- the community. He wants to offer this knowl- to enjoy good music and food, and the multi- Town Day concert and health festival, these edge in a unique and enjoyable way that he pleasure to be a part of such a tremendously important and informative event. tude of organizations and vendors who came alliances have grown and the supporting orga- terms ‘edutainment.’ out in support of this powerful concert, festival n i z a t i o n s l o o k f o r w a r d t o s u c h a p o s i t i v e e v e n t . “What Brian has accomplished in a matter of and day of awareness. A-Town Day was cer- “I want to make people aware of the pre- ventive measures that can lead to a healthier three years is inspirational to say the least. I tainly a monumental day to remember…and to Although the A-Town Day event grew out of the was just glad to be a part of this successful look forward to in 2010. need to spread awareness about health issues lifestyle and get away from the complacent attitude that most people have towards health grassroots effort for the second year. He truly plaguing the community, Glasper’s foundation has created a platform for social activists who benefits not only the B-Aware foundation but care, ” Glasper explains. also the Tupac Amaru Shakur Foundation and Atlanta Martin Luther King Day Parade: A Dream Deferred Until Now The Conductor

ike it has for many years, I think that a lot of people never Lthe annual Martin Lu- thought we would see this [the ther King Day Parade moved election of President Obama] in down Atlanta’s historic Au- our lifetime. I was one of those burn Ave as usual. Unlike people. I never thought I would previous years, this year’s pa- see a Black President; I thought rade had an atmosphere that maybe there would be a White was noticeably transformed. woman first. But I feel confident The crowds appeared larger that our country is going in a and the celebrators had a fundamentally different direc- new source from which to tion. And I think that the ideas draw enthusiasm. Youth in- Obama has will be beneficial to undated the streets, many all Americans.” learning of Martin Luther King through the conduit of King’s iconic images once dom- President Barack Obama. By inated the paraphernalia, and their side stood their elders, Malcolm X’s memorable coun- who were keenly aware of tenance was the clear second. the parallels, paradoxes and Now things have changed. Pres- Performers take the stage at A-Town Day Concert. the magnificent poignancy ident Obama’s face dominates of this moment. the parade, and even the items that featured King and Malcolm The 2009 Martin Luther were collages with images of King Parade was the first President Obama. since the historic election of President Obama. This year Langston Hughes once asked, was different and the participants’ remarks ex- “What happens to a dream deferred? Does it pressed vastly different ethos of remembrance, dry up? celebration, and the irony of time passed. For Like a raisin in the sun? Or fester like a sore-- African-Americans, And then run? Does it stink this parade marked like rotten meat? Or crust the convergence of and sugar over--like a syr- once competing ide- upy sweet?” Today’s public als: dreams and real- wishes those with deferred ity, sacrifice and suc- dreams had lived to see to- cess, nostalgia and day. At this moment, Sweet optimism. The elders Auburn really would have alluded to an epoch of been sweet. struggle and sacrifice, with their divinely elo- “It is a good feeling to be quent King. The youth envisioned a future of here on Auburn Avenue for the Martin Luther promise and potential with a Black President. King Parade” said a female participant. “It’s good to see all of our Black people come to- “Today is a different day for not only Black gether on this special day.” Americans, but Americans as a whole” said A special day it turned out to Highly Favored Ministries, one of many vendors at A-Town Day one participant. “I think that Martin King had the dream, and Mr. Obama became the dream. be, indeed. 11 THE CONDUCTOR Second Quarter 2009 Official Publication of the Overground RR!!® ORR Destinations Calendar & Events www.overgroundrr.com

Monthly Business Builders Are you getting May 23, 2009, Sister Mathis July 16 , all future Third Thurs- Mark your calendars! The Over- Speaks presents “Family Connec- days, “Monthly Business Build- SPARKS, ground RR!!® Monthly Business tions” ers,” Overground RR!!® the e-newsletter of the Builders is a networking event 3 to 6 p.m., Southwest Library Michon’s Loft (Banquet Hall) 1155 like no other. The third Thursday Meeting Room Virginia Av, Hapeville, GA 30354 Overground RR!!®? of each month starting June 18, 3665 Cascade Road, Atlanta, Geor- Registration at 5:30 p.m., Program the Overground RR!!® is host- gia 30331 6-6:45 p.m. followed by networking Send an e-mail to ing monthly Business Builders For event cancellations: please [email protected] to provide our members with real call Southwest Library at 404- July 29-August 1, “Bridging the with the word “SPARKS” opportunities to increase their en- 699-6363 or check my webpage: Gap and Building the Bridge in the message subject. terprise with other member busi- www.SisterMathisSpeaks.com. Conference,” in Abuja, Nigeria nesses and guest. The Africa Heritage Foundation, Atlanta, GA • Showcase your business • Build new business relation- This conference aims to develop ships international partnerships, support JUNEConcerned Black Clergy, Com- the emergence of Africa’s private • Increase your bottom line munity Forum, Every Monday at sector, promote direct foreign 9:30 a.m. investment in Africa and leverage • Circulate the Black Dollar The VICARS Community Center the imbalances in Africa’s growing • Meet other black business 838 Cascade Road economy. Chief Tunde Adetunji, owners Atlanta, GA 30310. CEO and President, for more information, call 404/588-0404; or • Turn your expenses into in- The Peoples Agenda visit www.africaheritagefoundation. vestments Tuesdays, 12:00 - 2:00pm lorg or email [email protected] Overground RR!! members and Atlanta Life Bldg, Training Room guest will meet from 6pm-8pm 100 Auburn Ave, Atlanta, GA at Michon’s Loft 1155 Virginia 30303 Avenue Hapeville, Ga. beginning June 18, 2009 June 16, “Business Power Forum,” Atlanta Business League(ABL) AUGConcerned Black Clergy, Com- (Members are free! Non-Member 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., Atlanta Life munity Forum, Every Monday at are only $10.00) Building, 100 Auburn Avenue 9:30 a.m. Atlanta, GA Community residents are invited to Registration Required by June 15. share in one of the most insightful Future Members -- complimentary and informative community forums admission; Current Members –ad- in Metropolitan Atlanta. You will mission covered. hear discussions on the latest issues MAYMay 8-10, Sweet Auburn 2009 RSVP by Monday, June 15. impacting our world, especially the Springfest, 25th Anniversary African-American community. Join Celebration June 18, all future Third us for great promotions and give- Overground RR!!® is official host Thursdays, “Monthly Business aways. of the Business & Technology Builder,”Overground RR!!® The VICARS Community Center venue on Auburn Avenue, between Michon’s Loft (Banquet Hall) 1155 838 Cascade Road Bell St. and Jesse Hill Dr. Virginia Ave. Hapeville, GA 30354 Atlanta, GA 30310. Registration at 5:30, Program May 10, “Law Day Service, “ Cas- 6-6:45 followed by networking. The Peoples Agenda, Tuesdays, cade United Methodist Church 12:00 - 2:00 p.m. 11:00 a.m., featuring Judge Penny June 27, 2009 , Sister Mathis Atlanta Life Bldg, Training Rm Brown Reynolds Speak presents “Family Connec- 100 Auburn Ave Atlanta, GA 30303. 3144 Cascade Rd SW, Atlanta, GA tions” 30311. 3 to 6 p.m., Southhwest Librrary August 8, “Georgia Black Busi- Meeting Room 3665 Cascade Road ness Expo and Showcase,” Concerned Black Clergy, Com- Atlanta, Georgia 30331 Greenbriar Mall, 2841 Greenbriar munity Forum, Every Monday at For evernt cancellations, please Parkway, Atlanta, GA 9:30 a.m. call Southwest Library at 404-699- 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Free Admis- The VICARS Community Center 6363 or check webpage: sion; call 678-467-7536 for more 838 Cascade Road www.SisterMathisSpeaks.com. information; ask about the “Early Atlanta, GA 30310. Bird Admission” or visit www. gbbexpo.com. Community residents are invited to share in one of the most insightful August 18, “Business Power Fo- and informative community forums rum ,” Atlanta Business League JULYConcerned Black Clergy, Com- 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Atlanta Life in Metropolitan Atlanta. You will hear discussions on the latest issues munity Forum, Every Monday at Building, 100 Auburn Avenue impacting our world, especially the 9:30 a.m. Atlanta, GA African- American community. Join The VICARS Community Center Future Members -- complimentary us for great promotions and give- 838 Cascade Road admission; Current Members –ad- aways. Atlanta, GA 30310. mission covered. RSVP by August 17. The Peoples Agenda Community residents are invited to Tuesdays, 12:00 to 2:00pm share in one of the most insightful August 20, Overground RR!!® Atlanta Life Bldg, Training Room and informative community forums Monthly Business Builder 100 Auburn Ave, Atlanta, GA 30303. in Metropolitan Atlanta. You will Third Thursdays; Michon’s Loft hear discussions on the latest issues (Banquet Hall) May 17, “First Annual Father- impacting our world, especially the 1155 Virginia Av, Hapeville, GA Daughter Springtime Tea,” Girl African- American community. 30354 Scout Troop 9216 Join us for great promotions and Registration at 5:30 p.m.; Program 5 to 7 p.m., Princeton Lake Club- giveaways. 6 to 6:45 p.m. followed by network- house, 3511 Redwine Pkwy. Atlanta ing. 30331 The Peoples Agenda, Tuesdays, The ORR is a sponsor of this spe- 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. August 25, “Business Enrichment cial event by troop 9216, an ORR Atlanta Life Bldg, Training Room Seminar,” Atlanta Business League Alliance member. 100 Auburn Ave Atlanta, GA 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Alanta Life For tickets, call Cynthia Jackson- 30303. Building, 100 Auburn Avenue Martin at 678-898-2548. Atlanta, GA July 14, “Men of Influence Induc- Non-members: $25.00 (Purchase May 19, Atlanta Business League, tion Ceremony and Reception,” online); Member cost included in 31st Annual “CEO Luncheon” Atlanta Business League membership fee (RSVP online); 12:00 to 2:00 p.m., Atlanta Marriott 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., Hyatt Regency www.atlantabusinessleague.com) Marquis Hotel, Atlanta, 265 Peachtree St.; For RSVP by Monday, August 24. 265 Avenue; ticket information, call 404-584- ticketed event. 8126.

12 Second Quarter 2009 THE CONDUCTOR www.overgroundrr.com Business Official Publication of the Overground RR!!® Willie A. Watkins Funeral Home Loving to Serve You When You Need It the Most

atkins Funeral Home rated #1 in the At the early age of seven while growing up Wcommunity raising the standards as well in Scottsdale, Georgia along with his grand- Che Parker Company Brings Legacy of as the bar of excellence by providing immacu- mother who knew a majority of the community late service since 1982. in their town would show respect and support When Overground RR!!® set out to cover for various funerals throughout the years. Wat- Residential Painting and Community Atlanta’s Black businesses that showed and kins would overhear his family speaking about proved time and time again they’re at the top the quality of different services and the condi- Service to Atlanta by Angela Harmon of their class, Watkins Funeral Home continues tion and appearance of the deceased. That alone the unwavering domination when it comes to made him interested enough to wonder why t was 1901 when Che Parker’s great-great the table. An avid reader, music lover and fam- excellent public service. was his grandmother so intrigued about how Igrandfather started a business that turned ily man, Parker also considers himself a Uni- the good the body looked and how beautiful into a legacy for the Parker family. Che Parker versal Spiritualist with a humble and sincere the service. began his painting career at the young age of demeanor. eight years old. As a fifth generation residen- When asked to help out and assist in the ser- tial painter, Parker considers constructions that Che Parker Painters aims to execute top qual- vice Watkins was fascinated and started attend- have met his paint brush to be works of art. ity paint jobs. The company’s 30 years of ex- ing and learning the inter-workings of the busi- From the expertise of his grandparents to his perience have made him the “go to guy” for ness by arranging and preparing flowers that lifetime experiences, Parker knows the ins and expert residential painting. ultimately led the greatness you see today. outs of residential painting. “But our company isn’t only concerned with At age 14, Willie A. Watkins got an after- profits,” says Parker, who is very oriented to school job at Atlanta’s Thornton Funeral Home, community service. At its home base in Michi- where he remained until he opened his own ser- gan, Che Parker Painters conducted a summer vice in 1982. institute that teaches young people how to be entrepreneurs and high quality painters. Parker By 1971, however, he had already obtained looks forward to duplicating this program in his state mortuary license. “I was possibly the Atlanta. “Giving back to the community is an youngest to have such a license,” he said. “I was important tenet for Che Parker Painters,” he only 20. When I got out of [Charles L. Harper] says. high school in 1967, I joined my buddies and enrolled at Morehouse College. I stayed for The Conductor is excited to welcome Che two years until they opened Gupton-Jones Parker Painters aboard the ORR We look for- Che Parker ward to working with, getting to know and do- Willie A. Watkins College of Mortuary Science. Once that hap- pened, I made a beeline to Peachtree Street.” ing business with Parker in the very near fu- He worked days and Parker moved to Atlanta from Michigan in ture. We encourage ORR members and readers went to school nights November of 2008, and joined Cascade United to patronize his business and welcome him to until he graduated. Methodist Church (UMC) and its active Busi- this great city of Atlanta. ness Alliance. For new readers of The Conduc- In 1982, with 11 tor, Cascade UMC is a long-standing church years experience from member and partner of the Overground RR!!® Thornton, he purchased On February 21, the ORR made a presenta- a 100-year old Victori- tion to Cascade’s Business Alliance members. an-style home on what Parker enthusiastically came aboard as a busi- was then Gordon Street ness member of the ORR and also will serve in the West End .The on the membership committee. house was owned by John Gordon, a con- “I am pleased with the vision and leadership at federate war general Cascade United Methodist, and see the Over- for whom the street ground Railroad as an excellent grassroots which was originally medium,” Parker stated. “The ORR is well po- sitioned to serve the needs of the church and Watkins Funeral Home named. Watkins said his move was deliber- business auxiliaries across Atlanta’s metro- “Too many people get into the business be- ate. “I bought this old house because I wanted politan area.” He personally joined to network cause of money,” says Willie A. Watkins. “But to establish the atmosphere of this being a fu- with other members and to satisfy his interest me, I love the business I’m in. And because of neral home, not just a mortuary,” he added. in communications. that, I’ll go the extra mile to provide good ser- vice.” Today we are the first to do everything in Parker’s passion concerning the uplifting of our field from the releasing of doves, horses the Blacks Community is un- Now you may ask especially when it comes and carriages, antique cars, and the wearing of daunted. A former minister of to this type of occupation, if not motivated by tuxedos and tails. Comfort is the most impor- the Black Panther Party and a money or death then what could it be that Wat- tant detail to serve you and your loved ones in life- long activist, youth builder kins love about the business so much? a warm environment that is live and full of love and volunteer – he brings valu- catered and designed for you. able insight and experience to

Dr. James T. Walker, III: Physician Ventures from Medicine to Develop New Real Estate Concepts

Five years ago, Dr. dens; and an event center that he named the his team provides free consul- James T Walker, III Cascade Mansion and Gardens. The real estate tation on real estate, investing left the medical pro- guru is undertaking a diversity of projects in and business through a variety fession to pursue his the real estate business. of programs and events at ven- hobby in real estate. ues around the city. Walker’s grand idea The Ideal BizCenter offers affordable space was to provide af- with traditional office services and office solu- “Given the state of the real estate fordable office space tions for Business Owners in need of a com- market, I am confident that my for the small business mercial office address. His first BizCenter Business Center and other innova- person. Last year, is located off Campbellton Road in Atlanta’s tive property concepts will help re- Dr. James T Walker, III Walker launched the southwest area. He plans to open centers in vive the market , Dr. Walker stated. Ideal BizCenter, and three more locations: northwest, northeast and his concept is really impacting Atlanta ‘s busi- southeast metro Atlanta. A member of Cascade United Meth- ness real estate market ----(or being well re- odist Church, Dr. Walker is dedi- ceived by Atlanta’s real estate market.) Dr. Walker’s business operations maintain cated to the principle of community a team of professionals that encompasses all service and intends to spread the Before starting the Ideal BizCenter, Walker aspects of running a small business. Their ex- word to thousands of entrepreneurs founded Ideal Development Corporation; an pertise covers marketing, law, e-business, cus- throughout the city. apartment community called Cascade Gar- tomer service, and technology. Additionally,

13 THE CONDUCTOR Second Quarter 2009 Second Quarter 2009 THE CONDUCTOR Official Publication of the Overground RR!!® Business www.overgroundrr.com www.overgroundrr.com Business Official Publication of the Overground RR!!® GABEO’s Annual Moore’s Bridge March Commemorates King Assassination, Celebrates Passage of Emmett Till Act Who needs life insurance? The Conductor n keeping with recent Roberta Abdul-Salaam Insurance Tips from North Carolina Mutual Ipractice, the Georgia As- presided over the Rally. sociation of Black Elected Other key speakers in- Life Insurance Company Officials (GABEO) con- cluded U.S. Congress- 1. Through an Agent or Other Financial Ad- ducted its annual march to man Hank Johnson, visor the historic Moore’s Ford Georgia State Repre- Most people buy life insurance through agents Bridge in Monroe, GA -- sentative Calvin Smyre, or other financial advisors, and for good rea- the location which marks Edward Dubose of the son. Determining how much and what kind of the tragic murders of two Georgia Coalition for insurance to buy is one of the most important African-American couples the People’s Agenda, financial decisions you’ll ever make, but it’s in July, 1946. The march and Washington Mayor also one of the most complicated. A qualified was held on April 4th to Willie Burns, president insurance professional will conduct a compre- commemorate the 41st of the Georgia Confer- hensive financial needs analysis, and walk you anniversary of the assas- ence of Black Mayors. through the multitude of questions you need to consider to determine how much and what kind sination of Dr. Martin Lu- of insurance is right for you. ther King, Jr. in Memphis. Tyrone Brooks Next Action Event: GABEO President and Annual Reenactment 2. At the Workplace Georgia State Representa- of the lynching mas- Obtaining life insurance through your employ- tive Tyrone Brooks led the sacre at the Moore’s er is another option to consider. Your first step march to the Moore’s Ford Bridge. Ford Bridge, July 25, 2009, at 12 noon. should be to make sure you understand how For more information, contact Rep .Ty- much coverage your employer provides at no GABEO initiated this King Assassina- rone Brooks, 404/656-6372; or see www. cost to you. Many employers provide, at their tion anniversary march, to demand the ar- gabeo.org. own expense, a “basic” life insurance benefit, rest and prosecution of the persons who Charles Fowler often equal to one to two times your base sal- stalked and then lynched Roger and Doro- GABEO continues to ary. ith many feeling the pinch of limited fi- thy Malcom (and their unborn infant), and Wnancial resources here are some tips to 3. Via the Internet George and May Murray Dorsey. Typi- “Rally for Justice.” make you feel confident you are doing all you cally, too, the event has called can to protect your loved ones. Like most things nowadays, life insurance can be purchased online. You can get instant attention to other major issues If someone will suffer financially when you die, quotes, apply for, and even purchase policies. or breakthroughs in law and chances are you need life insurance. Life insur- To make sure you get the right amount and type justice for the African-Amer- ance provides cash to your family after your of insurance, the better sites won’t allow you to ican community. death. This cash (known as the death benefit) complete the purchasing process until you’ve replaces your income and can help your family spoken with a qualified insurance professional. This year’s Moore’s Ford meet many important financial needs like fu- 4. Over the Phone or By Mail Bridge commemoration was neral costs, daily living expenses and college followed by a “Rally for Jus- funding. What’s more, there is no federal in- There are a number of companies that adver- tice,” celebrating the passage come tax on life insurance benefits. tise and market almost exclusively via toll-free of the “Emmett Till Act” last Most Americans need life insurance. To figure numbers and/or direct mail solicitations. How October. Several hundred po- might this benefit you? If you want to buy term out if you need life insurance, you need to think litical leaders and community through the worst-case scenario. If you died to- insurance and you have a good sense of how much coverage you need, you may be able to members attended the rally at morrow, how would your loved ones fare finan- First African Baptist Church. cially? get the right coverage you need by buying di- rectly. Just be aware of the possible limitations Georgia State Representative There are four ways to purchase life insurance: of buying direct.

Be sure to consider all your options when making a life insurance purchase. In some cases this may the one of the few ways to guarantee your loved ones will be taken care of regard- less of the economic fluctuations taking place. Consulting a licensed professional is the best way to explore the vast number of scenarios and get a comprehensive look at your individual situation. For more information or to reach a qualified professional please contact www. ncmutuallife.com or call Charles Fowler in our Atlanta District office at 770-991-8831.

WARNING Contact Charles Fowler to schedule a family review today.

24 HOUR MONITORING Need a service and or product? The (404) Overground RR!!® business directory 756-0736 provides you with a host of businesses to choose from.

14 THE CONDUCTOR Second Quarter 2009 Second Quarter 2009 THE CONDUCTOR Official Publication of the Overground RR!!® Business www.overgroundrr.com www.overgroundrr.com Business Official Publication of the Overground RR!!® The Opportunity to ABL HISTORY In the quest of African-Americans and other ethnic Reposition Black Businesses in the Eyes of the Entire The Atlanta Business League was established in 1933 minorities to achieve economic balance, the Atlanta Community as a Major Contributor to the Overall as an affiliate of the National Business League which Business League specifically: was founded by Dr. Booker T. Washington. Economic Success of that Community • Serves as an advocate for its members and the In 1900, this economic pioneer conceived and devel- African-American business community; Benefit: How: oped a broad-based structure for business enterprise • Develops relevant policy initiatives which af- more innovative than this nation had ever seen, pre- ford access to increased business opportunities; Demonstrate that a black business and the en- Change the way we report African American dating the creation of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and tire black business community are contribu- business activity. Currently, we report con- by twelve years. The National Business League was • Implements creative and innovative programs committed from its inception to a strong comprehen- which foster economic empowerment. tors to a communities overall economic health tracts and contract dollars, loans etc. Change sive program of self-help and self-sufficiency. The through: job creation and substance, taxes col- reports to job created, jobs expanded, jobs sus- mission of the National Business League was to en- ______lected through from the sale of their products/ tained, taxes paid. hance and expand the business community at large, to encourage civic pride, and to reinvest community GOALS services or employees. Data and study by leading economists provide money within the community. Therefore, the economic value is more im- new definitions on the true meaning of the new • To implement programs which promote in- portant to the community than the perceived data and demonstrate the proclivity of ethnic The Atlanta Business League was formed on the same creased access to business opportunities and premise. Serving the role as minority business devel- capital. advantages provide by federal, state, local and businesses to employ people of the same eth- oper and advocate, the Atlanta Business League seeks • To encourage the support and patronage of busi- business entities which support such incentives nic persuasion. to provide economic empowerment and business de- nesses owned by African-Americans. velopment opportunities for minorities throughout the • To implement programs which promote the de- and encouragements. That the investment in Black businesses have grown in their make-up metropolitan Atlanta area with specific emphasis on velopment of African-American business and Black business through increased spending or and types over the last 25 years and have made the development of African-American businesses. entrepreneurship. contracting efforts with or without incentives remarkable success as employers and econom- • To develop and implement policy and legisla- Since its inception, the Atlanta Business League has tive initiatives that support African-American provides a community Return on Investment ic contributors. PLEDGEimplemented many programs and initiatives. The CARD businesses. and the ROI is greater return than the incentive What: League has caused the development of relationships which have translated into millions of dollars in ______offered. Black businesses employ people even The new form of data collection and reporting revenue generated; and hundreds of new businesses when it is no one but the owner. Such employ- is more difficult to challenge! Any justifica- started. Through the Atlanta Business League and the BENEFITS ees are not left to the public dole and seen as a tions used are products of overall economic businesses it serves, the quality of life and our com- munity is greatly enriched. • Affiliation with a professional minority business majorI herebydraw down to the overall commit economy but success. to The dataincrease sustains itself!! my spending with blackdevelopment organization that advocates on be- a contributor. The Atlanta Business League is a strong force for half of minority businesses. positive growth in Atlanta. It serves as one voice for • Business or individual listing in ABL’s Annual many small business persons, using their collective Membership Directory businesses in 2009, a minimumpower of to influence 5% the. course of events politically • Business referrals and technical assistance The ABL Black Business 10 Steps to Increasing the Economic and socially at all levels including government, busi- • Networking opportunities and expansion of ness and civic communities. As challenges present business resource and contact base during mem- PContributionsLEASE PRIN ofT the Black Business & Black Community themselves to the entrepreneur, the Atlanta Business bership meetings and special events. League continues to meet them head on. • Quarterly NewsExchange with information for Leadership Model 2009 and about member businesses. ______• Educational training opportunities for business 1. AdoptionFIRST of ABL Resolution of at all times LAST owners and staff. the overall Economic Value cre- 6. Support, sustain and grow the eco- MISSION • Use of information clearinghouse • Marketing of member businesses via the ABL ation we are trying to affect. nomic value of African American The Atlanta Business League fosters the growth, Web Site COMPANY creation and development of successful business en- • Special discounts, and more. 2. Adoption of ABL Investment businesses to the community terprises owned, operated and managed by African- throughTITLE increased spending Res- 7. Support ways of creating intergen- Americans in metropolitan Atlanta. olution--a formal company com- erational wealth mitmentADDR toE SincreaseS business with 8. Support the employment of com- Black businesses, at least, 5% an- munity residents and other contri- Congratulations To: nualCIT andY / toS TtrackATE same. / ZI P(The 5% butions to the general health and Solution) welfare of the Atlanta community Overground RR!!® member George Andrews, 3. AnnuallyBUS P H reportON E your ( increased ) 9. Support the education of FtheA XAfri (- ) spending achievements to ABL % can American consumer, business President/CEO of Capitol City Bank & Trust Co., gainE-M overAI Lprevious ADD RyearESS owners and resource organiza- will be honored as “Entrepreneur of the Year” 4. Encourage your suppliers and tions at Atlanta Business League’s businessSIGNA partnersTURE to join the 5% 10. Support the utilization of commu- 31st Annual CEO Luncheon Solution nity resources and organizations on May 17, 2009 5. Support the provision of the high- as partners in the process est quality services and products at the Marriott Marquis Hotel.

PLEDGE CARD

I hereby commit to increase my spending with black businesses in 2009, a minimum of 5%.

PLEASE PRINT

FIRST LAST COMPANY

TITLE

ADDRESS

CITY / STATE / ZIP

BUS PHONE ( ) FAX ( )

E-MAIL ADDRESS

SIGNATURE

15 THE CONDUCTOR Second Quarter 2009 Second Quarter 2009 THE CONDUCTOR Official Publication of the Overground RR!!® Community www.overgroundrr.com www.overgroundrr.com Community Official Publication of the Overground RR!!® Youth Advocate Orrin Hudson Uses Chess to Teach the “Game of Life”

In middle school, Hudson was distracted from CBS and NBC have also covered the perilous streets by Edge teaching him to his story. And there appears to play chess. Chess ignited a torch in Hudson. be no end to his popularity or his It demanded the intense brain exercises that his talent for improving the lives of unchallenged youth needed. Till this day, Edge young people. remembers Hudson as the best student he ever taught. “We’re teaching young people that you can be successful if you focus Now Hudson ignites a light under many trou- and play the board, because the bled youth in America. After years of employ- board is neutral and when you’re ment as a state trooper and maintaining a suc- playing chess, you have every- cessful car dealership, Hudson sought to clone thing you need to win the game, his story inside the urban ghettos. His desire Hudson says. “You and your op- was prompted by an evening news story about ponent have the same amount of five young people being shot and killed inside resources. So it’s not about blam- a Wendy’s restaurant for when thieves robbed ing, it’s about aiming.” it for $2,000. Occasionally, he receives a des- “It’s less about chess and more about teach- perate phone call from parents ing young people that every move you make searching for someone to steer has consequences; and if you make the right their kids away from dangerous moves, you get the right results,” Hudson routines. One parent in particu- said. lar is Debra Curry. After Curry viewed a television program fea- Orrin Hudson That tragic news report compelled Hudson to turing Hudson, she told CBS re- create the Atlanta-based non-profit organiza- porters that her son experienced hess is a fiercely competitive battleground. tion, Be Someone. Chess is its trademark., a transformation after Hudson The game rewards players who are strong- and “Making Every Move Count” is its motto. C entered his life. Her son is now ly insightful—with the fortitude to preplan and Through chess, Hudson is teaching the game enrolled in a nursing program at consequently make positive choices. So is the of life. In the same manner that his middle Georgia Perimeter College. game of life, says the phenomenal youth men- teacher taught him, Hudson uses a life-size tor Orrin Hudson. chess board game to teach kids how to plan Hudson enjoys the challenge and ahead, think critically and never forfeit. Con- Charismatic in style and stature, Hudson is he won’t quit. He intends to train sequently, Hudson empowers his mentees to a man for all seasons. His height exceeds 6 one million children. Currently, make positive life decisions. feet, and he speaks to people with a level of Hudson is pulling together re- sources to establish a small center intensity and creativity that turns previously Hudson teaches free chess classes, appears na- where he will motivate and train uncommitted individuals into drones in his tionwide as a motivational speaker, and men- through children with a multitude beehive. Young people recognize his presence, tors an Atlanta group called Project Destiny. of methods. Community involve- in particular at-risk urban kids, whose futures Project Destiny’s chess team persevered and ment is key. Thus, Hudson wants require the persistent spirit of a Hudson. won the state chess championship in 2006. everyone to join his crusade to Previously, he coached Benteen Elementary to Hudson knows this reality well. His personal save the forgotten kids of their three APS state chess championships. experience of rural poverty in Birmingham, communities. AL placed him at risk to become another fatal Hudson’s work has brought him numerous statistic. Openly, he reminds youth of his past honors and awards, including recognition , by penchant to steal and resell tire inner tubes. the Harvard Law Students, Black Enterprise, That was before he found the game of chess DeKalb County government, Toastmasters and and an astute English teacher, James Edge. Turner Broadcasting Systems (TBS). Alfonso Dawson Mortuary: A Family Tradition Continues

arrenton, Georgia was the birthplace of its aggressive marketing tactics -- which in- and in touch with our community,” Wthe Dawson Mortuary business, fam- cluded expensive television ads. Phoebe, who Ms. Dawson said. ily enterprise. Elizabeth and Alfonso Dawson holds a BA in psychology and an MA in edu- opened three cation, said the marketing was necessary. She “Therefore, we encourage me- small funeral explained that her father’s death in 2000 led to morial and funeral services with * Embalming homes before a decline in the family business. a special touch, such as: memory * Hairstyling they decided to boards, “favorite things” display * Cremation relocate the fran- “Our Dad’s death took an enormous toll on the tables and memorial videos. We family, forcing members to rally behind the also offer pre-need arranging, fi- * Memorial Services chise to Atlanta. * Large Showroom of The couple’s company,” she said. nancing and grief counseling to keen business serve all religions and nationali- Funeral Products The Dawson Mortuary did recover. Currently, ties. “ sense resulted the company is stronger than ever. Dawson * Cemetery in tremendous Mortuary employs six full-time licensed funer- Pre-Planning your funeral arrange- * Licensed Insurance Agent growth for their al directors, specializes in infant services, of- ments is one way of expressing company. For fers international shipping, and provides Span- love and thoughtfulness toward years, the Alfon- ish translators, financing and pre-arrangement your family. It is not always easy * Counselors so Dawson Mor- services. The Dawson Mortuary staff handles to discuss funeral planning before tuary has creatively marketed itself and offered a steady stream of calls about its full services. the need arises, but Planned Care * Notary Public innovative services for its clientele, a model helps families take the needed * Financing their children emulate today. With the second generation of Dawsons at the steps to bring everyone peace of * International Shipping of helm, the business is evolving on line with mind. Loved Ones “If your daddy’s a lion tamer you’re not afraid of the funeral industry and the changing desires lions,” said Phoebe Dawson, the funeral direc- of the families being served. The traditional Conductor’s Note: We welcome * Domestic Shipping ofLoved tor or Dawson Mortuary. Some 43 years after church service is often enhanced or replaced the Alfonso Dawson Mortuary as Ones Phoebe’s parents envisioned Dawson Mortuary, with a more personalized and unique tribute to a new member of The Overground * Spanish Interpreter Phoebe and her three siblings (Kathy, Alfonso a loved one. Families are also more budget and RR!!®. Its long history of service and Angela) carry on the family dream. And consumer conscience. to Atlanta families is very much in growing up in a mortuary always felt normal keeping with the ORR’s principal 3000 Martin Luther King Jr., Drive for the Dawson kids. “We welcome all of these changes because we of the church and business sectors realize that as 21st century funeral profession- working together to promote the Atlanta, Georgia 30311 A few years back, Dawson Mortuary captured als, we must stay informed, educated, creative the eye of the Atlanta-Journal Constitution for community’s economic develop- Phone: (404) 691 3810 ment. Fax: (404) 699 3810

16 THE CONDUCTOR Second Quarter 2009 Second Quarter 2009 THE CONDUCTOR Official Publication of the Overground RR!!® Community www.overgroundrr.com www.overgroundrr.com Community Official Publication of the Overground RR!!® A Royal Crown In Glory oyalty is their specialty. The well known but the overall results still proved grand. Re- Rand highly appreciated natural hair care demption was one of the key words used to salon located in the historic West End sets the define the goal, and righteousness was another. standard on how to bring out the true essence (Loving the skin that you’re in and celebrat- of Black Beauty. This full-service, all natural ing our natural style and culture.) The shop is salon selects only the best hair and beauty unique in its desire to distinguish itself by set- products in the industry. And now the Over- ting a standard of excellence as well as foster- ground RR!!® has had the special pleasure of ing tradition. Rather than the chemicals and adding them as a member to our ever-growing hot tools method, the Royal Crown’s operators movement to unite black businesses with their strive to be creative in their traditional styles community. Royal Crown understands that not that enhance clients’ own natural hair. only is it necessary to provide good service, but that the business has a moral obligation to “Locks, twists and braids are our specialty, ” help black people become more connected to the manager noted. All of the products used their essence…their roots. in the salon are natural, and they refuse to cut Royal Crown Barbershop corners to make this a reality. and to begin enjoying the escape that the sa- background offering sounds of reggae, jazz The ORR took time out to interview the man- lon offers. From the aroma therapy to the sa- and songs of Zion to the family-friendly chess ager at one of our newest member’s operation, An appointment at the Royal Crown Salon is lon’s total aesthetics, the client is able to easily & checker games set up, a client is exposed to and he offered us a vast history behind the mis- presented as both a relaxing and a ceremonial step out of their daily routine and enjoy pure something very different from a typical beauty sion of this cultural enterprise. experience. Elements of all holistic practices products and natural service fit for kings and shop appointment. are used to elevate the clientele’s level of queens. Customers are happy to discover that The Royal Crown opened it’s doors in the West consciousness. Each client is encouraged on the conversation and temperament of the sa- Royal Crown celebrates 10 years of great End in 1999. The intentions were quite simple, entering the salon to forget what was outside lon are like no other. From the music in the service this month. The Soul Vegetarian Experience off of your plate, then the Soul Vegetarian vegan vegan restaurants in the country. It was founded ”We deal with the cycle and rhythms and becom- restaurant is the place for you. because their community saw a need to offer ing one with the universe,” said Sister Yahfah, different food that was not only healthy but also a nutritionist. From the moment you step into the beautifully tasty. They wanted to make the transition from decorated eatery, the aroma of goodness over- unhealthy to healthy as easy and enjoyable as The world renown Soul Vegetarian Restaurant takes you. Warm greetings and salutes of unity possible. has two locations in Atlanta: one in the Westend embrace each customer as they come through at 879 Ralph Abernathy, and the other in Virginia the doors. There is nothing more exciting than Soul Vegetarian foods are made from vegetables, Highlands at 652 Highland. Both are open seven knowing that you are about to break bread with grains, seeds, kale bone and tofu, excluding all days a week with varying hours. Customers a conscious kitchen of holistic chefs and blessed preservatives or canned goods. In an effort to come from all four corners of the earth to the hands at your service., assist their customers further, they have sea- highly recommended vegan restaurants. sonal cleansing weeks. These would include The Overground RR!!® is proud to announce ‘raw food week’ and ‘sugar- free week’ as the It is quite common to see local celebrities such Soul Vegetarian Restaurant South that the Soul Vegetarian has made us their media seasons change. The restaurant also provides as Andre 3000 and India Arie enjoying healthy connection to further its presence and impact in nutritionists who will to walk clients through vegan soul food. We at the ORR look forward to hether you are a native Atlantan or a the community. the food cleansing process and answer the ‘how’ seeing some of our members and friends at this Wtransplant-- if you love good soul food and the ‘why.’ uniquely healthful eatery. and you wouldn’t mind someone else taking The Hebrew Israelite community started the responsibility for keeping impure processed food restaurant in 1969. It is the largest chain of Ask Your Nutritionist Dr. Joy Scott, Nutritionist What every one should know about cancer to avoid it and reverse it: 1. Every person has cancer cells in dicates the person has multiple nutri- achieved through 65 years of studies the body. These cancer cells do not tional deficiencies. These could be due combined with whole foods. For a show up in the standard test until to genetic, environmental, food and complete free list call 404.849.6066. they have multiplied to a few billion. lifestyle factors to overcome the mul- 8. When the body has too many toxic When doctors tell cancer patients tiple nutritional deficiencies, changing burdens from chemotherapy and ra- that there are no more cancer cells diet and including supplements will diation the immune system is either in their bodies after treatment, it just strengthen the immune system. compromised or destroyed, hence the means the test are unable to detect 5. Chemotherapy involves poisoning the person can succumb to various kinds the cancer cells because they have rapidly-growing cancer cells and also of infections and complications. not reached the detectable size. destroys rapidly=-growing healthy 9. Chemotherapy and radiation can cause 2. Cancer cells occur between 6 to cells in the bone marrow, gastrointesti- cancer cells to mutate and become more than 10 times in a person’s nal tract etc, and can cause organ dam- difficult to destroy. Surgery can also lifetime. age, like liver, kidneys, heart, lungs cause cancer cells to spread to other 3. When the person’s immune sys- etc. sites. tem is strong the cancer cells will be 6. Radiation while destroying cancer 10. An effective way to battle cancer is to destroyed and prevented from multi- cells also burns, scars and damages starve the cancer cells by not feeding it plying and forming tumors. healthy cells, tissues and organs. with the foods it needs to multiply. 4. When a person has cancer it in- 7. A natural chemotherapy can be

Advertise In THE CONDUCTOR

Contact us for info: 404-346-0808 fax: 404-684-0229 e-mail: [email protected]

17 THE CONDUCTOR Second Quarter 2009 Official Publication of the Overground RR!!® Community www.overgroundrr.com ORR at the Premiere of Sweet Auburn Springfest “The Lena Baker Story” continued from page 1 African Americans who came to the city were cline resulted from the effects of desegregation very entrepreneurial in their thinking, and laws and a highly protested expressway that while they didn’t meet traditional standards split the street in half. As a result, a number for “business people” as far as their education, of businesses were forced to move away from they proved that they were business-minded.” the street. Auburn Avenue is the main street of Atlanta’s Currently, businesses are returning, and that historic Fourth Ward. The Fourth ward was one has people like Johnson excited. Johnson en- of several thriving black Atlanta communities visions more than a return to the old days; he throughout the first half of the 20th Century. wants Auburn Avenue to become the premier Lead by Auburn Avenue, Atlanta became the city destination. By advocating plans to build a face of black progress. Monetary assets within corridor that connects businesses near Auburn the Auburn community were unparalleled. So Avenue to the King Center and to the planned much so that in the 1930’s, John Wesley Dobbs Civil Rights Museum, he hopes to transform coined the term “Sweet Auburn,” after hearing the area into a “Black Mecca.” Related plans someone say that “there’s nothing sweeter than to build a viaduct under the nearby highway money.” overpass would support these revitalization ef- forts for Sweet Auburn. Charles Johnson, director of The Spirit of Sweet Auburn, a non-profit organization that Advancing these plans will require public sup- seeks to restore and revitalize the Auburn com- port. The annual SpringFest is a vital compo- munity, noted that “A lot of people relate to the nent in reaching that goal. Last year, more than history of the street.” 300, 000 people made their way through the festival which generates tons of revenue for Johnson has headed The Spirit of Sweet Au- local Auburn Avenue businesses. Sponsored burn for 16 years. Like many, Johnson shares by The Spirit of Sweet Auburn, the SpringFest a special kinship with the street. According to serves as the organization’s main marketing Johnson, not many years ago one could walk tool. It vows to restore Sweet Auburn as the down Sweet Auburn and see individuals like center of black business, and religious, and Maynard Jackson, John Lewis, or Martin & civic life. This year’s event promises to con- Coretta King very visible on the street as well. tinue SpringFest’s success. The Overground RR!!® had the special role of helping to promote and document the It’s these memories that drive Johnson, who recent premiere of the film, “ Hope and Redemption: The Lena Baker Story.” hopes that Sweet Auburn never looses the es- Once again, during the second weekend in sence of its greatness. May, business owners, sponsors and vendors It captures the tragic life of a Black Georgia woman who shot her white male employer will stage a splendid celebration of the music, in self-defense, but who was eventually convicted. Lena Baker gained notoriety for ul- “If we can retain its vitality, this landmark food and history of Sweet Auburn. When asked timately being executed and becoming the only woman in Georgia to die in the electric street provides a living, breathing history,” about the festival, real estate and business con- chair. Local Writer/Director Ralph Wilcox produced the film, which starred actress Johnson said. sultant Ronald Wilson remarked: Tichina Arnold. Sustaining the character of Sweet Auburn will “I think that the festival gives some identity not be easy. Years of economic downturn have ORR staff publicized the movie’s premiere and documented the project in a video inter- to Auburn Avenue and brings attention to the taken their toll on the street. Most of this de- view with Wilcox and the film’s opening at the Mansion in . unique history of this business venue.” CBC State of the Community Address continued from page 5 was the spirit of the times that kept me warm a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time Don’t confuse a Promise Moment with the We are not in the Promised Land when the on the inside Zeitgeist. to tear and a time to mend, Promise Land. U.S. Conference of Mayors report released a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time December 12, 2008, revealed that the demand Every hour I asked myself the question, how to love and a time to hate, a time for war and The Spirit of Times in electing the 44th Presi- for emergency food assistance in 25 major long….and Zeitgeist answered -- not long! I a time for peace. dent of the USA is the Zeitgeist of a Promised cities increased an average of 18 percent from Moment but we are not in the Promise Land. asked the question, when…., and Zeitgeist said As I thought about the historical moment real- October 1, 2007 to September 30, 2008. -- Sooner than when you first believed. Lest we forget, that we are still at the top of the ity set in and Charles Dickens came to mind, list for almost every major health disparity and The Food Stamp Program, now known as the Charles Dickens, in his book “A Tale of Two As the ceremony began, a host of local famous there are over 46 millions Americans without Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Cities” said, it was the best of times, it was the any Quality Healthcare. (SNAP), had 31 million participants at the end and foreign dignitaries, head of states, gov- worst of times, Surely, we are in the best of ernors, members of congress and the senate of October 2008 -- it is up at 3.9 million from times because we have more African American We lead the way with the highest incidence of the previous October of 2007. entered. We saw the processional of the presi- in power and places of influences than ever death caused by Heart Disease, Cancer, Cardio- dent’s motorcade flashing on the Jumbo-Tron before in the history of this country. vascular disease or stroke, diabetes, HIV / AIDS In Georgia, 1,139,309 residents used food and everybody applauded and Zeitgeist said and all other major health disparities. We are stamps in October, up 2.7 percent from Sep- to me, I have you standing in the freezing cold The 111th Congress includes 4 African Ameri- not in the Promised Land because too many of tember and 17.3 percent from the previous for 6 hours to look at others arriving late and cans who chair full committees and 17 chair our children are failing to graduate from high year, according to the Food Research and Ac- sitting up front, so that you would never forget subcommittees. Rep. Bennie Thompson of school. Two years ago, the state of Georgia tion Center. The economic crunch is forcing the homeless that sleep out here every night as Mississippi, Homeland Security Committee reported more than 23,000 student dropouts. people who maybe never asked for any help I sit you up front in the seats of influence to Chair, Rep. Charles Rangel of New York, In 2008, there were 18,000 dropouts - despite in their lives to turn to local food pantries for affect public policy.” House Ways & Means Committee Chair, Rep. an enrollment increase of about 20,000 high the first time. John Conyers of Michigan, House Judiciary school students. As President Obama walked to the podium with Committee Chair, Rep. Maxine Water of Cali- We are not in the Promised Land when the the swagger of a smooth confident leader and he fornia, Housing Committee Chair, Rep. Melvin We are not in the Promised Land when Geor- U.S. House of Representatives voted July 29, took the oath of office as President of the US, Watt of North Carolina, Committee of Investi- gia’s juvenile justice system is broken and we 2008, to approve a non-binding resolution that we all cried and then he spoke to the world, the gations, Rep. Barbara Lee of California, Con- are not holding our elected and state officials represents a formal government apology to Zeitgeist spoke to me and said…., gressional Black Caucus, Rep. James Clyburn accountable for running a juvenile court system African-Americans for the practice of slavery of South Carolina, House Majority Whip and that imposes inappropriate punishment—we are and the Jim Crow laws that fostered to all in- This is definitely a defining moment. It is a our own Rep. John Lewis of Georgia, Deputy grateful for project turnaround but we need a tents and purposes segregation. However, the karos moment – a God appointed, God anointed House Majority Whip. juvenile detention system that rehabilitates in- State of Georgia remained silent, even while divine moment. stead of criminalizing young people for life! There are cabinet members, governors, may- several other states have issued apologies. We are not in the Promised Land when the During the Georgia General Assembly’s 2008 Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 (NIV) ors, judges, county commissioner’s chairs and foreclosure rates in Georgia has us number 8 session, State Reps. Al Williams and Tyrone There is a time for everything, and a season for presidents of city counsels, superintendents, in the top 10 ranking of states with the highest Brooks introduced HR 1011 that would have every activity under heaven: sheriffs, state commissioners and many more. foreclosure rates. At the end of 2008, there represented Georgia’s official slavery apology. a time to be born and a time to die, Yes, we are in the best of times; however, we were 96,863 foreclosures recorded for the state The resolution never came to a vote. a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to are in the worst of times. of Georgia in 2008. kill and a time to heal, We are in the worst of times because there is a Georgia is still a red sea state with a blue is- a time to tear down and a time to build, a time great gap still growing between the have’s and We are not in the Promised Land when over 3 land in the middle. Zeitgeist – Don’t confuse to weep and a time to laugh, the have not’s. The Zeitgeist would suggest to million jobs were lost last year and over 300,000 a Promise Moment with the Promised Land. a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to us that it would be wise not to become mesmer- in the month of December. The unemployment scatter stones and a time to gather them, ized, hypnotized, spellbound, captivated or rate in Georgia is at 8.1% which exceeds the Complete speech available at a time to embrace and a time to refrain, a time overly fascinated by the “Spirit of the Times”. National unemployment rate of 7.2%. to search and a time to give up, www.overgroundrr.com

18 Second Quarter 2009 THE CONDUCTOR www.overgroundrr.com Community Official Publication of the Overground RR!!®

Turnquest’s Circles of Wellness: Finding Secrets to Healthy Life The Conductor enrietta Turnquest swears she has found Circles of Wellness forever involves Turnquest “We deserve to Hthe hidden secret to living a youthful and in that exchange. The company informs, con- healthy life. And she keeps the bulky product at sults and promotes healthy methods of living. remain the way her side. Ostensibly, the dull white instrument She has been consulting holistic health practi- is a weird oversized microwave. But let it be tioners for years, and several of her methods are we were when we known, to Turnquest and the thousands of oth- not widely publicized material. ers who’ve tested the product, the instrument were born. is a powerful tool for exceptional health. Call The Kangen Water Technology serves as the it Enagic, from The Kangen Water Technology best example of this. According to Turnquest’s series. Enagic is the centerpiece of Turnquest’s personal account, the water technology unex- health enterprise, Circles of Wellness. pectedly lowered her weight, rejuvenated her skin and revitalized her hair. The technol- Through Circles of Wellness, Turnquest has ogy includes something called “Level- divided the the business into both teaching Luk”, which restores balance to the people how to feel good and look good. It’s a water channeled through the mechanism. topic that impassions her, and she is certain that Once the devise is hooked to the faucet, the profit-driven worlds of insurance and drug the metal plates within the instrument companies routinely neglect the best interests alternates things such as the alkaline of consumers’ health. level, ph levels, size of water molecules and number of electrolytes in the water. “When I went into the legislature in 1990 and Kangen, the Japanese term I really saw how healthcare was set up, I said for Return to Original, [to my self] we have a problem, because the restores water to its insurance companies and the pharmaceutical natural form, thus companies control healthcare in America.” allowing the body Turnquest said. “And it’s really not in their to achieve opti- [the companies’] best interest for people to be mal health. made well.”

After years of working with the Georgia Leg- islature’s insurance committee and its special judiciary committee, the former special assistant to Governor Barnes is now a warrior for com- munity health.

Turnquest said, “As time went on, I learned that we can get most of what we need from what we eat and drink.”

Educating people isn’t new for Turnqeust, a Spelman graduate. When Public Access Atlanta TV produced a public policy information forum, Turnquest was a central personality of the show We were born perfect,” for 10 years. She described the program as a citizen’s alert to governmental policies that af- fect people’s personal lives. Turnquest states.

tions and certain cancers. HIV is transmitted great plagues, and of long continuance, and through direct contact of a mucous membrane sore sicknesses, and of long continuance. AIDS WATCH or the bloodstream with a bodily fluid contain- Moreover, he will bring upon thee all the dis- By Kendal Richardson ing HIV, such as eases of Egypt, which thou wast afraid of; and blood, semen, they shall cleave unto thee. Also every sick- Every 9.5 minutes, someone is vaginal fluid, ness, and every plague, which is not written in getting infected with HIV/AIDS. preseminal fluid, the book of this law, them will the LORD bring and breast milk. upon thee, until thou be destroyed. This could be YOU, your CHILD, This transmis- your PARENTS, your NEIGH- sion can involve And ye shall be left few in number, whereas ye were as the stars of heaven for multitude; BOR, your PASTOR, your AUNT, anal, vaginal or oral sex, blood because thou wouldest not obey the voice of your UNCLE, your COUSIN, transfusion, con- the LORD thy God. “ your NEICE, or your NEPHEW. taminated hypo- So let there not be anymore misconceptions! dermic needles, This law was made for everyone to follow. It Many people are unaware that they are infect- exchange be- doesn’t matter what color, race, creed, religion, ed with HIV. An estimated 39.5 million people tween mother or gender. AIDS HAS NO FACE. have HIV worldwide. In 2008, CDC estimated and baby dur- that approximately 56,300 people were newly ing pregnancy, I want to leave a word of encouragement and infected with HIV in 2006 (the most recent year childbirth, or inspiration to all: “For God so loved the world, that data are available, United States). Over breastfeeding, or that he gave his only begotten Son, that who- half (53%) of these new infections occurred in other exposure to soever believeth in him should not perish, but gay and bisexual men. African American men one of the above have everlasting life. “ (John 3:16) and women were also strongly affected and bodily fluids. were estimated to have an incidence rate than was seven times greater than the incidence rate This is what the Sources: AIDS; Wikipedia, among whites. Word of God says in Deuter- Bible Gateway researched A number of misconceptions have arisen sur- onomy 28:58- rounding HIV/AIDS. Three of the most com- 62 (KJV): “If Kendal Richardson, mon are that AIDS can spread through casual thou wilt not The Grapevine HIV/ contact; that sexual intercourse with a virgin observe to do will cure AIDS; and that HIV can infect only all the words of AIDS Foundation, Inc. homosexual men and drug users. Other mis- this law that are Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome conceptions are that any act of anal intercourse written in this book, that thou mayest fear this (678.754.6301) (AIDS) is caused by HIV (Human Immunode- between gay men can lead to AIDS infection, glorious and fearful name, THE LORD THY ficiency Virus). By killing or damaging cells [email protected] and that open discussion of homosexuality and GOD; Then the LORD will make thy plagues of the body’s immune system, HIV progres- HIV in schools will lead to increased rates of wonderful, and the plagues of thy seed, even homosexuality and AIDS. sively destroys the body’s ability to fight infec- 19 THE CONDUCTOR: The Newspaper of the Overground RR!!® Second Quarter 2009 Issue www.overgroundrr.com Giving Power to the Ordinary Man Rahman’s Financial Solutions Firm Targets the “Little People”

or most of her life, Jean Rahman has lived Rahman needed no more proof that she was the working-poor and middle Fand breathed business. She’s a gifted on the right track than from a supervisor who class. She wants to create woman with a penchant for business. Most im- overheard a conversation about Rahman’s wealth solutions for people portantly, Rahman embodies the two essentials plans to leave. His response: she got smart, seeking freedom from finan- for becoming a successful entrepreneur—pas- deciding to let her great talents make herself cial cages. sion and hard work. The passion would come great money. later. “While working for the In- Six years later, the lore of Rahman’s work ternal Revenue Services I An Atlanta native, Rahman worked tirelessly and life experiences equates to gold. The In- learned that the poor and mid- for years, earning her undergraduate degree stitute for Financial Freedom and Investment dle paid the majority of all the in Business Management from Morris Brown, Solutions (TIFFIS), founded by Rahman, is a taxes while the wealthy paid developing cleaning services at 18 years old, multi-million dollar company. The financial little to no taxes at all.” Rah- clinching rare employment as an auditor with solutions company provides invaluable knowl- man said. “There are only two the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and lead- tax codes in the America, you ing a big money Atlanta based marketing firm. either on the personal side or Rahman achieved much of this as a single the commercial side, the per- mom. sonal side meaning that you lose a third of your income to She boasts, “On my journey looking for busi- taxes working at a job, where ness [opportunities] I started working for the as a business owner you qual- Internal Revenue Services, I became one of ify for hundreds of tax deduc- their youngest auditors.” Rahman’s skills sky- tions. That in it-self led me to rocketed her career to new heights. Corporate want to educate people about America devoured Rahman’s tenacity. Never- the benefits of business.” theless, Rahman’s 4 offspring were the ones who ignited her passion to pursue her personal Small business owners business pursuits. would benefit heavily from Rahman’s expertise. But be Rahman said “My desire to go in business quick. Rahman and TIFFIS came from me being a single mom with four is a rising commodity. Cur- children and struggling like every other single rently, she’s partnering with mom or single dad trying to raise their chil- actor Danny Glover on a one- dren, but realizing that I was coming home late hundred city tour educating at night rushing to do homework, cook dinner, people on the tax advantages and to put them in bed.” of businesses. Rahman’s even scheduled to appear on Like a habitual corporate woman, Rahman Oprah. Remarkably, as Rah- summoned her four children for a family con- man will say, she owes it all ference in order to illicit feedback on her most Jean Rahman to her children. important job—motherhood. Their answers transformed Rahman’s life. Rahman said, “… edge for businesses on tax codes, investment, “A lot of good things came they said they needed more time, that’s what management, and more. Though Rahman’s just out of the desire to spend really sprung into action [my business].” Soon company should create much wealth for others more time with children. So after, Rahman resigned from her job post and it’s not for the typical client. Working for the I’m very grateful for my four unapologetically took the first leap toward IRS illuminated a system tilted in the riche’s children,” Rahman said. achieving her loftiest dreams. favor. Rahman is more interested in serving

20