Jeremiah 29:11 (KJV) reads: "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. "This verse is a divine promise to the people of Israel, who were in Babylonian captivity, assuring them that God had not forgotten them and had a plan for their restoration, not destruction.
THE POWER OF PARTNERSHIPS ISSUE
2025 Next Generation Edition | Volume 8 Issue 37
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Andreal Mallard
Founder/ Publisher
COVER MODELS
Rhonda Crockett
CEO & Founder of A New Well Inc
DESIGN & LAYOUT
Streetz of Gentlemen, Inc
#EEEsUp Branding (@streetzofgentlemen)
CONTRIBUTORS
Shawn Raleigh, Patrick Davis, Branson Harts field, Dominique Huff, Jerome Bowie, Richard Stewart, Andreal Mallard
BRAND MANAGEMENT SERVICES
Streetz of Gentlemen, Inc. www streetzofgentlemen com streetzofgentlemen@gmail com
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Game Changers Magazine gamechangerstvandradio@gmail com
ALL ABOARD: GEORGIA’S BOLD VISION TO TRANSFORM THE I-75 COORIDOR
FORWARD FOCUS: MAYOR ANTHONY FORD ON THE FUTURE OF STOCKBRIDGE-$32 MILLION DOLLAR QUESTION
CONNECTING HENRY: THE HEARTBEAT OF COMMUNITY COLLABORATION
MEET A NEW WELL INC
DERRICK JACKSON: FIGHTING FOR GEORGIA’S FUTURE
VANESSA W. THOMAS: STEADY LEADERSHIP, PROVEN RESULTS-A VISION FOR MCDONOUGH FUTURE
ASHA ELLEN-MAKING MACON-BIBB BEAUTIFUL TOGETHER
ROBERT TAYLOR II: DIFFERENT THAN AVERAGE
NATIONAL COALITION OF NEGRO WOMEN: A LEGACY OF UNITY AND PURPOSE
DEQUON PHILLIPS: I ALOST LOST MY LIFE- A TRUE STORY OF THE BATTLE OF ADDICTION
UNDERSTANDING ADULTS LIVING WITH IDD:BREAKING THE STIGMA OF MENTAL HEALTH
LIFE AFTER THE STORM
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
MAYOR VINCENT SETS THE NEW STANDARD
THE CHANEY FAMILY SHARES THEIR STORY AFTER NATURAL DISASTER
23 YEARS OF THE WIRE
AGAINST STRONGMAN POLITICS
judge carlos moore fight for congressional district 13 of georgia
Writtenby:AndrealL.MallardSr.
In my community, taking a family vacation during the long school breaks is not just a luxury – it’s essential These getaways, no matter the destination, give us some of our most refreshing moments to gather our thoughts, reconnect with our spirit man, and reenergize for the weeks ahead They offer us a chance to reflect on where we may have fallen short and how we can do better before the next break arrives Most importantly, they create priceless family memories – stories told and retold around the dinner table for years to come This past fall break, my wife booked a family cruise. If you’ve ever been on a cruise, you know the beauty of turning your phone off, freeing yourself from major demands, and simply enjoying life at sea. This time, I made a conscious decision to catch up on much-needed rest and return home as the best version of myself.
One night, while flipping through the free movies on the ship, I came across a powerful film titled Sam I Am It’s the story of an autistic father fighting for the right to raise his daughter The character Sam deeply moved me Despite his developmental challenges, he showed extraordinary determination to live a “normal” life and to be present in his daughter’s world. Sam worked multiple jobs when the court said he didn’t make enough money, endured tough trick questions on the stand, went through supervised visitations, and relied on his community to vouch for his character His only goal was simple – to be accepted as a loving father and human being. Even when his daughter was placed in foster care, Sam never gave up on being active in her life
Watching that film gave me a clearer perspective: everyone, regardless of ability, deserves to be treated with dignity and respect It also made me reflect on the incredible work being done at A New Well, Inc. – and what it’s really like for adults living with intellectual and developmental disabilities For some, their challenges might seem like setbacks, but for others, they become a source of strength, just like watching the calm waters of the ocean can bring peace to the soul.
This issue of Game Changers Magazine gives us the opportunity to share powerful stories from our friends at A New Well These stories shine a light on their daily victories, the perseverance it takes to accomplish what many of us take for granted, and the stereotypes they must battle every day.
My hope is that this message inspires you to see this community through a different lens – to challenge your own assumptions and choose compassion over fear Together, we can truly become the change we wish to see in the world
As I always say in our Streetz of Gentlemen motto: Educate the Mind. Elevate the Spirit. Eliminate the Stereotype.
#EEEsUp
WrittenbyDominiqueHuff
When you think about the future of transportation in Georgia, you probably imagine more lanes, more trucks, more traffic. But in a packed studio conversation that felt more like a town hall than an interview, former Macon mayors C. Jack Ellis and Robert Rickard, along with Bibb County Commissioner Stanley Stewart, painted a different picture: a future where freight moves safer, cars stay off the highway, and you can hop a train from Atlanta to Macon, Savannah, or even Washington D C without fighting I-75 traffic
“We are over the target,” Rickard said “Federal funding, the FRA corridor program, and Senator Ossoff’s earmarks for an environmental impact study are all converging right now The time is perfect to get this done”
Former Mayor Ellis recalled the early days, when Macon fought to save its historic Terminal Station and transform it into a multimodal hub. That decision, he noted, is why Macon is now positioned to be a central player in a statewide passenger rail network.
“We
were able to purchase and preserve that station with almost $9 million in earmarks,” Ellis said. “If we hadn’t done that, there wouldn’t even be a place for Amtrak or a future high-speed rail to stop.”
“Everything is driven by citizens,” Stewart said. “My job is to keep them engaged, keep them educated, and make sure this vision stays alive until it’s reality.”
The trio emphasized that passenger rail is not just about convenience it’s about strategic economic development.
Taking cars off I-75 improves air quality and reduces one of Georgia’s most dangerous commuter corridors.
Freight Rail Benefits: Upgraded lines mean fewer derailments and safer transport of hazardous materials.
Business Expansion: From small businesses in rural Georgia to Fortune 500 logistics centers, a modern rail network opens new opportunities for trade, jobs, and tourism
One of the biggest public concerns is funding but the leaders made it clear: federal dollars are leading the way The Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act was a bipartisan effort, and Georgia’s congressional delegation has already secured millions for corridor planning and environmental studies. Ellis added that Georgia may need to modernize its constitutional rules on transportation funding, allowing gas taxes and other revenues to support rail and multimodal infrastructure, not just roads and bridges
“Atlanta can be the hub for the entire Southeast,” Rickard said. “Just as Hartsfield-Jackson transformed Atlanta over the past 50 years, passenger rail could be just as transformative for the next 50.”
Georgia’s small businesses stand to gain enormously With tourism events like Savannah’s St Patrick’s Day Festival, Macon’s Cherry Blossom Festival, and major sports games in Atlanta, rail could deliver thousands of visitors safely and efficiently.
“You can start the party on the train,” Rickard joked. “And you don’t have to worry about a designated driver”
With route selection scheduled by 2026 and full corridor planning by 2028, the coalition stressed the need for continued citizen advocacy. Public engagement, they argue, is the difference between sprawl and smart growth.
“If you think traffic is bad now,” Stewart said, “wait 10 years if we don’t act This is our chance to build the future”
The conversation ended with a challenge to Georgians: call your mayor, your commissioner, your state representative. Show up at hearings. Demand investment. “Enthusiasm without action won’t get it done,” Stewart concluded. “This is about building a system for generations yet unborn.”
Written by Jerome Bowie
OnVoicesoftheVillage,MayorSandraVincentreminds usthatrealleadershipisequalpartsvisionandfollowthrough “Writethevisionandmakeitplain,”shesays, invokingHabakkuk2:2 notasaslogan,butas operatingsystem WhenshesteppedintoCityHall, McDonoughhadshelvesofcommunity-informedplans andtoomanyweregatheringdust Vincent’sfirstact ofservicewassimpleandprofound:takethoseplans offtheshelf,buildaworkplanwiththeAtlanta RegionalCommission,andexecute
Sixteenyearsoncouncilandadecadeaschairofthe DowntownDevelopmentAuthoritypreparedherfor thisexactmoment Orassheputsitwithasmile,“I’m notnewtothis I’mtruetothis”
One of the clearest examples of “plan → do” is the trolley initiative an idea born years ago to knit McDonough’s thriving hotel cluster at South Point to the historic downtown district The purpose was always economic development: bring visitors across the interstate to experience local shops, museums, and the city’s story
When federal ARPA dollars became available to stimulate post-COVID recovery, McDonough used state procurementto purchase two trolleys vehicles that require a CDL with passenger endorsement because this is real transit, not a novelty toy Routes are being shaped with the community: Main Street and the city’s tourism team are curating stops (think the Polk Museum and heritage touchpoints) so the line doesn’t just move people; it tells the McDonough story
And make no mistake: story matters here Mayor Vincent is “enamored with antiquity,” not for nostalgia’s sake but to anchor identity. In a region where communities either grow or become destinations, McDonough is choosing destination inviting visitors to linger on the Square and locals to feel at home right where they are
“We had plans. The missing piece was activation.”
“Plan, do, check, act—and do it with the people.”
McDonough’s history is rich and the administration treats it like an economic asset and public inheritance: Camp Creek train wreck lore and other local histories that spark curiosity
The former Briggs & Stratton site tied to Dr Smith, who brought electricity to McDonough a chance to interpret a “power plant” story where it began Big Springs, the original springs where the Camp Creek Indians set up and the founding location of the city itself
Tourism isn’t an afterthought Through the hotel/motel tax, McDonough invests over a million dollars annually in direct marketing to lift up Main Street businesses, city events, and regional attractions. The goal is simple: when families come to visit, they shouldn’t have to drive to Atlanta for a good time They should find “cute little things” to do right here.
If you’ve noticed that McDonough looks and feels different, that’s on purpose. The New Standard shows up in small and large ways:
Design codes with pride: no chain-link fences on detention ponds; think wrought-iron (or lookalike) that elevates the public realm.
Cleanliness you can see: crews scraping crosswalks by hand where sweepers can’t reach. Public safety as presence: not just badges and lights, but officers meeting homeowners, listening, and responding.
Perhaps the most telling moment: a 93-year-old resident called the mayor to say his wife’s accessible van couldn’t use the existing handicap spaces on the Square. Same day, the Chief and Public Works assessed and began adjustments to expand ADA-compliant access. That’s the New Standard—see the need, meet the need.
“To be able to do good and not do good is evil ” — Mayor Sandra Vincent And yes, the city listens online. Some call it “the Facebook city” The mayor calls it meeting people where they are. If a complaint surfaces and a fix is possible, action follows—with a soft handoff to county partners when issues fall outside city limits.
City Of McDonough
Mayor Vincent is blunt about mobility: the I-75 corridor will define our region’s future. She applauds ongoing regional collaboration (from Macon through Henry up to Atlanta) on big ideas like high-speed rail. She’s also transparent about past choices—managed lanes at all three McDonough exits shape where travelers stop (or don’t), and dynamic pricing isn’t accessible to everyone. In hindsight, she argues, truck-only lanes might have improved safety and commerce by moving port freight efficiently while reducing crashes
None of that dims the vision—McDonough’s job is to make stopping here intentional and irresistible. The trolley helps; so will a downtown that is cleaner, safer, and more engaging every month.
Plans aren’t only streets and trolleys. The city issued an RFP for a Master Parks Plan to knit passive and active recreation together with county partners. Recent moves include:
Adding land adjacent to Alexander Park.
Establishing Geranium Park off Highway 42 and expanding it across Judy Drive
Listening to residents about amenities (yes, pickleball is on the list).
On major venues, Vincent is pragmatic. With a regional amphitheater in Stockbridge and the Atlanta Motor Speedwaynearby, McDonough doesn’t need to duplicate what neighbors already do well. Instead, it should invest in what makes McDonough unique—and collaborate visibly. The mayor even advocates for “One Henry” branding at shared facilities (like Avalon Park) so residents understand everyone is rowing together
A new Aquatic Center is slated for McDonough; the city requested screening berms to preserve the integrity of nearby Long Drive—balancing regional amenity with neighborhood character. That’s the New Standard in practice.
McDonough’sentrepreneurialenergyisreal. InspiredbyJeffSiegler’sYourCityIsSick,the cityisresistingmindlesssprawlandrefocusing onthepeoplewhoalreadylivehere.With SouthernCrescentTechnicalCollege, McDonoughisdevelopingasmall-business portalandpushingoutinformationonstate resources,grants,andtechnicalassistance The aim:helplocalownersstabilize,hire,andthrive inplace
Process matters in McDonough. It takes four votes to move anything through council so progress is shared credit by design The mayor’s rule of thumb: Plan → Do → Check → Act
Say what you’ll do. Do what you said. Check with the people Adjust together
It’s also why her State of the City praised statewide and emulated by peers landed so powerfully. It wasn’t a production; it was a translation of government into community language A trendsetter, yes but mainly a translator
“The new standard of government is that you include people” Mayor Sandra Vincent
Because it is You can see it in cleaner crosswalks and better design standards. You can ride it on a trolley that ties hotels to hometown. You can feel it when a 93-yearold neighbor calls, and the city moves. You can hear it in an open invitation: Whether you’re in the city or just outside it, if we can help, we will. And if we can’t, we’ll connect you to who can.
That, in the purest sense, is what it means to be “a mayor for all of McDonough.”
written by Kaylon Truitt
“Stockbridge is where community connects” Mayor Anthony S. Ford returns to that mantra often—part credo, part operating system—as the city sprints through a period of rapid growth: a paid-off amphitheater, new neighborhoods and restaurants, a police substation coming to Bridges at Jodeco, and a seat at the table for an I-75 high-speed rail corridor that could redraw South Metro mobility But in a season of ribbon cuttings and regional vision, one headline has shadowed the momentum: claims of $32 million in city mismanagement. In an extended conversation with Game Changers, Ford laid out what happened, what changed, and what’s next
Stockbridge set its millage rate at 3 77 for the third straight year, a point Ford highlights as evidence of fiscal steadiness amid rising property values. “Keeping 3 77 means not increasing the city side of your tax bill,” he says. The city has also leaned into homestead exemptions—including added relief for seniors and septic-system homeowners—with the next application window set for January 1–March 31
On the November ballot: FLOST (Floating Local Option Sales Tax)—enabled by HB 581—which Ford describes as a countywide agreement among the four cities and Henry County to deliver additional property-tax relief by drawing from sales activity across the area. “It’s like SPLOST’s cousin,” he explains. “Visitors who shop here help shoulder the load.”
Four seasons in, the VyStar Amphitheater has become Stockbridge’s calling card a midsized, intimate venue that keeps South Metro entertainment dollars closer to home
In August, the city paid off the $22.5 million construction cost, Ford notes, using a mix of SPLOST funds, a 1 3% bond, and about $5 million from fund balance A four-year naming sponsorship with VyStar Credit Union contributes over $1 million to operations across the term
Ford is sober about the economics: amphitheaters rarely mint profits, but they do fuel downtown restaurants, hotels, and small businesses “Break-even is a win when you count the spillover,” he says The city is transitioning management running the remainder of this season with internal staff while preparing an RFP for future seasons and continuing three free city concerts each year (Juneteenth, July 4th, and a fall show), alongside ticketed performances
“WhereCommunity Connects”
Ford’s plain-language account: to cover amphitheater operating costs across multiple years, money was transferred between accounts without the required, public budget amendments and council approval That failure of process not theft, he stresses created the “$32 million” talking point
“It wasn’t someone pocketing money. It was money moved from one pot to another without the formal votes. That’s not okay—and it won’t happen again.”
According to Ford, the city has:
Reconciled and corrected the budget with the guidance of a new finance director; Tightened controls so any cross-account movement requires public presentation and council action;
Changed personnel: the amphitheater’s manager was released in June as issues surfaced; the previous city manager departed earlier for a role in Atlanta
Ford acknowledges the original amphitheater operating budget was set too low for the true cost of national-caliber shows production “backline,” ushers, artist transport, catering, and tech “We understand the cost profile now,” he says, “and we’ve built a process that forces transparency before any dollars move.”
A viral video featured a young resident citing a $13,000 open records estimate. Ford doesn’t set those prices, but explains large, complex requests can trigger staff time and reproduction costs under state law. “The Clerk’s office must provide records; extensive requests come with a cost factor,” he says.
On public comment: the city’s standard is three minutes, with additional time granted by a simple-majority vote of council. “Sometimes speakers get six minutes. I always ask my colleagues”
Rumors about censures and ethics? Ford clarifies that any censure requires three votes. Ethics complaints, including those lodged against him, have been heard and dismissed by the board.
“My approach is to talk things out. I haven’t filed ethics actions against colleagues”
Stockbridge’s Police Department just marked three years Ford frames “having our own” as faster response and deeper engagement youth programs, advisory committees, neighborhood presence After a recent high-school football melee outside city limits, Stockbridge PD responded to mutual aid requests alongside Henry County and Clayton County. “Protect and serve that’s the oath,” Ford says On fire services, the city partners with Henry County Fire, recently celebrating a new ladder truck at Station 9 on Rock Quarry Road regional assets that “save lives and protect property values.”
Next up: a police substation at Bridges at Jodeco, paired with license-plate reader coverage, “because growth requires visible safety”
If the amphitheater is Phase 1 of the City Center plan, Phase 2 builds west of the tracks into a walkable entertainment district, while PATH-style trails will link neighborhoods to downtown parks. At Bridges at Jodeco, Stockbridge is curating a true mixed-use: Sprouts, Costco (the southernmost in the metro), First Watch (coming), bank branches, clinics, a future hotel with meeting space, senior living, condos, townhomes and that police substation. “You know something’s real when the trees come down and graders roll,” Ford quips Downtown, the city worked with Norfolk Southern for a Quiet Zone—trains glide through without horns, making patios and street-level conversations viable. A facade-grant program, an active Downtown Development Authority, and Main Street programming support small businesses like Crown Pizza, Downtown Social, and more. Parking upgrades are on deck
Meanwhile, the Western Parallel a long-planned relief route—will connect Hudson Bridge Road to Jonesboro Road along I-75’s west side, opening development pads and taking pressure off the interstate. Completion is targeted around 2027.
Ford is a convener in the I-75 Corridor Coalition, aligning seven cities and counties from the airport to Macon and on to Savannah. Goal: high-speed rail that shifts trips off I-75 and catalyzes station-area growth. “It’s the future and we’re doing the homework now with GDOT and the Federal Railroad Administration.” Closer to home, the city is finalizing new soccer fields near Eagles Landing envisioned as community fields that can also host training sessions ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches in Atlanta. “Bring teams south; they’ll stay in our hotels and eat in our restaurants,” Ford says.
To keep young adults and new families, the city has approved a range of housing types single-family, townhomes, condos, workforce options and is steering more residential into and around downtown to create the feet-on-the-street that small businesses need. A Youth Council gives students a real voice (and an oath of office from the mayor), while Ford’s monthly “Meet the Mayor” offers 15-minute, face-to-face slots for anyone with an idea, complaint, or partnership pitch. “We may not always agree, but you’ll be heard,” he says
written by Chilton Stewart
AtGameChangersMagazineandVoicesofthe VillagePodcast,webelievechangestartswith conversation—andfewconversationscapturethe spiritofcommunitybetterthanourrecentsitdownwithBarbaraColeman,ExecutiveDirectorof ConnectingHenry
Barbarajoinedustosharethepowerfulstoryofan organizationthathasbecomethe“motherhub”of nonprofitsinHenryCounty,connectingresidents withvitalresources,partners,andprogramsfor nearly30years
Barbara reminds us that Connecting Henry is more than a nonprofit it is Henry County’s Georgia Family Connection partner, linking arms with 157 other county partnerships across the state to ensure children and families are stable, thriving, and supported
“We are here to meet the needs of Henry County,” Barbara said “Whether it’s helping a family pay rent or utilities, putting a homeless family in a hotel, or connecting a mother with diapers and wipes for her newborn we are the go-to organization.”
Though programs like SWAG (Students Working to Achieve Greatness) ended in 2021 due to pandemic-related funding cuts, Connecting Henry remains resilient, continuing its mission to help families stay housed, offer job-readiness and softskills training, and build a healthier, more connected community
Collaboration is at the core of Connecting Henry’s success. The organization partners with Henry County Schools, Piedmont Hospital, DFCS, Young Dreamers International, local churches, and other nonprofits to avoid duplicating efforts and instead multiply impact
“We believe in collaborating, not competing,” Barbara emphasized “Together is stronger, together is better If we’re all working toward the same goal, why not work together?”
Through partnerships with organizations like Soles for Souls, Connecting Henry has distributed over 750 brand-new pairs of shoes to children and homeless families Their monthly collaborative meetings bring together local leaders, nonprofits, faith-based groups, and businesses to address pressing issues from homelessness to maternal health to low birth weight rates in Henry County
Connecting Henry recently moved to a prime location at 162 Keys Ferry Street, right next to McDonough City Hall The move has increased walk-ins and made the organization more accessible than ever.
“With the city’s support, we’re not just keeping our doors open we’re helping McDonough realize its vision of a healthier community,” Barbara said This location has also become a hub for donations. From toiletries and socks to financial contributions, every donation helps the organization keep families stable and connected
One of the most exciting opportunities to support Connecting Henry is just around the corner: the Bell Bottoms Ball This annual signature fundraiser will take place on October 18 at Eagles Landing Country Club and promises a night of entertainment, networking, and giving back.
Guests are encouraged to pull out their bell bottoms, platform shoes, and Afro wigs for a 70s-themed night, complete with live music, a red carpet, dinner, and live art by celebrated artist Tamara Gammon, who will create a oneof-a-kind painting during the event
Proceeds from the event will go toward general operations including staff salaries, emergency hotel placements for homeless families, cleaning supplies for struggling households, and more October 18: The Bell Bottoms Ball
Barbara was candid about the urgent homelessness crisis in Henry County, noting that the majority of those affected are single women and families who have fallen on hard times due to job loss, illness, or rising housing costs
“We receive about 2,000 calls a month,” Barbara shared “Entire families are living in cars or doubling up in crowded homes This isn’t a ‘big city’ problem it’s happening right here in Henry County” Her message was clear: compassion and action are critical. “We must resist being judgmental. Any one of us could find ourselves in that situation. It’s God’s grace and mercy that we are where we are today.”
ConnectingHenryinvitescommunitymembers to:
Donate:Financialgifts,toiletries,socks,and householditemscanbedroppedoffattheir McDonoughoffice.
Volunteer:Helpdistributegoods,mentor youth,orassistwithprograms.
JointheBoard:Theywelcomediversevoices toensuretheorganizationrepresentsthe entirecommunity.
AttendtheBall:Purchasetickets,sponsora table,orsimplyspreadtheword. Formoreinformation,visit connectinghenry.org,followthemonFacebook, orstopbytheirofficenexttoMcDonoughCity Hall.
written by Shawn Raleigh
“For Georgia, with a 33% Black population, reparations mean allocating 33% of the $16 billion state budget—about $5.28 billion—to empower Black families. It’s not a handout. It’s a promissory note that needs to be fulfilled.”
Game Changers Magazine sat down with State Representative Derrick Jackson, a Democratic candidate for Governor of Georgia, to discuss his vision for leadership, his military background, and why he believes 2026 is a turning point for Georgia politics.
Representative Jackson pulls no punches when it comes to addressing the Democratic Party’s challenges. “African Americans were told in 2020 that putting someone in office who looked like us would bring real change,” Jackson said. “That promise has not been fulfilled.”
He points to polling numbers that reveal growing frustration: Democrats at 34% favorability—the lowest in nearly four decades—while Republicans, even with a deeply flawed candidate, poll higher at 39%.
For Jackson, the solution lies in authentic, proven leadership. With 22 years of decorated military service, rising from enlisted E-1 to retiring as a
Lieutenant Commander, he stresses the importance of discipline, honor, and service. “Eighty percent of Americans, regardless of party, respect the military. That crossover appeal matters We need someone who has sworn the oath and stood ready to defend the Constitution”
ChallengingtheStatusQuo
Jackson criticized the Democratic Party for allowing its opponents to control the narrative. “Game Changers Media Network wouldn’t let another company define its brand—and the Democratic Party shouldn’t either. Since 1964, Black men and women have carried this party: 92% of Black women and 80% of Black men voted Democrat in 2024. Yet too often, we’re left behind.”
Jackson’s platform extends beyond politics it’s about economic justice for all Georgians. He highlighted the loss of more than 318,000 jobs for Black women and 571,000 jobs for Black people in just the past year due to attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives
His answer: invest in rural Georgia, where too many communities feel forgotten. He proposes new infrastructure, distribution of casino projects outside Atlanta to create regional jobs, and high-speed rail to connect Georgia to the global stage
“Plants and jobs are shifting closer to Atlanta, but rural Georgians deserve opportunity too. Why not put a casino in Camden, Columbus, or Blue Ridge? Why are we stuffing everything into Atlanta?”
Georgia’s air quality and healthcare crisis weigh heavily on Jackson’s agenda. “Out of 159 counties, only 13 require emissions testing Pollution doesn’t stay in Atlanta it affects all of us.”
He calls for statewide air quality monitoring, expanded healthcare access, and embracing green energy solutions From geothermal housing developments to energy-efficient grants for small businesses, Jackson envisions a cleaner, more sustainable Georgia
On one of the most debated issues, Jackson did not hesitate: “I’m the only candidate openly talking about reparations”
He explained the history: President Lincoln authorized reparations not for freed slaves, but for slave owners, who were paid $300 per
enslaved person and granted millions of acres of land Black people, promised “40 acres and a mule,” received nothing
“For Georgia, with a 33% Black population, reparations mean allocating 33% of the $16 billion state budget about $5.28 billion to empower Black families It’s not a handout It’s a promissory note that needs to be fulfilled”
Derrick Jackson isn’t selling empty promises he’s running on service, sacrifice, and a cleareyed vision for Georgia’s future. “If I don’t do what I say I’ll do, don’t give me another term,” he told us
From reparations to rural economic development, from healthcare to green energy, from jobs to justice, Jackson positions himself not just as a candidate, but as a commander ready for Georgia’s next chapter Game Changers Magazine will continue following this race closely.
“My neighbors saved my son’s life. God used them. They got him to where he needed to go for his life to be saved.”
written by Shawn Raleigh
On the morning of May 29, 2025, life looked bright for actor and musician Tray Chaney beloved for his roles on The Wire and beyond. He and his 19-year-old son Malachi had just left V-103 after a celebratory on-air reunion with Big Tigger and Snoh “Snoop” Pearson, part of a press run marking the show’s 23rd anniversary Lunch at Malachi’s old job, a quick stop at home to pack, then a flight to DC for a niece’s graduation and an early birthday celebration for Malachi on June 1 A family weekend was loading
By afternoon, the sky shifted Wind became a roar that “sounded like a train inside the house” Walls and TVs tore loose Tray felt the bed lift as if gravity quit In the next frame he remembers: mud in his mouth, sheet wrapped around his face, the roof gone and one thought pounding through the chaos: “Where’s my son?”
Neighbors became first responders, sprinting through rain and debris Malachi had been thrown roughly 300 feet into the woods When emergency crews reached him, he was alive Tray bleeding from a head injury was transported to Piedmont Henry Malachi was airlifted to Grady for trauma care.
The doctor’s list that night was brutal: broken ribs, fractures across the face, a cervical spine injury, lacerations, and a brain injury. Tray curled in a chair, pain beyond tears. “If I had lost my son,” he admits, “we wouldn’t be having this conversation.” Malachi survived.
“LoveThyNeighbor”Isn’taMetaphor
Tray refuses to tell this story without elevating the people who ran toward danger
“My neighbors saved my son’s life. God used them. They got him to where he needed to go for his life to be saved.”
City leaders, lodge brothers, pastors, and friends showed up with prayers, food, dumpsters, tarps, and time. In a world quick to brand itself, Locust Grove officials, James Earl Acey Lodge #600, and countless unnamed neighbors just worked. No lights. No speeches. Just love in boots
“Our biggest role isn’t on TV —it’s real life.”
“Goddidn’tdothis,”Traysaysplainly “Godsaved us”HespeaksoftheBookofJob,ofafaiththat refusestobreak,ofhumilityresetbyforce Money, cars,clothes gone Thechainheworenevercame off;theringheexchangedwithAisha,hiswifeof20 years,turnedupinthewreckagelikeaparable. “Wealreadydidthe‘bestrong’part.Wesurviveda tornado Now?Prayforus”
Foramanknownforcharismaandgrind,the missionnowisstrippedandbigger:walkwithGod, tellthetruth,healoutloud
Aisha Chaney didn’t ride out the storm in the house; she lives in its aftermath. She works from wherever Malachi is 24 hours a day since May 29 balancing wife, mother, fashion designer, advocate, and anchor Tray won’t speak for her pain, but he honors the weight she carries: watching an independent college sophomore become a patient overnight and fighting for his tomorrow.
Today, Shepherd Center is Malachi’s gym, school, and proving ground The regimen is strict: showers, meals, PT/OT, brain rehab, mental health repeat On night one he tried to take himself to the bathroom; staff had to remind the fighter to let healing set the pace. Even so, therapists say his progress is remarkably fast; youth and will are working
Meanwhile, Tray and Aisha live in a hotel Insurance forms. Adjusters. Rental cars. Receipts. Life shrunk to a carry-on bag and a Bible he held aloft in the lot where a home once stood Each day is logistics and grief, gratitude and grind
Tray talks often about Jason Wilson’s book and the idea of a comprehensive man—strong and vulnerable, protector and nurturer, unashamed to cry
“You’re not soft because you cry. You’re human.”
He’s bathed his teenage son. He’s lifted prayers over strangers who now stop him in stores—not to ask about TV, but to ask to pray with him. The platform has shifted. The purpose has not
What’s next? Tray’s careful with plans now. But he sees it: Father–Son testimony tour on survival, faith, and brain injury awareness
A docuseries or film “the biggest role of our lives is the reality role we’re already living”
Partnerships that educate families on TBI recovery, PTSD, and disaster readiness
More daily honesty online—journaling, tears, workouts by a hospital bed, the wins and the setbacks “Why me? Why not me. God gave us a story to give other people hope.”
“We went toe-to-toe with a tornado and won—because we’re still breathing.”
May29,2025–V-103interview.AfternoontornadodestroystheCheneyhome.Trayinjured;Malachi foundinwoodsandairliftedtoGrady. May29–June–ICU,surgeries,stabilization,andtransfertoShepherdCenter.
Summer2025–Rapidprogressinrehab;familyrelocatestohotel;rebuildandinsurancelabyrinth begin.
Today–Theworkcontinues:therapy,paperwork,faith,andcommunity.
Tray is clear about what helps.
Pray If you don’t know what to say,say that you’re praying. Be kind.You have no clue what people are carrying. Support the rebuild.Tray’s
GoFundMe is linked in his bio at @traychaneyvision
Check on your people.Hug them like it could be the last time.
If you or a loved one is navigating trauma recovery, Tray’s family wants you to know you’re not alone Talk about it Cry through it Write through it Healing is work and it’s holy.
Follow @traychaneyvision for updates Keep the Cheneys in your prayers And keep being Game Changers because communities heal when neighbors run toward the storm
Sherry Ann Devouse-Dennard, Agent 422 Highway 155 S
McDonough, GA 30253
Bus: 678-782-3005
Mon-Friday 9am - 5pm
Saturday 9am - 1pm
sherr y.a.devouse - dennard.xd 8s@statefarm.com
WrittenbyChiltonStewart
How Rhonda Crockett is rewriting what “quality of life” looks like for adults living with IDD—and honoring our elders along the way
Walk into A New Well, Inc. on Rock Quarry Road and you’ll feel it before you see it: an atmosphere of dignity. Conversation hums, friends swap weekend stories, staff greet folks by name—and somewhere down the hall, the kitchen is plating up a hot meal that tastes like home. For founder and CEO Rhonda Crockett, this isn’t just a program. It’s a promise
“I want the people we serve to enjoy the same simple things many of us take for granted—being with friends, going to the movies, working a job, even going on a date,” Crockett says. “Safety and health are the foundation. But belonging that’s the life.”
From conversation to community
A frequent guest on our Voices of the Village podcast, Crockett embodies our mantra that change starts with conversation and then becomes action. Through A New Well, Inc., she and her team deliver a continuum of care for adults living with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD)—from ages 18 to 100—across Georgia and additional states. Services include: Home health: nursing support and personal care delivered right where people live.
Day programs: Monday–Friday, six hours a day of structured activities, socialization, and skills-building among peers. Group homes: 24/7 residential care focused on safety, independence, and community inclusion.
What sets A New Well apart is its insistence on real life. High-functioning participants are offered paid part-time roles maintenance, meal prep, building support either in the community or within the facility. “Earning a paycheck changes everything,” Crockett says. “It teaches responsibility, money skills, and pride. Our folks don’t just participate—they contribute.”
Crockett didn’t begin in healthcare She studied criminal law at Shaw University, built an IT career at AT&T/BellSouth, and could have stayed the course But then came the turning point: her grandmother who helped raise her needed a rehab stay after an injury
“My family promised we would never leave her alone,” Crockett recalls “For three months, we rotated so a familiar face would be there each time she woke up” What the family witnessed during those long days elders going weeks without a visit, people not consistently changed or cared for stayed with her “It struck something inside me I knew there had to be more options to help people stay home longer with dignity or to make residential care truly feel like care.”
RhondaCrockettisproof thatcompassionate leadershipscales.Byturning afamilypromiseintoa regionalcaremodel,she’s changingwhat“qualityof life”meansforadultsliving withIDD—whilehonoringthe elderswhotaughtherhowto love.That’sablueprintworth duplicating,onewellata time.
Why “A New Well”?
ThenamecomesfromGenesis26,where Abrahamkeepsdiggingwells freshwater, newresources forgenerationshemaynever meet.“That’stheheartofourwork,”Crockett says “Whenweseeagap,we‘dig’ transportation,ADLsupport,nursing, communityoutings whateverittakesto makewaterflowwhereit’sdry” AtANewWell,“digging”lookspracticaland personal:ridestomedicalappointmentsand daycenters,helpwithhousekeepingand meals,supportwithactivitiesofdailyliving, andanetworkofpartnerstoexpand resources Italsolooksjoyful:salonservices, bustlingcommunitycalendars,andthekindof kitchenthatkeepsfolkssmiling.(Ifyouknow, youknow friedappleswithbiscuitsand gravycanfixaslowmorning ShoutouttoMs BrendaandMs Sandrainthekitchen )
Cover Story AGranddaughter’sLove
Crockett’s mission doesn’t stop with IDD services
In honor of the grandparents who raised her “one sweet as pie, one a straight thug,” she laughs she launched A Granddaughter’s Love, a nonprofit dedicated to seniors and vulnerable adults The organization supplies undergarments, PPE, medical essentials, food, and housing support, plus connections to legal, financial, and health resources
“Not everyone has a granddaughter who can show up,” she says. “So we built a network that can.”
Thebusinessofcare—ledbya womanwholivesit
Crockett is clear: this is women-in-business leadership with a purpose She manages a growing, high-performing team; operates facilities with rigor; and demonstrates that compassionate care can scale without losing heart. “When someone tells me, ‘Ms. Rhonda, I love it here,’ that means everything,” she says. “It tells me we’re getting the big things right and the little things that make life feel like life”
Her day-to-day is bookended by her favorite title Grandma “Those two boys, four and two, keep me busy Hearing ‘Grandma!’ reminds me why this matters Family is the model We try to make our services feel like that ”
Ask Crockett about the future and you’ll hear more “wells” more routes for transportation, more partnerships, more doors into meaningful work, and more families who never have to choose between love and capacity “Caregiving is a lot,” she acknowledges “Our job is to make it lighter, smarter, and more human”
When Rhonda Crockett talks about the people her organization serves, she doesn’t say “clients” She says “friends” That one word tells you everything about A New Well, Inc. a fast-growing, Georgiaborn care network Rhonda built from personal passion and lived experience to deliver respect, choice, and community for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and seniors
Today, from its home base in Stockbridge, A New Well serves communities across the state with a hands-on model that centers dignity and voice The team has expanded to 62 employees nurses, direct support professionals, administrators, and drivers who share Rhonda’s simple north star: quality of life, without excuses.
Beyond the day center, A New Well operates 24/7 group homes (including in Fayette County) designed for safety, independence, and comfort. Staffing matches individual needs one to three team members per shift—with hot meals, routines, and the freedom to be themselves. When people compare options, they choose A New Well’s homes again and again.
Transportation: The Lifeline Between Home and Community
Transportation is a barrier for many and Medicaid doesn’t cover it. A New Well runs a fleet of seven vehicles, including wheelchair-accessible vans, to get friends to the center, medical appointments, and community activities. Rides are provided free of charge to families, an effort sustained in part through its sister nonprofit, A Granddaughter’s Love, Inc. (Donations help put gas in tanks, keep professional drivers on the road, and say “yes” when someone needs a ride.)
“We don’t just provide services— we build a life people are excited to wake up for.”
Medicaid policy is shifting nationwide, but Rhonda is clear: most current A New Well friends adults with developmental disabilities and elders needing skilled care remain covered New applicants, however, may face hurdles The A New Well office walks families through resources, eligibility, and coverage options (Medicaid, Medicare, or private insurance) and partners with other providers statewide when staffing or geography requires
A New Well is designed to erase the “they’re not like us” myth. Friends choose groups, drink coffee if they want coffee, take breaks when they need breaks, and head out to Special Olympics, pools, water parks even roller coasters at Six Flags if that’s their joy. The goal is confidence in public spaces and belonging everywhere
One friend, Edward, greets visitors with the pep of a tour guide and the following of a local celebrity 10,000+ on social media—proud to show what thriving looks like. That’s the power of being seen.
Growth brings need. A New Well is seeking nurses and direct support professionals statewide who believe in person-first care, safety, and joy. If that’s you, they want to hear from you.
On our Voices of the Village podcast, we watched a day unfold: haircuts, high-fives, handwriting, and hoops; staff who listen first; and friends who lead. Rhonda is there five days a week, 40+ hours, modeling what love-in-action looks like. It’s not complicated. It’s culture.
Game Changers Salute:
Game Changers Salute: To Mayor, Council, Main Street, and the City of Stockbridge—thank you for showing up big at A New Well’s grand opening and for continuing to champion inclusive community
A New Well, Inc. • Stockbridge, GA • Serving Georgia statewide
Because every friend deserves respect, choice, and a joyful life—no excuses.
As early voting week kicks off across Henry County, Councilwoman Vanessa W. Thomas has officially qualified to run for re-election to her City of McDonough At-Large seat — and her track record speaks volumes
In a political climate where words often outweigh work, Thomas has spent the past three and a half years proving that progress is possible when leadership meets integrity. Her message is clear: “We’ve accomplished much, but there’s still more to do”
UnderthejointleadershipofMayorSandraVincentandthe McDonoughCityCouncil,Thomashasbeeninstrumentalin initiativesthatupliftresidentsandstrengthenthecity’s infrastructure Building Opportunity & Strengthening Community
Through a partnership with The Goodwill Career Center, the city hosted job fairs that directly connected McDonough residents with local employers a tangible effort to tackle unemployment and expand opportunity
She also helped organize the “Know Your Rights” seminar, educating citizens on safe and informed interactions with law enforcement a move that reinforced transparency and trust between residents and police
CouncilwomanThomas’dedicationto professionalgrowthhasnotgoneunnoticed. ShehasearnedrecognitionfromtheGeorgia MunicipalAssociation(GMA)forcompleting significantmunicipaltrainingmilestones:
•CertificateofRecognition–42traininghours
•CertificateofAchievement–72traininghours
•CertificateofExcellence–120traininghours Herfocusonaccountabilityandresultsis reflectedinherworktoreviseTitle17(Zoning Ordinance),incorporatingdevelopment timelinesthatpreventdecade-longproject delays—ensuringMcDonoughgrowssmarter, notjustlarger
From public safety to social services, Thomas has championed initiatives that directly impact McDonough families.
She supported the creation of the City’s Health and Human Services Department (Connecting Henry), allocating ARPA funding to provide shelter, food, rental, and utility assistance for city residents Additional ARPA funds were directed to NCRAD (National Community of Resources and Development), helping homeowners with critical home repairs — a reflection of Thomas’ hands-on approach to community care
In a bold move to enhance economic fairness, she also voted to raise the minimum wage for city employees to $18 per hour, ensuring the city practices the equity it preaches.
Public safety and quality of life remain at the forefront of her platform. Thomas helped approve the installation of FLOCK cameras across McDonough to enhance law enforcement capabilities and reduce crime through technology.
She also backed street repaving and lighting projects across multiple neighborhoods, reinforcing her commitment to keeping McDonough both safe and well-maintained.
Her advocacy for updated ordinances on panhandling and loitering demonstrated her focus on balancing compassion with community protection.
Councilwoman Thomas has supported key measures to protect McDonough’s charm while modernizing its infrastructure She voted for a moratorium on multifamily zoning districts and hotel developments, ensuring controlled and responsible growth Her leadership also played a role in securing ARPA funds for park upgrades, studying flood issues in the Blacksville community, and the purchase of the historic Hazelhurst House for city events preserving McDonough’s heritage while expanding its horizons
writtenbyKaylonTruitt
When you meet Aisha Ellen, you hear two things immediately: purpose and people Macon is her home by heart and by history and as the first African American Executive Director of Keep Macon-Bibb Beautiful (KMBB), she’s using a lifetime of corporate discipline and community insight to widen the circle of who gets seen, heard, and served Born in Paterson, New Jersey, Ellen moved to Macon in 1980 to live with her grandparents part of a family lineage rooted in North Macon since 1894, when her great-great-grandfather, once enslaved, became a landowner. She graduated from Southwest High, earned a BBA in Management from Georgia Southern University, then sharpened her leadership in the private sector retail management at Kmart, followed by more than a decade at Coca-Cola After completing a Master’s in Public Administration, she pivoted to service, joining the leadership team of District Attorney Anita Reynolds Howard as Director of Outreach, Engagement & Diversity.
In 2021, Macon-Bibb’s mayor appointed Ellen to KMBB’s board Six months later, she was asked to lead it “I grew up here and had never really seen the organization,” she says “If I missed the message, who else was missing it? My mission became simple: reach every part of Macon east, west, north, and south”
“We all want clean, safe, beautiful neighborhoods. That common ground is where we start—and then we build together.” —Aisha Ellen
Founded in 1974 by Carolyn Crayton, KMBB is a 501(c)(3) affiliate of Keep America Beautiful (with support from Keep Georgia Beautiful). The organization’s roots run deep Crayton also launched the International Cherry Blossom Festival, which began as a one-day KMBB celebration and has grown into a 10-day signature event that draws the world to Macon each spring. Ellen honors that legacy while expanding its reach. Early in her tenure, she heard a hard truth: for some, KMBB felt “elitist”—more present in certain zip codes than others. So she went to work reengineering trust, neighborhood by neighborhood, meeting with Neighborhood Watch groups, faith leaders, school principals, seniors, and youth. She also built proactive partnerships with Solid Waste, Code Enforcement, Parks & Recreation, Parks & Beautification, and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office serving as a community-to-government liaison who can move a concern from phone call to action.
Under Ellen’s leadership, KMBB is doubling down on tree equity especially in neighborhoods hit hardest by extreme heat and asthma. The team has planted trees at schools and playgrounds to cool blacktop, improve air quality, and create shade where kids actually play
Macon’s beloved Yoshino cherry trees many now beyond their ~30-year life expectancy are also getting care With support from the Ficklin Family Foundation, KMBB is replacing aging trees and introducing new blossom varietiesso the city’s spring canopy remains iconic for decades to come
“Beautification is mental health, too. When a child walks past blight every day, it takes a toll. Hope looks like a clean block, a safe park, a shaded playground.” —Aisha Ellen
Ellen is candid about a challenge most residents never see: Macon-Bibb doesn’t operate its own landfill, so waste is hauled to neighboring counties. Meanwhile, recycling only works if communities know what to recycle and how it’s processed locally (For example: glass isn’t currently accepted in Macon-Bibb, even though glass can be recycled elsewhere )
That’s why KMBB is pursuing school-based recycling pilots and broader waste-reduction education, supported in part by beverage-industry partners who are investing to reclaim plastics and aluminum Ellen’s advice to families is refreshingly practical:
Start simple: Prioritize plastic bottles and aluminum cans and recycle them correctly.
Reduce, then recycle: Use a refillable water bottle to cut plastic consumption (and save money).
Know your rules: Call Solid Waste or City Hall, or check the county website for accepted items.
Ask for a bin: In Macon-Bibb, residents can request a recycling cart at no extra fee.
“Everything comes back to education and design,” Ellen says. “Some cities ‘opt you in’ automatically to recycling. Whether it’s policy or pilot programs, we want to make the right thing the easy thing.”
Yourself—and Your City North, South, East, West: One MaconBibb
Ellen speaks plainly about the geography of inequality South Macon’s struggles, historic communities like Unionville, Pleasant Hill, and Fort Hill, and the perception gap between north-side corridors and blocks where blight, illegal dumping, and overgrown lots cloud daily life Her strategy is not to shame or scold, but to organize and include:
Residents first: Support active Neighborhood Watch groups and help reactivate dormant ones
Agency partners: Align with city departments to clear debris, c ite violations, and fix what’s fixable
Data to dollars: Use small wins to unlock grants and scale the model district by district
“Government can’t do it alone. Nonprofits can’t do it alone. Residents can’t do it alone. But together? We can change the texture of a neighborhood.” Aisha Ellen
Looking back to 1994, Ellen smiles at her marketing degree. “I thought it was just a ticket to a job. It turned out to be a toolkit for life—learning to market my values, my work, and my community” That mindset now fuels her day-to-day: building coalitions, crafting messages people can use, and turning conversations into commitments.
Game Changers Magazine salutes Aisha Ellen and the Keep Macon-Bibb Beautiful team for leading with equity, listening first, and proving one park, one street, one school at a time that shared work creates shared beauty
Ronald Watts increasedthirst,frequenturination, fatigue,blurredvision,andslowwound healing. Symptoms To Look For:
Approximately 34.2 million people in the United States, or about 10.5% of the population, have diabetes.
Approximately34.2million peopleintheUnitedStates,or about10.5%ofthepopulation, havediabetes.
Thevastmajorityof diabetescasesintheU.S. aretype2diabetes, accountingforabout9095%ofalldiagnosed cases
written by Branson Hartsfield
In a time where influence often gets reduced to likes, follows, and filters, Robert Taylor III, also known as Mr Versee, stands out—not just as a voice, but as a vessel. A vessel of truth. A vessel of transformation. A vessel of testimony
When he speaks, you don’t just hear words you hear weight. A weight carried from years of growing up without a father present, yet not without purpose. A weight carried from the streets to the sanctuary, from pain to the pulpit, and now—into the heart of a generation desperate for direction.
Robert is the founder of DTA – Different Than The Average, a movement, ministry, and mindset committed to reshaping how young men view life, legacy, and leadership. What began as a personal calling evolved into a platform for mentoring, publishing, performing, and pastoring empowering young people to discover their purpose while overcoming pain.
"I was that kid," he says with conviction during our interview on Voices of the Village Podcast. "The biggest thing my dad gave me was his name. I didn’t get birthday gifts. I didn’t get Christmas gifts. What I did get, though, was questions. And no answers."
That void left by an absent father could’ve turned him bitter. But instead, it birthed in him a burning desire to be the man he never had growing up. Through his work with Streetz of Gentlemen—a 10+ year mentorship initiative rooted in the motto "Educate the Mind, Elevate the Spirit, Eliminate the Stereotype"—Robert has directly impacted thousands of young men across South Metro Atlanta and Henry County, GA
From partnering with Sheriff Reginald Scandrett to working alongside District Attorney Darius Pattillo, Mr. Versee and his team are building bridges where society once saw brokenness
Duringthepodcast,Robertspokecandidlyabout thefinalconversationhehadwithhisfatherthe nightbeforehepassedaway “Hetoldme,‘Yougottakeepgoing.Godmadeyou todobigthings Don’tstop’Thatwasthelast thinghesaidtome Andwhenhepassedthat nextmorning man,itchangedsomethinginme Itremindedmehowpowerfulafather’swords are”
It’snotjustaboutabsence it’saboutaccess.And Robertiscommittedtogivingyoungmenaccess topositivemalefigures.Hestressesthe importanceofthevillage frommentorstoyouth pastors,teacherstocoaches.“Everybodyplaysa part,”heinsists “Youneverknowwhatone conversationcando” The Father Wound and
"People expect the ministry to come from the pulpit. But God’s power often shows up in our pain," says Robert. “We’re living Bible characters. Our stories matter.”
His two books “Beyond the Yes” and “Different: Being a Youth Leader That Really Makes a Difference” reveal a raw, transparent approach
“I just want to do two things— get people to Christ and motivate dreamers.”
to leadership. He teaches others how to share their testimony effectively and reminds us that our imperfections don’t disqualify us—they equip us
“When I go into schools, I tell them the three G’s the devil uses to steal destiny: Gold, Girls, and Glory. That’s what’ll snatch your future if you don’t stay grounded.”
As a youth coach and mentor, Robert doesn’t sugarcoat anything. "Not everyone is going pro in sports or entertainment. That’s just the truth. But everyone can win in life if they discover their purpose, embrace discipline, and hustle with integrity”
His challenge to Black communities? Broaden the narrative. Encourage entrepreneurship. Promote trades. And cultivate the next generation of real change agents—beyond the court or stage
So what’s next for Robert Taylor III? More books More music More mentorship More ministry And a full commitment to raising up the next wave of voices who don’t just speak change they live it
written by Dominque Huff
In a cycle defined by anxiety and exhaustion, Judge Carlos Moore strides into Georgia’s 13th Congressional District with a promise as direct as his name: more backbone in Washington, more protection for everyday families, and more pushback against what he calls an authoritarian drift in American government. A civil-rights attorney, former municipal judge, and past president of the National Bar Association, Moore is mounting a Democratic bid to represent GA-13 an Atlanta-area seat spanning parts of Clayton, Henry, Rockdale, Newton, DeKalb, and Gwinnett counties. (davidscott.house gov)
Moore’s argument begins with first principles: the rule of law and the separation of powers. The Supreme Court’s 2024 decision in Trump v. United States—which recognized absolute criminal immunity for a president’s “core” constitutional acts and presumptive immunity for official acts landed like a thunderclap for many democracy advocates, Moore among them. To him, it wasn’t an academic footnote; it was a flashing warning light about concentrated executive power. (Supreme Court)
“Perilous times,” he calls this moment. In our conversation on Voices of the Village—“where change starts with conversation”—Moore sketches a government he says too often bends toward strongmen instead of citizens: emergency moves that sidestep Congress, culture-war edicts that punish the vulnerable, and budget brinkmanship
thatsqueezesworkingfamilies Hisreadisn’t happeninginavacuum:justthisweek,House DemocraticLeaderHakeemJeffriesblastedthe Trumpadministration’stacticsaroundfundingfights, underscoringhowunstablegovernanceisrippling intodailylife.(DemocraticLeaderHakeemJeffries)
Ifelected,Mooresayshe’llbeoneofJeffries’ “lieutenants” areliablevotetocheckexecutive overreachandtoshoreupkitchen-tableguarantees likeSocialSecurity,Medicare,Medicaid,SNAP,and universalschoolmeals.Thestakes,heargues,are visibleonyourreceiptandinyourchild’scafeteria line (Recenthigh-courtgrantsoflatitudetothe executive likeallowingafreezeofbillionsin congressionallyappropriatedforeignaid only deepenhisurgencytorebalancepowerbacktoward thepeople’sbranch.)(APNews)
From the Bench to the Ballot
Moore’s résumé reads like a through-line of accountability. In 2017, on his first day as a Mississippi municipal judge, he removed the state flag from his courtroom because it bore the Confederate emblem —what he called “state-sanctioned hate speech.” It was an early, public statement about who gets to feel seen in a room where justice is rendered. (Mississippi Today)
He couples that symbolism with practical reform. As a judge, Moore launched an alternative-sentencing track for first-time, non-violent offenders—nudging teenagers toward diplomas, licenses, and jobs rather than records that shadow them for life. As a civilrights lawyer, he’s spent two decades litigating on behalf of people too often priced out of justice. That mix of moral clarity and managerial specificity is central to his pitch in GA-13
GA-13 is one of the nation’s most diverse districts majority-Black, rapidly growing, and economically varied, with warehouse corridors, suburban nodes, and small-business main streets threaded across six counties Moore’s economic plank is pragmatic: attract new industry with smarter incentives, backstop small businesses with predictable rules (including a graduated approach to wages that doesn’t crush mom-and-pop shops), and invest in modern transportation so residents can “live, work, and play” closer to home On immigration, he favors a lawful pathway to citizenship for non-violent, long-standing residents who are already powering Georgia’s economy (davidscott house gov)
Moore’s politics come with a parent’s edge. He talks about his newborn son and teenage daughter (who is on the autism spectrum) as reasons to make government feel less abstract and more useful: fully funded IDEA services and Title programs in schools; internships and youth councils to build a bench of local leaders; veteran care that actually delivers; and an American foreign policy that pairs Israel’s security with urgent humanitarian protections for Palestinian civilians He is blunt about party dynamics, too. Democrats, he says, can’t “go along to get along” and expect different outcomes. Voters want a representative who shows up in school gyms, church pews, grocery aisles and then shows fight in committee rooms.
Moore doesn’t tiptoe around the incumbent era. After decades in office, Rep. David Scott remains a towering figure in district history, but Moore argues GA-13 needs a “battle-tested litigator” for a not-normal moment someone fluent in the Constitution and unafraid to challenge executive overreach, whoever wields it. That contrast will define a field that is likely to be crowded and competitive. (Ballot-watchers have already clocked Moore’s entry as one of the cycle’s intriguing insurgencies.) (Mississippi Free Press)
Elections set the ceiling for what’s possible and the floor for what’s protected With courts redefining presidential immunity and green-lighting aggressive executive maneuvers, the next House will matter more, not less Moore’s bet is that GA-13 wants a lawyer’s precision and a movementbuilder’s voice “all gas, no brakes,” as he likes to say to defend Democratic norms and deliver tangible wins.
In other words: if the era is calling for more, GA-13 might answer with Moore
Dr Bethune's vision was revolutionary for its time uniting 22 African American women’s organizations under one umbrella to pool resources, amplify impact, and speak with one voice. Today, NCNW has grown to include 38 national affiliate organizations and over 300community-based sections across the United States, all working toward the same mission: improving the quality of life for women, families, and communities of African descent
Here in Georgia, the NCNW State Coalition champions 30 community and collegiate sections, from Savannah to Valdosta, North Fulton to Henry and Clayton counties The Georgia coalition is led by State President Theresia Sims Carrington with State Secretary Brenda Winston among the dedicated leadership team
“We’re boots on the ground,” says Winston. “We believe in building community through service, economic empowerment, and collective action When we work together, we can accomplish far more than we can alone”
“We believe in building community through service, economic empowerment, and collective action. When we work together, we can accomplish far more than we can alone.”
The 2025 Georgia State Conference will be held at the Macon Coliseum and Marriott, welcoming members, partners, and the public for a series of impactful events:
Thursday, August 21 – Interest Group Meeting for women interested in learning about NCNW and joining a section in their community.
Friday, August 22 – Public Meeting & Community Service Project, including a major donation to combat period poverty in partnership with local shelters The evening will feature a member and community mixer.
Saturday, August 23 – Business Sessions & Workshops for NCNW members, including sessions on mental health, economic empowerment, democracy, and collegiate leadership. The luncheon keynote speaker will be Dr. Jeanine Abrams McLean of Fair Count
Council of Negro Women (NCNW) is an “organization of organizations”
· Founded in 1935 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune
· 350 campus and community-based sections
· Includes 37 national women’s organizations that connect more than 2 million women and men.
· Mission is to lead, advocate for, and empower women of African descent, their families and communities
· Led for forty years by the iconic Dr. Dorothy Height.
· National Headquarters on Pennsylvania Ave in Washington, DC
· Top Priorities include:
a. Education with STEAM
b. Economic Empowerment & Entrepreneurship
c. Health Equity
d. Social Justice
Following the state conference, NCNW Georgia will prepare for the National Affiliates Assemblyin Washington, D C this December, where thousands will gather to celebrate the organization’s 90-year legacy Winston says preserving historical records and stories will be a key priority moving forward“ If you know where you’ve come from, you can stand strong in building the future,” she says “Our history is our foundation.”
DeQoun “Daquan” Phillips carries the kind of testimony that makes a room go quiet It’s raw, unfiltered, and tragically familiar to far too many families in our community: a gifted kid with church roots, pulled into a street culture glamorized by music, fast money, and faster highs until a December night nearly cost him everything.
“The doctor told me I was on the verge of a stroke and a heart attack at the same time,” Phillips recalls “I looked at my mama crying in the corner and said, ‘God, if you stop this pain, I promise I’ll stop’ I’ve been clean ever since”
Phillips is a motivational speaker, survivor, and community advocate His story isn’t told to glorify darkness but to show a way out for young kings chasing a moment, for men and women numbing real pain, and for families praying their loved one makes it home.
Before the streets, there was structure. Phillips grew up with loving parents, a firm granddad, and grandmothers rooted deep in church. “We were raised on morals, respect, and principles,” he says. “Those old prayers? They still work ”
Like many ‘80s babies who came of age in the ‘90s, Phillips felt the pull of a culture shift. Music that once rallied us to “fight the power” was drowned out by what he calls “murder-murder, kill-kill, and the chase for attention.” Uncles, cousins, and neighborhood heroes modeled a life that looked like winning. “I wanted to try what I’d seen,” he admits. “The parties, the women, the cars attention will trick you.”
There were warning shots: something slipped in a drink, a rush to the hospital, and the eerie silence of friends who “didn’t see” anything But the wake-up call landed December 26, 2019
It started at 16, in an Atlanta strip club where a dancer put a line of cocaine in front of him and showed him how to use it.
“From that first hit, I chased the same high for 20plus years,” he says. “Coke, pills, alcohol—it became the only way I thought I could function.”
The highs came with felony charges and prison time— Jackson State, Hays State, Level 5. He came home to the same cycle: people ready with “a pack or some money to get back moving,” he says TheFirstHigh—anda20-YearChase
“I thought they loved me. Really, they were sucking me dry—my dope, my money, my mind.”
After a binge “an eight ball, heavy liquor, pills” Phillips woke up to blood pouring from his nose and mouth In the hospital, his arm pounded with his heartbeat, pain like a siren “I felt out of my body, like God letting me see the edge,” he says. “I promised Him: if You stop the pain, I’ll stop the life And He did” That vow became the hinge of his future “I’m scared to break that promise,” he says plainly. “Even after dental work I won’t touch heavy meds that make me feel geeked I protect my sobriety”
Phillips is blunt about the trap: “Attention is the new addiction. Back then we said women wanted attention —now a lot of men want it more.” Add in depression and untreated mental health, and the spiral accelerates
“We
grew up thinking mental health meant straitjackets. Nah. It’s your mind running wild at 3 a.m. That’s the battle that’ll make you take your own life if you don’t talk to somebody.”
He’s adamant: therapy is not weakness “I’ve been in therapy since my grandma passed In our culture we’re scared somebody will ‘tell our business’ These folks are licensed Get help Live”
hat changed? “I got tired,” he says Tired of burying friends. Tired of rehearsing the same pain. Tired of mistaking chaos for life
He chose marriage, fatherhood, work, and service and he’s turned his testimony into a lighthouse. Through speaking, mentoring, and showing up where the need is, Phillips is out to “change one mind every time”
“God gave me two chances,” he says “Some people don’t get one Some lose their minds, their limbs, or their lives. I owe Him my obedience and I owe our youth the truth”
Phillips never romanticizes his past He honors the elders who “stood on what they said” and calls today’s culture to do the same at home and in the streets
Parents: “Quit being your child’s friend Be their parent, protector, and teacher Friends can’t correct you.”
Church & Community: “If you build a gym for youth, staff it with instructors and mentors or it becomes a hangout. Programs must come with structure and purpose”
Leaders & Influencers: “Stop waiting until a funeral to show up If your platform’s big, use it to resource the people doing the daily grind the street ministers, the coaches, the aunties keeping food on the stove”
At Game Changers Media Network and Voices of the Village, we believe testimonies like DeQoun’s are prevention tools—maps that show the cliff’s edge and the road back home.
If you’re a mentor, coach, pastor, teacher, or just a neighbor with a porch light—this is your assignment. Pull a young person close. Fund a program. Offer a ride. Sit in the ER with somebody’s son. Village work is every day, not just the news cycle.
1. Attentionisn’tlove.Ifthe crowdonlylovesyourhigh, they’lldisappearwhenyou crash.
2. Thefirsthighisalie.You’ll chaseitforyearsandlose yourselfontheway.
3. Paperworkisreal.“First Offender”soundssweet—until youviolateanddoeveryday.
4. Therapyisstrength.Talkitout beforeyourmindtalksyouinto agrave.
5 Choosewisecoverage.Not everyhandlaidisholy.Protect yourspirit,yourcircle,your promise.
DeQounPhillipsisn’tsellingperfection.He’skeepinga promise toGod,tohismother,tohimself,andnowto thenextgeneration Hismessageissimple:youcan comehome.
“Thoseoldprayersstillwork,”hesays “Butweneed morethanprayers weneedpresence,purpose,and truth Let’sgetbacktobeingavillage” IfDeQoun’sstoryresonatedandyou’dlikehimto speaktoyourschool,church,orprogram,contact GameChangersMediaNetwork Let’schangethe narrative onehonestconversationatatime
