WATERLOO - David Goodson has campaigned for racial equality in the criminal justice system, pushed minority voter participation and spearheaded a support group and campaign in support of fathers.

Now the social activist going into business - with a touch of social action to it.

He and business partner Reshonda Young-Brown are opening the Talk Shop Cafe at 1015 E. Fourth St. in a storefront that most recently housed a Rentown store.

They've remodeled the interior and plan to refurnish it and have it open May 1.

The Talk Shop Cafe bills itself as "a multi-purpose establishment, created as a vehicle for fun, entertainment, social, political and economic empowerment for youths and adults in the African-American community."

The facility is available for rent for a variety of special events.

"We're going to do things that are fun and social, like dances and talent shows and things of that nature, birthday parties and baby showers, open houses," Goodson said. He also envisions live music, such as a blues night for adults. He hopes to coordinate the cafe's activities with this summer's Juneteeth events.

It can also be a forum for political activities, "town hall meetings, political campaigns, forums" and a setting for programs by elected officials representing the area.

It will be more "talk" than "cafe" initially. Goodson said he does not want to compete with local restaurants, but will have light refreshments like coffee and pop.

"We intend to make it an outrageously positive place in the heart of the black community," Goodson said. The business will be operated by Goodson's nonprofit organization, Social Action inc.

The cafe will have an open house from 4 to 7:30 p.m. May 1.

More information about that event and the venture in general may be obtained by contacting Goodson at (319) 504 -1997.

Contact Pat Kinney at (319) 291-1484 or pat.kinney@wcfcourier.com