2012 sept./oct. edition of the gospel tribune atlanta newspaper

FREESept./Oct. 2012

Ambassador Andrew Young - A Living Legend

MorehouseSchool of Medicine

Montford Point Marines

National Hunger “Action” Month

Prostate Cancer Awareness

Bishop Paul S. Morton

Breast Cancer Awareness

Israel Houghton

The Olivet Church

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September/October 2012

Feature

Contents

PUBLISHERPastor Tyrone Crider, Sr.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEFMr. Tracey Harris

CONTRIBUTING WRITERSLeslie Briscoe

Dr. Candace CabbilFred Codes

Dr. Shelley M. Dunson-AllenMichelle Edwards

Mary EleyStevie Flowers

Latricia Edwards ScrivenDr. Lisa M. Tait

YOUTH IN ACTION WRITERSMicah HarrisTyler TabronJeffery Reid

PRODUCTION/OPERATIONSChris Cook

Michelle EdwardsMariah, Melia, Micah & Nathaniel Harris

Tevera TabronDr. Candace Cabbil

Natasha PtomeyRosalind Mitchell

Linda WhatleyKaren Gustave

Schalida Turner

LAYOUT & DESIGNJoseph Delgado

[email protected]

PHOTOGRAPHYTameka Pero

[email protected] (678) 525-5588www.tpero.com

VIDEO & SOUND EDITINGWayne D. Alford Jr - DRIVn Media Co.

(732) 207-6046

The Gospel Tribune [email protected]

advertising@thegospeltribuneatlanta.comwww.thegospeltribuneatlanta.com

Phone: (678) 278-9145

The Gospel Tribune Atlanta is a free monthly publication.There is a $20/year fee for home delivery & online access.

Reproduction of the content in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. All rights reserved.

Copyright © 2012 - The Gospel Tribune Atlanta.

Mayor Kasim ReedWelcomes GTA

Spiritual Enhancement Bishop Paul S. MortonMorehouse School of Medicine

Community AwarenessElisabeth Omilami Cheryl “Action” JacksonTiffany Rose

Cover StoryAmbassador Andrew YoungFounder of Good Works International,Civil Rights Leader and Ambassador

Health & WellnessChildhood ObesityBreast Cancer Awareness / SurvivorsRobin Roberts & Monica PearsonMs. Stevie FlowersArtist Spotlight - Charlie Wilson

Youth in ActionBack to SchoolMicah HarrisTyler Tabron

Special FeatureIsrael Houghton

Senior Living Patricia HarrisCongress Honors MontfordPoint MarinesLloyd Buchanan

Back Cover Willie Watkins Funeral Home

Editorial StatementMr. Tracey Harris

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BET’s Reed Youth In Action

facebook.com/thegospeltribuneatlantatwitter.com/gospeltribunelinkedIn/gospeltribune

Morehouse School ofMedicine

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Morehouse School of Medicine

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Dr. Cynthia HaleNovember / December

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Greetings:

As Mayor, it is my pleasure to welcome The Gospel Tribune Atlanta Newspaper to the City of Atlanta.

The faith community is a strong pillar in our city. Atlanta’s rich spiritual heritage represents a significant portion of our district history. I extend a warm welcome to The Gospel Tribune Atlanta Newspaper and look forward to receiving your enlightening messages and positive features.

Thank you for the tremendous value you add to our community and residents. Your publication provides encouragement for life and spiritual inspiration.

On behalf of the people of Atlanta, I extend best wishes to you.

Sincerely,

Kasim Reed

CITY OF ATLANTA55 TRINITY AVE, S.W.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30335-0300TEL (404) 330-6100

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Our goal at Gospel Tribute Atlanta (GTA) is to empower, uplift, and educate by ministering to the hearts and souls of God’s people. For we know that only what we do for God will truly last. As such, I feel honored and blessed that my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has chosen me for this assignment. My job as Editor is to continue building our brand, provide excellent service to our viewers and listeners across the nation, and to provide cutting-edge graphics and photography while sharing God’s Word and powerful testimonials.

As each of us continues to press forward, I strongly encourage you to cast your vote on Tuesday, November 6, 2012. What you think and how you feel is not as important as your vote. Voting in the upcoming Presidential Election is a way to voice your opinion as it pertains to policies that affect many communities – policies that affect your future, your children’s future, and your grandchildren’s future. Your vote can certainly change the course of history. Become an agent of change and cast your vote!

Any questions that you may have regarding voter registration deadlines, absentee ballots, mandatory Saturday voting, and Election Day, please contact your local board of elections or visit us at www.thegospeltribuneatlanta.com.

As the premier gospel newspaper in the Atlanta market, GTA is printed on a bi-monthly basis. We offer very competitive advertising rates, which will allow you to share upcoming events, products, and services. God has also blessed us with a platform to minister through music. You can listen to “live” gospel music 24 hours a day on GTA Radio at www.thegospeltribuneatlanta.com/gta-radio.

We pray you enjoy this edition of The Gospel Tribune Atlanta and may the blessings of God continue to follow you!

Editorial Statement

Mr. Tracey HarrisEditor-in-Chief

Tameka Pero

@gospeltribune facebook.com/thegospeltribuneatlanta

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).

www.thegospeltribuneatlanta.com | 5

Youth In Action

Missionary Patricia Harris

FREESept./Oct. 2012

One of The Greatest Preachers & Gospel Recording Artist!

Stevie Flowers

National Sickle Cell Awareness

Childhood Obesity

Verizon How Sweet The Sound


“God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and

a sound mind. (2 Timothy 1:7)”What I am finding in this season and what we have to be careful of, is there is a spirit out there that is scaring people. It’s called the spirit of fear. I teach against that spirit of fear that stops people from their destiny and stops them from their goals. So we have to break that bondage of fear.

GTA: We are still facing tough economic times, what is your message of hope and love to all of our readers and viewers today?

Bishop: My message of hope is just believe God’s word. I just spoke it and I stand on that. There is nothing in there about a recession. My God shall supply all of my needs. And on the rock of His word builds the church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. If it would have said, “Everything but a recession”, then I would have said the gates are coming against us. But no gates of hell can come against us if we stand on the Word.


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GTA: God has kept you over the years, how do you maintain balance?

Bishop: It took me awhile. I think it was a generational curse I had to break. My dad was a workaholic and my wife would probably say I’m still somewhat of a workaholic. But, I’ve learned how to balance it out. We take vacations and that’s important because you must rest your mind. That’s what I teach pastors. Sometimes you get burned out and you don’t even know that you are burned out. In 2006, I was diagnosed with colon cancer, but I thank God for bringing me through it.

I listened to the doctor and there were some things I had to change about my level of exercising. I had to change my diet. It’s amazing how we can teach people that the devil is busy. For example, if you are on drugs you can get off those drugs. But there are people that can get hooked on ice cream. They have to have ice cream before they go to sleep. You can get hooked on anything. But you can’t cast a demon out of somebody else until you cast a demon out of yourself. So, I jog 5 miles a day and just eat right – I stay off of the

fried foods. Just balance. That’s really what it’s all about. That’s why I tell people if you can’t spend one hour a day on your body out of 24 hours in a day, I mean do you really love your body? I am 61 years old and God has been good to me and I want to be able to make sure that I’ve given my people the best as it relates to presenting my body and my mind.

GTA: First Lady Morton, what is she into? What’s going on?

Bishop: You know I thank God for her! That’s the love of my life. I know God gave her to me! Because, of course, even in the raising of our children she is just the best of the best. And even in the beginning of our ministry she was first lady and did that part well. When I married her, she was in the choir and she stayed in the choir for a while, taught Sunday school and then I saw leadership ability in her. She began to organize the women in our ministry.

For the complete story go to www.thegospeltribuneatlanta.com

GTA: Tell us about the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship and what’s going on at the church?

Bishop: First of all, we are grateful for the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship. It was something God gave to me early in the 90’s.In 1990, I began to transition our church from a traditional Baptist church to Full Gospel – when we talk about Full Gospel it’s more of a Pentecostal Baptist or a Charismatic Baptist. But what we were endeavoring to do is bridge the gap between Baptist and Pentecostals because those were the two fighting groups basically.

I wanted to see it happen in my church first at Greater St. Stephen in New Orleans. For two years, I taught on the Holy Ghost, being filled with the Holy Ghost, and how important the Holy Ghost was to a traditional Baptist Church. After the two years were up, I told them, “Listen, I’ve been teaching you and now it’s time to operate in it so those of you who want to be filled, come to the altar.” And I mean people were just everywhere. So I watched the transition of a ministry change from traditional to really believing in the power of God and the fullness of the Holy Ghost. God said seek out 12 people who can really help you in this ministry like the disciples. So in different cities and in different regions we made people overseers. God gave me the 12 that were going to help me put it together. They helped me to work through our transition and that’s why we have Full Gospel today.

GTA: Bishop, where is Full Gospel going?

Bishop: We are still proclaiming the message as to what we’re all about. We want to educate across the country. We want a place where pastors, ministers, and people in ministry can really learn and understand how to operate in excellence. One of my favorite scriptures is Isaiah 1:17 where it says, “Learn to do well.”

Tameka Pero

Courtesy of Changing A Generation Full Gospel Church

September

October


• Reducing the amount of fat in the diet may lower the risk of developing breast cancer

• Drinking alcohol increases the risk of breast cancer, so women should limit their alcohol intake

• Being exposed to estrogen for a long time may increase the risk of breast cancer, so women who have taken hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills (oral contraceptives) should talk with their health care provider about their breast cancer risk.

• Check with family members to learn if there is a his-tory of breast cancer in your family

• Women should talk with a health care provider about breast cancer if they have a family history of breast cancer, have taken hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills, are obese, or drink alcohol regularly

• Reducing the amount of fat in the diet may lower the risk of developing ovarian cancer

• Having and breastfeeding children and taking birth control pills (oral contraceptives) may decrease a woman’s likelihood of developing ovarian cancer

• Having a family history of ovarian cancer, being obese, and taking hormone replacement therapy or fertility drugs may increase a woman’s risk of having ovarian cancer

• Check with family members to learn if there is a his-tory of ovarian cancer in your family

• Women should talk with a health care provider about ovarian cancer if they have a family history of ovarian cancer have taken hormone replacement therapy or fertility drugs, or are obese


“THE BEST IS YET TO COME AND WHAT’S COMING IS BETTER THAN WHAT’S BEEN!”A ministry where we are not just maintaining, but we are being transforma¬tional. I believe that God has called the church to be a trans-formational institution. Wherever there is darkness, I believe God has called us to be a light. Wherever there are problems, hurt, or sickness, I believe God has called us to be a Balm in Gilead.

That is where I see myself taking The Olivet Church. A place where we continue to do transformational ministry, a place where we are growing in the Word of God, where we are giving to the work of God, and where we are glowing in our walk with God.

GTA: Given the recession, a lot of people are still hurting, losing homes, jobs, cars and a lot of their possessions. What is your message of hope and love to all of our readers today?

WHR: My message of hope, encouragement, and love would be to keep looking up to God. To keep looking towards the hills from whence cometh your help and I’m not just saying that to sound cliché, but all of our help comes from the Lord. God is too wise to make a mistake. He is too right to be wrong. He is too big to be small.

Sometimes, he allows storms to come into our lives to prove Himself within our lives. The reality is we would never know that God could be a shelter in the time of storms if we never had storms.

We would never know that He could be a doctor in the sick room if we’ve never been sick. My word is to continue to be encouraged. Keep your hands in God’s hand because He is everywhere and He is always with us.

GTA: Tell us a little bit about you, Dr. William Holmes Robinson?

WHR: I am a native of Atlanta, Georgia. I was born to the late John H. Robinson and Wendi T. Robinson. I have three sisters, and I am the youngest. I actually grew up in Wheat Street Baptist Church, one of the historic churches here in Atlanta, Georgia, under the late Rev. Dr. William Holmes Borders, whom I was named after. He was my godfather and my father served as his Chairman of the Dea-con’s Ministry for 30 years at that church. I’m a product of the At-lanta school system. I attended Morehouse College and Morehouse School of Religion at The Interdenominational Theological Center where I received my Master’s and Doctor of Ministry Degree. I am truly a product of Atlanta and a native.

GTA: You have experienced some great opportunities in ministry, even at a young age. Share with us what you believe God’s purpose is for you.

WHR: I believe God’s purpose is for me, specifically, is to advance the Kingdom of God. I strongly believe that God has given me a mandate as well as a commission to advance the kingdom, to make a mark that cannot be erased, to make an impact for the kingdom

Dr. William Holmes Robinson

GTA: You are currently standing on the shoulders of two great for-mer pastors, Dr. Creecy, Sr., who I didn’t know. Also, Dr. Creecy, Jr. who was my very good friend. What does this mean to you as the new pastor of The Olivet Church? Secondly, where do you plan to take The Olivet Church?

WHR: I am truly humbled to follow such great men as Daddy Creecy as well as Pastor Howard Creecy, Jr. These two men were legends within their own times. They were denoted and renowned through¬out this country. I feel like I am standing on their shoulders.

I honestly feel like they have blazed the trail for not only me, but also other young pastors who are coming along to take the mantle even higher.

SENIOR PASTOR, THE OLIVET CHURCH


@theolivetchurch

facebook.com/TheOlivetChurch

[email protected]

www.theolivetchurch.org

Courtesy of The Olivet Church

Courtesy of The Olivet Church


Elisabeth Williams-Omilami, activist, actress,

playwright, director, wife, and mother, has been

actively serving her Lord for more than 30 years.

The daughter of noted civil rights activist Dr. Hosea

Williams, founder of Hosea Feed the Hungry,

Elisabeth has advocated for social injustices across

the south. In January 1981, she became the first

Black woman in 75 years to spend the night in a

Forsyth County jail as an act of civil obedience. She

credits both her father and mother, former State

Representative Juanita T. Williams, for instilling

values that continue to make her passionate about

people and the environment. Both of her parents

have gone home to be with the Lord.

Omilami worked alongside her father for over 15

years to advance “Hosea Feed The Hungry and

Homeless” efforts. Upon his passing in November

of 2000, she became the organization’s CEO. She

currently serves as both the CEO and Executive

Director as the organization aspires to rescue,

restore, and re-stabilize at-risk and homeless

individuals and families.

“Hosea Feed The Hungry and Homeless,” based

in Atlanta Georgia, is an international Christian-

based organization that provides services to more

than 50,000 people per year. The organization was

named, by the Georgia State Senate, one of the

top charities in Georgia for its hurricane Katrina

relief program efforts to over 6000 survivors.

She is also the founder of one of Atlanta’s earliest

theatre companies, People’s Survival Theater,

and she has written several plays, one of which is

There is a River in My Soul.

As an accomplished actress, Omilami can be seen

in the HBO television movie Boycott (2001), In the

Heat of the Night (1988), and the award-winning

I’ll Fly Away (1991). Former member of both the

Georgia Council For The Arts and the Fulton

County Arts Council, she is a passionate advocate

for the arts.

Omilami is a graduate of Hampton University and

holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theatre. She

resides in Atlanta, Georgia with her husband Afemo

Omilami, actor, COO and Programs Operations

Manager of “Hosea’s Feed The Hungry

and Homeless.” She has two children Awodele

and Juanita. A member of Abundant Life Church

in Lithonia, she serves under the leadership of

Pastor, Rev. Woodrow Walker, II.

Sources:

Hosea Feed The Hungry and Homeless. (2012).

Retrieved from:

http://www.hoseafeedthehungry.com/

Omiliami- Williams, E. (2012).

“Elisabeth Williams-Omilami Biography.”

Retrieved from:

http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0648417/

Hosea Feed the Hungry and HomelessElisabeth Williams-Omilami

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Bradford Protective Services, LLCQuality Service863 Flat Shoals Road SE Suite C-191 Phone: 678-760-6282Conyers, GA 30094 www.bradfordprotective.com

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Courtesy of Hosea Feed The Hungry




Inteviewed by Latricia Edwards ScrivenCheryl “Action” Jackson

God show me a sign. You know I tell people from your pain, I believe becomes your passion and your purpose for life.” These are the powerful words spoken by Cheryl “Action” Jackson. Cheryl has personally experienced the pain that comes with trying to provide for your family. She took it upon herself to turn her pain into action. The Gospel Tribune Atlanta family is excited to share her story in her own words.

You know, throwing the newspaper, he’s working for the city, working for Domino’s pizza, I’m working for Pizza Hut and we’re trying to make ends meet. We have two kids, and I just remember our lights being turned off. We were always moving. The joke was that if my phone got turned off, and I couldn’t get it back on within 30 days I would get a new phone number. The most painful part came when we didn’t have food for our kids. Our lights were turned off, and I remember my husband coming home with just the pepperoni that goes on top of the pizza. I was thinking, there has to be a better way, God.”

I’m a preacher’s kid. I saw my parents give the best that they had to the community. But my husband, trying to take care of his wife and family, didn’t want me to tell my father or anybody in our congregation what we were going through, so I suffered silently.

I took it upon myself, and I decided to go to the government to apply for food stamps. I remember walking in that place and looking around and there was such an empty feeling and a depressed spirit was in the air. I didn’t care. I was still smiling because “I was thinking this is the government, and I am going to get approved for food stamps. We are going to get a decent meal.” I was declined after filling out all of the paperwork. They gave me a brown paper bag containing food.

I embraced that paper bag as though it was my child. I’m going home thinking at least I’ll have a great meal tonight. When I got home and opened up that bag there were so many foreign food items. But, I don’t even remember what they were. The only food I remember was beets. I can tell you from that day to this day, I still have not cooked beets. I was thinking what am I going to do with this? You know?! I just kept crying and crying and saying, “God, there has to be a better way!” I’m a preacher’s kid and seven years ago, God took my father home, so I wanted to do something to honor my mom, Minnie. My food pantry is named after my mother, Minnie’s Food Pantry.

I just wanted to serve people the way that I saw my parents as pastors serve, and I wanted to serve people the way I wanted to be served when I was in need. God has just blessed me with that. I’m located in Plano, Texas.

The United States Census Bureau says that Plano, TX is the number one place

in the world to rebuild wealth. When first told people that I was opening a food pantry, they laughed at me. On April Fool’s Day, we served our first family. The joke now is on the entire city. We fed over 70,000 people and that number is increasing. We provided almost 1 million pounds of food to families in the community, this year alone. It’s been an amazing move of God.

I was on a TV show sharing my testimony about the one time I missed a day at work. I never missed a day of work at the pantry. On this particular day that I missed, I did not have money for rent.

I knew the landlord was coming, and I remember just crying and saying, God show me a sign. Am I doing the right thing?” I was using our personal funds because we’re not government funded. So, I’m using funds from my household saying, “It’s okay, this is what I’m called to do...my purpose.

For the complete story on Cheryl “Action” Jackson go to: www.thegospeltribuneatlanta.com

Interviewed by: Latricia Edwards Scriven


Courtesy of Cheryl Action Jackson

Courtesy of Cheryl Action Jackson

Courtesy of Latricia Edwards Scriven


by Mary Eley

Tiffany A.Rose


Who can best describe Tiffany A. Rose other than me, one who gave birth to her in a place called Philadel-phia, PA.? I saw her young and empathetic heart directed toward making the world better for the disad-vantaged and needy manifested by giving her allow-ance to organizations like Care and Feed the Children at the age of 9. Later on by the time she was 15 years of age, saw her giving monthly financial assistance to World Vision, of which she remains a monthly spon-sor of a child.

And now as an adult, still with the same heart of com-passion, Tiffany serves the homeless in downtown Los Angeles in a community called Skid Row, the homeless capital of America, and also deemed as one of the most dangerous places to be. Working along-side my daughter in Skid Row feeding the homeless has been one of the most rewarding experiences that I have ever had.

Tiffany was raised in the Tidewater/Hampton roads area of Virginia (where she also placed 1st runner-up for the Miss Tidewater Pageant) and attended Norfolk State University, where she became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. To even further her humanitarian efforts, she moved to Los Angeles soon after.

She didn’t forego her passion for helping others, but juxtaposed it with fulfilling her creative endeavors. She was given the opportunity to work for Martin Lawrence’s television show “Martin”. This opened the door for her to work as an actress and behind-the-scenes on several television shows, and inspired her to write and executive produce the feature film, “Per-fect Combination,” starring actors such as Christian Keyes, Angell Conwell, Johnny Gill, Dawn Richard, Chico Benymon, Kareem Grimes, and Debra Skelton.

In the interim, Tiffany has been a successful realtor and broker as well as creator and producer of “Jump Around 4 Kids,” a fun exercise and dance DVD series that focuses on the fight against childhood obesity and getting kids physically active.

Fast forward to the endeavor that initially pulled at her heartstrings, she loves the disadvantaged and disen-franchised.

As founder of My Friend’s House Foundation (MFH), since October 2008, Tiffany can now be found in the Skid Row section each Wednesday from noon until 2

p.m., rain or shine, feeding approximately 200 people.

MFH provides clothing, shoes, toiletries, and other necessities. As a source of encouragement, MFH provides prayer and a message of hope to those they serve.

To date, My Friend’s House Foundation has served over 27,000 individuals and families with the help of an amazing group of volunteers and celebrities who have genuine hearts to serve the people with dignity and respect. Tiffany often applauds her volunteers for going beyond the “four walls of a building” to serve.

She is also blessed by companies like Panera Bread, Trader Joe’s, local restaurants, and catering compa-nies that provide most of the food, along with friends, volunteers, and supporters who also provide dona-tions to help complete the mission. MFH has no operating budget it survives off in-kind donations and funds that the founder and volunteers and supporters offer. Currently, MFH is seeking funding to expand services and broaden its outreach.

When questioned by some wanting to know why such a beautiful young lady is committed to coming to Skid Row to do anything, she replies: “God sent me here to accomplish a purpose that was designed many years ago, and now I’m implementing it with His grace.” A mantra she lives by is: “I never want to lie down at night without having made someone a little happier or a little better each day.”

Hence, as her proud mother, I welcome and even encourage you to support My Friend’s House Founda-tion (a 501(c)3 non-profit human service organization) through monetary and in-kind donations, goods and services, volunteer assistance, and prayer. Please help MFH continue to be a light in the darkness!

Find out more about MFH at:WWW.MYFRIENDSHOUSELA.ORG

[email protected]

@wefeedthehungry

facebook.com/myfriendshousela

Photos Courtesy of Tiffany Rose


A MAN THAT HAS DEDICATED HIS LIFE TO SERVING AS PASTOR, CIVIL RIGHTS ACTIVIST, POLITICIAN AND DIPLOMAT

Andrew Young

A LIFELONG ADVOCATE FOR HUMAN RIGHTS AND JUSTICE!

“Leadership in Visual Art and Culture,” will take place on October 3, 2012 at the African American Hall of Fame in the Martin Luther King Jr. Chapel.

Speakers include: Ambassador Andrew Young Morehouse Alumni Dr.Calvin McLa-rin, art collector and Barry Gaither, National Center for Afro-American Artists in Boston Radcliffe Bailey, visual artist Vicki Palmer, col-lector and supporter Radcliffe Bailey exhibit at the High Museum Aaronetta Pierce, arts advocate and consultant and Jerry Thomas, art consultant and collector.

“Leadership in the International Arena” will take place on October 17, 2012 at the Bank of America Auditorium at the Leadership Cen-ter. Speakers include: Ambassador Andrew Young, Julius Coles, former President of Africare. Olympian Edwin Moses and former Coca Cola global executive Carl Ware have also been invited.

Both venues are located on the Morehouse College Campus (830 Westview Drive SW Atlanta, GA 30314). Each forum will begin at 6:00 p.m. and is preceded by a reception, which begins at 5:15 p.m. This series is part of the course on Social and Political Change in the 20th Century and includes students from the class. The forum and course are held in partnership with the Andrew Young Foundation.

Ambassador Andrew Young is not only a civil rights activist and diplomat, but he is also a pastor and American politician.

He is a man who walked side-by-side with historical legends, such as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and so many others.

He is a man appointed by the President of the United States to serve as the United States Ambassador to the United Nations, and a man who continues to remain active in com-munity matters.

Born to a school teacher and a dentist in New Orleans, Louisiana, on March 12, 1932, Andrew Jackson Young was destined for a life of greatness and purpose.

He was brought up to believe that “from those to whom much has been given, much will be required.” Ambassador Young accepted and embraced that responsibility at a young age.

After beginning his higher education at Dil-lard University, Young transferred to Howard University in Washington, DC in 1947, and received his Bachelor of Science degree in pre-dentistry in 1951.

He originally planned to follow his father’s footsteps into dentistry, but he felt a religious calling and entered the Turner-Boatright Christian Ministry School and earned a Bach-elor of Divinity degree from Hartford Seminary in Hartford, Connecticut, in 1955.

A LIVING LEGEND

His “good works” have taken him to more than 150 coun-tries, including 48 of 53 countries in Africa. Through his leadership, countries throughout the world have created a successful model that combines religion, education, democracy and free enterprise in ways that support the public good.

Ambassador Young has received honorary degrees from more than 60 institutions, including his alma mater, Howard University, Swarthmore College, Duke University, Emory University, Clark Atlanta University, the University of Georgia and Morehouse College, which named its Cen-ter for International Affairs in his honor.

He has also received honorary degrees from international educational institutions, including the University of Preto-ria, South Africa and the University of Maiduguri, Nigeria. Georgia State University’s School of Policy Studies, which carries his name, is one of the best policy schools in the United States.

Ambassador Young served in the United States Congress and as United States Ambassador to the United Nations during the Carter Administration. In 1996, he was awarded the Olympic Order, the highest award of the Olympic Movement, for his work as International Vice President for Law Engineering and Chair of the Centennial Olympic Games hosted in Atlanta.

Ambassador Andrew Young in partnership with The Andrew Young Center for Global Leadership and the Leadership Studies Program at Morehouse College will host two fall forums.

LEADERSHIP FORUM SERIES

“Ambassador Young, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., has served on numerous corporate

boards of directors and advisory boards, including the Southern African Enterprise Development Fund, the Leon H. Sullivan Foundation, The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change, Diversapack,

Barrick Gold, United Nations, AMC and Atlanta Falcons.”

AN AMBASSADOR TO THE NATION

Tameka Pero

Photo Courtesy of Goodworks International

Tameka Pero


While mayor of the City of Atlanta for two terms, Young helped attract 1,100 new businesses and 70 billion dollars in private investments, and created one million new jobs. His leadership helped the City to earn the international reputation it holds today.

The author of two books, A Way Out of No Way and An Easy Burden, and co-author of, Walk in My Shoes, Ambassador Young recently received the Emmy for Lifetime Achievement. Young continues to live in Atlanta with his wife, Carolyn McClain Young. He is the father of three daughters and one son and the proud grandfather of eight.

Contact: Goodworks International303 Peachtree Street NESuite 4420Atlanta GA 30308-3264404-527-8484 - phone404-527-3827 - fax

Young was appointed to serve as pastor of a church in Marion, Alabama. While in Marion, Young began to study the writings of Mohandas Gandhi and became interested in Gandhi’s con-cept of non-violent resistance as a tactic for social change.

He encouraged African-Americans to register to vote in Alabama and experienced more than his share of death threats.

It was also during this time that he became a friend and ally of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

As the Civil Rights Movement gained momentum, Young and his wife Jean moved to Atlanta and again worked on drives to register black voters. In 1960, he joined the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and was jailed for his participation in civil rights demonstrations, both in Selma, Ala-bama, and in St. Augustine, Florida.

Young played a key role in the events in Birming-ham, Alabama, serving as a mediator between the white and black communities. In 1964, Young was

named executive director of the Southern Chris-tian Leadership Conference (SCLC), becoming one of Dr. King’s principal lieutenants.

As a colleague and friend to Martin Luther King, Jr. he was a strategist and negotiator during the Civil Rights Campaigns in Birmingham (1963), St. Augustine (1964), Selma (1965), and Atlanta (1966), and was with King in Memphis, Tennes-see, when Dr. King was assassinated in 1968.

Ambassador Andrew Young’s humanitarian efforts and influence have spanned the globe.

From his beginnings as an ordained minister and top aide to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during the civil rights movement to his current position as founding principal and chair of GoodWorks International, an organization that embraces his long-held mission of facilitating economic develop-ment in the Caribbean and Africa, Ambassador Young has dedicated himself to improving the lives of all people, particularly those in Africa and the Diaspora.

CIVIL RIGHTSLEADERSHIP FORUM SERIES

AN AMBASSADOR TO THE NATION

A HUMANITARIAN

Tameka Pero

Tameka Pero

Tameka Pero


by Dr. Candace CabbilChildhood Obesity

Have you noticed the fattening of America in the last 20 years? I have! Growing up, I recall overweight kids being in the minority. However, I have noticed that the number of overweight kids in America has increased significantly in recent years. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), childhood obesity has more than tripled in the last 30 years. In 2008, more than one-third of children and adolescents were overweight or obese. Overweight is defined as having excess body weight for a particular height from fat, muscle, water, bone or a combination of these factors. Obesity is defined as excess body fat. Both, overweight and obesity result from “caloric imbalance” - more calories consumed than are expended – and are influenced by behavioral, genetic and environmental factors. These stats pave the way for health problems, such as type 2 diabetes, cancer and heart disease that were once only reserved for adults.

Nationally, data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) show that approximately 17% (12.5 million) of children and adolescents aged 2-19 years are obese. The percentage of children aged 6–11 years in the United States who were obese increased from 7% in 1980 to nearly 20% in 2008. These statistics worsen, as more than one-third (35.7%) of U.S. adults are obese. Since 1985, the U.S. has seen a dramatic increase in obesity. In 2010, no state had an obesity prevalence of less than 20%.

Health Consequences of Childhood Obesity

Immediate health effects:• Obese youth are more likely to have risk factors for cardiovascular

disease, such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure. In a population-based sample of 5- to 17-year-olds, 70% of obese youth had at least one risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

• Obese adolescents are more likely to have pre-diabetes, a condition in which blood glucose levels indicate a high risk for development of diabetes.

• Children and adolescents who are obese are at greater risk for bone and joint problems, sleep apnea, and social and psychological problems such as stigmatization and poor self-esteem.

Long-term health effects:• Children and adolescents who are obese are likely to be obese

as adults11-14 and are therefore more at risk for adult health problems such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, several

types of cancer, and osteoarthritis. One study showed that children who became obese as early as age 2 were more likely to be obese as adults.

• Overweight and obesity are associated with increased risk for many types of cancer, including cancer of the breast, colon, endometrium, esophagus, kidney, pancreas, gall bladder, thyroid, ovary, cervix, and prostate, as well as multiple myeloma and Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Prevention:• Healthy lifestyle habits, including healthy eating and physical

activity, can lower the risk of becoming obese and developing related diseases.

• Schools play a particularly critical role by establishing a safe and supportive environment with policies and practices that support healthy behaviors. Schools also provide opportunities for students to learn about and practice healthy eating and physical activity behaviors.

Childhood obesity has become a great issue in the last 20-30 years, but there are easy, alternative ways to combat this issue. Partner with your kids by exercising with them, involving them in meal planning, and building a positive self-image.

Be an example to them by making healthy life-style choices and changes, too! Join the First Lady, Michelle Obama, on the Let’s Move (www.letsmove.gov) initiative and commit to rearing a healthier generation of kids.

www.letsmove.gov


Photo Courtesy of: ww

w.letsm

ove.gov

As an external Organizational Development (OD) consultant, Candace consulted with companies in Singapore, South Africa, The Netherlands, and Bermuda with an international team of consultants. Her primary focus is Group Dynamics, Leadership Coaching, and Board Development. Candace holds certificates in Gestalt IOSD, MBTI training, and she is a member of NTL.


“My dream is to be-come a Veterinarian”

Photo by Tameka Pero

Q: At what age did you become interested in fashion?A: I was really young. I was six years old when I drew my first fashion design. I would see outfits on TV and in the stores and thought to myself, I can do that too!

Q: What makes your designs unique?A: My designs are unique because of the characteristics of the

“Original, colorful, and unique! “ These are three words that 11 year old future fashion designer Tyler Tabron uses to describe her fashion style. Since age six, Tyler has known she has been blessed with a gift. Her gift is her ability to take her ideas of fashion designs and make them into a reality by putting them on paper. She has been busy creating and drawing fabulous designs that she hopes to one day share with the world. Here is her amazing story:

Can you believe it? School has begun. The summer went by really fast!!! I am in the 7th grade now!!!!! Ahhhhhhh!!!!! Last year, 6th grade was a lot of fun. I think it was fun be-cause everything was brand new. I attended a new school and received a new locker, which was awesome. I also started playing an instru-ment!

Last year, I did really well. I made honor roll every grading period. Now, 7th grade is differ-ent. I am determined to do that well again and to study hard so I can achieve my dreams. Although I still enjoy it, the newness of Middle School is fading. Now I find myself focusing on my future more and more. I realize that I will be in high school soon.

My dream is to become a veterinarian. I am a pet lover and care about them being treated well. I have a cat named Cassidy and a fish named Navy. I take very good care of them both. I want to own my own business so that I can treat animals that have been abused, nurse them back to health, and find safe homes for them. I will dedicate my time to helping poor and helpless animals.

Having an idea of what you want to do when you grow up gives you something to work toward and strive for. That is why I am work-ing so hard in school to achieve my dreams. It is never too early to plan for a successful life. Like the saying goes, “keep your eyes on the prize!” I will continue to follow my dream until it becomes reality.

GTA´s Youth In Action!

Tyler Tabron Photo by Tavera Tabron

by Micah Harris

designs and the color choices, and where my inspiration comes from. When people start to see my clothes, they will know that it is Tyler Tabron’s design.

Q: What are some of the tools or items you have on your wish list to help you in your career as a fashion designer?A: I’m going to sign up to take some sewing classes, so that I can learn the skills needed to start making my own clothes. I had a small, cheap sewing machine in the past, but I need a more professional one to use. So, I’m saving my money to buy a new one. I also just purchased some basic items from a craft store to use to make my own jewelry. I’m looking forward to buying some more items to build my acces-sories line.

Q: What can we expect from Ms. Tyler Tabron in the future?A: You can expect to see my design line. I will have clothes, jewelry, accessories, and shoes. My designs will be inspired by my personal style and everyday things in society.

Asthma and SchoolsAsthma is a leading chronic illness among children and adolescents in the United States. It is also one of the leading causes of school absenteeism. On average, in a classroom of 30 children, about 3 are likely to have asthma. Low-income populations, minorities, and children living in inner cities experience more emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and deaths due to asthma than the general population.Asthma-friendly schools are those that make the effort to create safe and supportive learning environ-ments for students with asthma. They have policies and procedures that allow students to successfully manage their asthma. Research and case studies that looked at ways to best manage asthma in schools found that successful school-based asthma programs

• Establish strong links with asthma care clinicians to ensure appropriate and ongoing medical care• Target students who are the most affected by asthma at school to identify and intervene with those in

greatest need• Get administrative buy-in and build a team of enthusiastic people, including a full-time school nurse,

to support the program• Use a coordinated, multi-component and collaborative approach that includes school nursing ser-

vices, asthma education for students and professional development for school staff.


www.thegospeltribuneatlanta.com/gta-radio

Source: www.cdc.gov


Israel Houghton

An interview with one of the four King’s Men.

GTA: Israel, can you tell us how the King’s Men concert tour concept began?

IH: Well, I actually know that Live Nation approached Kirk Franklin, my friend, and said, “We see gospel music genre, the industry, and the loyal fan base as a big fireball. We need to do something to elevate the visibility of gospel.”

And so, Kirk reached out to Marvin Sapp, Donnie McClurkin, and myself. We are very excited to be a part of The King’s Men Tour.

GTA: That is absolutely awesome. I understand four of the most successful gospel performers that you just mentioned, Kirk Franklin, Marvin Sapp, Donnie McClurkin, and yourself will be on the stage

for the very first time. What is this going to be like for you? What are you looking forward to?

IH: Well, you know, I think the thing I love about gospel, which is good news, is first of all in a rough time, crazy election year, downturn economy, etc. people need to hear some good news. We hear bad news everyday.

So, I think the idea of being able to get on stage with guys who don’t see each other as competitors but see each other as comrade, friends, and contributors. I really honor Kirk for being willing to share his platform with us.

You know it’s funny, I don’t mean to be completely self-deprecating, but there are certainly other people who could have been apart of this beside myself but I am honored.

I am very, very honored to be a part of it. I look forward to every night just speaking life into people, singing life over people, and hopefully raising the awareness of what gospel music is all about. GTA: All of you have had very successful and independent careers in gospel music for years. Now that you are collaborating for this tour, what can our listeners expect to see and hear at The King’s Men Tour from each of you?

IH: I think they will see unique collaborations. I think to be able to combine the excellence of good production, great execution, and also four guys who are really concerned about the presence of God showing up and changing lives.



M RS. PATRICIA HARRIS Is the mother of 7

children, Charles, Ronnie, Tracey, Precious,

Chris, Joshua and James. She has been

a very active member of Bright Star Church of God in

Christ for 43 years, and is my beloved mother. What a

dynamic woman!

Born and raised in Gulfport, Mississippi, she has 6 sisters

and 2 brothers. Mrs. Harris has a host of grandchildren

to dote upon, is very active in the church, and loves to

spend time with her ever-growing family. Recently, the

entire family surprised Mrs. Harris on her 65th birthday.

What a joyous time she had!

I asked my mother to speak from her heart about her life

being complete because of her salvation. She simply

stated, “My salvation is in God, and He has granted me

such Peace.”

Mom, what message would you like to leave with our

readers? Mom smiled and said, “Anyone reading this

paper will be encouraged, empowered, and equipped

to continue along this journey called life. I am extremely

proud of you Tracey and I love you with my whole heart!

Stay focused!”

“ My Life is Complete because of my salvation” ...

Patricia Harris - 65Her favorite Bible scripture is Psalms 27: 13-14

I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living! Wait for the Lord: be strong, and let your heart take courage wait for the Lord!

My mother continues to be my inspiration, my strength, and the love of my life. Thank you for being an incredible mother. I love you dearly.

For the complete story on Missionary Patricia Harris go to: www.thegospeltribuneatlanta.com


Throughout the years, the Montford Point Marines received little recognition and few

accolades for their contribution to U.S. history. More than 19,000 black Marines trained

at Montford Point Camp, a facility set up exclusively for blacks during World War II after

President Franklin Roosevelt desegregated the Marine Corps. About 13,000 of them

served overseas during the war.

Over the years, the vast majority of the men have passed away. Those who survived

have grown old and gray. 70 years after the camp they trained at closed its doors, 368

surviving Montford Point Marines was finally recognized by Congress with the nation’s

highest civilian honor, the congressional gold medal.

The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian honor bestowed by congress for

distinguished achievement. The President of the United States signed into law the

legislation to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the Montford Point Marines on 23

November 2011. This award recognizes the Montford Point Marines’ contributions to

the Marine Corps and the wider American society”.

William McDowell, representative of the Montford Point Marines, U.S. Marine Corps

accepted the medal on behalf of all the honorees during the ceremony. The top

congressional leaders from both parties delivered remarks at the Capitol “Emancipation

Hall” ceremony on June 27, 2012.

The Montford Point Marines was also the guests of honor at a parade hosted by the

Commandant of the Marine Corps at the Washington Marine Barracks on Thursday

morning, where the Congressional Gold Medal was presented to each Original Montford

Point Marine individually. Rep. Corrine Brown, the lead sponsor of the gold medal

resolution passed by Congress last October, said that the ceremony “will go a long way

towards correcting the past injustice, as this Gold Medal will forever anchor their role in

the history of our nation’s great military.”

“Certainly, it is necessary to honor all of America’s war heroes’ selfless service and

sacrifice, and in particular, those who served at Montford Point,” Brown, D-Fla., wrote

in a statement. ”They answered our nation’s call at a time when our society was deeply

divided along racial lines. As such, many of their contributions went unrecognized and

many times they were not given the respect and recognition they deserved as Marines,

as Americans, and as patriots.”

CONGRESS HONORS MONTFORD POINT MARINES WITH CONGRESSIONAL

GOLD MEDAL


YOUR ADVERTISEMENT HERE

Photos Courtesy of Montford Point Marines & Fred Codes


22 | www.thegospeltribuneatlanta.com @gospeltribune facebook.com/thegospeltribuneatlanta

GTA: Mr. Buchanan it is a pleasure to interview you today on behalf of The Gospel Tribune Atlanta. Your background both personally and professionally is impressive having graduated with a B.S. Degree in English, Speech and Drama from the Tennessee A & I State University and spending many years in an executive role with the Xerox Corporation. I believe you began your professional career in the education field as a teacher? What did you teach and what led you to switch into a career in Corporate HR?

LB: I taught English, Public Speaking, Drama and Debate. I was the sponsor for the Public Speaking and Acting Clubs. I produced all of the plays and productions each year. I taught the 11th and 12th grades. I have several reasons for switching my career into HR, but the biggest reason was a family decision. My wife (Vahness) was a mathematics teacher and at the time we had 2 small boys. We decided it was best, if one of us stayed home to rear them during their young years – at least until they entered kindergarten. The salary I made at the time was not substantial enough to support a family. So with those reasons in mind we felt it was best for Vahness to stay home and she would return to work later. I really love and still do love teaching. I found there was so many intangible joys in watching people learn. But I made the change because I needed to and it was what we agreed to do as a family.

GTA: How long have you and your wife been members of St. James and what brought you to the St. James family?

LB: We have been members of St. James approximately 12 years. And I guess you would say our initial reason for joining came out of being practical. Just like my decision to pursue a career in HR. We had been members of Cascade UMC for close to 14 years and were living in Dunwoody at the time.

GTA: I know that you are extremely active in the church. Currently you are the Chairman of the Seniors Ministry?

LB: Yes, but historically at St. James UMC, I was the Chair of the Staff Pastor Parrish Relations Committee, Head Usher for the Usher Board, President of United Methodist Men and a section leader in the Senior Choir. Currently I am a District at Large Representative for the North Georgia Annual Conference (representing The Atlanta-Roswell District), the Chairperson for the Seniors Ministry and a member of the Voices of Faith Choir.

GTA: St. James UMC piloted a new intergenerational ministry this year that I believe you played a large role in?

LB: Yes, we recently graduated the participants of the “Can You Hear Me Now Ministry. The teenagers and the sen-agers! We had

testimonies from seniors and teenagers who said they never thought this ministry would work. It is amazing the bonding and the love and comradery they have developed. It was all grounded and developed around our faith in the Lord. “Can You Hear Me Now” simply means do you hear? Have you explored, evaluated, accepted, acknowledged or responded to God’s call on your life? They (the teens) thought the “calling” on their life meant they were going to be preachers. Through our activities they have come to understand that God is a miracle worker. No matter how young or how old He can and will continue to do things in your life.

GTA: Would you say your faith is stronger now than it was 20 years ago?

LB: I have always grown up with faith, believing people, family and elders. As a child, my grandmother, who was a very strong influence in my life, would take us to revival and I remember joining the church on a Thursday night at the age of 6 or 7 years old. Back then my faith wasn’t as mature as it is today. I look at it as spiritual maturity, which doesn’t come because of age but because of your relationship experiences and the life experiences that you have.

GTA: After being married for 46 years to the lovely Vahness Buchanan, do you have advice you can share with young married couples or couples considering marriage?

LB: First of all it has to be grounded in the principles that God has provided for us. God is the leader of our marriage. We go to God to make sure that we understand. And then listening not only to each other, which we must do, but to the direction we get from our Lord. It takes work – it takes give and take. Learn to apologize. The one thing my wife has taught me that I wasn’t too good at is the nice, sweet things you do for each other. The other important thing is in sickness and in health – I have to be there – she is going through difficult times with her disability. I retired early so that I could take care of my wife. I meant those words. There have been some hard times in our marriage but even in the hard times there was joy! My wife has several gifts but one of her biggest gifts is giving. And she has taught me how to give and not just of your resources,but true giving from your heart.

GTA: Can you share a word of love and encouragement for our Editor In Chief Mr. Tracey Harris?

LB: I have gotten to know Tracey very well. We’ve had conversations together with his son and about raising his son. It is important that Tracey exposes his son to what God has done in his own life. And the more Tracey can share what God has done for him, not only to his son but to those around him, the more successful God is going to make him. Not just financially successful but rewarding from the point that he can go through life understanding that he has not just been a bit player in God’s world but a major player in turning souls to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He has so many talents! He has an easy going spirit that allows him to be able to converse and talk and meet and greet with a lot of people. People like him for that spirit. He needs to continue to use that spirit to win souls for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. And continue to show that spiritual personality that he has, it is a blessing.

Honoring Our Seniors

Lloyd Buchanan

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS / SURVIVORS

ASK

Dr. Shelly

We encourage you to email your questions directly to

Dr. Shelly Dunson-Allen [email protected]

Robin RobertsThe Importance of Breast Cancer Awareness

“I did a self-breast exam and found something that women everywhere fear: I found a lump.” These are the words spoken by ‘Good Morning America’ co-host and breast cancer survivor Robin Roberts. Roberts announced to the world in July of 2007 that she’d been diagnosed with breast cancer. After enduring chemotherapy, hair loss, and the experience of dealing with such a life changing event for an entire year following her diagnosis, she battled the ailment and received a clean bill of health a year later.

There are millions of women in the United States that have a similar story to Robin’s. According to the American Cancer Society, outside of skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, accounting for nearly 1 in 3 cancers diagnosed in US Women. In 2011, an estimated 288,130 new cases of breast cancer were estimated to be diagnosed among women. In addition, approximately 39,520 women were estimated to die from breast cancer.

For the complete story on Robin Roberts: Go to www.thegospeltribuneatlanta.com

Roberts grew up in Pass Christian, Mississippi,

where she played basketball and tennis, among

other sports. She attended Pass Christian High

School and graduated as the class of 1979

salutatorian.

15-year breast cancer survivor Monica Pearson, shares her personal journey.

Pearson described her mother as a source of strength and direction. “She told me nobody came here to stay, so deal with it — her attempt at stoicism,” said Pearson, “Of course, she followed that with immediately getting down on her knees.”

Her mother also encouraged her to use the platform she had been given. “I had so many viewers write to thank me it was wonderful to see what I was going through was helping other people look at their health and save themselves,” said Pearson.

Ultimately, breast cancer taught Pearson to prioritize. “If I truly am a person of faith, then I’m not going to let negatives keep me from doing what I need to do and how I need to do it,” she said, “It was the best lesson I ever learned about taking care of me.”

News Anchor for WSB-TV, Channel 2, the ABC

affiliate in Atlanta, Georgia. Monica Pearson is

the first African American AND the first woman

to become News Anchor in the Atlanta market,

and has recently retired after 38 years in that

position with WSB-TV.

Is pelvic pain and bleeding ruining your life ?....

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Monica Pearson15-Year Breast Cancer Survivor


Dr. Shelly Dunson-Allen

Photo Courtesy of Robin Roberts

Photo Courtesy of Monica Pearson

Photo Courtesy of Dr. Shelly Dunson-Allen

Ms. Stevie FlowersIn August of 2010, I scheduled my annual physical examination with my doctor. My test results came back with some concerns that needed to be addressed immediately. Never having a sick day in my life, I was not afraid, but adamant about getting to the bottom of what could possibly be wrong.

In November of 2010, I discovered a nodule under my left armpit. Not overly concerned, I contacted my doctor and was given antibiotics in an attempt to reduce the swelling and inflammation. The antibiotics had no affect on the nodule in fact it appeared to be getting larger. Around the same time, I began undergoing numerous tests for cervical cancer.

It was determined in December of 2010 that everything was fine with my cervix. In January of 2011, I was given a second mammogram. Within six months the lymph nodes in my armpit had grown twice the size as they were in August. I was scheduled for an ultra sound within days of the mammogram results. When the radiologist looked at the ultra sound, he immediately asked me to get my physician on the phone. Two days later the nodule was biopsied, and the results came back malignant for breast cancer.

I was unaware at that time that I had stage IV breast cancer. I didn’t have time to have a pity party, or question “why me?” My attitude was to get rid of the cancer by any means necessary. I wasn’t afraid, I simply wanted to be cancer free. The next four weeks were full of different doctors, blood tests, CT scans, bone scans, PET scans, MRI’s, and medical information overload. Never

having any direct contact with breast cancer, I didn’t know what to expect. I quickly found out that prayer, faith, family, friends, and alkaline water would play a vital role in my total recovery and victory over my cancer.

Eventually, I had to undergo 20 weeks of Chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, and finally 31 radiation treatments all in less than 8 months. Keeping a positive attitude about the entire situation and asking God to keep my care in His divine order gave me the victory to overcome my illness.

Today I am cancer free, treatment free, and I don’t take any medications to maintain my optimum health. What Satan did for my harm, God made for my good! I survived this life-altering event emerging more dynamic, confident, and radiant than I was before I was diagnosed.

God has allowed me to be a walking miracle willing to tell my testimony to all that will listen.

He has given me an awesome story to tell in a book called Bee Stings, Bumble Bees, and Butterflies.

God has sent me to be a blessing for this I am grateful. I am healed by His stripes. I pray that my book will encourage others who have been diagnosed, treated, and survived breast cancer.

When fear comes knocking at your door, simply answer with faith…


Photo Courtesy of Stevie Flowers


Sickle cell disease (SCD) affects millions of people throughout the world and is particularly common among those whose ancestors came from sub-Saha-ran Africa Spanish-speaking regions in the Western Hemisphere Saudi Arabia India and Mediterranean countries such as Turkey, Greece, and Italy.

What is Sickle Cell Disease?

SCD is a group of inherited red blood cell disorders. In someone who has SCD, the red blood cells become hard and sticky and look like a C-shaped farm tool called a

“sickle”. The sickle cells die early, which causes a constant shortage of red blood cells.

Sickle Cell Disease Statistics:

It is estimated that:• SCD affects 90,000 to 100,000 Americans.• SCD occurs among about 1 out of every 500

Black or African American births.• SCD occurs among about 1 out of every 36,000

Hispanic-American births.• Sickle cell traits occur among about 1 in 12

Blacks or African Americans.• Sickle cell traits are inherited from parents just

like blood type and hair color.

Signs and Symptoms:

Signs and symptoms of sickle cell anemia usually show up after an infant is five-months old and may include: anemia, episodes of pain, hand/foot syn-drome, frequent infections, delayed growth, and vi-sion problems. Symptoms and complications of SCD are different for each person and can range from mild to severe.

Screening and Testing:

No matter what their ethnic background, both men and women need to be screened for sickle cell traits. Screening is equally important for men and women because it’s the combination of genes from both par-ents that determine whether a child will have the dis-ease.

Testing is available at most hospital or medical cen-ters, sickle cell disease community-based organiza-tions, or at local health departments. A small sample of blood is taken from the finger and tested in a lab.

Source:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Re-trieved September 21, 2012 from:

http://www.cdc.gov/NCBDDD/sicklecell/data.html/

http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/sicklecell/facts.html

SEPTEMBER IS NATIONAL SICKLE CELL AWARENESS MONTH


@theolivetchurch

facebook.com/[email protected]

www.theolivetchurch.org

A R T I S T S P O T L I G H T

Charlie Wilson“Let’s just live the life that God has given us and cherish it.” -Charlie Wilson

Charlie Wilson shares his experience as a prostate cancer survivor, an issue that is plaguing our community and resulting in so many brothers dying from it.

Before I met my wife, Mahin, I did not like to go to the doctor. I still don’t like to go, but I go because I have a woman who makes me go. We make that a priority all the time. I hadn’t gone to the doctor in many years. I was afraid to go, because I had not been in so long that I thought everything was wrong with me. I thought everything would fall off. Everything: my hair, head, eyes, everything! Then she started having me go getting check ups for prostate cancer and all of the things a man over 40 should do.

In 2008, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. I was devastated. I was on drugs and alcohol all of my adult life, raped, and robbed of love and financial

things. I was finally getting my life back together. The doctor said I have some good news and some bad news. My wife asked for the bad news first. The doctor told me I had prostate cancer. I was getting ready to walk out and Mahin told me to sit down. She asked what was the good news and the doctor said we caught it early enough that we can go get it. So, I got really proactive about it, and I decided I wanted to tell the world about it.

I teamed up with the Prostate Cancer Foundation, and they gave me a platform to speak from. We talked about research and early detection. I knew it was working because a guy in Atlanta came up to me and told me his story. He informed me that after he heard my story he gathered his brother and about 15 of his friends to get tested for prostate cancer. He said thank you because they wouldn’t have gone if they had not heard my story. I wanted to go a step further. I wanted to be able to go into the communities, so I teamed up with Jensen Biotech.

AMERICAN R&B SINGER-SONG-

WRITER-PRODUCER and the

former lead vocalist for the Gap

Band. As a solo artist he has been nominated

for six Grammy awards, received a 2009 Soul

Train Icon Award, and a recipient of a BMI Icon

Award in 2005.

We’ve been going into the different communities and churches to have informational discussions about prostate cancer. They have a beautiful program, M.A.P (Making Awareness a Priority). People ask me all the time, why does this effect Black people the most. I said because as Black men we don’t want to know what’s wrong with us as Black people we don’t go to the doctor. I have a cousin that says this to me all the time, “Well, we’re going to die of something.” I said, don’t you want to live? God has given us life for us to live! Let’s live! Let’s just live the life that God has given us and cherish it!

For the complete story on Charlie Wilson go to: www.thegospeltribuneatlanta.com


For the complete story on Charlie Wilson go to:

www.thegospeltribuneatlanta.com

Photo Courtesy of Charlie Wilson


Congratulations to the regional winner of the Verizon “How Sweet The Sound” Choir Competition:

The Atlanta West Pentacostal Church Choir!

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550 Pleasant Hill Road Suite B-104 | Lilburn, GA 30047 | 678-532-4111 @gospeltribune facebook.com/thegospeltribuneatlanta

Congratulations to the regional winner of the Verizon “How Sweet The Sound” Choir Competition:

The Atlanta West Pentacostal Church Choir!


Photo Courtesy of Cedric “The Entertainer”

Tracey Harris, Editor-in- Chief, had an opportunity to interview the one and only Cedric “The Entertainer.”

GTA: For the Gospel Tribune Atlanta audience all across the country, tell us a little bit about your upbringing. Were you raised in the church? A preacher’s kid? Tell us!

CTE: I grew up going to church as a kid, of course living in a small town in the boot hill of Missouri, Caruthersville. My mother was in college, so I was raised primarily by my grandmother. So, church was a big part of what you did. During my teen years we moved to St. Louis. My mother wanted to make sure that was a part of our lives. We went to church all throughout my childhood. I sung in the choir and attended vacation Bible school. I definitely knew that environment and it is a big part of my personality.

GTA: 25 years in the entertainment industry, that is hugely impressive. What do you credit your longevity to?

CTE: I’m really thankful for that. The big thing is when you start doing this business, like me, being a comedian from St. Louis, you never really see yourself actually truly rising out of that. You consider yourself a local guy. You do comedy locally. I think, for me, it’s been that consistency -the love of what I do. I feel really blessed to be able to make people laugh. In my perspective, my sense of humor, and the things I try to deliver help me to stay grounded. I feel blessed to do what I do, and I don’t have an ego. Even in the highs I’ve always tried to keep that grounded. I call it the “Midwest Blue Collar” attitude. Even though I might be in a Bentley, I’m still going to be that regular guy and I try to represent that.

GTA: We’ve been reading and doing some

research on you. You and your Mom are doing

some incredible things in the community.

Tell us about the Cedric “The Entertainer”

Charitable Foundation.

CTE: That was one of those things inspired by

my mother and my sister. Both are educators.

My mother taught for 25-26 years and my sister

is a professor at the University of Memphis,

teaching Speech Communication. Education

was always a big part of our family growing

up. My mother, who raised us as a single

parent, was very determined about making

sure we respected others and can dream big,

go out and achieve. The motivation of the

foundation is to increase education for adults

and for the kids and to provide scholarships

for those who want to go to school and don’t

have the opportunity to go especially in their

first year of college. The other aspect of my

foundation is the Entourage Program, the

Entertainer’s Entourage, where I like to take

underprivileged kids, people who have less

opportunities, to see other things other than

their block, other than their neighborhood, to

represent something other than the “Hood,” and to

show that there are other people out there doing

all kinds of stuff and it’s okay for you to dream big.

For me, as a young kid, my mother would take us

on trips with the little money she had. Like I said,

she was going to college while we were young.

Even the idea of going to a college campus and

seeing those majestic buildings and kids walking

with backpacks left an impression upon me. It puts

an image in your head like “Oh, I can do this!” I

thought it was very important to put those images

that are positive influences on kids.

GTA: Speaking of positive influences, other than

your mother, who has had the most influence on

you in the entertainment industry?

CTE: To be honest, I’ve got to say my friend, my

brother, Steve Harvey. He’s one of these guys, who

very early on has always been an entrepreneur. He

did the radio show in Dallas. He taught me a lot

about the business, dressing up, and caring about

your presentation. That’s the kind of attitude I like

to have, that kind of leadership, and that kind of

wherewithal to be able to take it all. I consider him a

survivor, a good dude, a go-getter. Steve will probably

be one of my greatest influences in that manner. Both

Samuel L. Jackson and Magic Johnson are also positive

influences.

For the complete story on Cedric “The

Entertainer” go to:

www.thegospeltribuneatlanta.com

Cedric “ T he Entertainer”


Photo Courtesy of Cedric “The Entertainer”


2012 sept./oct. edition of the gospel tribune atlanta newspaper

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