George Demaree serves as chief operating officer of Saint Stephen Baptist Church. He is a long-time member on the board of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana. He has had a career in consulting, sales, and marketing.
How Would You Describe Yourself?
I’m an integrity guy. I keep my word. I’m a spiritual guy. I believe there is a God, a spirit bigger than all of us that we use to draw from. I’m a family guy. My wife Yolanda is the most organized person I know and the first to help somebody. She’s smart as a whip, quick minded, and can think on her feet. I have three adult children and there is nothing on earth that would stop me from helping any of them. I have lived an extraordinary life. I am very blessed.
Can’t Quite Get The Knack Of?
Golf. It’s the only thing I’ve tried to do well, but can’t do consistently.
Someone You Would Like To Meet.
Nelson Mandela. He is the epitome of perseverance. He survived all those years in prison in South Africa and then rose to become president of the country. Also Frederick Douglass for what he did and said prior to the Civil War in support of the liberation of African slaves. We are still going through some of the same issues that he spoke about.
Puzzles You?
I don’t understand why it’s OK for Black children to understand the accomplishments of white people, but not the accomplishments of Black people. Black children don’t know where they came from. I’m just learning about some Black historical events myself.
What Did You Learn From Your Father?
I had a really good father, and I learned from him how to be a good father. We grew to be friends.
Lessons Learned?
I wish I had learned earlier how to handle money. It’s important to teach people how to deal with money. I learned that the hard way. And, I wish I had spent even more time with my children. Now, I talk to my two sons every day and my daughter a couple of times a week.
How Do You Stay Involved?
I try to surround myself with people smarter than me. I want to be around as many critical thinkers as I can.
What Were Your Plans For Yourself?
I grew up with no idea what I wanted to be. I tell young people, don’t go to college without a goal. College is important, but don’t get into debt if you don’t know what you’re going to do. Have a goal in mind.
I Have Too Many…
… suits. Some I can’t even wear anymore because they are out of style.
Proud Of?
I may not be handy with tools, but I have developed certain leadership skills. You can learn to be a leader, not a dictator.
Begins Your Day.
Four or five days a week I start out doing 100 pushups. I do five sets of 20. I do 20 and then rest for a minute and then do 20 and rest for another minute. Gives me upper body strength.
Thoughts On Louisville?
Louisville is a good place to raise a family. We have a really reasonable cost of living here. It’s a diverse population, but it is segregated geographically. For the most part, I have had positive experiences with people in this city and have been treated with respect.
By Lucy M. Pritchett
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