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To
Election Early Voting Sep. 27, 2025 - Oct. 04, 2025
Polls are open from 8:30 am - 6:00 pm
ELECTION DAY OCT. 11, 2025
Polls are open from 7:00 am - 8:00 pm
By: KaTrina Chantelle Griffin and Lawrence Martin
– The Boulevard celebrates its 50th edition. Behind this landmark stands a visionary, a trailblazer, and a servant-leader in the world of Black media and entrepreneurship: Mr. Lawrence Martin.
He was born to two gigantic, lovely personalities, both his Father and Mother, Lawrence and Loretta Martin. “The Spiritual side I received from my mother, and the
Practical side of the world I received from my father.”
As we turn the pages of this celebratory issue, we reflect on the life of a man whose determination, faith and innovation has shaped and uplifted the black community across the country. Relationships from the past continue to contribute to the journey. The media has a great influence on how we think, shaping our world from the spoken word to the written word.
To understand the weight of this achievement, you must understand the journey. And what a journey it has been.
As a teenager, he sympathized with the movement and found myself on the frontlines of a protest. During the demonstration, someone threw a bottle from the crowd that narrowly missed me and struck an officer’s trigger finger. He looked into his eyes, saw the barrel of his rifle, and watched his trembling hand. He thought He was dead. But God had another plan.
Today, I produce the celebrated event called the Asante’ Awards— which means “Thank You.” And for me, it means “Thank You, Lord.”
Bright ideas often come from within, placed by God Himself. He repurposed the first internet television, proposed advertisement streaming on TVs in shopping malls, gas stations, strip centers— wherever you see digital ads today, that was me Lawrence Martin began his publishing journey at the early age of 17 with Fashion Premiere in New Orleans. He later moved to California and founded Bay Area Black Esquire (BABE). He then joined Family Fair publication and Pacific Coast Advertising.
At Voice Press, he earned $60 per week, learning under the guidance of Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett— owner of Reporter Publishing, California Voice, Metro Reporter, Sun Reporter, Voice Press. He also was the President of the National Black Press.
Frank Crockett, head pressmen of Voice Press mentored him. Lawrence absorbed everything— watching, listening, and learning. He also worked along side Walter Fish. When both were arrested during a tumultuous time, Lawrence stepped up. Leadership wasn’t something he chased— it was something he carried within.
At one point, he made $360 per week but took a pay cut to bring Walter Fish back on board.
He later joined Frank Crockett again at a new job, Teletrone Printing working on printing, realtor listings and managing plant operations.
He then returned to Voice Press, where he served as Plant Manager for
four years. He would later encounter difficult challenges getting the newspapers out.
Just as publisher John Johnson of the Jet/Ebony Publishing Firm would face when white owners of paper houses would not sell paper to a Black firm. “Back then, it was The Jim Crow segregation era at its worst. Now, in 1978, a Paper Strike would turn out to be the same thing for me,” said Martin. He would later go on to meet legends like Congresswoman Maxine Waters, singer Dionne Warwick, and California House Speaker Willie Brown. He became the house photographer at major venues, capturing icons like Teddy Pendergrass, Gladys Knight & the Pips, Luther Vandross, The Dells, Earth, Wind & Fire, and many more
One summer day in California, my mother had just returned from Jerusalem—asked me to read scripture. I hesitated but obeyed. The passage didn’t make sense to me, but she explained, “Baby, we don’t always know how to pray, but we can always start by saying “Thank You, Lord.”
Little did I know that 25 years later, I would be standing before thousands at the Asante’ Awards, originally called the Jazz Movie, and Music Festival. I went to bed as Saul and woke up as Paul. The name Asante’ was born of that moment
In 1984, Mr. Martin relocated to New Orleans and built lifelong friendships, including one with Don Hubbard, owner of the only Black-owned bed and breakfast on St. Charles Avenue. Lawrence remembers one of Hubbards’s famous quotes “Come on If you’re coming, and if you’re Comin, Come On.”
The Crescent City would be just one stop on a broader journey.
In 1985, he moved to Houston to work with Houston Design Graphics, producing circulars for major retailers. Then in 1989, he landed at the historic Williamson Printing in Dallas, Texas - a 100 -year-old institution. He started as a stripper (in print layout), later becoming Quality Control Manager overseeing a seasoned team of 20. Leadership, for Mr. Martin, was always about vision and humility.
In 1993, Mr. Martin launched One Expres’, outfitted with state-ofthe-art equipment and built on a foundation of precision. “Measurements have to be finite,” he said. “I had precision like an astronaut— precise precision.”
This attention to detail and commitment to excellence elevated One Expres’ into a one-stop powerhouse in the printing industry. He took on major contracts, including a $35,000 deal with Black Pages, though the promised benefits – a table at the Black Expo and three ads – never materialized. Instead of wallowing in disappointment, Mr. Martin pressed on. Another partnership with Ernest Stalbert - a
childhood friend, as close as a brother - began as a $15,000 project. Thanks to Lawrence’s vision and dedication, it ballooned into a $250,000 opportunity.
He often credited four wise people in his life:
• His mother, the “Prime Minister” Say Pray
• His older brother, the “Minister of Finance,” Cut Your Losses Short
• His middle brother, the “Minister of Defense” Shoot em in the Kneecap.
• Ernest Stalbert “A Voice of Reasoning” A Combination of the three of them once told Lawrence, “You must choose what side you’re on - You cannot straddle the fence - I chose God”.
Through trials and triumphs, he’s leaned on them, on God, and his own Unshakable resolve. In a particularly difficult season, when rent was two months overdue and the bills were piling up, he offered a prayer: “Lord, this is your problem.”
A week and a day later, a failed deal was turned into a $350,000 Contract. That miracle laid the foundation for what would become a media empire. It was a lady by the name of Rose Orange who dropped her name in a Fishbowl for One Expreś at a Houston’s Black Expo - she became a great client and the company she worked for Capstone Financial Group awarded Mr. Martin with this lucrative contract.
Mr. Martin wasn’t content to simply lead in printing – he was determined to
innovate and return to where God had blessed him. With momentum behind him, Mr. Martin’s creativity exploded. He became the first Black man to develop digital TV displays, using a combination of projectors and an audio tape. His work was recognized by a few in New Orleans for delivering live advertisement –years before it became common in the U.S.
In 1997, he launched @d-cetera, employing a staff of 20 and mentoring them in life, business, and faith. With their help— including Justin Britten and Jeremy Reneau— NOLA TV was born in 2003. It became one of the first web-based Black news and entertainment
Mr. Martin’s legacy includes:
• Fashion Premiere
• Bay Area Black Esquire (BABE)
• One Expreś (1993) –High-precision printing.
• @d-cetera (1997) – Media and tech innovation.
• NOLA TV (2003) – Local digital broadcasting.
• Asante’ Awards (2008) – Celebrating 40 leaders annually.
• The Boulevard (2013) – A cultural voice.
• Connect2Black App (2017) – Networking platform for Black businesses.
The G7 logo represented “Government”—symbols
Luter Jr. recorded the first commercial, and Alden McDonald’s support
Thanks to supporters like Roger, Toni, Tanda, Sharon Martin, Lenzi, Yvette, and others, over 360 honorees have been recognized. Though paused due to the pandemic, the Asante’ Awards will return in 2027.
The Boulevard, launched in 2012, is Mr. Martin’s most visible creation. It reflects the community, amplifies culture, and tells bold, beautiful stories of Black excellence. This 50th edition cements that legacy.
Mr. Martin stands for justice, empowerment, and service. Even after
suffering a stroke, he gives thanks and keeps going. He raised his sons with the belief: “There are no big I’s and no small U’s.” Everyone matters. That spirit is the heartbeat of The Boulevard.
His favorite song? “Thank You” by Frankie Beverly and Maze—a perfect anthem for a life of purpose and gratitude.
To every young person inspired by this story: let Mr. Martin’s life be your proof that faith, vision, and determination can build legacy.
I want to thank everyone who played a part in my life that way. They have helped me achieve my goals.
My beautiful wife Helen without whom I could not currently operate. She is my rock, my joy and the love of my life!
“My sons, My Sons” Zavier and Quincy, who will carry on my legacy through the next generation of Martins. I could not imagine life without these two. They are truly what brings me the most pride and I cherish them deeply. David Blanchet who has always been there for me, especially during that
difficult time, during my stroke. He is often my interpreter in business. I’ve Known him over 25 years since he was finishing college and beginning his own journey into the multimedia industry. He is a protege, who has now run his own design firm for 18 plus years.
As we celebrate the 50th Edition of The Boulevard, we honor not just the magazine but the man behind it. A man who never gave up—who moved from stripping color to controlling media narratives.
This magazine is more than a publication. It is a
platform for truth, culture, and Black progress. Mr. Lawrence Martin’s life is a blueprint for resilience, innovation, and unwavering faith.
May this milestone be the beginning of even greater accomplishments. And to every dreamer: your story can shape history too.
Congratulations to The Boulevard on its 50th edition. And to Mr. Lawrence Martin—thank you for showing us what is possible when talent meets vision and faith leads the way.
By: KaTrina Chantelle Griffin
There are entrepreneurs – and then there are architects of change. Mr. Ronald V. Burns, Sr. is the latter. A strategic visionary with relentless tenacity, Ronnie Burns, Sr is the founder of BMG Enterprises, a powerhouse portfolio that includes QCS Logistics, The Burns Management Group and Global Parking Systems, LLC. What sets Mr. burns apart is not just his resume – it’s his resolve. He’s not simply building companies; he’s
building communities, inspiring generations and leaving legacies in every corner of this country.
From board rooms to backstreets, from airport terminals to hospital wards – when Ronnie Burns, Sr show up, excellence follows.
A 1973 cum laude graduate of Dillard University with B.S. in
Accounting, Mr. Burns carried more than a degree – he carried purpose. That same drive led him to Dartmouth’s Amos Tuck School of Business, where he completed the Minority Business Executive Program, sharpening the tools that would fuel his future empire.
He began his professional journey at Liberty Bank and Trust Company, becoming Vice-President and Internal Auditor by the age of 25. For
decade, he navigated the financial world with precision and integrity, but deep down, he knew his impact was destined to reach far beyond the bank walls.
In 1984, Ronnie Burns, Sr Sr. leaped. Believing in the untapped entrepreneurial potential of Black America, he founded Quick Courier Services, Inc., now known as QCS Logistics. Under his leadership as Chairman and CEO, QCS became one of the Southeast’ premier expedited delivery and
logistics firms. By 1992, he shattered ceilings again, becoming the first African American board member of the national Customized Logistics and Delivery Association (CLDA).
That same year, never one to rest on his laurels, he launched The Burns Management Group, a consulting firm specializing in business development and strategic relationships. The message was clear: Burns wasn’t just in business. He was building a brand of power, precision and progress.
By 1993, Mr. Burns, Sr. set his sights on yet another frontier – the parking industry. He founded Global Parking Systems and under his bold leadership, the company grew into a national contender. Today, Global Parking operates in Louisiana, Texas, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Utah and Oregon. Through a powerful joint venture with SP Plus, Global Parking Systems helped form the New South Parking Partnership, managing airport parking
operations across the country – including New Orleans’ Louis Armstrong International, Houston’s Hobby and Bush Intercontinental, San Francisco, Salt Lake City, Portland, Omaha, Baton Rouge, SarasotaBradenton, Hilo and Kino, Hawaii and more.
Ronnie Burns, Sr Sr. doesn’t just expand business – he expands what’s possible for Black enterprise in spaces few have dared to occupy.
What makes Ronnie Burns, Sr Sr. unforgettable isn’t just the scope of his success – it’s how he shares it. Burns is deeply committed to education
and youth leadership. Through his involvement with Big Brothers of New Orleans, New Orleans Recreational Department Corporation and Sabriya’s Castle of Fun Foundation, he’s poured into young people not just resources – but hope, joy and guidance.
His most personal impact can be felt through The Burns Family Scholarship, founded during the 2013-2014 academic year at St. Augustine High School in honor of his parents, Winston & Gretta Burns. For decades, the Burns family has been one of the school’s most committed supporters – leading initiatives, mentoring students and preserving
its storied legacy.
Mr. Burns is also a key figure in the school’s Entrepreneurship Program, inspiring young Black boys to pursue ownership, leadership and purpose.
In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, when many leaders faltered, Ronnie Burns, Sr Sr. stepped up. Recognizing the loss of vital healthcare infrastructure in New Orleans East, he answered the call from Mayor Mitch Landrieu to chair the New
Orleans East Hospital Service Hospital Service District Board.
Under his leadership, a new hospital was built and opened in 2015. In 2021, that hospital was named “Hospital of the Year” by the Louisiana Nurse Association – a testament to his vision and unshakable commitment to the community that raised him.
While awards have never been his aim, Ronnie Burns, Sr’ contributions have not gone unnoticed. Among his many accolades: CLDA Hall of Fame
Inductee (2018) City of New Orleans Legends Award (2017) American Diabetes Association Man of the Year (2017) Bleu Flame of Excellence Award – Dillard University (2019) Young Leadership Council’s Role Model Award
Justice Revius O. Ortique, Jr. Professional Excellence
Award – Dillard University (2023) St. Augustine High School Hall of Fame
Inductee (2023)
Whitney M. Young, Jr. Award – Boy Scouts of America (2024).
Behind every move
Ronnie Burns, Sr. makes is a family rooted in love, faith and service. He has been married for over 46 years to Sheila Berniard Burns, his partner in life and leadership. Together, they raised two sons Vinnie and Jason – and are the proud grandparents of twins, Jordyn and Jason Jr.
businessman – he is a builder of institutions, a cultivator of talent and a torchbearer for equity. He has proven that Black excellence doesn’t need permission – it needs opportunity. And when the doors weren’t open, he built his own.
As The Boulevard celebrates its 50th edition, we honor a man who exemplifies everything this publication stands for: fierce determination, fearless leadership and a future-minded legacy.
By KaTrina Chantelle Griffin, MBA, Member of Orleans Parish School Board, District 4
When Hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans in 2005, it devastated lives, levees—and our public school system. In the storm’s aftermath, the city embarked on one of the most radical education reforms in U.S. history. The traditional district structure was replaced by a decentralized network of charter schools, and a system once defined by dysfunction began to deliver measurable results.
Over the last two decades, graduation rates in New Orleans have climbed significantly. In 2005, just 56% of students graduated. By 2023, that number had reached 78.6%, according to a report by
FOX 8. Data from NOLA Public Schools shows that college-entry rates have increased by 28 percentage points since the mid-2000s, and not a single school in the city currently holds an “F” rating. These gains are real—and they matter.
While traditional metrics of success have improved, students themselves are questioning the relevance of those benchmarks. Nationally, just 62.8% of 2024
high school graduates enrolled in college by the fall, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. A growing number of teens—84% in recent surveys—don’t see college as a realistic option. More strikingly, nearly two-thirds say they want to launch their own businesses after high school. These aren’t just trends. They’re signals— and we need to start listening.
So here’s the question we must confront: If we rebuilt our school system, what did we rebuild it for?
As a member of the Orleans Parish School Board and a proud parent of two NOLA-PS
graduates, I’ve had the privilege of listening to students, families, and educators on the ground. I’ve seen our schools rise from chaos to function, from crisis to stability. But I’ve also seen a widening disconnect between what our system prepares students to do— and what our students actually want to do.
The world they are entering doesn’t look like the one we prepared for 20 years ago. It’s digital, decentralized, and driven by entrepreneurship, innovation, and selfsufficiency. While college preparation should absolutely remain an option, it can no longer be the only measure of success.
We also need to be honest about the financial implications of a one-size-fits-all approach to education. Every year, we invest millions in standardized test preparation, AP coursework, and college counseling—all while underfunding programs like career and technical education (CTE), workforce development, and entrepreneurship incubation. Meanwhile, the average student loan debt in Louisiana is over $35,000. Many of our
students—especially those from underserved backgrounds—start their adult lives already in a financial deficit. If 84% of students don’t see college as viable, yet we continue funneling resources exclusively into college prep, are we being fiscally responsible?
Diversifying our investments is not just an educational strategy—it’s a financial imperative. Supporting students who want to enter the workforce, start businesses, or gain certifications can reduce debt burdens, stimulate local economies, and ensure our public dollars yield measurable, longterm returns.
This is not about choosing one path over another. It’s about aligning our investments with the needs and aspirations of today’s learners.
It’s time we evolve our thinking—and our offerings. That means: Expanding Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs in every high school
Creating youth entrepreneurship pipelines and business incubators
Embedding financial literacy, digital marketing,
and job readiness alongside algebra and ELA Partnering with local industries for real-world skill development
None of this lowers expectations—it expands possibilities. It acknowledges that our students are already thinking about ownership, autonomy, and economic freedom. We just need to catch up.
I’m proud of how far we’ve come. We’ve rebuilt schools, restored learning environments, and improved outcomes. But the time has come to reimagine what success looks like. Not just degrees and diplomas— but businesses launched, trades mastered, ideas funded, and dreams realized.
New Orleans is a city of resilience and reinvention. Our public education system must reflect both. The question is not whether our students are ready for the future—it’s whether we’re ready to meet them in it.
We rebuilt the buildings. We restored the system.
by Laverne Woods Dunn
SCRIPTURE ENCOURAGES US TO REMEMBER WHAT GOD HAS DONE IN YOUR LIFE AND TALK ABOUT IT TO OUR CHILDREN AND OTHERS. I WILL EXALT YOU, MY GOD AND KING, AND PRAISE YOUR NAME FOREVER AND EVER. I WILL PRAISE YOU EVERY DAY; YES I WILL PRAISE YOU FOREVER. GREAT IS THE LORD! HE IS MOST WORTHY OF PRAISE! NO ONE CAN MEASURE HIS GREATNESS. LET EACH GENERATION TELL ITS CHILDREN OF YOUR MIGHTLY ACTS; LET THEM PROVLAIM YOUR POWER. I WILL MEDITATE ON YOUR MAJESTIC, GLORIOUS SPLENDOR AND YOUR WONDERFUL MIRACLES.
PSALMS 145:1-5 NLT
8
Fresh Food Assasin
1900 N Claiborne Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116
504.224.2628
Asante Foundation
2635 Aubry St.
New Orleans, LA 70119
504.416.9699
Ashe’ Cultural Arts Center
1712/1724 O.C. Haley Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70113
504.569.9070
Beaucoup Eats
2323 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70119
504.603.4888
Beep-Me
Plumbing, Heating & A/C
419 S Salcedo St #2, New Orleans, LA 70119
Ben Council Attorney at Law 419 S Salcedo St #2, New Orleans, LA 70119
Bright Moments
2249 C Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70113
504.592.1800
Cafe’ Reconcile 1631 O. C. Haley Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70113
504.568.1157
Carney Auto Title & So. Security School Inc. 2518 Tulane Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70119
504-352-6038
Central City Economic Opportunity Corporation
2020 Jackson Ave
New Orleans, LA 70113
504.524.3484
Central City Senior Program
2010 Phillip Street
New Orleans, LA 70113
504.524.3484 ext.116
Charles F. Webb
6600 Plaza Dr. #210
New Orleans, La 70127
504.242.1781
Cresent City Pharmacy
2240 Simon Bolivar Ave. Ste A
New Orleans, LA 70113
504.267.4100
Community Connection Programs, Inc.
1332 O. C. Haley Blvd.
New Orleans, LA 70113
504.522.4304
Connect 2 Black 2635 Aubry St.
New Orleans, LA 70119
504.416.9699
Dryades YMCA
2220 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd.
New Orleans, LA 70113
504.299.4310
FFLIC
1307 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd.
New Orleans, LA 70113
504.708.8376
Franklin Avenue
Baptist Church
7 O’Clock Dental
2101 So. Claiborne Ave, Ste F
New Orleans, LA 70113
504.309.3077
Good Work Network
2024 O. C. Haley Blvd.
New Orleans, LA 70113
504.309.2073
Good Look Creative goodlookcreative.com
504.383.4426
Gulf Coast Housing Partnership
1610-A O. C. Haley Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70113
504.525.2505
HOPE Community Credit Union
1726 O.C. Haley Blvd.
New Orleans, LA 70113
504.585.2858
Hot Spot Barber and Beauty Salon
1416 Simon Bolivar Ave.
New Orleans, LA 70113
504.581.9633
Juvenile Justice Project of LA
2018 O. C. Haley Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70113
504.522.5437
Liberty Bank 6600 Plaza Drive
New Orleans, LA 70127
800-883-3943
Mackie One Construction MackieOneConstruction.com
504.821.1530
Majestic Mortuary Services
1833 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd.
New Orleans, LA 70113
504.523.5872
Natural Sisters Lock Alliance
11020 Roger Dr
New Orleans, LA 70127
504.344.8360
New Orleans Driving School 2518 Tulane Avenue New Orleans, LA 70119
504-821-5334
New Orleans Jazz Orchestra/Jazz Market 1436 Oretha Castle Haley, Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70113
504.301.9006
NOLA.Tv
2635 Aubry St. New Orleans, LA 70119
504.416.9699
O.C. Haley Blvd. Merchants & Business Association
1712 O.C. Haley Blvd, Unit 302 New Orleans, LA 70113
504.528.1806
Piety & Desire Chocolate
2727 S. Broad Street
New Orleans, LA 70125
Richard Disposal Inc. 11600 Old Gentilly Road New Orleans, LA 70129
504.241.2142
Smiley’s Grill New Orleans
3716 Downman Rd, New Orleans, LA 70126
504. 248.7270
Swanson & Associates, Inc
5301 Elysian Fields Avenue New Orleans, LA 70122
504.821.0303
Up&Adam Eatz 3903 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70119
504.708.7237
Vyoone’s Restaurant
412 Girod St. New Orleans, LA 70130
504.518.6007