The conductor 3qtr 2013 by Overground RR!!

THE CONDUCTOR

3rd Qtr. 2013 ORR!! BUSINESS DIRECTORY www.overgroundrr.com

Official Publication of the Overground RR!!®

THE CONDUCTOR

Pages 13-16

The Official Newspaper of The Overground RR!!®

VOLUME 9 No. 3

The ORR WORSHIP CENTERS Anointed Word Evangelistic Tabernacle Anointed Vision of Hope Antioch AME Church Ariel Bowen UMC The Ark of Salvation The B.J. Holland Institute of Ministry Believers’ Bible Christian Church Ben Hill Christian Church Ben Hill UMC Bethesda Cathedral of the Apostolic Faith, Inc. Beulah Missionary Baptist Church Big Bethel AME Big Miller Grove Missionary Baptist Church Boatrock Baptist Church Butler Street Christian Methodist Episcopal Camy Arnett Ministries Calvary Baptist Church Calvary United Methodist Church Cascade United Methodist Church Chapel of Christian Love Christian Fellowship Baptist Church Chosen Generation C.O.G.I.C. Clarkston First Baptist Church Columbia Drive United Methodist Church Community Church of God Covenant Ministries DaySpring International Ministries, Inc. Dodd-Sterling UMC Ebenezer Baptist Church Elizabeth Baptist Church Emmaus Road Missionary Baptist Church The Enon Church Evangelistic New Life Worship Center Faith Walk Ministries, Inc. First AME Church First Corinth Missionary Baptist Church First Iconium Baptist Church First Victory Baptist Church Friendship Community Church Grace Community Fellowship Church Greater Heights Christian Church Greater Mount Carmel AME Greater Mountain Baptist Church Greater New Life Baptist Church Greater New Light Missionary Baptist Church The Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church Greenforest Community Baptist Church Headland Heights UMC Highly Favored Ministries Hillside International Truth Center, Inc. Holsey Chapel Christian Methodist Episcopal Hopewell MBC I Am Divine Believe and Receive Church Impact! Doing Church Differently International Christian Fellowship Jackson Memorial Baptist Church Joshua Generation Ministries International, Inc. Journey of Faith Church The Kingdom of God Evangelistic Outreach Ministry Liberty International Ministries Life Changing Ministries Life Line Church Light of the World Christian Tabernacle Lindsay Street Baptist Church Love Circle Truth Center Love Life Christian Fellowship Church Midway Missionary Church Miracles, Miracles and More Miracles Mission On The Move Mt. Calvary Baptist Church Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Mt. Carmel Baptist Church Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church Muhammed’s Mosque No. 15 New Beginnings Ministries New Fountain Worldwide Ministries New Jerusalem Baptist Church New Jerusalem Worship Center International New Life Tabernacle C.O.G.I.C. Omega Holiness Church Poplar Springs Baptist Church Powerhouse of Deliverance Cathedral Power of Faith Deliverance Ministry Providence Missionary Baptist Church Pure Praises Ministries Ray Of Hope Christian Church Redemptive Life Christian Fellowship Church Rehoboth Christian Center International Restoration Tabernacle, Inc. Salem Bible Church Solomon Temple Missionary Baptist Church St James Missionary Baptist Church St. John Missionary Baptist Church St. Mark AME Church St. Mark Lutheran Church St. Philip AME Church St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church The True Light Baptist Church Transform Lives Christian Church Trinity Tabernacle Baptist Church West End Seventh-Day Adventist Wheat Street Baptist Church Woods Memorial Baptist Church Word of Faith Love Center Word of God Ministries World Covenant Christian Center Zion Hill Baptist Church

The Call and the Response

3rd Qtr. 2013

ABOVE ALL THINGS MINISTRY “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” - III John 1:2

LISTEN TO

DR. KING’S LAST MESSAGE!! Listen to 2 ½ minute audio at www.Marching2March.org

r. King’s last message to us was to build up and support our own businesses. Throughout all of the celebration of the 50th anniversary of Dr. King’s “I Have A Dream” speech, you never heard a word spoken of Dr. King’s very direct and urgent mandate to us to become economically independent as a people.

Source: National Archives Pictured Above: The “I Have a Dream” speech, delivered by Civil Rights Activist Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on August 28, 1963, called for an end to racism in the United States and was delivered to over 250,000 civil rights supporters from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial.

Listen to the 2 ½ minute audio at www.Marching2March.org Overground RR!! ® pastors ask each and everyone of us to listen and have everyone you know to listen. Post it on your facebook page, e-mail it, text it, and tell everyone you can to listen. Then support the Overground RR!! ® in fulfilling Dr. King’s dream of a truly free Black community.

Community Income Spending Comparison Ethnicity

Population

Amt Spent (billions)

Bus. Revenues (billions)

Percent of Amount

Blacks

39,472,041

910

136

15%

Hispanics

48,232,635

978

350

36%

Asians

14,506,692

509

506

99%

Whites

244,493,339

$ 9,125

$ 24,061

263%

Well, Overground RR!! ® pastors are pointing the community to the lifechanging words of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., spoken on April 3, 1968 mere hours before he would lose his life. On that fateful night, Dr. King called for all of our people to practice a concept we now refer to as, “Kitchen Table Affirmative Action.” The speech that contained this profound call for action is most famous for the contents of the final stanza wherein he proclaims, “I’ve Been To The Mountaintop!” Of course, that part of the speech is climactically moving and inspiring. However, we have failed to pay attention to the very explicit instructions he also gave to us as a people. Specifically, he directed us to change the economic landscape of the Black community. Over the years, we have indulged in the emotional inspiration of the message - and rightfully so. But in the midst of our indulgence, it appears that we have overlooked the life-changing directive he gave regarding the essential need to build up and support our own businesses. Continued on page 2

Source: The Selig Center of the University of Georgia 2008. This study is conducted every 10 years.

ORR!!®

A•L•L•I•A•N•C•E•S

100 Black Men of Atlanta, Inc. • 100 Black Women of Atlanta • African American Philharmonic Orchestra • All Empowered Inc. American Kidney Services • Americolor Opera Alliance • Atlanta Be Someone • Atlanta Business League • Atlanta Citizen Review Board Atlanta Urban League • City of Atlanta, Minority Business Opportunities • Cleveland Ave Roy L. Yancy, Sr. Public Library Community Teen Coalition, Inc. • Concerned Black Clergy • FACAA • Fulton County Workforce Development Georgia Black Chamber of Commerce • GABEO • Georgia Prostate Cancer Coalition • Girl Scout Troop 9216 Greater Atlanta Economic Alliance • Greater Works, Inc. • Habesha Inc. • Healing Arts A-Z • Home Based Business Chamber of Commerce • House of Restoration, Inc. • Investment Atlanta, Inc. • Making The Transition, Inc. • MACEO’s Kids Foundation Metropolitan Atlanta Violence Prevention Partnership (MAVPP) • NAACP of Georgia • National Action Network National Stylist Association • Ropheka Rock of the World, Inc. • Sadie G. Mays Health & Rehabilitation Center • SCLC Show and Prove Youth Organization • Soul Food Museum • South Fulton Business Coalition • The B-Aware Foundation The Spirit of Sweet Auburn • True Dreams Showcase • Truly Living Well Center for Natural Urban Agriculture United Negro College Fund • University Community Academy • WAIN.TV

THE CONDUCTOR

3rd Qtr. 2013

www.overgroundrr.com

Letter From the Chairman What Effect Did 40 Years of Black Leaders Have on Atlanta? Aaron Turpeau, ORR Chairman

oday’s Black and White citizens of Atlanta have it better than any other place in the USA! Of course, we will always find something wrong and it is our responsibility to make an all out effort to improve. As far as Black people are concerned, we need a reality check!!!! We still live in the USA where equalization is not practiced. Forty years ago, Maynard Jackson became the first Black Mayor of Atlanta; he worked for equalization in jobs, services and economic development for the city. He put policies, procedures and practices in place to accomplish his agenda. Prior to his administration, the city had one Black department head; very few Black office workers and city services delivered to north side residents exceeded south side residents in quality and quantity. Less that 1% of city contracts went to Blacks in a progressive southern city of 70% Blacks and good white mayors. I used the term “equal” because Maynard insisted his cabinet be equally divided according to race and gender. As Departments Heads, we all knew the policies, the procedures and his personal review of the practices. Initially, white business owners refuted “The Atlanta Way” of 75% city contracts vs. their historically 99.5% city contracts. Finally, this practice was accepted, and the Atlanta City Chamber used it to champion international businesses and even used the theme to win the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. However, the reality of “The Atlanta Way” was a false start. Instead of open and equal policies, procedures and practices in the private sector, expanding young Black businesses of today are fighting the same government contracts of the 70’s and 80’s. I truly believe that if we return to “The Atlanta Way” and reset our goals to equality, reset our policies, change our procedures, and publicly review our practices, we will be a great city no matter the race of our mayor.

Official Publication of the Overground RR!!®

Continued from page 1

Forty years later, much like the people of God who wandered in the wilderness for forty years and then finally emerged and awakened, the inspirational pastors of The OvergroundRR!! ® are telling us to listen to Martin: [C]ollectively -- that means all of us together - collectively we are richer than all the nations in the world, with the exception of nine. Did you ever think about that? After you leave the United States, Soviet Russia, Great Britain, West Germany, France, and I could name the others, the American Negro collectively is richer than most nations of the world. We have an annual income of more than thirty billion dollars a year, which is more than all of the exports of the United States, and more than the national budget of Canada. Did you know that? That’s power right there, if we know how to pool it. . . . But not only that, we’ve got to strengthen black institutions. I call upon you to take your money out of the banks downtown and deposit your money in Tri-State Bank. We want a

“bank-in” movement in Memphis. Go by the savings and loan association. I’m not asking you something that we don’t do ourselves at SCLC. Judge Hooks and others will tell you that we have an account here in the savings and loan association from the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. We are telling you to follow what we are doing. Put your money there. You have six or seven black insurance companies here in the city of Memphis. Take out your insurance there. We want to have an “insurance-in.” Now these are some practical things that we can do. We begin the process of building a greater economic base... (Emphasis in original) Martin Luther King, Jr., I’ve Been to the Mountaintop speech delivered 3 April 1968 (Listen to the 2 ½ minute audio of edited excerpts at Marching2march.org). Following Dr. King’s instructions we now have the ORR!! ® Business Directory (see pages 13-15) to find businesses owned by members of our own community. It has become the central business directory in the

Atlanta Black community found in The Conductor newspaper which has grown to have the third largest circulation per issue in the State of Georgia. Additionally, the ORR!! ® Business Directory can also be found on the website, www.overgroundrr. com. It has grown to have more than 1 million hits per year. Ye s . . . t h e P a s t o r s o f t h i s g r e a t movement pointed us to the victories over the chained and Jim Crow terroristic slavery of our past. Our leaders pointed out that when Dr. King on April 3, 1968 directed us to start supporting our own businesses, Black spending was more than $30 billion dollars a year. Now, as shown in the chart on the front page, it is $910 billion dollars. We have truly been inspired by the past. By GOD’s grace with the OvergroundRR!! ®, we are prepared for the present. And as we all follow Dr. King’s directions by practicing Kitchen Table Affirmative Action, we are excited about the future. Get onboard the OvergroundRR!! ®

The ORR!!® welcomes new members... Churches

Businesses

First Corinth Missionary Baptist Church

Alliances

Alexander Marketing Group, LLC

Atlanta Citizen Review Board

American Family Insurance (Michael C. Gibbs Agency)

Georgia Prostate Cancer Coalition

I Am Divine Believe and Receive Church

Atlanta Life Financial Group

Healing Arts A-Z Inc.

The Bead Barette, LLC

Home Based Business Chamber of Commerce

The BizLynks Center

National Stylist Association

Have You Prayed Today (HYPT)

South Fulton Business Coalition

McKnight Roofing, Inc.

True Dreams Showcase

Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist New Life Tabernacle C.O.G.I.C.

Private Preferred Visionary People, LLC

Inside this issue... The Call and Response ...................................... 1 Letter from the Chairman..................................... 2 OvergroundRR!!® Pulpit........................................ 3 Heroes and Sheroes of the Church..................... 3 Arts,Gospel, Entertainment, Sports..................... 4 Business in the Black........................................... 4 Message from Chief Convener…………….....…. 5

Business

C-Suite............................................................…. 6 Atlanta Life Financial Group................................. 7 The BizLynks Center........................................... 8 The Bead Barrette........................................................ 9 HYPT........................................................................10 Visionary People...................................................11 Business Directory......................................... 13-15

Church

Church Station Conductors...…..………........16-18 St. Mark A.M.E. Church.......................................18 Enon Baptist Church............................................19 Ben Hill United Methodist Church.......…..……....20

Community

Georgia Prostate Cancer Coalition......................22 True Dreams........................................................23 GABEO............................................................... 23 First Fruit Natural Healing Home.........................24 Concerned Black Clergy............................................ 25

Visual Marketing Mentors, LLC William Foster Consultants, LLC Williams Security Wrought Iron Manufactures

Thanks for getting aboard …

THE CONDUCTOR STAFF Publisher Overground RR!!® Editor H.J.A. Alexander Editor/Writer Cassandra Smith Membership & Marketing Director Nash Alexander III

THE CONDUCTOR is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, art, and photographs. Views and opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Overground RR!!® or any member other than the author expressing them.

Communications Manager Kimberly Sheffield Design/Graphics Larry M. Newton Videographer/Photography Perfect Productions 101

Administrative Coordinators Vivian Benjamin/Juanita Love

Connecting Churches, Businesses and the Black Community for Unity and Prosperity

For more information contact: The Overground RR!!®

(404) 346-0808

www.OvergroundRR.com www.Marching2March.org

THE POWER TO PRODUCE WEALTH IN OUR COMMUNITY IS THROUGH SPIRIT-BASED COLLABORATION

Creating Economic Power in Our Community • Business Directory • Jobs in the Community Consumer Satisfaction • Church Centers for Business Referrals • Business/Consumer Accountability Membership Benefits • Email Newsletter • Referral Service • Arbitration of Disputes

THE CONDUCTOR

3rd Qtr. 2013

ORR!! Pulpit ®

Official Publication of the Overground RR!!®

www.overgroundrr.com

Overground RR!! Pulpit ®

Host Pastor Pastor Emeritus, Providence MBC Rev. Dr. Gerald L. Durley

Guest Pastor Pastor Bettye Holland Williams Hunter Hill First Missionary Baptist Church

Pastor Bettye Holland Williams got her “burning” before her “learning” of the Gospel. Ordained in 1996, this member of the Ministerial Team at Hunter Hill First Missionary Baptist Church is able to find inspiration in all of God’s words which is why she started The B.J. Holland Institute of Ministry in 2002. Let her fire be your light.

“God has granted me many opportunities to preach and teach his Word with power and conviction. The inspirational piece below is a part of my intentional and intense study of God’s Word. As a teacher, it is my gift to you.”

THE GOOD WORK IN YOU The one place God’s people are able to find encouragement and inspiration is in His word. So today, in God’s word, “Be confident in this very thing, that He that has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:6

hese words, given by the Apostle Paul, are especially for you who feel as though nothing is happening in your spiritual life. Paul says the good work that is in you was started by God and He will complete it. Whatever you are doing for the Kingdom, God started it. As soon as you accepted Jesus as Lord of your life, the good work started. Whatever God starts, He finishes. He is the author and finisher of our faith. Be encouraged, my brother, my sister, God will complete you and your good work. You are not behind, you are not late, but right on schedule. Even if you have had some setbacks or stumbling blocks---you are still on schedule. God knew those things would happen.

Paul says, be confident in this; God will complete it until Jesus returns, then it will all be over. But, until then, keep doing what you are doing. The devil wants you to believe you won’t be used by God unless you are preaching, teaching or on the “mission field”. But that might not be the “good work” God has put in you. He only completes what He starts. Maybe He started a good work in you to be an encourager. Keep doing it. He will complete it. Since the Lord is soon to come, He will soon complete the “good work” He has started in you. Be confident of that.

Heroes and Sheroes of the Church First Lady

Mother

Sister Sylvia T. Flippin is the proud wife of Dr.William E. Flippin Sr. and the First Lady of The Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church in Atlanta, GA. She and Dr.Flippin have been married for over 37 years. Dr. and Mrs. Flippin, Sr. are the proud parents of one daughter and three sons who continue the family legacy of preaching. Sister Flippin is an instructional coach for the DeKalb County Board of Education. She is a graduate of Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN, and holds a Masters degree in Education from Georgia State University. She has faithfully served The Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church since 1990 and serves on the executive board of The Flippin Legacy Ministries, The Pearl Initiative, Inc.and Pearls of Great Price Ministries, Inc. where she leads The Raising Ladies division of this ministry.

Mother Betty Carter is a Charter member of Omega Holiness Church over 20 years ago under the pastoral leadership of Rev. Dr. Richard Cobble, Founder/Pastor. Born and reared in Harrison County. Mother Betty headed up the well-known and highly-recognized feeding program at Omega Holiness, member of Usher Board, member of all hospitality and social activities of the Church. “Down through the Years, God’s been good to me” is one of her favorite songs, and is also her testimony. She credits her prayer life for keeping her going in all phases of her life and the church. Mother Betty is mother of four: two sons and two daughters; grandmother of 15 and greatgrand mother of 32. She is proud to be honored as a “Mother of the Church”.

Deacon

Auxillary

Deacon Edward Bonner is the Oldest deacon at First Iconium Baptist. He is an active member of Prayer posse, Civil Jubilee Club, Greeter committee, Male Chorus, Voices (Choir), Bible study. Now he is instrumental in organizing “Nubian Ministry”, a club of young men and boys. Find his greatest joy in visiting sick, shut-in and bereaved. He is modest but get joy from having people point out that he is their role model . He is in church for both early service and 11 am worship, every Sunday. He warns others that “God is nothing to play with so don’t take a detour to hell through the church”. Favorite songs: “A Charge to Keep I have” and “This Joy that I have”. He is married to Deaconess Jean Bonner, a very active member.

Coordinator Gloria Jones, Coordinator at Jackson Memorial Baptist Church, is strong yet compassionate; enterprising and innovative; truly a mover and a shaker. With these gleaming attributes and more in tow, she proudly sits at the helm of J.R. Crickets Social Cafe. As such, she has infused a burst of energy and excitement as well as a commendable economic boost in Atlanta’s South Fulton community. As part of her desire to serve others, Jones serves as the board chair for Another Way Out, a non-profit mentoring organization and was featured in the Atlanta’s Who’s Who’s. She is also a member of the South Fulton Chamber of Commerce, Atlanta business League and she was appointed to the American Red Cross’ Minority Recruitment Advisory Board. While Jones’ work is fulfilling and rewarding, the single mother of two enjoys spending quality time with her family as well as reading and golfing.

Rev. Randy Chris Berry, Sr., a native of Atlanta, is the loving husband of Regina Berry, an educator, and proud father of 3 children, Chris, Chelsea and Camille. Rev. Berry is the Evangelism and Outreach Ministry Leader of Word of Faith Love Center where he labors to reach out in the communities to show the love of Christ. Before serving in ministry, he served 4 years in the U.S, Navy and then earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Morehouse College. Since his college years, Rev. Berry has spent time in the community high schools mentoring students. Currently, he works as a Leadership Development Coordinator at Tri-Cities High School in East Point, GA. He also encourages businesses leaders across metro Atlanta to give back to the community through motivating a young life.

Greeter Sister Kenetta Muhammad is a Greeter at Muhammad Mosque #15 here in Atlanta, GA. She was born into the Nation of Islam and is currently working full-time and pursuing a Doctorate Degree in Physical Therapy. As a greeter, her position is important because she is representing the Mosque, and we all know “first impressions mold perception”. The mosque is a launching pad for many activities and is a place where people can repair or come out of a world that represents death to inhale the spirit of life in an atmosphere of peace, freedom, justice, and equality, to establish the Kingdom of God on Earth. A favorite verse in The Holy Quran is Surah 2:153, “O you who believe, seek assistance through patience and prayer; surely Allah (God) is with the patient.”

A.G.E.S.

3rd Qtr. 2013

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Arts

Arts Gospel Entertainment Sports

THE CONDUCTOR

AGES is the section of The Conductor that is directed towards highlighting Arts, Gospel, Entertainment and Sports activities and events taking place within the African-American ® Official Publication Overground community; and specifically featured or presented withinof thethe Metropolitan AtlantaRR!! area. To learn how your church, business or organization can get involved, please contact The Overground RR!!® office at 404-346-0808.

Spunk September 17 - October 13, 2013 14th Street Playhouse Written by George C. Wolfe Directed by Hilda Willis Musical Director S. Renee Clark

“I git to the git with some pain n’ some spit n’ some spunk.” The verdant, earthy language of Zora Neale Hurston (Their Eyes Were Watching God) is animated through the music of the blues in these three tales of love, revenge, and redemption. Adapted by George C. Wolfe (The Colored Museum) and featuring musical narration composed by blues artist Chic Street Man, Spunk breathes new life into these three remarkable short stories from the Harlem Renaissance.

Gospel ATLANTA GOSPEL FEST 2014: August 1-2, 2014 | Cobb Galleria Center

The 2014 9th annual Atlanta Gospelfest Music Health & Wellness Festival is scheduled to be held at the beautiful Cobb Galleria Center, Atlanta Georgia August 1, 2014 & August 2, 2014. The Atlanta Gospel Fest Music Health & Wellness Festival is a two-day musical extravaganza designed to Bridge Communities and Break Boundaries. The excitement will elevate your spirits; educate your mind, body and soul with an array of gospel music concerts, series workshops and panels, wealth & finance empowerment segments and a multitude of free health care services for the entire family.

Entertainment India.Arie | Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre | Friday, October 18, 2013 @ 8:00 pm

India.Arie released Acoustic Soul on Motown records and instantly gained the attention of music lovers because of her honest songwriting and amazing voice. As tour support for Sade India.Arie began writing her second album Voyage To India, which has also gained the respect of fans and critics alike, and looked to take her musical career to the next level. With her acoustic guitar and book of songs India.Arie is hitting the road this summer in hopes of gaining new fans and entertaining old ones.

John Legend | Fabulous Fox Theatre | Friday, Nov. 1, 2013 @ 8:00 pm Few performers have risen to the top as quickly as John Legend, whose first album, “Get Lifted” in ‘04, featured hits with Kanye West and Snoop Dogg among others, and it won a Grammy Award.

Sports

The Put Up Your Dukes Foundation (PUYDF)

The Put Up Your Dukes Foundation (PUYDF) was founded by Jamie and Angela Dukes in 2009 with the express purpose of eradicating obesity. They have created several innovative tactics and solutions, one of which is The Million Pound Blitz. The strength of the program is its’ educational component of the need to exercise which results in weight loss, improved muscle tone and longer, healthier lives. Obesity is worldwide, oblivious to age or race. PUYDF is shining the light on obesity with the assistance of celebrities from many avenues. Jamie Donnell Dukes played 10 seasons in the NFL for the Atlanta Falcons, Green Bay Packers, and the Arizona Cardinals. On retirement from the NFL in 1996, he stood 6’1”, weighed 290 pounds, and was the picture of health. Ten years later battling weight, high blood pressure and high cholesterol, he “drew the line”.

Twanda Black of KISS 104.1 FM Radio

Business in the Black

have to tell you the story of two families going through the same situation, but with very different processes. At the age of 68, my grandfather made his transition following a massive heart attack. He was vibrant, hardworking and full of life! Needless to say this sudden turn of events shocked the family and brought concern for my grandmother who had retired a few years earlier. My grandfather grew fern on ample land in Florida; you know that beautiful greenery that’s used in bouquets, floral arrangements and gorgeous decorations. He was a very astute business owner, raising 9 children and a slew of us grandchildren, but we would soon find out that he was an extremely caring husband and father. His funeral was paid in full and he paid off the land, the houses and the cars. My grandmother could grieve and not worry about how she was going to live out her years. I always loved and respected my grandfather but I loved him even more for how he took care of grandmother while he was living and after he was gone. My grandmother is still living on the 10+ acres he left, she is comfortable, happy and is only concerned with her annual taxes. Now, a few months ago, a close family friend made his transition at 65 years of age. We were hopeful, but he died on the operating table. He was an attorney who practiced law over 40 years and owned a good bit of real estate. Begrudgingly, his not so close family had to pull together a whopping $12,000 to pay for the funeral. That may not

A TALE OF TWO FAMILIES

seem like a lot, but when you didn’t expect it and you don’t have it- it’s a lot of money! The houses are in probate and the bill collectors are harassing his family. Unfortunately, this is a story I have heard over and over again.

4. Shopping for the right funeral home could be the difference in paying $2000 to $10,000 for the same funeral. Small, local funeral homes usually have the lowest prices.

I told you- a tale of two families: one family prepared and one totally unprepared for the inevitable factor, death. So to better understand these situations, I asked Final Expense Expert, Emery Gary, of Lincoln Heritage what is it we need to know about planning for our funeral because tome it is the most unselfish and loving Emery Gary thing we can do for those we leave Final Expense Expert behind. He answered with these tips: Lincoln Heritage

5. Life Insurance is one of the most efficient and trusted ways to finance your final expenses.

1. Be aware of the Funeral Rule of 1984, enacted to protect the consumer and to stop the funeral home industry from persuading people to buy and pay for marked-up goods and service they don’t need.

Death is certainly an inevitable part of life but it doesn’t have to be more devastating than it already is if we prepare for it. My mother started the discussion when I was in my 20’s and I wouldn’t talk about it then; I didn’t even want to think about her leaving me, but today I understand the life cycle and I am not afraid. I appreciate her caring enough about me and my brothers to leave a will and her final expenses paid in full.

2. Social Security pays a total death benefit of $255 and has not changed since 1952 although the cost of funerals has steadily increased. 3. With no funeral plan to guide them, survivors can spend hundreds to thousands of dollars more than needed.

6. If you want to be buried out-of-state, make sure your arrangements cover that cost- it can increase your final expenses by as much as $2000. 7. Make sure you discuss your final arrangements with a close family member or trusted friend. Insurance benefits can often go unclaimed because the beneficiary simply didn’t know about the policy.

For more information, contact Emery Gary, Representative for Lincoln Heritage at Emerygary@EmeryGary.com or 678-250-4514.

THE CONDUCTOR

3rd Qtr. 2013

Official Publication of the Overground RR!!®

Black Business Month Marching2March

www.overgroundrr.com

(website: www.Marching2March.org)

A Message from The Chief Convener

The Benefits of A Budget This is due in large part because the church does not teach the importance of FAMILY BUDGETING. Most of us do not have a clue as to where our money is really going because we do not have a budget. The Bible is clear when it says in Matthew 6:21, “For where your Treasure is, your heart will be also.” Operating from a budget helps you to identify exactly where your treasure is and not where you say it is. Many parishioners are not able to support their church or their children like they would like to because of monthly debt obligations. Rev. Timothy McDonald, III

s a Pastor, I am often confronted with members who are struggling financially. Many of those who sit in the pews are living from paycheck to paycheck. At some point we have to ask ourselves: “Is this how God wants me to live?” The answer is emphatically NO! Proverbs 22:7 says, The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is the servant to thelender. All of us have some form of DEBT. Some debt for most of us is deemed as necessary debt. We have mortgages, cars, education and health. One of the traps that many of us fall into is credit card debt. The monthly obligations of credit card payments are robbing many individuals and families of a livelihood devoid of stress and worry.

Have you ever wondered what your life would be like if you had NO CREDIT CARD DEBT? Have you ever thought of how much more you could do for your children and church if the cash you pay for credit cards could be put to more satisfying and fulfilling use? Well, that is one of the advantages of having a budget. A second advantage of having a budget is that it helps you to understand your spending habits. Without a budget you are just not honestly aware of how much you are spending for food, utilities, gas and entertainment. Knowing gives YOU control, and not knowing makes you a servant. You must ask yourself: “How can I control my spending habits if I am not even aware of my spending

“A budget is simply figuring how much you are making and how much you are spending each month. I have learned that just being aware of my spending habits puts me in a position of control and not victim. Most people that I know are victims of their financial decisions and not conquerors of their finances.” habits?” A budget is simply figuring how much you are making and how much you are spending each month. I have learned that just being aware of my spending habits puts me in a position of control and not victim. Most people that I know are victims of their financial decisions and not conquerors of their finances. A third advantage of a budget is that it helps to improve your credit score. A budget helps you to plan for your bill payments and to make those payments on time. I have taught my children and share with my congregation that sometimes good credit is better than money in the bank. Good credit leads to lower interest rates and better terms when you do need a loan for a mortgage or car or emergencies.

not to mention a potential employer who almost always now checks your credit score. It is a known fact that by paying down your debt, you can boost your credit score. A good credit score SAVES you money and these savings can be used for vacations, travel and things that enhance your life. Finally, a budget helps you to SAVE. If you are not saving something each month then you are not living a spiritually fulfilled life. Being stressed out about finances is not God’s will for your life. Learning to live within and even below our means is key. Stress not only affects the mind and body, but also the spirit. Set your spirit free by starting TODAY with a BUDGET. You shall have life and you will have it more abundantly.

We live in a time when potential landlords will check your credit score,

Become A 2014 Black Business Month / M2M Sponsor THE CONDUCTOR - $12,000

THE ENGINEER - $ 6,000

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THE CONDUCTOR

Business Strategies

Official Publication of the Overground RR!!®

The C-Suite

Overground RR!!®’s high-level executive business members share practical and strategic advice to expand, sustain and operate your business in the areas of Executive Leadership (CEO), Finance (CFO), Human Resources (CHRO), Marketing (CMO) and Technology (CTO).

Financial Suite

Human Resources Suite

How does the average hard working tax payer end up in a tax mess? Bad tax advice: WARNING!!! Don’t take tax debt advice from “side-line coaches”, which is what I call individuals who prepare taxes seasonally and kitchen table tax preparers and advisors. You want to deal with a professional when faced with IRS or State tax issues. If you are being audited by the IRS, consult a CPA, Attorney, or Enrolled Agent.

SPICEDA DAVIS, CPA Founder & CEO Too afraid to address the problem: Tax evasion or IRS eXFinancial, Inc. and avoidance is never the answer to delinquent income tax TaxPlus 365 situations. You must PAY or NEGOTIATE with the IRS. You

Human Resource Strategy for Growing Business Does your business plan include a strategy for managing human capital? If you are the owner/operator of a growing business, you likely have a strategy focused on the resources central to managing growth. That focus is probably in the areas of financial, technology, and phsical. All too often business leaders omit consideration of developing and implementing a strategy critical to one TIM WHITE Consultant of most impactful resources -- human capital. HR-Upshot

The development and execution of a human resource strategy has a credible return of investment. Having a strategy on how to recruit, develop and retain the talent your business requires to meet market Procrastination due to lack of funds: Never avoid paying taxes because you don’t demands has a direct correlation to business success. The risk gap is have all the money to pay the IRS or any widened when such strategy is lacking debt. The IRS has tax programs available or inadequate. Business leaders, to help and assist the tax payer reduce particularly those of small and growing their debt and pay the money owed, such as Offer and Compromise, Installment operations, would be well advised Agreements, and Payment Extensions. to employ either a human resource Alternative payment arrangements and professional or outsource the function Procrastination: Are you “one who delays a task tax liability reductions are also available. to an HR service provider. that should be a priority” or “one with the ability cannot ignore them.

Executive Suite

If you ever find yourself owing lots of money either of miseducation or poor tax preparation, consult a professional to help you. Spiceda Davis, CPA is a Certified Public Accountant, Founder and CEO of eXFinancial, Inc and TaxPlus 365, Inc. in Atlanta, GA. She holds CPA licenses in Florida and Georgia. spiceda@exfinancial.us.com

Marketing Suite Don’t Forget the Little Things

to overcome procrastination and tackle the important actions that have the biggest positive impact on your life?” If the latter, congratulations! That’s a hallmark of successful people. If you fell in the former group, don’t despair, there is hope. I recently sat in on Becky Davis, one of my peers, “The P Factor – a 3 part strategy to higher profits” seminar. She laid out an amazingly simple strategy to kick the curse of procrastination. Productivity, Planning & People.

JIM FOSTER Better Business Solutions

PRODUCTIVE people do the right thing in the right order. They establish priorities and focus on the high dollar activities. They PLAN carefully then diligently and systematically execute what they planned. The most mercurial of the 3-P formula is the PEOPLE factor. By making proper selection of your human resources, and then with consistent communication, training and nurturing, success may be achieved. The P-Factor is a formula for success, but only when you take action, the anti-thesis of procrastination.

Tim White is the principal consultant of HR-Upshot, a human capital investment firm. he is also a speaker and published writer of articles on human resource strategy and career management solutions. twhite@hr-upshot.com

Technology Suite With the weekly release of new affordable tablets, it’s time to seriously consider your place in the revolution. Tablets are for more than just email, music, games and social media. However, they are only as good R. PAMELA ADAMS as the apps that you Chief Connection Officer download and utilize The BizLynks Center effectively. For those that are less familiar with the business use of tablets, below are just a few of my can’t-live-without apps that allow me to be more productive as a mobile entrepreneur:

As business owners we have tons on our plates. We are trying to be everything to everyone. We are Jim Foster is a business coach, business plan writer, mentor, JASON WARNER at times, the CEO, consultant, public speaker, Co-Founder and President of the Home CEO & Co-Founder CMO CFO, CSO Your Safe Box, LLC Based Business Chamber of Commerce Atlanta. (Chief Sanitation Officer). Many jimafoster@gmail.com times we start to forget the simple things like building a relationship with your clients/customers. The things that seem so simple may be keeping you away from increased revenues. Ask yourself… When is the last time you asked your Dropbox: Store your files in the cloud and sync them across all of your Internet customers or clients how you can provide better quality and/or services? When accessible devices. Sign up for Dropbox with my invitation link, http://www. was the last time you asked them to tell someone about your company, even if bizcn.us/invite2dropbox, to receive 500MB of extra storage. they had not spent money with you? The next time you go into a business (Store, restaurant, etc.) see how many times they greet you, ask who you are, and for your contact information. Little things like gathering this information will make your job that much easier. You can now start turning you one-touch encounters with clients/customers to building a relationship. When you have slow days you can start reaching out to them and remind them it is time to pay you a visit. Marketing your brand/business is like dating… You can’t forget the little things. In addition to launching Your Safe Box, LLC, Jason leads crisis and issues management for the world’s largest private PR firm Edelman, and has years of marketing/PR experience. jason.warner@safebox.com

QuickOffice: Be presentation ready. View, update and create Microsoft Office documents. Also open and save documents to your Dropbox or other cloud storage account. GoToMyPC: Access all of the files and programs on your home or office computer from your tablet.

SplashID: Never forget your passwords, account numbers, user names, pin numbers, etc. again. Store your sensitive information in one place with one password with this tablet and desktop app. R. Pamela Adams is a technology strategist, speaker and trainer helping small businesses, mobile professionals and nonprofits increase their productivity through the effective use of technology. rpamela@thebizlynkscenter.com

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Atlanta Life Financial Group (ALFG)

Atlanta Life Financial Group (ALFG) is a privately owned financial services company that builds and protects wealth, as well as manages insurance and investment needs.

lonzo Franklin Herndon, a former slave, founded what would become the Atlanta Life Financial Group over one hundred years ago. This sharecropper from Social Circle, Georgia parlayed his haircutting skills into entrepreneurship of the highest degree. The wealthiest Black man in Atlanta was a real estate investor, a world traveler, an amateur architect and a pillar of the community. His mansion, built by Black artisans in 1910, today abuts the Morris Brown College campus and is on the national register of historic homes on Diamond Hill.

“If I thought that anything with which I was connected would always be small, I would not want to be in it.” Alonzo F. Herndon”

Taggart is active in diverse civic organizations and has served on numerous boards including Atlanta Committee for Progress, Metro Atlanta Chamber, Opera Carolina, Charlotte Repertory Theater, PBS affiliate WTVI Charlotte, 100 Black Men of America- Charlotte Chapter, and the Urban League of Charlotte. In addition, Taggart is a life member of National Black MBA Association and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated.

A $140 investment allowed salespersons to go door-to-door offering low cost industrial insurance in the South during the time of Jim Crow. To grow his portfolio, Herndon purchased other companies as they were going under. Being the well-informed businessperson, to assure company independence at a time when similar companies were duped into being sold, Herndon kept the company ownership concentrated in the Herndon family and its affiliate, the Herndon Foundation. Atlanta Life became a household name woven into the fabric of the communities it served through its strong civic involvement and through its pivotal role in the underpinnings of the civil rights movement. Today, Atlanta Life has taken on a new vision and mission to build on its century of service. It is common practice for them to reinsure Employee Group Benefits Programs for corporations, organizations and government agencies. Atlanta Life Financial Group is a privately owned financial services company that helps consumers, businesses and communities build and protect wealth. It consists of two operating units: Atlanta Life Insurance Company and Herndon Capital Management. These companies provide a range of financial solutions to help individual and institutional customers manage their insurance and investment needs. More specifically, Atlanta Life Insurance Company provides group life products to Fortune 500 companies and funding products to help consumers preplan and prearrange their funerals. Herndon Capital Management portfolio products help institutions and high net worth individuals build and protect wealth.

Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of Veritas One Consulting, LLC, a management consulting firm specializing in strategy execution planning. He also served as Managing Director of Strategic Support Services, an internal management consultancy for First Union Corporation and worked in various marketing and consulting roles for International Business Machines (IBM) serving government and financial services sectors.

Mission - To build on a century of service by helping our customers reach their unique financial services goal through leadership; tailored solutions; and reliable execution. Vision - To become a pre-eminent, innovative financial services company with global reach admired by customers and clients; investors; business partners; and the communities they serve. Born and raised in Atlanta, Bill Taggart serves as President & CEO for Atlanta Life Financial Group (ALFG). A “Grady Baby”, he grew up in Bill Taggart, President Southwest At& CEO, Atlanta Life lanta and attended Financial Group Northside High School. Bill Taggart earned his BBA from Howard University and an MBA from Harvard Business School. Hailing from Fortune 500 companies, entrepreneurial ventures and federal government agencies, with more than

28 years of business experience, Taggart took the lead with Atlanta Life Financial Group in July 2011. Prior to joining Atlanta Life Financial Group, Taggart served in the Obama Administration as Chief Operating Officer for the Office of Federal Student Aid (FSA), appointed by U. S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. FSA provides financial aid in the form of Stafford Loans, Pell Grants and College Work Study to over 15 million Americans seeking college education. During his tenure, Taggart successfully led FSA through the most significant period of growth in its history. With a 2011 projection to deliver over $150 billion dollars in federal financial aid to over 14 million students attending 6200 institutions, the agency has a current loan portfolio that exceeds $800 billion dollars and services 92 million loans across 30 million borrowers. Taggart’s experience also includes several leadership posts with the Wachovia Corporation including serving as the Chief Operating Officer, Corporate Investment Banking; President, Info- One, an insurance subsidiary; and Chief Administrative Officer, Wachovia Insurance. Taggart was also the

In his two year tenure as CEO, Taggart has lead the transformation of ALFG including: the sale of their home office on Auburn; move to 191 Peachtree; restructuring of Jackson Securities; developing a new corporate strategy and overseeing the rapid growth of ALFG’s asset management business Herndon Capital Management. Atlanta Life Financial Group is now launching a pilot that will deliver affordable financial services products to millions of Americans who are underserved by traditional banks and insurance companies. Atlanta Life Financial Group has sustained itself over the years because they are a premiere company willing to make the proper changes to meet all the financial needs of its customers. Taggart said with a bright smile, “The key to having customers for life is to know your customers’ needs and tailor products to exceed their expectations.” Today, with the spirit of Mr. Herndon in mind, Atlanta Life strives to strengthen communities in which they live, increase product and service provision to meet the needs of their customers, and establish vehicles to help keep the “Black dollar” in the Black community. Taggart said, “Strong black businesses are critical in making the Black community vibrant and self-reliant. Mr. Herndon clearly understood this point and we will continue to embrace this philosophy.”

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R. Pamela Adams is Passionate about Teaching the Technical to the “technically-challenged”

. Pamela Adams, President and CEO of BizLynks Consulting Goup, LLC helps to educate, inspire, and encourage small businesses by offering technology training, internet marketing and business development resources to entrepreneurs, corporations and non-profits. A technology strategist, trainer and speaker, she has a career that spans more than 25 years in Information Technology and Internet Marketing Strategies. Explaining the technical to the “technicallychallenged” is what she does best with her Constant Contact boot camps and signature workshops, “Linking Te c h n o l o g y t o Business Growth” and “There’s an App R. Pamela Adams for That!” This native of Hinesville, GA, with a degree in Math/Computer Science from Emory University, has a heart for God and a passion for helping others connect with that still small voice within. Adams has compiled some of the most moving messages circulated online in recent years in her inspirational gift book, “God is in Your Inbox.” She has served as the Minister of Business Affairs for DaySpring International Ministries; received the 2013 Women in Construction and Entrepreneurship Award by the Atlanta-Metro Chapter of the Georgia Black Construction Association; was recognized in the Corporate Brass category in Who’s Who in Black Atlanta 2012; and is a two-time Turknett Leadership Character award nominee. In her role as Regional Development Director, Adams was instrumental in introducing Georgia businesses to the Massachusetts-based online marketing giant, Constant Contact®, Inc. In this position, she was responsible for training over 14,000 businesses and organizations on how to utilize engagement marketing tools to encourage repeat business, increase referrals and generate new customers through email, event and social media marketing. Recently, Adams was named an Accredited Solution Provider by Constant Contact®, Inc. This accreditation recognizes Adams’ true commitment to understanding and implementing best practices in online marketing and to delivering measurable results for the clients that use her services. From customer service to electronic logistics, Adams believes, “Technology accounts for nearly 80% of daily business operations. The remaining 20% comes from the people who use technology to run the company. In today’s new economy, understanding how to access and apply the use of technology makes the difference.” As a serial entrepreneur, Adams is also the Executive Producer of BizLynks TV, an online channel offering business internet TV shows streamed live and pre-recorded in the Green Studio at The BizLynks Center. With shows like “Book Your Success” and “That’s My Biz,” BizLynks TV provides businesses a fresh way to get in front of hard-to-reach prospects, an opportunity to share their expertise and exposure to The BizLynks Center promotional network.

opening of The BizLynks Center in June 2011. Spending the last decade meeting the needs of her customers’ inboxes and outboxes, she is prideful of being afforded the opportunity to have space for seminars and trainings that are designed to assist in the development and longevity of small businesses. The BizLynks Center is “where businesses go to connect.” It is the premier business solutions center for the home-based and mobile professional. Adams says, “Entrepreneurship is more than just running a business, it’s a lifestyle!” The BizLynks Center is a world-class meeting, event and open workplace, provides business and personal development workshops and offers services that strengthen the visibility of companies in the marketplace. With plans for several locations throughout metro Atlanta, the flagship location is in Duluth, GA just south of Gwinnett Place Mall.

The BizLynks Center

The BizLynks Center Social Workspace

BizLynks.TV attracts a worldwide network of viewers and listeners from coast-to-coast in the US and Canada and internationally from England, UK, British Columbia, Jamaica, Croatia, Australia, South Africa

and many other countries. Using the foundation of her experience and acquired skills, Adams now welcomes businesses to do training on her turf with the

Business Internet Television

“That’s My Biz”

Internet TV Business Showcase - 15-minute Business Showcase Interview - Appears on BizLynks.TV - Embed code to place video on your own websites - Link to your Episode to share in your PR, Email and Social Networking Campaigns

SAVE $25

Go to www.bizcn.us/tmbpartner Partner Code: ORR

www.BizLynks.TV Business Internet Television 678-825-5201 Your Audience is waiting for you!

Host Your Own Show Find out how at www.BizLynks.TV

Business members receive the title of “Connector” and are extended privileges inclusive of having the center meet their administrative needs onsite and virtually. As a Connector, members get more than table tops and conference rooms, they get access to… •

Business Networking Lounge

•

Administrative Services and Support Team

•

Event & Business Meeting Space

•

Marketing & Technology Services

•

Business Workshops and Networking events

•

Prestigious Business Address with Mailboxes

•

Green Screen Studio & Video Services

•

Free Wi-Fi & Coffee

The BizLynks Center is working to expand the marvel of entrepreneurship, to advance entrepreneurship education and training efforts, to promote entrepreneurshipfriendly policies, and to better accelerate the commercialization of new technologies by entrepreneurs and others. Each of them has great promise for improving the economic welfare of metro Atlanta and the world. Promenade at Pleasant Hill (Between FedEx Office & Wendy’s) 3665 Club Drive, Suite 107 Duluth, GA 30096 678-825-5201 www.thebizlynkscenter.com Lounge & Open Workspace Monday – Friday 9am – 6pm Scheduled Meetings & Events Sunday – Saturday 8am – 10pm Networking Lounge (open to the public) Reservations & Tours by Appointment 678-825-5201

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Jennifer Zachery: The Mastermind Behind The Bead Barrette

rom the back burner of a working mother to retail store isles has come a unique accessory for countless hairstyles and hair textures – The Bead Barrette.

are obedient to God’s direction, even though you do not have all the answers, faith will start you moving and God will meet you there.” To do God’s will, this Sunday school teacher at Church of the Harvest International, says Ephesians 3:20 Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us… is her guide.

Women around the world can put away messy beads, rubber bands and bead threading tools for placing individual beads on braids and replace it with The Bead Barrette…The beads that snap on like a barrette!®. The hours spent styling girls’ hair with colorful beads is now as quick as changing clothes. In colors black, white, pink and clear, this amazing hair accessory stands out when worn at the bottom or middle of braids, twists or loose hair.

Snaps on like a

barrette in seconds

Can be worn at the

bottom or middle of braided, twisted or loose hair

TheBeadBarrette.com .com/beadbarrette

No rubber bands nor bead threading tools required

No messy beads to keep up with

Allowed in daycare

centers that don’t allow hair beads

Available in colors black, white, pink and clear*

Jennifer Zachery, Creator of The Bead Barrette

The mastermind behind The Bead Barrette is Jennifer Zachery, a former Real Estate Broker who along with many Black mothers liked the idea of braids with beads to keep her daughter’s hair nice and neat for weeks. Unfortunately, daycare center rules changed and these colorful time savers became a safety hazard and lost their acceptance in many centers. It was then that God gave Zachery the idea to create The Bead Barrette. This married mother of two is an Atlanta native and graduate of Howard University School of Business. Over a span of 16 years, she worked for many retailers including Macy’s,

*Colors pink and white available at Walmart.

Hecht’s and May Merchandising Company. The many positions held, including hair accessories buyer and lingerie product developer, has worked to her advantage. Starting a manufacturing and distribution business with experience from “the other side of the table” and “simply knowing the lingo” has given her a competitive edge in getting her product on retail shelves.

Remember, you can change The Bead Barrette as quickly as you change your outfit and it makes a perfect gift for girls of all ages! The Bead Barrette,LLC is a wholesaler that distributes these innovative snap on hair beads to retailers and hair salons worldwide. You can find The Bead Barrette in more than 400 locations including Walmart stores, beauty supply stores, children’s hair salons and more. However, to place direct orders, simply go to www.thebeadbarrette. com and make your selection! If you want to purchase Bead Barrettes along with other hair accessories or beauty products, for your convenience, you will find links to many additional sites that are authorized sellers of The Bead Barrette as well. Visit www.thebeadbarrette.com to learn more about The Bead Barrette. Making girls’ hair prettier… faster!

Zachery was quiet and listened to God. While following His lead, she exercised her faith and did not overly concern herself with whether or not the product would be a go. She had confidence that it was going to work out. Her belief is “When you have faith and grace, you have Jesus in the business. There is a balance between faith and grace. You have your lane, God has his lane, and together you will run a race of endurance. When you

“There is a balance between faith and grace. You have your lane, God has his lane, and together you will run a race of endurance.”

Jennifer Zachery with her daughter & inspiration behind The Bead Barrette, Kyndal Nicole

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What is all the HYPT about? wwww.haveyouprayed.com

A Movement Designed for YOU... www.haveyouprayed.com

HYPT owners Ricky Downs, CEO and Terrell Alexander, CFO

ho would have thought looking at a dusty coffee mug on a shelf in someone’s office would start a “movement”, but it happened right here in Atlanta. Former Mortgage B a n k e r, R i c k y D o w n s , C E O and former Investment Banker, Terrell Alexander, CFO put their heads together in 2012 to raise the awareness of prayer with the establishment of HYPT (Have You Prayed Today).

1 Shirt for $20 and 2 Shirts for $30 same people only pray in times of need. Prayer is a simple conversation with God. It is an implicit way of recognizing God’s presence within us, even though we cannot hear his voice speak to us. You do not have to be a scholar to pray. Big words are not necessary, two words of thanks works. He understands and He answers every prayer - the answer could be yes, no, or later.”

To prove that their idea was on target, HYPT owners, Downs and L o c a t e d o n l i n e a t w w w . Alexander conducted a non-scientific haveyouprayed.com, HYPT is only observation in a mall food court web-based with the mission of and McDonald’s. They found that spreading a universal message less than 10% of the people eating worldwide on items such as tee- prayed before doing so. These shirts, coffee mugs, hats and wrist little things should never be taken bands. Although the acronym of for granted. Downs’ grandmother HYPT is hip, the message is clear taught him the Bible in story and straightforward – Have You format. Consequentially, he came Prayed Today? to understand you give thanks for all things. Downs exclaimed, “If Jesus Downs said, “This is their non- prayed before he was crucified, we traditional reminder for people to too must pray.” pray for all things, not just the big things. Many people believe in the As members of New Mercies Church power of prayer, yet many of these in Lilburn, GA under the pastorate

10% off

for Members of the Overground RR!!

Call 678.785.7729 or 678.785.PRAY

of Jesse Curney, III, they know God transforms their hearts, they grow with the renewal of their minds and they go out to impact the world. The impact of HYPT as a Movement will go beyond prayer in their work to elevate awareness of violence in the lives of women, children and families. One-third of their profits will go to domestic violence programs in Georgia.

hanging out you want items that are casual, comfortable - and inexpensive. HYPT products are the answer. Go online to www. haveyouprayed.com and see for yourself. Prayer is an echo of faith and understanding of God…Have You Prayed Today?

Most of the time when you are playing, going to school, or just

To learn more about our business and community members, please visit

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Visionary People, LLC: Helping Companies “Put Their Best Vision Forward! “The greatest asset one could have in life, personally & professionally are other people who believe enough in their vision to help them achieve it!” - Natasha Davis-Bowen -

isionary People, LLC, is a business development & strategic marketing consulting firm. They work with companies who are ready to successfully gain access into new markets and strengthening position in their current market. They specialize in Strategic Planning, Business Development and Creative Marketing Campaigns including: Internet Broadcasting, Video Marketing, Content Development and Client Acquisition Strategies. They customize strategies to foster the Right Action for the Right Client in the Right Market.

Career Magazine, Recognized as the Entrepreneur of The Year in 2011 and awarded as the Outstanding Leadership in Business recipient in 2013. She’s been featured in several magazines as a contributing writer, heard on several radio shows and welcomed on television shows such as Atlanta Live Channel 57, What’s Your Story Channel 26 and others. In 2012 she joined The World Chamber of Commerce as the Director of Membership and now serves as the Chair of Marketing for the World Affairs Council of Atlanta – Young Leaders and Business Ambassador for The Rockdale-Conyers Chamber of Commerce. Contact the Visionary People office to meet Natasha and invite her to your organization. Email at Info@VisionaryPeopleAreise.com or call 678-390-2681.

In addition, Visionary People provides assistance with Process Improvement, Social Media Marketing, Pricing Strategy, Advertisement Buying, Corporate Training and Executive Coaching. All of this is done through their ability to focus on Organizational, Educational, Technological & Human Capital. Natasha Davis-Bowen, Founder/CEO says, “strategic planning is a coordinated and systematic process to outline optimal business growth”. The Visionary People team helps companies “Put their best Vision Forward!” Visionary People, LLC will “Transform Your Vision For Success Into Reality”© whether you’re starting up or growing. Developing a business with foresight will result in ideal client acquisition, penetration into new markets with enhanced sales and profits. With this knowledge & experience, Visionary People created the Business Development Bootcamp for the Micro-Business Community. In the business bootcamps, small business owners are learning how to easily gather pertinent data about customers, understand how to identify competitors, know how to increase sales activity, improve overall performance & capitalize on current market trends. Each of the Business Development Bootcamps offers valuable hands on techniques, that guides the way a company can improve their business model, brand, infrastructure and performance. Visit Visionary People online at www.VisionaryPeopleArise.com to view all of the services and programs offered. Make sure to follow them on Facebook @VisionaryPeople and Twitter @VisionaryPPL You may also Contact the Office at 678-390-2681 About the Founder/CEO Natasha Davis-Bowen has entrepreneurship “in her blood”. She is a Registered Nurse by first profession and a Business & Marketing guru by second profession. Holding an MBA with a concentration in Marketing, she now offers “help & healing” in the business community through her company, Visionary People, LLC. As a talented business consultant, speaker & executive coach, she has been blessed with the ability to effectively connect businesses with their ideal consumers. Fondly referred to as “The Chief Visionary” who creates an environment where Development, Evolution, Progression & Productivity exists, she humbly embraces her assignment while also empowering other entrepreneurs on her popular Radio Show & TV Show. An individual for the people….The Chief Visionary has been honored for her determination and accomplishments by Cambridge Who’s Who in April 2009, acknowledged as one of the 40 under 40 Movers & Shakers in business by

3rd Qtr. 2013

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Business

THE CONDUCTOR Official Publication of the Overground RR!!®

DOES YOUR TAX PREPARER HAVE YOU IN

IRS TROUBLE? RID YOURSELF OF TAX WORRIES!!!

Specializing in: Insurance Claims • Collision Repair Detailing • Complete Paint Jobs 3781 Campbellton Road S.W. • Atlanta, GA 30331 www.vscustomsatl.com Vernon T. Raven, President / CEO 404-344-6687

Starting at

CALL OR TEXT US NOW FOR HELP!!! 404.637.8083 WWW.TAXPLUS365.COM A NEIGHBORHOOD CPA, HERE WHEN YOU NEED IT…

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The ORR!! Business Directory

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 the Black dollar back into our communities. Each business listed has agreed to legally binding arbitration should there be a problem with their product or service. Binding arbitration does not apply to torts or banking members.

ACCOUNTING McGee CPA Group, The 3180 Franklin St., Ste. A Avondale Estates GA 300024 www.mcgeecpagroup.com 404-292-8805

Tax Plus 365, Inc. 3730 Carmia Drive, Suite 160 Atlanta, GA 30331 404.482.0272 www.taxplus365.com

Statement / Services Accounting Business & Personal Taxes Financial Statements Audits Free Notary Service -OPEN YEAR ROUND-

Key Personnel: Spiceda Davis

ADVERTISING Lighthouse Promotions, LLC 116 Bethsea Rd., Ste. 104 Fayetteville GA 30214 770-461-9345 www.lighthouse-promo.com New Hope Publishing, LLC 5055 Montcalm Drive, SW Atlanta GA 30331 404-629-0446

ATTORNEYS Alexander Law Firm Personal Inj., Wrongful Death 2160 High Point Tr. Atlanta GA 30331 404-346-0834 www.alexanderlawfirm.com Andrews Law Firm LLC, The Real Estate 3421 Dogwood Dr. Hapeville GA 30354 770-968-7380 Donald P. Edwards, Law Office of Personal Inury, Med. Malpractice and Wrongful Death 170 Mitchell St. Atlanta GA 30303 404-526-8866 www.donaldpedwards.com Foster Firm, The 1 Crown 1895 Phoenix Blvd. Suite110 Atlanta GA 30349 404-559-8325 www.thefosterfirmwins.com Leroy R Johnson P.C & Assoc. Personal Inj.,Criminal and Traffic Violation, Civil Litigation 3915 Cascade Rd SW, Ste 260 Atlanta GA 30331 404-691-1069

Bernadine Layne LLC Civil, Corp., Immigration 3523 Buford Hwy, Ste. 202 Atlanta GA 30329 404-231-1477 E. C. London & Associates 101 Marietta Street, NW Suite 3310 Atlanta GA 30301 404-688-6607 eclondon.com Martin Law Group, LLC, The 1935 Cliff Valley Way, Suite 117 Atlanta, GA 30329 404-248-4898 Albert A. Mitchell, P.C.. 3079 Campbellton Rd, SW, Ste. 203 C&S Professional Building Atlanta, GA 30311 404-346-7009 www.aamlawyer.com Thomas, Kennedy, Sampson,& Thompkins Med. Malpractice, Person Inj. & Comml Real Estate 3355 Main St. Atlanta GA 30337 404-688-4503 www.tkstlaw.com Daryl Von Yokely, Law Office of 127 Peachtree St., Suite 1010 Atlanta GA 30303 404-876-5458 www.yokelylaw.com

AUTO BODY V’s Customs 3781 Campbellton Rd. Atlanta GA 30331 404-344-6687 www.vscustomsatl.com

AUTO SALES Legacy Chevrolet 3615 N. Manchester Expressway Columbus, GA 31909 706-322-8888

AUTO SERVICES S&J Automotive Repair, LLC 7056 B Highway 85 Riverdale GA 30274 770-996-3698

562 Lee St. Atlanta GA 30310 404-758-7519

www.capitolcitybank-atl.com

Citizen’s Trust Bank 75 Piedmont Ave. Atlanta GA 30303 404-659-5959 www.ctbconnect.com

BRIDAL The Wedding Firm of Jeffery Bost and Associate 5400 Lawrenceville Highway (Highway 29), Ste. E1 Lilburn GA 30047 404-786-5333 www.theweddingfirm.blogspot.com

Miracle Auto Glass Repair & Installations 118 Scott St. Atlanta, GA 30314 678-886-7837 www.amiracleautoglass.com

BANKING Capitol City Bank & Trust

Gaitor Construction Inc 800 Wendell Ct., Ste E Atlanta GA 30336 770-981-1588 Overall Construction & Inspection, Inc. 862 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. Ste 203 Atlanta, Ga 30314 678-705-4185 www.overallcinc.com

CONSULTANTS Bryant & Associates, LLC 4060 Peachtree Rd., D413 Atlanta GA 30319 404-869-6312

William Foster Consultants, LLC 205 Benefield Court Stockbridge, GA 30281 770-474-0053 www.williamfosterconsultants.com

Statement / Services We work with individuals seeking to transition from employee to entrepreneurship. We use a three-step process to take them from confusion to clarity in starting their own business.

Key Personnel

Rogelio “Roger” Brathwaite, Sr.

www.bryantandassociates.com

CHILDCARE Safe Haven Learning Center Akira Eiland 5595 Riverdale Rd, Ste A College Park, GA 30349 404-427-0560

CLEANING SERVICES

CONTRACTORS

"The Winning Move" Dorsey Training and Consulting, Inc. 2321 Columbia Woods Court Decatur, GA 30032 678-889-2067

www.dorseytrainingandconsultinginc.com www.dorseynonprofitsolutions.com

Statement / Services

AccuClean, Inc. 1053 Willingham Drive, Suite C Atlanta, GA 30344 404-765-6477 www.accucleaninc.com

Statement / Services AccuClean, Inc. is a commercial janitorial services company providing substantial value in creating a maintenance program that provides quality in servicing facilities, with maximum cost effectiveness.

Key Personnel Bob Williams, Owner

Total Approach Cleaning Service P.O. Box 89108 Atlanta GA 30312 404-688-0239 www.tacclean.com

sandjautorepair.com

College Park Tire & Auto 6169 Old National Hwy. College Park GA 30349 770-994-1761

CONSTRUCTION

CLOTHING LINE HYPT Have You Prayed Today 3665 Club Drive, Ste 107 Duluth, GA 30096 678-785-7729 www.yourvideoview.com

COMMERCIAL LEASE Odd Fellows Buildings 236 Auburn Avenue, Ste. 103 Atlanta GA 30303 404-525-5027 www.theoddfellowsbuildings.com

Providing Exemplary Training and Consulting for Non-profit and Profit Organizations Including: 1. Non-profit Solutions 2. Education-Professional Learning Opportunities (in various arenas) and 3. Faith-based Initiatives

Key Personnel Dr. Naomi Dorsey & Oliver Dorsey

C.D. Moody Construction 6017 Redan Road Lithonia, Georgia 30058 770.482.7778

www.cdmoodyconstruction.com

H J Russell & Company 504 Fair Street, SW Atlanta GA 30313 404-330-1000 www.hjrussell.com

COUNSELING Aaron Turpeau, Ph.D 600 West Peachtree St Ste 1570 Atlanta GA 30308 678-522-6548 www.drturpeau.com

LegalShield 3340 Peachtree Rd., NE, Ste 2300 Atlanta, GA 30326 770-369-5263

National Council on Domestic Violence Alisha Griffin Decatur, GA 404-729-0622

Private Preferred 2180 Satellite Boulevaard Duluth, GA 770-833-0655

Serene Reflections 575 Juniper Street NE Atlanta GA 30308 404-892-2205

www.ppreferred.com

serenereflections.org

COURT REPORTERS Visionary People, LLC P.O. Box 137 Snellville, Georgia 30078 678-390-2681 www.VisionaryPeopleArise.com Facebook: @VisionaryPeople Twitter: @VisionaryPPL

Statement / Services

We work with companies who are ready to connect with their ideal customers. Using Strategy, Technology & Experience, we help company’s put their best Vision Forward. Visionary People, LLC is a Business Development & Marketing Consulting Firm.

Key Personnel

Atlanta Realtime Reporters, LTD 925 B Peachtree St, Ste 380 Atlanta GA 30309 770-908-9821

DANCE Ballethnic Dance Company, Inc. 2587 Cheney St East Point GA 30344 404-762-1416 www.ballethnic.org

Continued on page 14

Natasha Davis-Bowen

3rd Qtr. 2013

Business Directory

www.overgroundrr.com DENTISTS BE Orthodontics Highland Grove Office Condominiums 3614 Highlands Parkway Smyrna GA 30082 770-432-6070 www.beorthodontics.com

Family & Childrens Dentistry 2440 Fairburn Road, Ste. 301 Atlanta GA 30331 404-349-7777

www.familyandchildrensdentistry.com

Alfred Wyatt DMD,P.C. 6230 Old National Hwy College Park GA 30349 770-994-7811

DIRECT MAIL Dove Mailing, Inc. 5601 Fulton Industrial Blvd. Atlanta GA 30336 404-629-0122 www.dovemailing.com

Added Pizzazz 7755 Hall Rd. Fairburn, GA 30213 770-322-3597 www.apartycompany.com The Atrium on Sweet Auburn 236 Auburn Ave. NE, Ste. 103 Atlanta, GA 30303 404-524-7921 www.atriumonauburn.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES Atlanta Life Financial Group 191 Peachtree St. Ste 2500 Atlanta, GA 30303 404-659-2100 www.atlantalife.com Corp. One Financial PO BOX 962188 Riverdale GA 30296 678-222-1718 The Wealth Engineer 3043 Riverstone Tr., Ste. 100 Atlanta GA 30339 770-395-3737 www.wealthengineer.com

DRY CLEANER Ponder’s Cleaners 4473 Campbellton Rd, SW Atlanta GA 30331 404-349-6464

FLOORING Wilson Wood Flooring 2447 Forest Trail East Point, GA 30344 678-202-1842

ELECTRICIAN E. Ray Britton Electrical 158 Fairview Rd, Ste. C Elllenwood GA 30294 678-289-5522 www.erbelectrical.com

ENERGY BROKER

FLORIST Bussey”s Florists 2297 Verna Drive Decatur GA 30034 404-659-2968 Willis Flowers 770-991-6460

www.willisflowers.com

FUNERAL SERVICES Alexander Marketing Group Atlanta, Georgia 678.267.5395 www.AlexanderMarketingGroup.com

Statement / Services Alexander Marketing Group brokers commercial energy contracts to increase the bottom lines of corporations, municipalities, churches and any entity within deregulated markets throughout the United States.

Key Personnel Nash Alexander, III, CEO Nash Alexander, IV, COO

EVENT FACILITY Cascade Club 2890 Continental Colony Pkwy Atlanta, GA 30331 404-344-6181 www.cascadeclubatlanta.com

Ivy Community Foundaton 3850 Stone Road, SW Atlanta, GA 30331 404-349-9682

EVENT PLANNING A Regal Event 7813 Newberry Dr. Jonesboro GA 30236 404-437-8807

Alfonso Dawson Mortuary, Inc. 3000 M. L. King Jr. Dr. Atlanta GA 30311 404-691-3810 www.dawsonmortuary.com

Donald Trimble Mortuary 1876 Second Ave. Decatur GA 30032 404-371-0772

www.donaldtrimblemortuary.com

Willie A. Watkins Funeral Home 1003 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd. Atlanta GA 30310 404-758-1731 www.williewatkins.com

Onyx Creative 2451 Hogan Rd. East Point GA 30344 404-936-0884

GREEN/ENVIRONMENT

Affordable Furniture & Appliances 3131 Campbellton Rd, Ste N Atlanta, GA 30311 404-344-0676 www.furniturethatsaffordable.com

Russell Contract Furnishings, Ltd 700 Westlake Parkway, Ste. 780 Atlanta, GA 30336 770-774-9811

GRAPHIC DESIGN LMN Art & Design 678-463-9934

larry.newton9@gmail.com

Official Publication of the Overground RR!!® HEALTH & FITNESS The Aloe Man Inc./ The Healing Nature 3030 Campbellton Rd. Atlanta GA 30311 404-629-3539

Quality Environmental Mgt. Inc. P.O. Box 54818 Atlanta GA 30318 404-454-6323

B.E.S.T. Health and Wealth 60 Oaks Landing Dr. Covington GA 30016 678-900-4437

Greeting Cards

Body By Inches 6703 Shannon Pkwy., Ste. 3 Union City GA 30291 770-964-0032

Toucharose Creative Expressions 4454 Catalina Cir. East Point GA 30349 678-642-9209

HAIR CARE PRODUCTS The Bead Barrette, LLC PO Box 143362 Fayetteville, GA 30214 678-593-5544 FBB Inc. Take Down FBB Inc. P.O. Box 115331 Atlanta GA 30310 1-888-693-8437 X 04948826 www.millresources.com/takedown

First Fruit Natural Healing Home 3084 Woodrow Dr. Lithonia, GA 30038 Phone: 770-484-4745 www.firstfruitnaturalhealinghome.com

Statement / Services We provide “HOLISTIC HEALING” for specific ailments such as high blood pressure, arthritis, cholesterol, skin problems, digestive disorders, constipation, fibroids and more! WE MAKE YOU HEALTHY!

HAIR & BARBER SHOPS Carolyn & Co Hair Studio 6157 Memorial Dr. Stone Mountain GA 30083 770-879-7666 Clip Appeal 736 Ponce De Leon Ave., Ste. L Atlanta GA 30306 404-892-6209

Prestige Beauty Salon 5970 Fairington Rd. Lithonia GA 30038 404-617-4816 Quintessence Hair Design 1130 Concord Rd. Smyrna GA 30080 770-438-0085 Roni Artistic Hands 6319 Memorial Dr. Stone Mountain GA 30083 770-469-8101

Royal Crown Barbershop 889 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd. Atlanta GA 30310 404-758-4283 Styles Of Zuri 4819 Rockbridge Rd., Ste. 17 Stone Mountain GA 30083 404-298-7133 Totally U Hair Salon/ Style and Beyond 1514 East Cleveland Ave., Ste. 111 East Point GA 30034 404-768-0936

Bridges Personal Care Home 233 Mitchell St Suite 250 Atlanta GA 30303 770-774-9128 Exodus, Inc. P.O. Box 487 Union City GA 30291 770-774-9128 Health Companions Inc 2364 Candler Rd Decatur GA 30034 404-284-1768

www.healthcompanions.com

Key Personnel

www.rightathome.net/atlanta

HOME IMPROVEMENT Beeks Service Company 1570 Niskey Lake Atlanta GA 30331 404-346-0443 Platron Services Marble & Granite 220 Den Ric Dr. McDonough GA 30253 678-898-1511 www.ronplatt.net

Dr. Nancy J. Williams

INSURANCE Health Food International 5006 Owens Mill Lane Stone Mountain GA 30083 404-849-6066

American Family – Michael Gibbs Agency 1075 Fairburn Rd SW, Ste 106 Atlanta, GA 30331 404-682-2600 www.amfam.com

Hair A La Parisienne 1862 Washington Rd. East Point GA 30344 404-559-1511 Hair Effects 2375 Wesley Chapel Rd., Ste. 5 Decatur GA 30035 770-987-2106

HOME HEALTH CARE

Right at Home 448 Ralph D. Abernathy, Ste. 2 Atlanta GA 30312 404-522-0029

www.thebeadbarrette.com

www.ronisartistichands.webs.com

FURNITURE

THE CONDUCTOR

Donna Tate & Associates P.O. Box 170565 Atlanta GA 30317 770-879-6342 Mack’s Fitness Center 2262 Campbellton Rd. Atlanta, GA 30311 404-755-9455 www.macksfitnesscenter.com

Statement / Services Mack’s Fitness Center focuses on improving the health and wellness of Seniors, Adults and Teens. We offer personal training, aerobic classes, nutrition counseling, fitness seminars and one-on-one healing programs.

Marketsearch Insurance Agency 971 N Hairston Rd., Ste. 7 Stone Mountain GA 30083 770-413-8110 www.marketsearchins.com

N.C. Mutual Life Ins. Co. 1683 Laurancea Way Riverdale, GA 30296

IT / INTERNET

Key Personnel

James “Mack” McClain, Owner Jeanetta Echols

Melaleuca “The Wellness Company” P.O. Box 1032 Jonesboro GA 30237 678-768-5871 Optimal Health Chiropractic Ctr. PC 2500 Park Central Blvd Ste B4 Decatur, GA 30035 678-418-3400 www.optimalhealth1.com

HEATING & AIR A.D. Heating & Air 230 Standing Oak Pl. Fairburn GA 30214 678-887-6787

The BizLynks Center 3665 Club Dr., #107 Duluth, GA 30096 678-825-5201 www.TheBizLynksCenter.com

Statement / Services Business solutions center providing meeting and open workspace where mobile professionals can work, meet with clients, build partnerships, and attend business building workshops.

Key Personnel R. Pamela Adams

Net One Stop 1561 Virginia Ave., Ste. 208 A College Park GA 30318 404-669-3600 www.netonestop.com

THE CONDUCTOR Official Publication of the Overground RR!!® Numillennium Telecomm., Inc. 2567 Park Central Blvd. Decatur GA 30035 404-965-7914

INVESTIGATIONS Direct Investigations, Inc. P.O. Box 361939 Decatur GA 30036 770-922-7888 www.directinv.net

INVESTMENTS Grin, INC. P.O. Box 128 Acworth GA 30101 770-966-5235

JEWELERS Burks Jewelers, Inc. 1188- A Glenwood Ave. SE Atlanta GA 30316 404-622-6090

LEGAL SERVICES Arrington, Oduola-Owoo & Mason P.C. 3915 Cascade Rd., Ste. 205 Atlanta GA 30331 404-549-6771 www.essentialegal.com

LIMOUSINE SERVICE Nealey Executive Limousines 4324 Bexley Dr. St Mountain GA 30083 770-808-7432 Person 2 Person Limo PO Box 2543 Atlanta GA 30310 678-463-3636 www.person2person.us

MEDIA CONSULTING Vince Bailey Productions P.O. Box 492011 Lawrenceville GA 30049 770-864-7135

www.vincebaileyproductions.com

MEDICAL SERVICES Southern Crescent Surgical Assistants PO Box 162749 Atlanta, GA 30321 770-603-3145

MINISTRY AND MEDIA Consider the Word Ministries Inc D/B/A The WRTS-FM Show 538 Country Club Dr. Stockbridge GA 30281 678-410-9833 www.considerthewordministries.org

MODELING/TALENT HOP Models & Talent Agency 3348 Peachtree Rd., Ste. 2-218 Atlanta GA 30326 www.hopmodels.com Lance Boyd Talent Agency 678-851-8669 www.lanceboydtalent.net Rashad Productions 60 Oaks Landing Dr. Covington GA 30316 404-702-1588

MORTGAGE Atlanta Integrity Mortgage 1316 Boat Rock Rd. Atlanta GA 30331 404-310-5913 & 404-344-7911

Business Directory OFFICE FURNITURE HA Office 515 Inc. 1582 Stoneleigh Hill Rd. Lithonia GA 30058 770-879-8420

PEST CONTROL Dependable Termite & Pest Serv. PO Box 1592 Mableton GA 30126 770-745-0000 www.dependabletermite.com

Ever-Redi Exterminating, Inc. 6380 Old National Hwy College Park GA 30349 770-909-7000 www.everredi.com

N.W.O Will Kill Pest Management 3665 Cherry Ridge Blvd Decatur GA 30034 404-241-7619

PHYSICIANS Link Wellness Center 1989 N. Williamsburg Dr. Decatur, GA 30033 404-499-0005 or 404-325-1234 Edward C. Mack, MD 2855 Candler Rd., Ste. 6 Decatur GA 30034 404-241-0103 Joann Donaldson, MD 249 Fielding Lane S.W. Atlanta GA 30311 770-908-3449

PLUMBING Head’s Plumbing Sales & Service, Inc. PO Box 43444 Atlanta GA 30336 404-696-3175 www.headsplumbing.com

TLA Real Estate Consulting 1100 Peachtree St., Suite 200 Atlanta, GA 30309 404-842-4600 www.tlzrealestate.net

B&B Movers 2587 Gresham Rd. Atlanta GA 30316 404-212-0819 www.bbmovers.com

www.overgroundrr.com

IHOP 2841 Greenbriar Parkway Atlanta GA 30331 404-346-0407 Michon’s Loft 404-766-7770 www.michons.com

MOVING SERVICE LOAN MODIFICATION

3rd Qtr. 2013

PRINTING Perfect Image, Inc. 503 Commerce Park Dr., Ste D Marietta GA 30060 770-422-4221 ext.25 www.perfectimageprinting.com

Paschal’s Restaurant 180-B Northside Drive Atlanta GA 30313 404-525-2023

Fantasy Faces International 770-728-3021 By Appointment Only

MARKETING Aaron Group, Inc. 1266 Spring Park Drive Atlanta, GA 30311 404-622-4308 www.aarongroup.us

TAG TEAM Marketing, Intl. 3465 N. Desert Dr. Bldg. 4, Ste. 102 East Point GA 30344 404-305-0300 www.tagteammarketing.com

Visual Marketing Mentors, LLC Marketing 3022 June Apple Dr., Ste 2A Decatur, GA 30334 404-826-4240 www.vmmentors.com

Soul Food Museum Historic Auburn Avenue Atlanta, GA 30303 678-508-9478

MUSIC Artistic Solutions in Design PO Box 636 Clarksdale, GA 30111 678-398-2200 www.artisticsolutionsindesign.com

Delores Burwell P.O. Box 420457 Atlanta, GA 30342 404-409-8170 Faye Raye P.O. Box 42850 Atlanta GA 30311 404-805-5888 www.fayeraye.com

REAL ESTATE Dr. James T. Walker III, LLC Coldwell Banker Commercial Metro Bankers Piedmont Center 3575 Piedmont Rd, Bldg 15, Suite 950 Atlanta, GA 30305 404-281-8052

RENTAL PROPS Creative Props Rental 2311 Cascade Road, SW Atlanta GA 30311 404-835-2568

RESTAURANTS Chanterelles 646 Evans St. SW Atlanta, GA 30310 404-758-0909

www.thechanterelles.com

L & B Tax Service, Inc. (3 Locations) 185 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Ste.108 Mableton GA 30126 678-213-1141 1745 Phoenix Blvd College Park GA 30349 678-216-0212

Q-Time 1120 Ralph David Abernathy Atlanta GA 30310 404-758-2881

5300 Memorial Drive Stone Mountain GA 30083 678-704-6780

Soul Vegetarian Restaurant 652 North Highland Ave Atlanta GA 30306 404-875-0145

Professional Tax Advisors 7311 Cardiff Place Jonesboro GA 30236 770-472-9998

Soul Vegetarian Restaurant 879 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd Atlanta GA 30310 404-752-5194

S & H Accounting and Income Tax Service, LLC 570 Valley Hill Rd., SW 770-907-1100 Riverdale, GA 30274

www.kingdomofyah.com

ROOFING McKnight Roofing, Inc 90 Flint River Road Riverdale, GA 30274 678-216-0300

SECURITY Security Protection Investigation Services PO BOX 310387 Atlanta GA 31131 770-274-9468 www.spisinc.com

System 5 Electronics 2820 Campbellton Rd. Atlanta GA 30311 404-756-0736 www.system5electronics.com

Statement / Services System 5 Electronics delivers exceptional customer service, rapid response and error-free monitoring services. Our Home security system is affordable and reliable and ensures family and home safety.

MUSEUM MAKEUP

TAX SERVICE

Key Personnel Maceo A. Brown, President

www.sandhaccounting.com

Stewart Unlimited, Inc. 5300 Memorial Dr., Ste 224-F Stone Mountain, GA 30083 404-934-5639

TECHNICAL TRAINING New Life Technical Academy 1003 Virginia Ave., Ste. 204 Atlanta GA 30354 770-870-7333

THEATER & DANCE True Love Productions PO Box 174 Conley, GA 30288 678-887-1609

TIRES & WHEELS Tires & Wheels Wheels & Tires by Bailey 517 W. Whitehall Street, SW Atlanta, GA 30310 404-758-0012

www.wheelsandtiresbybailey.com

VIDEO Against All Oddz PO Box 90531 Atlanta GA 30364 404-543-5557

monstarproductions.blogspot.com

Williams Security Wrought Iron Manufactures 4411 Campbellton Rd Atlanta, GA 30331 404-699-9800 www.williamssecurity.net

SIGNS Indigo Signs 4404 Hugh Howell Rd, Ste. 15 Tucker GA 30084 770-939-0902

Faith Video Live 3869 Springleaf Ct. Stone Mountain GA 30083 770-912-7677

www.faithvideoondemand.com

Focus on Video, LLC PO Box 1828 Stockbridge GA 30281 770-957-4299 www.focus-on-video.com

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

www.indigosigns.net

Simon Sign Systems 3034 Lakewood Ave, SW Atlanta GA 30310 404-766-5208

www.simonsignsystems.com

3rd Qtr. 2013

www.overgroundrr.com Anointed Vision of Hope Rev. David Arnold, Sr. 8049 Webb Road Riverdale, GA 30274 770-477-6464

Anointed Word Evangelistic Tabernacle Bishop Bobby Henderson 7373 Covington Hwy. Lithonia, GA 30058 770-482-5040 www.bobbyhendersonministries.org

Antioch AME Church Rev. Dr. Stafford J. Wicker 765 South Hairston Road Stone Mountain, GA 30088 404-299-3388 www.antioch-ame.org

Ariel Bowen Memorial United Methodist Church Rev. Dr. Doris Harvey 384 Arthur St. SW Atlanta, GA 30310 404-525-6173

The Ark of Salvation Pastor Nathaniel Bronner, Jr. 355 Georgia Ave. Atlanta, GA 30312 404-635-0400 www.airjesus.com The B.J. Holland Institute of Ministry Pastor Bettye Holland PO Box 90993 Atlanta, GA 30364 404-822-8095

Believers’ Bible Christian Church Rev. Allen McNair 3689 Campbellton Rd. Atlanta, GA 30331 404-344-7203 Ben Hill Christian Church Pastor Walter Poole 4099 Sunset Dr. SW Atlanta, GA 30331 404-344-0718 www.benhillcc.org

Ben Hill United Methodist Church Rev. Byron E. Thomas 2099 Fairburn Rd. SW Atlanta, GA 30331 404-344-0618 www.benhill-umc.org Bethesda Cathedral of the Apostolic Faith, Inc. Bishop Stewart Reese, Jr. 1989 Austin Dr. Decatur, GA 30032 404-289-3751 www.bethesdacathedral.org Beulah Missionary Baptist Church Pastor Jerry D. Black 2340 Clifton Springs Road Decatur, GA 30034 404-241-3307 www.beulahbaptist.org

ORR!! Church Station Conductors ORR CLERGY PICTORIAL DIRECTORY

Big Bethel AME Rev. John Foster, Ph.D. 220 Auburn Ave. Atlanta, GA 30303 404-827-9707 404.223.3060 (fax) www.bigbethelame.org Big Miller Grove Missionary Baptist Church Bishop Miles Fowler 3800 Big Miller Grove Way Lithonia, GA 30038 770-981-3800 www.bigmillergrove.org

Boatrock Baptist Church Rev. Albert E. Love 5410 Skyview Dr. Atlanta, GA 30331 Ph: 404-788-4542 revaelove@yahoo.com Butler Street Christian Methodist Episcopal Rev. Christopher Waller 23 Jesse Hill Dr. SE Atlanta, GA 30303 404-659-8745

Calvary Baptist Church Rev. Terrance M. Curtis 1599 Betty Talmadge Ave Jonesboro, GA 30236 770-477-5797 www.cbcjonesboroga.org

Calvary UMC Pastor Kimberlyn Sinkfield 1471 Ralph Abernathy Blvd. Atlanta, GA 30310 404-753-8151

Camy Arnett Ministries Apostle Camy Arnett 6502 Gresham St. Union City, GA 30291 770-969-9698

Cascade United Methodist Church Rev. Dr. Marvin A. Moss 3144 Cascade Road Atlanta, GA 30311 404-691-5770 www.cascadeumc.org Chapel of Christian Love Rev. Dr. J. Allen Milner 845 Cascade Road Atlanta, GA 30311 404-753-9985

Chosen Generation Church of God in Christ Pastor Keith R. Staley 2846 Church St. East Point, GA 30344 678-705-4904 www.choseng.org Christian Fellowship Baptist Church Rev. Keith L. Reynolds 1500 Norman Dr. College Park, GA 30349 770-997-4087

THE CONDUCTOR Official Publication of the Overground RR!!®

Clarkston First Baptist Church Pastor Karl Moore 3999 Church St. Clarkston, GA 30021 404-292-5686 Fax: 404.298.6084 www.clarkstonfbc.org

Columbia Drive United Methodist Church Rev. Walter Kimbrough 2067 Columbia Drive Decatur, GA 30032 404-284-4151 www.cdumc.org Community Church of God Rev. Michael Smith 850 Cascade Avenue Atlanta, GA 30311 404-755-4100

Covenant Ministries Bishop Quincy Lavelle Carswell 1700 Corey Blvd. Decatur, GA 30032 404-289-8960 DaySpring International Ministries, Inc Rev. Dr. Gloria W. Wright PO Box 3174 Atlanta, GA 30302 678-561-3174

Dodd-Sterling United Methodist Church Rev. Robert L. Melson Sr. 3272 Browns Mill Road Atlanta, GA 30354 404-361-4135 www.doddsterling.org Ebenezer Baptist Church Dr. Ralph Warnock 407 Auburn Avenue Atlanta, GA 30312 404-688-7300

Elizabeth Baptist Church Rev. Craig L. Oliver 4245 Cascade Rd. Atlanta, GA 30331 404-691-3146 www.elizabethbaptist.org Emmaus Road Missionary Baptist Church Rev. Sedrick Hamner 3725 Flat Shoals Road College Park, GA 30349 770-964-7007 www.emmausrd.org

The Enon Church Rev. Gregory L. Pollard 3550 Enon Rd College Park, GA 30349 770-306-0400 www.theenonchurch.org Evangelistic New Life Worship Center Pastor Sergio Croom 4815 Courtney Dr. Forest Park, GA 30297 877-800-6801

Faith Walk Ministries, Inc. Bishop Dianne R. Collins 6084 Riverdale Road College Park, GA 30349 770-994-0033

First AME Church Rev. Dr. Eyvonne Whitman 2046 Richard Allen Lane SE Atlanta, GA 30316 404-241-5900 www.firstameatlanta.org First Corinth Missionary Baptist Church Rev. Dr. W. L. Jones 2165 Donald Lee Hollowell Pkwy, NW Atlanta, GA 30318 404-792-2319 firstcorinth.org First Iconium Baptist Church Pastor Timothy McDonald III 542 Moreland Ave.SE Atlanta, GA 30316 404-627-1371 www.firsticonium.org First Victory Baptist Church Pastor Henry Mason 5461 Stonewall Tell Road College Park, GA 30349 404-437-1355

Friendship Community Church Pastor Donald Earl Bryant 4141 Old Fairburn Rd. College Park, GA 30349 404-349-6040 Grace Community Fellowhip Church Rev. Frederick L. Caldwell 4215 Wendell Dr. Atlanta, GA 30336 770-841-2533 www.gracecfc.com Greater Heights Christian Church Pastor Eric D. Jackson Sr. 4280 Hillsboro Drive Snellville, GA 30039

Greater Mount Carmel AME Church Rev. James A. Hardaway 4078 Carver Dr. Doraville, GA 30360 770-451-1091 Greater Mountain Baptist Church Rev. Douglas D. Prather PO Box 312311 Atlanta, GA 31131 404-583-9566

Greater New Light Missionary Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Leland L. Jones, Sr. 2540 Campbellton Road, SW Atlanta, GA 30311 404-344-0199 404-344-0189 (fax) www.greaternewlightmbc.org

THE CONDUCTOR Official Publication of the Overground RR!!® The Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church Rev. Dr. William E. Flippin 1879 Glenwood Road SE Atlanta, GA 30316 404-377-0561 www.pineygrovebapt.org Greenforest Community Baptist Church Rev. Dennis Mitchell 3250 Rainbow Dr. Decatur, GA 30034 404-486-1120 www.greenforest.org

Headland Heights United Methodist Church Rev. George P. Lanier 2147 Dodson Dr. Atlanta, GA 30344 404-344-0144 Hillside International Truth Center, Inc. Bishop Barbara King 2450 Cascade Rd., SW Atlanta, GA 30311 404-758-6811 www.hillsidechapel.org

Holsey Chapel Christian Methodist Episcopal Rev. Ricky Hammond 416 Cole Street Merietta, GA 30060 770-427-6467

Hopewell MBC Bishop William Sheals 182 Hunter St. Norcross, GA 30071 770-448-5475 770-449-5143 (fax) info@hopewellmissionarybaptist.org

I Am Devine Believe and Receive Church Dr. Apostle YaQar 2001 Montreal Road, Suite 104 Tucker, GA 30084 770-939-2460 Yaqarministries.org

Impact! Doing Church Differently Pastor Olu Brown 765 Peeples St. SW Atlanta, GA 30310 404-577-2826 www.impactdoingchurchdifferently.org International Christian Fellowship Rev. B. G. K. Harris 3076 Humphries Drive, SE Atlanta, GA 30354 404-363-3300

Jackson Memorial Baptist Church Pastor Gregory Sutton 534 Fairburn Road NW Atlanta, GA 30331 404-691-4238 www.jmbcatlanta.org

ORR!! Church Station Conductors ORR CLERGY PICTORIAL DIRECTORY

Joshua Generation Ministries Int’l, Inc. Pastor Varian Harris 661 Vernon Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30316 www.jgmi.org

Journey of Faith Church Pastor S. John Bartley PO Box 310779 Atlanta, GA 31131 404-629-2698

The Kingdom of God Evangelistic Outreach Ministry, Inc Rev. Warren L. Henry, Sr. 4590 Welcome All Road College Park, GA 30349 404-766-4163 Liberty International Ministries Rev. Greg Fann 1362 Metropolitan Parkway Atlanta, GA 30310 404-524-9860

Life Line Church Pastor Mark A. Couch 823 Dill Avenue Atlanta, GA 30310 404-753-5551 www.emmanueltabernacleatl.org

Light of the World Christian Tabernacle Pastor Ruth Smith-Holmes 5883 Highway 155 North Stockbridge, GA 30281 678-565-7001 www.comeintothelight.org

Lindsay Street Baptist Church Rev. Anthony W. Motley 550 Lindsay St. NW Atlanta, GA 30314 404-688-8959

Love Circle Truth Center Rev. Dr. Dorothy Sims 50 Peyton Place Atlanta, GA 30311 404-207-7849

Love Life Christian Fellowship Church Pastor Grace Washington 3980 Panthersville Road Ellenwood, GA 30294 404-241-1499 www.lovelifecfc.org Midway Missionary Church Rev. Edward Reynolds 2280 Godby Road College Park, GA 30349 404-768-5648

Miracles, Miracles & More Miracles Evangelist Sandi Collins PO Box 596 Lithonia, GA 30058 404-441-1122

3rd Qtr. 2013

www.overgroundrr.com

Mission on the Move Overseer, Cynthia Andrews 5836 Oak Street Douglasville, GA 30135 404-752-3938

Omega Holiness Church Rev. Dr. Richard H. Cobble 621 Memorial Dr. SE Atlanta, GA 30312 678-296-2128

Mt. Calvary Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Douglas Stowers 17 Fairburn Rd., SW Atlanta, GA 30331 404-696-1039 www.atlmtcalvary.org

Poplar Springs Baptist Church Rev. Ulysses Ponder 3796 River Road Ellenwood, GA 30294 404-241-6516

Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church Pastor Robert W. Crummie 2044 J.T. Alexander Ave College Park, GA 30337 404-766-1300 www.mtcalvarycp.org

Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church Rev. Frank Cornelius Brown 2685 Barge Rd. Atlanta, GA 30331 404-349-4273 www.mtolivembcatl.org

Muhammed’s Mosque No. 15 Bro. Sharrieff Muhammad 3642 Campbellton Road SW Atlanta, GA 30331 678-705-1361

New Beginning Full Gospel Baptist Church Bishop James H. Morton 923 Valleybrook Road Decatur, GA 30033 404-508-1400 www.newbeginningfgbc.com

New Fountain Worldwide Ministries Bishop J. D. Means, Sr. PO Box 501 Jonesboro, GA 30237 678-644-1209 www.bishopjdmeanssr.com

New Jerusalem Baptist Church Pastor Elijah Collins Jr. 1958 Dogwood Road Snellville, GA 30078 770-972-2324 www.njbchurch.org

New Jerusalem Worship Center, International Pastor Lou V. Gholson 5279 Springdale Road Forest Park, GA 30297 678-886-3462

New Life Tabernacle C.O.G.I.C Pastor Joseph Hogan 715 Cleveland Ave, SE Atlanta, GA 30354 404-366-9200

Power of Faith Deliverance Ministry Pastor Jean Ward PO Box 422001 Atlanta, GA 30342 770-572-3782

Providence Missionary Baptist Church Rev. Damon P. Williams 2295 Benjamin Mays Drive Atlanta, GA 30311 404-752-6869 www.pmbcatlanta.org

Pure Praises Ministries Pastors Michael & Sederia Grave 3101 Austell Road Austell, GA 30008 770-873-2263

Ray of Hope Christian Church Pastor Cynthia L. Hale 2778 Snapfinger Road Decatur, GA 30034 770-696-5100 www.rayofhope.org

Redemptive Life Christian Fellowship Church Dr. Mark W. Thompson 406 Pleasant Hill Road Conyers, GA 30012 770-922-1234 www.theredemptivelife.org

Rehoboth Christian Center International Bishop Ronnie Jackson 450 Racetrack Road McDonough, GA 30252 770-305-9881

Restoration Tabernacle, Inc Bishop Franklin L. Glover, Sr. 52 International Court Dallas, GA 30157 678-363-6777

Salem Bible Church Rev. Jasper W. Williams Rev. Joseph L. Williams 2283 Baker Road NW Atlanta, GA 30312 404-792-0303 Salem East 5460 Hillandale Drive Lithonia, GA 30058 Continued on page 18

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www.overgroundrr.com Solomon Temple Missionary Baptist Church Rev. B.L. Clements 395 Blair Villa Drive, SE Atlanta, GA 30354 404-363-3349 St. James Missionary Baptist Church Rev. Rodney B. Harris 23 Parr Farm Road Covington, GA 30016 678-837-5622 bishopsjmbc@ymail.com St. John Missionary Baptist Church Pastor Jeff Davis 52 Fairburn Road SW Atlanta, GA 30331 404-696-1779

ORR!! Church Station Conductors ORR CLERGY PICTORIAL DIRECTORY

St. Philip AME Church Rev. Dr. William D. Watley 240 Candler Road Atlanta, GA 30317 404-371-0749 www.saintphilip.org

St. Timothy’s Episcopal 2833 Flat Shoals Road Decatur, GA 30034 404-241-7711

Transform Lives Christian Church Rev. Michael Wright 130 Shelby Oaks Trail Covington, GA 30016 770-866-1505

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West End 7th Day Adventist Elder Calvin B. Preston Senior Pastor 845 Lawton St, SW Atlanta, GA 30310 404-755-5927 Wheat Street Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Michael Neely Harris 359 Auburn Ave. Atlanta, GA 30312 404-659-4328 www.wheatstreet.org

World Covenant Christian Center Pastor Reginald Ezell 3777 Troupe Smith Rd. Conyers, GA 30094 678-565-0378 Zion Hill Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Aaron L. Parker 6175 Campbellton Road Atlanta, GA 30331 404-691-8025 www.zionhill.org

Woods Memorial Baptist Church Rev. Toney Mosley 5665 Old National Hwy. College Park, GA 30349 404-761-3002

St. Mark AME Church Rev. Larry W. Hudson, Sr. 3605 Campbellton Road Atlanta, GA 30331 404-349-6800 www.stmarkameatl.org

Trinity Tabernacle Baptist Church Rev. Portia Wills Lee, M.Div. 592 Veterans Memorial Hwy. Mableton, GA 30126 770-941-4131 www.trinitybc.com

Word of Faith Love Center Rev. Dr. Reginald Garmon 2435 Ben Hill Road East Point, GA 30344 404-762-8286 www.woflovecenter.org

St. Mark Lutheran Church Rev. Larry Miller (Interim Pastor) 4137 Washington Road East Point, GA 30344 404-768-3304

The True Light Baptist Church Rev. Darell D. Elligan 47 Anderson Ave. NW Atlanta, GA 30314 404-799-8623 www.thetruelightbaptist.org

Word of God Ministries Rev. Larry Hill 3120 Donald Hollowell Atlanta, GA 30318 678-698-8386

Need a service and/or product? ® Overground RR!! business directory provides you with a host of businesses to choose from.

NATIONAL PRESS RELEASE, TLA Real Estate Consulting !!!!! TLA Real Estate Consulting, we specialize in Loan Modifications and Foreclosure Prevention for homeowners facing financial & medical hardships. If you’re in foreclosure, your mortgage may be suspended until your Loan Modification is completed.

payments. Don’t use all of your savings or 401-K. Act now before it is too late. TIME’S RUNNING OUT!!! TLA CAN HELP… CALL NOW!

Foreclosure usually happens when: 1) There is a loss of income. 2) New Job, not paying what your old job was paying. 3) Furlough’s. 4) Bankruptcy. 5) Arm’s. (Adjustable Rate Mortgages) 6) Medical Bills piling up. 7) Divorce & Separations. (There were two incomes, now there’s only one) 8) Investment Properties. (Expensive repairs, tenant not keeping up with payments & vacant properties) 9) Your mortgage payment is just too much, based on your current income and circumstances. (Even if you are current) 10) And yes, if you are on a Fixed Income, Semi Retired or Self Employed, you are still eligible for a Loan Modification. 11) Up Side Down? 12) Baloon Payment? Any of these reasons may have been beyond your control. However, if you don’t make changes in your mortgage payments, you won’t be able to afford your home. Your Mortgage Payments should be based on your current income, not what you were making when you purchased your home. Even if you are current on your loan, you may still be struggling just to make your

Teddy Astin, Vice President and General Manager

When TLA is consulting you on your Loan Modification, may not be required to make payments until your modification is complete. And the best part of a Loan Modification is that when your Modification is complete, a) You will have a lower interest rate. b) Lower monthly payments. c) You will not be required to make up all of the back payments. d) You will be off to a FRESH START! And yes, if you have had a Modification in the past, you may still eligible for a new one. Your income may have changed since your first Modification. Some of TLA’s’ clients, we are consulting them on their 2nd & 3rd Loan Modifications as you read this Press Release. Also, if you have recently filed for Bankruptcy to save your home, we can

still help you get your Loan Modification, eliminating those expensive Attorney Fee’s & Trustee Payments each month, over the next 5 years. Don’t Let This Happen To You. You Deserve Better. You And I Helped The Government Bail Out The Big Banks And Auto Dealerships. THIS IS YOUR BAIL OUT!!! Three things you should always remember about Loan Modifications. 1) When TLA is working with you on your Loan Modification, you may not be required to make mortgage payments until your modification is complete. And the best part of a Loan Modification is that when your Modification is complete: a) You will have a lower interest rate. b) Lower monthly payments. c) You will not be required to make up all of the back payments. d) You will be off to a FRESH START! 2) And yes, if you have had a Modification in the past, you may still be eligible for a new one. Your income may have changed since your First Modification. Some of TLA’s clients, we are working on their 2nd & 3rd Loan Modifications as you read this information. 3) If you have recently filed for Bankruptcy to save your home, we can still get you a Loan Modification, eliminating those expensive Attorney Fee’s & Trustee Payments each month, over the next 5 years.

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Phone: 404-842-4600 Toll Free: 888-611-1108 Fax: 888-770-0050 www.tlarealestate.net info@tlarealestate.net

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Visionary Dr. Gregory L. Pollard: Instilling the Reverence of God in the Lives of The Enon Church Members

The Pollards: Rev. Dr. Gregory L. Pollard, First Lady Libby Pollard and daughters Gabrielle and Danielle

n April 28, members, friends and family of Rev. Dr. Gregory L. Pollard celebrated his 20 years as pastor for The Enon Church. In his 35 years of preaching the Gospel, Dr. Pollard has been a trailblazer for Christ leading the way while breaking chains for others. The rich legacy of Dr. Pollard brought a VISION that propelled the congregation into the new millennium where they “Endeavor to Lift Christ, Seek the Salvation of the Unsaved, Foster Unity of Faith and Promote a More Excellent Way of Living.” The Visionary Leader of The Enon Church, Rev. Dr. Gregory L. Pollard, Senior Pastor came to a church of three hundred members that has grown exponentially since 1996. Dr. Pollard prefers not to talk about membership numbers because the focus of his ministry is not gathering members, but instilling the reverence of God in members’ lives and to affect change in their lives. Pastor Pollard’s parents, the late Tommy H. Carter and Jessie Lee Pollard reared a warrior for the Lord. At the tender age of seven, Pastor Pollard joined Tabernacle Baptist Church where at 15 he started preaching, earned the title of Youth Pastor and later received the position of Assistant Pastor. Maintaining dedication to the ministry, Pastor Pollard graduated from Morehouse with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Religion and Philosophy and a minor in Psychology. Being filled with a vision, he adopted the philosophy, “As a man thinketh in

his heart, so is he, for with God, all things are possible.” A soldier for the Lord, Pastor Pollard is relentless in reaching and rescuing souls. His sermons and speeches are clear, concise and profound. Through various genres, they are used in many facets to Advance the Kingdom. His family, First Lady Libby J. Pollard, princesses Gabrielle and Danielle, his mother, Jessie Pollard, two siblings, Denise and Reginald, support his ministry/ vision immensely and bountifully reap the many benefits of him being husband, father, son and brother. The Enon family and community remain enriched and blessed as they continue to share the wealth of his spiritual guidance. ENON MINISTRIES • The Mighty Men of Standard Men’s Ministry ministers homeless, in shelters, naked, and hungry, both physically and spiritually. • Brotherhood Outreach Development for Youth (B.O.D.Y.) develops Christian Young Men. • The D.I.V.A.S. Ministry – Women’s Ministry serves to encourage, equip, and empower ALL women to grow spiritually, to minister to the needs of others, and to live a life that will draw others to Christ. • Sisterly Outreach of Unity and Love (S.O.U.L.) is designed for the development of Christian young women. • Couples in Christ Ministry helps married couples develop habits of praying together, attending church, and growing in the Christian Faith. • Seasoned Saints Ministry is for members who are retired and/or empty nesters.

Dr. Pollard prefers not to talk about membership numbers because the focus of his ministry is not gathering members, but instilling the reverence of God in members’ lives and to affect change in their lives. • Five Loaves Ministry is the collection of non-perishable items gathered each third Sunday for the Atlanta Food Bank. • 12 Tribes Birth Month Ministry promotes fellowship and support for one another and the community. Each birth month named after the 12 tribes of Israel.

• ECADEMY provides parents a safe Christian summer enrichment program for children to engage in Bible Study, Academic Enrichment, Field Trips, Learning Games, Storytelling, Team Building, Arts & Crafts, and Physical Fitness.

• Bereavement Ministry serves as a mediator between Pastor, church and family. • Educational Ministry Organized to develop a standard of educational excellence that promotes cognitive, physical, social, emotional, and Christian development. • Children’s Church Ministry partners with parents to help children learn more about God and Jesus Christ, to develop a solid foundation of Biblical truths, and to grow in knowledge of Him. • The Scholarship Ministry awards financial assistance to Enon students during their matriculation in a post-secondary school. • S.O.A.R.M. Ministry is to further develop and prepare the future direction of youth; to develop individuals who are productive citizens of society; and individuals for a lifetime of catching blessings poured from God’s open windows.

VISIT THE ENON CHURCH SUNDAY: Morning Worship: 8:00 AM & 11:00 AM New/Added Discipleship Training: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 10:00 AM WEDNESDAY: Lunch w/The Lord: 12 Noon Midweek Bible Study: 7:30 PM

The Enon Church 3550 Enon Road College Park, GA 30349 770-306-0400 (office) 770-964-4047 (fax) www.thenonchurch.org

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Ben Hill United Methodist Church: A Christ-Centered Church Where Everybody Is Somebody …TO WHOM MUCH IS GIVEN, MUCH IS REQUIRED … Luke 12:48

n 1875, the first Methodist church (Wesley Chapel ) was established in Fulton County and in 1918, the Ben Hill Circuit of Mt. Zion, Mt. Gilead, Owl Rock and Wesley Chapel was formed. In 1928, under the pastorate of The Reverend A.E. Silvey, Wesley Chapel Methodist Church became Ben Hill Methodist Church. The growth and progress of Ben Hill is best demonstrated by its move from a circuit of four churches to a station to the purchase of additional land to an edifice grounded to meet the needs of congregants’ decades later.

Over the years, Rev. Winn has served on the Committee of Episcopacy in the North Georgia Conference, Chairperson of the District Committee on Superintendents, AtlantaCollege Park District, Secretary to the North Georgia Conference for over 25 years and Secretary of Religion and Race. For four consecutive years, Reverend Winn presented at Rock Eagle United Methodist Men’s Retreat. He has preached in every region in the United States of America. Rev. Winn, a three-time cancer survivor has been married to the former Vernita K. Dixon for 42 years. This Godfilled couple has a son and two grandchildren.

Declining membership in the 60′s and early 70′s, as Whites moved out of the area and Blacks began to move in, the Rev. Paul Wolgomuth weathered the transition by walking neighborhoods and inviting new residents to come worship at Ben Hill. “Brother Paul” as he was affectionately called, encouraged parents to attend Sunday services. During these trying times, “Brother Paul” brought on staff Ben Hill’s first African-American student minister, Richard D. Winn who left a year later to complete his Seminary requirements. Some 30 years later, in 2006, Rev. Richard D. Winn returned to Ben Hill as senior pastor. As the senior shepherd, he has embraced, supported, and nurtured his flock. In his own words, “What a joy!” Reclamation, recommitment, reactivation and recruitment for Jesus Christ have been paramount during his tenure. Rev. Winn loves the miracles in the Bible and believes that miracles happens everyday! The Ben Hill congregation support the needs of those less fortunate in metro Atlanta and beyond through its Urban Responsibility Rev. Richard D. Winn Ministry (financial assistance to those in need), feeding the hungry through the Ben Hill Food Bank and the Trinity Table feeding program, Commission on Missions, and Health and Wellness Ministry. Additionally, support is given to the Concerned Black Clergy and World Hunger programs. In September 2010, the congregation purchased two (2) oxen to fight hunger in Mpoyi, Congo. It gives annually to the United Methodist Church Advance Program, the United Negro College Fund, Gammon Theological Seminary, the Interdenominational Theological Center, Clark-Atlanta University, Paine College, the N.A.A.C.P. and other charitable causes. Ben Hill is a Christ Centered connectional church where its 5,000 members are somebody. Its 40 ministries are led by three clergy – Rev. Winn and two Associates, Rev. Belinda G. McCastle, Associate Pastor of Outreach, Evangelism, Care and Prayer Ministries and Rev. M. Lavell Sanders, Associate Pastor, Training, Spiritual Formation & Family Ministries. This mission minded mega church has 6 choirs, 57 staff and 128 volunteers.

Professional/Civic Affiliations and Expert Panels Reverend Winn is involved in the community through participation as a member of the Executive Committee – Atlanta Area Council Boy Scouts of America, Chairperson C.A.S.C.A.D.E. (Community Drug Prevention and Education), a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, the American Cancer Society, March of Dimes and has served on year long search committee for Chaplain at Clark Atlanta University

This mission minded mega church has 5,000 members 6 choirs, 57 staff and 128 volunteers.

Senior Pastor Rev. Richard D. Winn, Sr., the current beloved and always thankful Senior Pastor of Ben Hill United Methodist Church was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois as the fourth of six children and is an identical twin. Rev. Winn completed his primary and secondary education in Chicago where he graduated from Parker High School. After high school, Rev. Winn received a B.A. in Sociology from Southern Illinois University. In 1976, Reverend Winn received the Master of Divinity from the Gammon Theological Seminary. Rev. Winn’s practical approach to ministry began as he served the Maple Park United Methodist Church in Chicago, Illinois. In 1979, Bishop William Cannon invited Rev. Winn to serve in the North Georgia Conference. Since the transfer, he served the Bowen United Methodist Church, Clifton United Methodist Church, Hoosier Memorial United Methodist Church and Warren Memorial United Methodist Church. He emphatically stated, “God gave him a wonderful sense of discernment that lets him be priest, prophet, pastor and partner”.

Honors and Awards •

G. Ross Freeman Leadership Award – United Methodist Church

•

Whitney M. Young Award – Boy Scouts of America

•

African American Preacher’s Award

•

Southern Illinois University Think Tank

•

Emory University Kellogg Fellow

In July 2013, Rev. Winn takes on his next Godly assignment of Superintendent for 74 United Methodist Churches in the Griffin District of the North Georgia Conference. Ben Hill has been blessed with his anointed and Rev. Byron E. Thomas dynamic pastoral and lay leadership for the past seven years and his beacon of light will shine whether he is at the pulpit or afar…God’s Got Them!! Standing in the pulpit as the newly appointed Senior Pastor of Ben Hill United Methodist Church on the first Sunday June 23, 2013 was the Rev. Byron E. Thomas who hails from Central United Methodist Church in Atlanta. On any given Sunday, you can enjoy quality worship at 7:45AM & 9:45AM services at 2099 Fairburn Road, Atlanta, GA 30331.

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Georgia Prostate Cancer Coalition Gets On Board with the ORR!!®

ho is GPCC? It is the Georgia Prostate Cancer Coalition (www.georgiapcc.org), a 501 (c) (3) educational group. Formed in 2000, the organization consists of survivors or family members of survivors who are passionate about eliminating deaths due to prostate cancer in Georgia. The group does not recommend either specific treatments or healthcare providers. Instead, it provides men and their families with information and invites other survivors to join it. Each Board member and other members are lay volunteers who are uncompensated, and there is no paid staff.

GPCC’s mission is to communicate clearly and often that prostate cancer is curable if detected early. The group seeks to eliminate prostate cancer deaths in Georgia.

The goal of GPCC is to make men understand that early detection is the key to a cure. Sadly, many men avoid screening. They fail to realize that prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men, and it is often hereditary. As a result, GPCC encourages all men to be aware of their family medical history related to cancer. The group’s goal is for all men to get a baseline PSA test and DRE at age 40 and to consult with their doctor on the frequency of further tests. For AfricanAmerican men, or men having a history of prostate cancer in their family, age 35 may be appropriate. Background • 240,000 men nationally will receive a prostate cancer diagnosis each year – almost 5 full sellouts at Turner Field. • 1 in 6 men is diagnosed with

Men are important to their families and their communities, and GPCC provides them with educational tools to help them remain there. prostate cancer in his lifetime. • 1 in 4 African-American men will develop prostate cancer. • Georgia has the 4 th highest per capita death rate due to prostate cancer. • It is a disease with high cure rates if detected early. Risk Factors Although prostate cancer causes have not yet been identified, there are important risk factors that men should know about. For those at risk, getting tested has a sense of urgency. • Age - as men age, chances of developing prostate cancer increase. • Family history – if a man’s grandfather, father, uncle, or brother has/had prostate cancer, he is more likely to develop prostate cancer than men without this family history are. Be aware of other cancers in the family as well. Symptoms Early prostate cancer has no symptoms. Late detection symptoms can be: • Difficulty urinating or holding back • Painful or burning urination • Blood in urine or semen • Frequent pain or stiffness in lower back, hips, ribs or upper thighs If men have these symptoms, it does not mean that they have prostate cancer. It means that they should see a doctor soon. Education and consultation with your doctor form a great strategy. Screenings GPCC has worked with many healthcare providers around the Atlanta area to provide free or low-cost screenings. The menu of choices is available online at www.georgiapcc.org/calendar.asp. This listing is not exhaustive or all-inclusive; it represents the ones that GPCC has been able to confirm. As covered above, men must learn their family medical history in order to manage their healthcare choices wisely. Because African-American men experience a higher incidence of

prostate cancer, they should be very vigilant in monitoring their condition. GPCC encourages men to consult with their doctor as a first step. Insight: One of the most important things to realize about screening is that having a PSA reading is only part of the process. The value comes from monitoring it over time. If it increases by more than 0.35 nanograms/ milliliter in one year, consult your doctor. Soon! September: Prostate Cancer Awareness Month Each year September is the month when prostate cancer receives heightened awareness. Major League Baseball works closely with the Prostate Cancer Foundation, and in the case of the Atlanta Braves, there is usually a Father’s Day tie-in each year. Special Georgia License Plate To increase awareness throughout Georgia, GPCC campaigned for a Prostate Cancer Awareness license plate, which the State of Georgia approved and issued. Each car having one acts as a mobile reminder to men to track their prostate health. More importantly, the state contributes a portion of the fee for each Georgia Prostate Cancer license plate to help GPCC to support Prostate Cancer screening initiatives. Supportive Partners GPCC gratefully acknowledges the valuable assistance and resources of its partners. They include American Cancer Society, Men’s Health & Wellness Center, Midtown Urology, Northside Hospital Cancer Institute, Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia, Saint Joseph’s Prostate Cancer Center, and now ORR!!®. GPCC is on board with ORR!!®’s mission of connecting churches, businesses, and the black community for unity and prosperity. By extension, GPCC hopes that mission succeeds in an environment of good physical, especially prostate, health. Men are important to their families and their communities, and GPCC provides them with educational tools to help them remain there.

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South Carolina-based Business Pitch Competition Gave Away Up to $100,000 in Funding

f you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a successful entrepreneur or you have an existing business that is in need of expansion, True Dreams Showcase was in Atlanta, and it brought cash. Friday, September 6th and Saturday September 7th, at Atlanta’s Cobb Galleria Centre on Cobb Parkway in Marietta, several entrepreneurs brought their dream and a five minute pitch for the potential to receive up to $100,000 in funding. Participants had to be at least 21 to register. The registration fee was $97.00. Participants who waited to pay at the door brought $137.00 to the table. But, before rushing to sign up, participants were advised to bring their “A” game. The pitch needed to be compelling in order to convince a panel of judges to finance their dream. Winners in the event shared in the $100,000 of free funding for their businesses or inventions. This was not a loan. Participants did not have to provide their credit scores. There were no bank statements needed and no business plan required. Attendees just needed to be prepared to explain

“We wanted attendees to walk away feeling armed and ready to launch or expand their businesses. We wanted them equipped to go forth with their inventions and ideas. We wanted them established with a thorough education, and to walk away feeling empowered whether or not they received the funding.” their business, how much funding they needed and what they intended to do with the funding once they received it. True Dreams Showcase is the brainchild of Columbia, South Carolina native Sharon Holmes. Sharon is no stranger to big dreams. She watched her mother and father intently as they shared their desires to have businesses of their own. “My mother always wanted to own real estate, but during those days there was no financial assistance to help fund a dream. My father had some of the best barbecue sauce in the land. People would come from miles and miles to pick up his sauce, yet he could not get any real financial backing to launch his business.”

Holmes remembered praying and asking God to let her be the one, as she too had a dream of becoming a successful real estate investor. For a while it actually seemed as if she would fall into the generational trap that engulfed her parents’ dreams. “I searched and searched yet I couldn’t get anyone to give me the funding I needed to purchase a 76-unit apartment building.” Refusing to give up, Holmes finally secured the two million dollars she needed to purchase that apartment building. “I remembered securing the deal as the family gathered for my mother’s 76th birthday party. This happened to be the number of units in the apartment building I had just purchased. God answers, and on this day it brought

restitution for my parents dreams of success in business. Holmes reflected on her struggle to receive financing and thought about a way to help others fund their dreams without the hassle often associated with traditional sources of business funding. “Completely eliminating the standard process of funding” Holmes launched True Dreams Showcase. Last year, the Columbia event gave away over $50,000. Although centered on funding, the event was really about much more. The event featured experienced business leaders facilitating workshops on every conceivable business subject matter, including how to start a business and how to structure your company or organization. Holmes says, “We wanted attendees to walk away feeling armed and ready to launch or expand their businesses. We wanted them equipped to go forth with their inventions and ideas. We wanted them established with a thorough education, and to walk away feeling empowered whether or not they received the funding.”

An affiliate of the SCLC - “Celebrating Excellence in Public Service”

Rep. Tyrone Brooks

With more than 1000 members statewide, GABEO’s main focus is on developing programs which will provide deterrents to violence and crime among youth; promoting voter registration, education and participation, forming literacy programs to battle the growing problem of illiteracy in the state; securing economic parity for all Georgians; preserving minority voting strength, and removing the divisive Confederate emblem from the Georgia state flag. Below is their People’s Agenda for 2013:

GABEO Fall Conference Partnering with Leadership Summit Members October 25-27, 2013 Quitman, GA For More Information Contact: Rep. Tyrone Brooks, 404-656-6372 and 404-372-1894. madge.owens@house.ga.gov or visit: www.ga-gabeo.org

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STOP EMOTIONAL EATING AND LOSE WEIGHT Dr. Nancy J. Williams, Holistic Doctor, First Fruit Naturral Healing Home

ave you ever heard of “emotional eating”? It’s when you eat because you are trying to get a pleasurable emotion, such as excitement, joy, or feelings of love and comfort or you are trying to escape from a painful emotion such as boredom, sadness, and/or loneliness. This emotional eating can destroy your chances of ever losing weight. So it is very important to deal with and process your emotions in healthy a way. Instead of looking toward food to fulfill you, find joy in your life and fill yourself with love every day. Go for that walk, take a vacation, go out to a nice restaurant – even if it is only you. You don’t have to wait for another person to love you or treat you to something nice, treat yourself by doing things that are healthy and good. By doing these things you are giving “SELF” the love that you deserve. You are a living, breathing human being with a body, emotions, mind and spirit. Weight loss is about balancing and bringing harmony into each part of “SELF”, mind, emotion, body. When you are feeling depressed, frustrated or bored, and you keep running to food to escape from the issue at hand, you will never lose the weight for long, it will fluctuate with your eating habit. In order to heal emotional eating find healthy ways to lift your mood and release the negative emotions. You may find it helpful to express your emotions by keeping a journal, practicing yoga, or volunteering your time to help others. There are a lot of things to do with the time you have been given in this life instead of over-eating when you feel pain - you are a spiritual being in a human body. You are going to have emotions, learn how to deal with your emotions in positive ways; this will set you up for a lifetime of happiness, health, joy and peace. One of the most important steps in weight loss is incorporating a good detox program at the same time you are losing weight. A good detox will include all major filter systems, like the colon, kidneys, liver and skin, but don’t forget to purify the blood and clean out the parasites. This provides upkeep of the body and helps it perform properly. It will also be helpful to minimize consuming fast food, along with sugar and simple carbs, and cutting down on saturated fats. Here are a few tips to ensure you maintain a healthy lifestyle of food consumption: 1. Limit your fast food consumption! If you must eat out, find restaurants that have healthy choices like salads, baked, grilled or broiled alternatives. 2. Detox the body regularly. Most diseases come from toxins in the body and they have the ability to weaken the immune system.

3. Replace refined white sugar with sweeteners such as Stevia and Agave Nectar. 4. Make green vegetables your main staple for each meal, try steaming, roasting, grilling. 5. Eat plenty of fiber! This is important for your digestive system. You should consume 25 to 30 grams of fiber per day – Fiber activates the cleansing system within the body. 6. Drink plenty of water, half your body weight or at least 8-8oz a day, this hydrates the body, lubricates the organs and carries nutrients throughout the body. 7. When measuring food consumption, use portion sizes like the palm of your hand and 10–12 ounce cups.

When overcoming emotional eating and losing weight, it should be looked at as a personal journey not a quick fix, so avoid fad diets that in the long run will NOT get you the lasting results you are looking. Most importantly, remember that you’re in charge. Your success or failure will be up to you. If your health is a priority to you, you will succeed, don’t stress, do the best you can and get the help you need. For a free 20 minute consultation or how to get started today on a detoxing/weight loss program contact First Fruit Natural Healing Home today. Learn how to live a holistic lifestyle by overcoming sickness and disease like; High Blood Pressure, Skin Problems, Cholesterol, Diabetes, Obesity, and Digestive Problems. Mention this article and receive 10% off any detox or weight loss services, visit www.firstfruitnaturalhealinghome.com for a list of services. Dr. Nancy J. Williams is a Holistic Doctor and the visionary/CEO of First Fruit Natural Healing Home. To contact Dr. Nancy, call 770484-4745.

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CBC Introduces... The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) The CFPB, which opened its doors in 2011 following passage of Wall Street reform, is the first federal agency devoted to consumer protection in the financial marketplace. I am reaching out to you because I appreciate the role communities of faith play in building neighborhoods, supporting members, and when necessary, caring for people experiencing financial trouble. I know that many of you view the economics of people’s daily lives not only as a matter of finances, but also of the human spirit.

The tools are easy to use and include: • Ask CFPB – This tool gives consumers answers to consumer financial questions in plain and easy to understand language. Please visit www. consumerfinance.gov/askcfpb. • Consumer Complaints – Consumers can get help with complaints about credit cards, mortgages, student loans, checking accounts, savings accounts, credit reporting, bank services and other consumer loans. Please visit www.consumerfinance.gov/complaint or call the hotline at 855-411-CFPB (855-411-2372), which offers assistance in 190 languages.

Communities of faith often serve as “first responders” when it comes to ensuring the financial security of American families. Many of the stories that you hear day in and day out – of neighbors working hard to pay their bills, to keep up on their credit cards, to pay their mortgages – are also • Paying for College – This tool lets consumers compare financial aid letters from different colleges, provide information about choosing heard by us at the CFPB. These financial products can help people achieve and repaying student loans and much more. Please visit www. their dreams, but sometimes things go wrong. consumerfinance.gov/paying-for-college. The central mission of the CFPB is to make markets for consumer financial products and services work for all Americans. In addition to writing and • Tell Your Story – Consumers can share good and bad experiences with financial products with the CFPB. Your story will help inform how we enforcing rules of the road, this means ensuring that consumers get the continue to work to protect consumers and create a fairer marketplace information they need to make the financial decisions they believe are best for everyone. for themselves and their families. We understand that the consumer financial marketplace can be complex and confusing. At the CFPB, we have interactive tools available to help consumers get clear, unbiased answers to their financial questions.

I encourage you to visit the CFPB’s website at www.consumerfinance.gov to use these tools or for more information. Please think of us as your first stop for financial information, and please continue to tell us about what you’re seeing in your communities.

Richard Cordray, Director | Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) 1700 G Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20552 consumerfinance.gov

St. Mark’s Musical Drama Emphasized Faith, Hope, Love and Forgiveness

Musical Drama performed at St. Mark A.M.E. Church on should not end with this performance. As God took many steps on many Sunday, June 9, 2013 was “loosely adapted” from songs on a roads, this production needs to go on many roads. CD of the great Donald Lawrence, called “Bible Stories”. Mrs. Edna Sheffield first heard Bible Stories in 1996 and thought what a wonderful way to make the Bible come to life. That is just what she did when choosing, Job, the Sinful Woman, Moses, Woman with an Issue of Blood, Peter and The Ten Lepers. Emphasis of these stories circled faith, hope, love and forgiveness, not only in song, but also through dance and Spoken Word. On approval from Rev. Larry W. Hudson, Sr., the musical took the stage as a choir project. A large number of St. Mark’s congregation had parts in this spirit-filled drama, whether on stage or behind the curtains. They each willingly gave of their time and talent to share the world of the Bible. Mrs. Sheffield said, “We are living in troublesome times of hatred, crime and violence. It is my hope that this musical was an uplifting experience and a blessing to all who attended. I thank God for the vision.” Although the original ordered steps for this project happened in 1996, and came to fruition again on an even grander scale in 2013, St. Mark

“We are living in troublesome times of hatred, crime and violence. It is my hope that this musical was an uplifting experience and a blessing to all who attended. I thank God for the vision.” - Edna J. Sheffield, Project Coordinator

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CHRISTIAN DECLARATION OF POSITION REGARDING MARRIAGE 1. As a Christian, with all of my faults and shortcomings, I must look to the Bible to define what marriage is and what marriage is not. 2. Marriage according to the Bible is between a man and a woman. (Genesis 2:24 - “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.”). 3. The relationship was established by God between the first man Adam and the first woman Eve, both created by God. (Genesis 2:20 - 25). 4. Though the Bible is my guide, support for homosexual marriages cannot be found even in non-biblical sources. Every system of faith (whether it was called a religion or not) which has had any wide recognition in human history has recognized that marriage is only between men and women, never between persons of the same sex. “The first country to allow same-sex couples to enter into legally recognized marriage was the Netherlands, effective in 2001.” Wikipedia, Same-sex marriage. 5. Even when marriage has been defined to include polygamy, it was always between men and women, never between several men or several women. As shown in Wikipedia, Same-sex marriage, homosexual “marriages” is a recent invention beginning in the Netherlands in 2001. 6. Indeed the Bible is very plain, in both the old and new testament, that homosexual behavior cannot be approved. “Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination.” (Leviticus 18:22). Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools; And changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things; Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishon our their own bodies between themselves: Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient. (Romans 1:22 - 26). 7. None of this is to say that homosexual behavior is the only sexual behavior unacceptable by the Bible. Sexual intercourse outside of marriage between a man and a woman is also prohibited. (Exodus 20:14 - “Thou shalt not commit adultery.”; Romans 13:9 - “...Thou shalt not commit adul tery...”). 8. At any large gathering of Christians there is likely to be many who have committed, are committing, and/or within a short period of time after that gathering will commit, adultery. Indeed David, God’s chosen servant, committed adultery. (2 Samuel 11th and 12th chapters). 9. However, there is no movement afoot to stop the Church from preaching the Biblical teachings against adultery. A very large percentage of people who have committed adultery claim to be driven by biological urges which they cannot resist. This is similar to the claims of those who advocate homosexual marriages. 10. We have all fallen and come short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23 - “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.”) This includes heterosexuals as well as homosexuals. But it is not God or the Bible that must change. We must change. 11. The fundamental message of the Christian faith as stated by Jesus is “Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.” (John 3:7). And, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16). 12. As much as I love my homosexual relatives and friends, I cannot go against God and the Bible to endorse homosexual marriage. I respect their choice to not follow the Bible in their personal lives, just as I respect the right of persons to commit adultery. 13. But my respect for a person’s right to make a private choice does not justify my endorsement of that which the Bible clearly states is wrong. It would be a violation of my conscience and my relationship with God, as well as an encouragement for others to do wrong, for which I would be responsible to my family, society in general and GOD. 14. Likewise I stand strongly opposed to any violence against those involved in homosexual behavior. Any act of violence against a person because of homosexual behavior is a sin in and of itself, as well as a crime which should and must be prosecuted. 15. It must be clearly understood that the Church must preach the gospel which includes the loving teaching to repent for all sin including homosexual behavior. (Matthew 28: 19-20 - “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen).

It is imperative that a clear statement of the position of Christians regarding this issue be put forth. “For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle?” (1 Corinthians 14:8).

“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” (Ephesians 6:12).

This is not homophobia, which those who seek to silence dialogue quickly label anyone who disagrees with them. This is homolove. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16).

This declaration is by the Bible Believing Christians Alliance [Disclaimer: This is paid advertisement and does not necessarily represent the position or ideas of the publisher, the organization publishing this media, or any of its members.]

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