2023 24 Black Pages FINAL 2 - Flipbook - Page 84
Mr. Alex C. Habersham
Macon-Middle Georgia Black Pages
590 D.T. Walton, Sr. Way
Macon, GA 31201
Dear Fellow Maconites,
The Macon-Middle Georgia Black Pages serves a fundamental purpose for Central Georgia by
motivating citizens and shoppers to support Black-owned and Black-operated businesses,
nonprofits, and services. NewTown Macon is proud to serve as a partner for the Black Pages over
many, many years as we create new economic, social, and cultural opportunities for Macon. These
connections foster the relationships and trust at the very foundation of Macon’s success.
This year’s theme of “200 Years of African American Business” reminded me of some of the
amazing success stories from our shared history. Charles Douglass’ eponymous theatre in
downtown Macon stands as a testament and reminder of the entrepreneur who was born to a
former slave in a one-room shack in Macon. From these humble beginnings, Douglass built a real
estate and entertainment empire in downtown Macon. Not coincidentally, Douglass’ theatre
played a critical role in launching the world-changing careers of Little Richard and Otis Redding.
Douglass’ hard-won success continues to provide inspiration for a richer, fairer, and kinder future
for Macon.
The Macon-Middle Georgia Black Pages is at the center of that continued work. Opening a
business remains one of the best strategies to increase income and wealth for people who have
been left behind, ignored, or oppressed. These businesses do not thrive, however, unless we
support them. I hope you will use the Black Pages to prioritize spending, shopping, and supporting
Central Georgia’s black-owned businesses. I have seen miracle after miracle in my career at
NewTown revitalizing downtown Macon, and I know the best stories of black business success are
in our future, not our past.
If you think you could be the next Macon millionaire like Charles Douglass, please email me at
josh@newtownmacon.com! Every day, NewTown is investing time, resources, and money in local
people and businesses to revitalize Downtown Macon. No doubt, as future generations look back
to figure out how Macon was so successful, the work of the Black Pages is going to be one of the
most exciting chapters!
Sincerely,
Josh Rogers
President & CEO
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