This page shows the highlights of our tour from July 25th through August 4th.  Check our participants page to see which of us was reporting on a particular day!

July 25, 2005

July 27, 2005

T                                     Birth Home of Martin Luther King               Exhibit at Fernbank Museum                        Clark University Marquee

oday we left the hotel at 8:45 a.m. to the Martin Luther King Memorial Site.  We arrived at 9:06 and went to the visitor center.  Once we left the visitor center, we walked to Ebenezer Baptist Church where Dr. King use to attend.  We learned that the building itself was 119 years old.  After visiting the church, we proceeded to the birth home of Dr. King.  Our tour guide was Mr. John Roberts.  The house is located at 501 Auburn Street.  It was built in 1895 and purchased b y Dr. King's father, A.D. Williams in 1909.    After touring Dr, King's birth home, we visited the gift shop at the King Center.  On our way to the gift shop, however, we ran into Marting Luther King Jr. III.  Some people got a change to take pictures with him.

We enjoyed lunch at Atlanta Metropolitan Cathedral (AMC).  We were greeted by Elder Carolyn Johnson, the wife of Bishop Flynn Johnson.  We were fortunate to have met Elder Carolyn's grandmother, Mama Lola.  Moma Lola told us that she was born in 1911.  This would make her 94 years old!

Later that afternoon, we visited the Fernbank Museum of National Hisgtory.  We had fun looking at and experiencing all the different exhibits.  We also viewed a short filmed entitled, "The Living Sea" at one of two IMAX theaters located in the museum.  Once we left the museum, we drove past some of the popular Black Colleges.  They were Spelman, Morehouse, Clark and Brown.  Brother Denzil was allowed to get off the bus and take pictures of the different school marquees.  It started to pour down rain at about 6:58 p.m. when we were on our way to eat at IHOP.  What a great day!

Rochelle Tyler, Reporting

Hello family and friends!  This is Tier reporting from Atlanta (ATL).  Today's expectations were to visit the Martin Luther King Center, have lunch with Bishop Flynn Johnson and visit Morehouse and Spelman colleges.  First we went to the Martin Luther King Center.  The Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site was established in 1980 in order to protect and interpret for the benefit, inspiration and education of present and future generations.  It is the place where Martin Luther King, Jr. was born where he lived, worked, worshipped and where he is burried.  Our second stop was to the Atlanta Metropolitan Cathedral to have lunch with Bishop Flynn Johnson, but since the Bishop was out handling business, we had lunch with his wife, Carolyn Johnson.  We were headed to tour Morehouse and Spelman colleges, but it was recommended that we visit the Fernbank Museum Of Natural History.  In the museum we visited the following exhibits: Giants of the Mesozoic, the Star Gallery, the World of Shells, A Walk Through Time In Georgia, The First Georgians, Sensing Nature, The Cultures of the World, Wings Over Water and "GROSS"oligy.  We didn't really have enough time to tour the colleges, so instead we just drove by and took pictures of the marquees.  Finally, we arrived at our hotel, the Drury Inn after our long, but exciting day.  I leave with you in the famous words of Martin Luther King, Jr., "Free at last, free at last. Thank God Almighty, we are free at last".

Tier Elera, Reporting

July 28, 2005

                                          Lonnie and Ronari in Front of                Sacntuary of The Dexter Avenue                 Rosa Parks Library & Museum

                                        the George W. Carver Museum                  King Memorial Baptist Church                                             

"Happily the world has at last reached the point where it no longer feels that in order for a person to be a great scholar he has got to read a number of text books...but the world has  come to the conclusion that the person who has learned to use his mind...the person who understands what he is doing who is mastering himself in the classroom...that person is a scholar".

~George Washington Carver~

Today we visited the George Washington Carver Museum.  I enjoyed it very much.  It is located in the Tuskegee Institute.  It was exciting and educational.  After we left the museum we went to the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church.  This is the church that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Pastored from 1954 to 1960.  The last place we visited today was the Rosa Parks Library & Museum.  This was a great museum experience.  I learned that Mrs. Parks did not give up her seat because her feet hurt and she was tired.  Mrs. Parks did not want to give up her seat because her "spirit" was tired of the unfair treatment Blacks were receiving during this period of time.  I learned many educational things today.

                                                                                                   Ronari Galloway, Reporting

This morning, my partner Ronari led us in prayer and I  gave the morning inspiration.  My scripture was from Psalms 113:3.  We then traveled to the George Washington Carver museum where I learned many interesting and fascinating facts about this remarkable man.  Carver's scientific ability, reinforced by his love of nature and God, is basic curiosity, and his desire to help his fellow man, led him to develop numerous uses for Southern agricultural products.  He developed over 300 uses for the peanut alone!  Carver's scientific contributions shall live on forever.

We then visited the Dexter King Memorial Baptist Church where the late Dr. King once pastored.  It was during this period of his life that King was a key figure during the Civil Rights Struggle.  We finally ended our day at the Rosa Parks Library & Museum.  This museum offers unique educational experiences through its exhibits, collections and public learning programs.  This was a great day for us to reflect upon our history and our heritage.

                                                                                                        Lonnie Wilson, Reporting

July 29, 2005

July 30, 2005

July 31, 2005

Exterior and Interior Views of The Potter's House in Dallas, Tx

Today we had to wake up much earlier than we have in the past.  The reason for this is because we had to take Brother Chirs Miller, one of our chaperons, to the airport in Dallas.  Our journey from Mississippi to Texas would take about 6 hours.  On the way the scenery was very beautiful and we

even saw a few horses.  Since today was primarily a travel day, we spent time watching DVD's, playing games and reading.  In our spare time Pastor Carol has us reading "The Preacher and the Klansman" a booklet about the life of Dr. John Perkins.  

When we dropped Bro. Chris at the airport, we headed for The Potter's House.  This is the ministry where Bishop T.D. Jakes is the pastor.  You might have seen him on the Trinity Broadcasting Network.  Once we arrived, we were greeted by members of his ministerial staff and the security personnel.  This

church is HUGE!  We could not believe our eyes.  They have three very different sanctuaries housed under one roof.  There is the chapel where weddings are performed and the Hispanic ministry have their services.  This room seats 500 people.  The "Fire House" is yet another sanctuary where the young people have services and it seats 2500 people.  The main sanctuary, which is the largest of the three, has a seating capacity of 9,000 people.  According to our guide, The Potter's House has over 30,000 members.  If there is a special event going on, they may use all three sanctuaries at once to accommodate the large crowd.  This is probably the biggest church we have ever seen. 

Jasmine Zelaya and Marlin Henderson, Reporting

August 1, 2005

                                                             The Perkins Center.  A Faith-based Community Out Reach Center In Jackson, Mississippi

Today, as we were on our way to Mississippi, we followed the 50 mile "Freedom Walk" that Dr. King and his wife led.  Not only was it a good indication of how far 50 miles can be by foot, but it showed us what African-Americans went through in order to obtain the freedom we sometimes take for granted.  

This was primarily a travel day for us.  We spent a good portion of our time driving.  When we made it to the state line, a great roaring cheer resounded throughout the bus.  We knew it wasn't going to be long before we reached our final destination.  When we arrived, we had just enough time to drop our bags and head back to the bus because we had a 3:00 appointment at the Perkins Center.  This is a faith-based organization that is designed to reach the community in which it sits.  They're desire is to meet the needs of the people both physically and spiritually.  Their goal is to bring about reconciliation among people of different races and backgrounds.  It's a wonderful facility.  When we left the Perkins Center, we came back to the hotel to enjoy an evening of swimming.  

Clarence Braithwaite, Reporting

Good morning to all my family and friends back home!  Today my partner Clarence and I were responsible for the morning devotion.  Clarence prayed for our continued safety and I read a scripture from Jeremiah 10:10.  Guess what everyone?  Today is Ms. Sarah's birthday.  She's turning 21.  Yeah Sarah!  So in honor of her birthday the entire bus sung Happy Birthday Stevie Wonder style.  She was very grateful.

After having lunch at Cracker Barrel, we headed for the hotel.  We we arrived we were instructed to drop our luggage and come right back down because we needed to be at the Perkins Center by 3:00 p.m.

John Perkins has 8 children and he named the Perkins Center  memory of  his son Spencer Perkins who died at the age of 45 of a heart attack.  John Perkins was involved in the Civil Rights Movement, but his greatest contribution to society is working with the youth and the community.  As a result of this, the Harambee Christian Family Center in Pasadena was founded.  Mr. Perkins work is based on three principles: 1. Reconciliation: to get people back to God and to empower  the people to continue rebuilding. 2. Redistribution: Coming back to the community and sharing God. 3. Reconstruction: building the community up.

Mr. Perkins vision is community development and economics.  John Perkins wrote the book called, "Let Justice Roll Down".  He also founded on of his most commonly used homes in the 1900's called the "Antioch House".  This house has 10 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms.  Mr. Perkins organizations are all Christian based.  This particular enter that we saw today is located in one of the poorest neighborhoods in Jackson, Mississippi.  The goal is to focus on meeting the immediate needs of the people, then their spiritual.  We saw the recreation room called, "Veramiah Playground".  The foundation for the Spencer Perkins organizations is to transform the community in the name of the Gospel.

Today John Perkins is 75 year old and is still very active in the community.  Everything on the grounds like the gardens and playgrounds were all donated by various groups who have committed their time and resources.  John had an uncle named Bud for whom he cared for until his

death.  Uncle Bud left Mr. Perkins all of his money which he used to create a baseball field in his honor.  Mr. John Perkins may not be as famous as some of the civil rights leaders that have come before him, but he definitely has a rich history and legacy that will long be remembered.  

At the end of  our day, Pastor Carol allowed us to go swimming for 2 hours.  Even though most of our time was spent on the road, I still had an exciting day.                                                                                   

TimHoni Galloway, Reporting

                                                                         Enjoying an evening of swimming in Atlanta at the Drury Inn and Suites

Today Brother Chris woke us up at 5:30 a.m.  When we got on our clothes we headed downstairs for breakfast.  This morning Darrin Oliver prayed and i did the devotion.  My three scriptures were Jeremiah 10:24, Isaiah 59:1 and Psalms 51:10.

After the devotion, Pastor Carol told us that today would be the longest travel time for the entire tour.  She advised us that we would be on the road for at least 8 hours.  We left North Carolina at 8:12 a.m. and entered South Carolina at 10:27 a.m.  We made  a quick stop at a small gas station to stretch our legs.  We boarded the bus and enjoyed an early dinner at the Cracker Barrel.  We arrived in Augusta, Georgia at 1:56 off interstate 20 west.  We finally made it to Atlanta at 5:55 p.m.  The hotel that we are staying in is called the Drury Inn and Suites.  It is located across the street from the William B. Hartsfield Airport.  After settling in, we went swimming from 7 - 9 p.m.  What a fun time we had!

Taylor Nevels, Reporting

Today we left the city of Kinston, North Carolina.  This would be the longest traveling day of the trip,  We will travel over 8 hours.  This morning, before we departed we said good bye to Bishop Ralph and Bettye Houston.  As I mentioned earlier, most of the day was full of travel and relaxation.   Our day mainly consisted of sleeping, listening to music or reading.  If we weren't doing that, we were looking out of the window at the beautiful scenery which was fields of green grass and towering trees.

Darrin Oliver, Reporting

                                              Smith Robertson School                           The Home of Medgar Evers                  Dr. Perkins Addressing the Group              

    Today we visited the Smith Robinson School Museum.  The Smith Robinson School is located in the heart of Jackson's historic Black community.  It has a comprehensive collection of artifacts portraying  the African-American Mississippian's experience in history, art, music and literature.  The museum was Smith Robinson Elementary School, the first public school for African-American children in the city of Jackson.  After we left the museum, we had the opportunity to drive past the house that Medgar Evers was killed.  We also went back to the Perkins Center because Dr. Perkins himself heard that we stopped by yesterday and he wanted to meet us personally.  I felt honored that Dr. Perkins wanted to speak to us.  We ended our time together by doing laundry.  

Aerica Myers, Reporting

Today we went to the Smith Robertson Museum And Cultural Center.  Ms Pamela Junior was our guide.  She is the third manager of the museum.  The museum was orginally the first African-American school in Jackson, Mississippi.  The school opened in 1894 and served the African-American community until 1971 when integration led to its closure.  

The original facility was a two-story wood framed building in 1909.   In the same year, a brick structure was erected by a local Black contractor. The school was named for Mr. Smith Robertson, who was born a slave in Fayette, Alabama in 1847.  Smith died in 1899 and the school was named for him several years later.  The collection at Smith Robertson Museum and Cultural Center includes, furnishings, clothing, fine art, folk art, books, papers, photographs, tools, equipment, instruments and other items.  Folk artist and craftspeople develop their work with a strong sense of place and imagination.  

We have now arrived at the John Perkins Center to meet Dr. Perkins in person.  His son, Spencer Perkins, died 7 years ago.  It would be this son who led Dr. Perkins to Christ.  In 1957, Dr. Perkins moved  to California.  It was at a Christian Crusade in 1957 that he gave his life to Christ.  Dr. Perkins has received over 8 honorary doctorate degrees  The first book that he wrote was entiled, "Let Justice Roll Down".  There have been 3 books written about his life.  One of which is called, "A Time To Heal".  

The John Perkins Foundation is committed to giving back to the community and  empowering young people to live and exceed far beyond what they can see or think.  What an awesome work Dr. Perkins is doing!

Monae Green, Reporting

                                            Exterior View of the Kinston                            Lobby Area of KCC                          Darrin Participating in Karaoke

Today we had to be on the bus at 10:15 a.m.f, our latest departure to date.  We on our way to Kinston, North Carolina to visit the Kinston Christian Center (KCC).  We stopped at FDCC to pick up Bishop Amos.  She rode with as our tour guide.  She gave us many interesting facts about Virginia's history.  She told us that the first slaves to come to the New World, were brought to Virginia in 1607.  Bishop Amos also explained that many of the Civil War battles were fought in Virginia.  She went on to explain that Virginia has 7 out of the 10 underwater tunnels in the U.S.  We actually went through one today.  This tunnel is situated at the bottom of the Elizabeth River.  In Virginia they have all five branches of the Armed Services - Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and the Coast Guards.  They also house headquarters for both the FBI and CIA.  Continuing on our way to Kinston, we stopped at one of Bishop's favorite places to eat fried chicken gizzards.  According to the chaperons, they were delicious.

When we finally reached the city limits of Kinston, we stopped to have lunch at the Cracker Barrel.  At KCC, we played games, enjoyed snacks and sung songs.  Five individuals out of our group even participated in Karaoke.  They were Darrin, Kannesha, Monae, Jasmine and Clarence.  I thought they were all brave and did a good job.  After our fun-filled evening at KCC, we went to McDonald's for a late night snack.  Our friends from KCC joined us.  At the end of the evening we all hugged and said our goodbyes to our new found friends.  We saved special hugs for Bishop Amos and Pastor Riley for their wonderful kindness.  We would also like to say a special thank you to our FDCC and KCC family for their considerable donation to Eagle Empowerment.  Thank you all for making all this possible!

Christian Meeks, Reporting

Hola Bethel!  It is day 21 of our tour and I am having a ball.  Today we boarded the bus and left at 10:15 a.m..  Bishop Barbara Amos rode with us to Kinston, North Carolina.  She pointed out to us peanut factories, tobacco plants, squash and slaughter houses.  Our lunch took place at our favorite restaurant which is the Cracker Barrel.  After lunch we were only an hour away from Kinston.  Once we arrived, we headed straight for our hotel to unload and rest. Our plans are to join Kinston Christian Center  later this afternoon for some fun activities.  

When we arrived, we were greeted by the friends we had made earlier in Norfolk.  We were invited to play basketball, dodge ball, football, jump rope and all sorts of board games.  After our game playing we joined in with Christian karaoke.  Many of the participants were from Eagle Empowerment.  What can I say, we were "rocking the house"!  Later that evening, we went to McDonald's for a midnight snack and said our goodbyes to Bishop Amos and our Kinston Christian Center family.  I would like to give a special shout out to Corey, Alexy, Dante and Lauren.

Tinika Houston, Reporting  

July 26, 2005

                                         Rest Stop Break in Decatur, TX                Garrett and Jalen Outside The              Jalen and Garrett with Our Friend

                                                  Information Center                              Adam (a server at Furr's)

This morning we (Garrett and Jalen) did devotion.  Garrett gave the prayer and Jalen read the scripture from James 4:10-11.  We are currently still in Texas and drove from Dallas to Forth Worth and then on to Amarillo where we will ultimately spend the night.

Today we had the opportunity to visit the Bureau of Engraving and Printing.  We were under the impression that today would be a day of leisure, but it wasn't and we're okay with that.  When we entered the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, we had to go through a very strict and almost space-like security check.  Once everyone cleared security, there was a van waiting to transport us to the building where our tour would take place.  Our tour guide was Mr. Lewis who gave us information on how money is printed.  We learned many things today.  One of the things that Mr. Lewis shared with us was that before green ink was used, money used to be printed using black ink.  This, however, made it easy for counterfeiters to take a picture of the front and back of the note.  Copies were made from these photographs and were then passed off as the real thing.  Another  interesting fact, is that the paper that our money is printed on comes from  a company called Crane's Paper in Boston, Massachusetts.  The interesting thing is that the paper really isn't paper at all.  It is actually fabric which contains 75% cotton and 25% linen.  This would stand the reason that when money is accidentally washed, it doesn't break down or tears apart.  If you notice, it remains intact.  There is also something called a "star" note.  The star note replaces notes from regular production for a variety of reasons such as research, testing, or because of damage to production notes.  Hence, the note is called the "Lone Star Note" because is was produced in Texas.  There are only two printing plants in the U.S.  They are located in Washington D.C., and Forth Worth, TX,  If a note has an FW printed on it, it means the note was printed in Texas, if not, the noted was printed in Washington D.C.  

As we were preparing to leave the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, our guide Mr. Lewis was so impressed with our behavior and attentiveness, he literally tracked us down to give all of us souvenir bags with all kinds of goodies in them.  We were so happy and excited, we all clapped in appreciation!  Sorry we don't any pictures to share with you, but cameras were not allowed in the facility.  What a bummer!    Tonight we ate dinner at Furr's Family Restaurant.  The food was really delicious.  At Furr's we met Adam one of the friendly servers.  We had great conversation.  Adam this

one's for you!                                                                                                                                                                

Jalen Gray and Garrett Nevels, Reporting

August 2, 2005

                                              Our Hotel In Gallup, NM                      Charles and Kannesha Relaxing                    The Kids Enjoying A Dip

                                                                                                                          In the Jacuzzi                                              In The Pool

This morning we are leaving Texas and headed for New Mexico.  I offered prayer and Charles read the scripture and did the morning inspiration.  We are currently on interstate 40 West to Gallup, New Mexico.  Today it will probably take us at least 6 hours.

After crossing the state line in to New Mexico, we stopped at a rest stop for a bathroom break and to stretch.  As we approached our final destination, we stopped at the Golden Corral to enjoy a buffet style dinner.  After eating, we boarded the bus and got back on to the interstate, we saw a couple of Prairie Dogs playing around on the side of the road.  As we were traveling on the highway, we noticed the signs were painted in the colors of terracotta and turquoise. Sister Joyce told us that New Mexico's nickname is the "Land of Enchantment".  Tonight Pastor Carol has given us the green light to go swimming.  We all are excited.

Charles Goodridge and Kennesha Trammell, Reporting

August 3, 2005

August 4, 2005

                                           Pastor Carol Houston, CEO                    The Chaperons with Pastor Carol           All the Participants with Pastor Carol

                                                     and Visionary

At 9:30, we are departing Lake Havasu City, Arizona headed for home, Los Angeles, California.  This is our final day of travel.  The last devotion of our tour was shared from Proverbs 3:5-6.  I encouraged the children to trust in God with their entire heart.  I assured them that God knows what's best.  They were assured to expect God's guidance for their entire life.  It was important to take my children to one last lunch.  We stopped at the International House of Pancake in Victorville.

I want to take this moment to thank God for vision for this tour.  God, you certainly direct the path of those who trust in your leadership,.  I express my deepest appreciation to all donors.  You make the miracle of this tour possible.  Thirty-one days with these children has been joyous.  Thank you to Mr.

Chris Pufahl, you are a fantastic driver.  My heartfelt gratitude is extended to each chaperon.  Your dedication, steadfastness and endurance have been greatly valued.  To the three mentors, your leadership was exceptional.  To the wonderful participants, we have planted seeds of empowerment that will enhance your lives forever.  It is my desire for the seeds to cause you to be a vessel of empowerment for others.  It was a joy to see the faces of parents as they welcomed their child home.  It is my prayer that the life of each family is enriched.

Pastor Carol Houston, CEO, Reporting

Go to July 3rd - July 14th                Go to July 15th - July 24th

                                                View of Lake Havasu                                  The London Bridge                         Shops At the Lake Havasu Center

Hello Bethel Family and Friends.  We are your reporters for today,Azadeh and Kesley.  It is now day 30 of our trip.  Our last day before we head back home to Los Angeles.  We started our day by having a delicious breakfast.  As we left our hotel, the Best Western, we turned on to the historic "Route 66".  We remained on route 66 until we made the interchange to I-40 West.  This would put us in the direction of Arizona, our final destination.  

At approximately 10:42 a.m., we crossed the state line from New Mexico to Arizona which is also called the "Grand Canyon State".  Its capitol is Phoenix.  We are headed for Lake Havasu, Arizona which will be our final resting place.  When I look out the window the landscape is full of beautiful

rock formations.  Each formation is completely covered with rich shades of reds and burgundies.  The fluffy clouds that are hovering over head, make this scenic picture look like a post card.  The ride to Lake Havasu is going to be about 5 1/2 hours.  We thought it was hot in New Mexico, but we are

expecting it to be even hotter in Lake Havasu.  We thank God for our air conditioned bus.  Oddly enough, we are now in the middle of the dessert and it is starting to rain.  As we look around us, we are definitely  in the middle of nowhere.  We are surrounded by absolutely "nothing"!  

When we arrived at the Ramada in Lake Havasu, Pastor Carol decided to take us out for a nice meal at Chili's.  This would be our last dinner we would eat together as a group.  The food was great.  When we left the restaurant, we had an opportunity to see the London Bridge.  Pastor Carol was very generous tonight, she took us all to the movies to see, "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory".  Johnny Depp was funny.  We ended our evening swimming.  At 9:30 at night, It still had to be at least 85 degrees.  Can you believe it!

Azadeh Myers and Kesley Green, Reporting

Youth Tour 2005 Travel Log Part 3