PUBLISHERS XPRESSION Wow! It is hard to believe that in just a few months 2021 will come to an end. Our world and communities-at-large have faced some of its most turbulent times to date. Yet God has been faithful! I am thankful to God for in the midst of a pandemic, our organization has had favor, growth, and success! Xcellence, Inc. is thriving! What a blessing it is to be trusted with the assignment that I have been given in life to develop, empower, and promote leaders! We tapped into something great and once we all began sharing our stories and testimonials of Xcellence, Inc., we knew then that each time we came together especially in our events and travels across the country, we were creating memorable experiences. Therefore, we adopted the phrase, "The Xcellence Xperience!" Sometimes you have to push, sacrifice, trust and know that you deserve to be in the room. It has now become our signature to travel across the country, providing leadership experiences to equip leaders to connect with like-minded individuals to not only achieve their personal goals but for us all to lock arms, united by like-mindedness to have a greater impact in the world. In this Fall 2021 Issue of Xcellence Community Magazine, our goal is to bring our experiences to you legibly. To our Executive Board Members, Leaders, and Members, thank you for trusting us and our leadership. We hosted three powerful events this year, we kicked off the year in April by renting a mansion for women leaders to be poured into during the Sisters-in-Xcellence Luxury Leadership Retreat in Tampa, Florida. We then prepared to celebrate with our Brothers-In-Xcellence in the release of their new book, "The Levitical Man," and the Power of One Leadership Summit held in Houston, Texas. Lastly, on October 10th, we hosted in Atlanta, Georgia, the "Tommy Ford Legacy-A-Thon & Awards," honoring the late comedian, and humanitarian, Mr. Tommy Ford. Check out this power-packed inspirational issue loaded with some of the country's top leaders in their respective fields. I invite you to join our Xcellence Movement by visiting: www.xcellenceinc.org.
Dr. Angella Banks
NEW EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Spotlight
It all began the summer of 1993 after graduating from High School that I took on a job at one of the Country’s largest printing companies. World Color Press Printing Company was one of the elite printing organizations around. I enjoyed the job as it provided a great salary for my family. I learned the full process of printing in a period of two years and began to quickly move up in the organization. By the fourth year I had become a Color Certified Printer. With this certification I was able to work with customers such as Vogue, GQ, and Time Magazine, just to name a few. This was a great career that I enjoyed dearly and considered myself to be a professional. Unfortunately, when the Internet became popular and books became available online, the magazine industry decreased immediately. The new wave of the internet caused the facility to close. Today, It is a pleasure to be back doing something that I like. To be named Editor in Chief of Xcellence Community Magazine has been like a dream come true. I have learned that, when you’re passionate about something it will always find its way back around to you. I look forward to the next couple of months being able to help Dr.A take the magazine to a higher level of Community and Leadership involvement. The time is now for more leaders to step up and move forward. WE ARE XCELLENCE.
Pg
1I am Grateful, Editor in Chief,
Thomas D. Adams
FEATURES Honoring the Late Tommy Ford
The Xcellence Xperience Dr. Angella Banks Up Close & Personal Gary with the Tea
Honorees Tony Terry, Hank Stewart, Rodney Perry
2020-2021 CONTRIBUTORS
Wandra Neal-Cain Pennsylvania WCA Interiors, LLC
Amanda Parham Tennessee Church of Jesus/ Destiny Restoration Ctr for Women
Josh Paul North Carolina Anchor Today w/ Josh Paul TV Show Host
Jesse Manuel Louisiana Faith Hopewell Ministries
Dr. Mary Jo Johnson California Dayspring Communications, Inc.
Denise Shead Tennessee Homeless Essentials Outreach
Toney Jenkins California Fit for the Soul/ Fit Financial
Christinia Jones Tennessee Kingdom Support Solutions Ministries
Christy Harris Tennessee Christy Dawn Fitness
My Xcellence Xperience Xcellence Inc. is not only an organization but it’s a worldwide movement sparked by the anointed and appointed Dr. Angella Banks. . What is Xcellence? Xcellence means thinking outside of the box and going against the norms. It means standing out instead of blending in. The Spirit of Xcellence is serving others instead of seeking power and prestige. It requires a person go above and beyond expectations. This is what Xcellence Inc. has meant to me. Humble Beginnings Before joining Xcellence Inc. I lacked self-confidence. I did not realize the gifts God planted inside of me. I am experiencing levels of anointing that will change the scope of my community. I never thought I would ever become a CEO of my very own organization called Homeless Essentials Inc. God has allowed my gift of compassion to reach the lives of those far and near. The truth of the matter is people are hurting everywhere including the homeless population. God’s reach is not beyond those on the streets. Xcellence Inc. has given me the push necessary to serve those less fortunate than me. In addition, I am able to add the titles of Author and Writing Contributor of Xcellence Community Magazine to my list of achievements. That’s the spirit of Xcellence! Denise Shead, Homeless Essentials Inc.
Pg 4
Pg 5
Coming Soon
THE PROPOSED
Finally Banking By The People For The People The Xcellence Leaders Federal Credit Union is coming soon! It started with a vision in the fall of 2018 and here we are today, one step closer to making it a reality. We believe that this credit union will be the gamechanger financial institution needed for today's leaders. We have served our community leaders through development, empowerment, and promotion, and now we are poised and ready to serve on a greater capacity, and that is access to financial capital, resources, and literacy. Will you come join us in this historical movement!
Visit www.xcellenceleadersfederal.org Pg 6
XCELLENCE INC. HONORS
TOMMY FORD Legacy-A-Thon & Awards Pg 7
What made Tommy Mikhail Ford, a Man of Xcellence? To the world, he was the tall baldhead guy, best remembered from the Martin Lawrence show as, “Tommy You Ain’t Got No Job.” It didn’t take long before I was quickly introduced to a man who had a strong spiritual foundation, and understood just how he needed to integrate his gifts of laughter as a comedian, and many other talents, to change individuals lives, more specifically young men. We briefly spoke of him turning 52 on his last living birthday, which was September 5, 2016 as I recalled him stating, “more than half of my life is over; I have more years behind me than ahead of me. What is most important to me is that I am remembered for what I accomplished while I was here.” He was a proud father of four children. When asked, “Who is Tommy Mikhail Ford” there was a chuckle, which let me knew that the conversation had just shifted. He began to tell me of his journey of newfound revelation, past hurts and pains, which shaped him into the man he was. “My mother was 16 years old when she became pregnant with me. My biological father was in prison most of my life, however I had uncles to help mentor and shape me in my young adulthood; however, the void of not having my father present was a daily reminder as I longed to just say the words, Dad.” “God must have heard my prayers, because my mother remarried and it wasn’t long that I realized that my father had birthed me, but my dad was the one who was raising me to be a man,” said Tommy.
There was a shift in his tone as he began to discuss the admiration for the man that came into his life and brought foundation, values, and a new level of expectations. “As I reflect upon it, my dad never introduced us as his step-children, we were his. He spoke life into us. Bringing home C’s from school was unacceptable in our home. Instead of fighting it, I embraced his presence and began to adapt, regardless of my past issues with my father,” stated Tommy. When asked about his legacy, he quickly referenced Proverbs 13:22, a good man leaves an inheritance for his children’s children. Tommy had became a father to young men all across this country through his “Tommy Ties” youth empowerment seminars, children’s books, and one of his projects, “Through my Lens.” It was a documentary of 25 young men, between the ages of 15 and 25. The project involved getting the young men to look through different lens to change their focus, exposure, and vision. “They were all former bullies or victims of bullying,” said Tommy. The six-month project was effective and produced young men who achieved their GED’s and pursued higher education through colleges and other career institutions. The short version of the documentary was viewed during the Tom Joyner Family Reunion Weekend the first week of September, 2016, and a full version was aired during the month of October, “Bully Awareness Month,” on Aspire TV network.
Continue on page 11
Pg 8
LET’S TALK
KINGDOM
with Dr. Jacquala
Xcellence, Inc. is Heavenly sent, through Dr. Angella Banks and her team of people who share her vision. Xcellence has personally taken me to a higher level of growth, with the help of the Holy Spirit. Xcellence is a resource tool for everyone who desires to elevate their Ministry or career status through the curriculum provided to enhance for betterment. God chose Dr. Banks for this assignment and I am glad to be apart of this growth. My dear readers please use this window of opportunity to be apart of this Xcellence experience with Dr. Banks and team. If God is talking to you right now don’t hesitate to contact Xcellence to be apart of this movement. Your life will never be the same. Blessings, Dr. Jacquala Shropshire
Blessings Xcellence Family, This is Shawn A. White and I'm honored to let you all know about my personal and as well as my professional experience with Xcellence. I have been apart of Xcellence for 2 years now, it has been extraordinary to say the least. Thru Dr. Regina A. Turner, I was led to meet Dr. Angella Banks. We had a Dream call and I knew right away that she was a Visionary and had a passion for God!! Her uncanny ability to see greatness in a person is unmatched and I was highly encouraged to go thru the course, " Seven Pillars to Power"!! Wow. That was amazing and I still have notes from that to this day. The community has been a complete godsend of men and women looking to serve in their gift and to give back to the world. On a professional level, it has taught me so much in terms of true leadership, mindset, accountability, and so more. I am a speaker, author, visionary, podcaster, etc. Xcellence, Inc. has allowed me to not only dream but to know that it is possible. In closing, if you are on the fence and are looking for a community that is positive, loving, caring, and your desire is to move to the next level of your life, I strongly recommend for you to join us. Trust me, you won't regret it. By his grace and mercy, Shawn A. White Pg 9
Enjoying the path to wholeness is fundamental to living our best life. Whatever comes our way can be pivotal in causing us to become better at what we do and how we roll. This year has been full of challenges for us. The pandemic has caused many of us pain and sorrow. We have lost loved ones, friends, and acquaintances to Covid-19. During this major devastation, we still find time to be joyful and exuberant. We know that “no weapons formed against us shall proosper.” Keeping this biblical promise in mind, we find strength to keep pressing forward. Amid new Covid variants and all that is happening this year, as leaders we are still thriving and surviving. We maintain a relentless pursuit of Xcellence. We refuse to give up, not on ourselves or on each other.
Xcellence
As entrepreneurs, authors, parents, coaches, teachers, and a plethora of callings, we find time to reflect on the goodness we share with each other in Xcellence. It is a journey, an experience. When fully embraced we benefit from its key endeavors, developing leaders who are willing to pour into their communities, fanning the flames of Xcellence and serving as a guide to help other community leaders reach their goals. We are on a mission. We are propagating and promoting the Xcellence experience. We push each other forward and undergird our brothers and sisters. This has been a thought-provoking year for so many of us. We are laying the groundwork for new developments. During it all, we maintain our integrity and commitment to see a job well done. The final months of 2021 hold exciting new developments for each of us. Join us in promoting the Xcellence Xperience. Risk being vulnerable. Be a catalyst for change. Maintain your posture of excellence. Love the journey; love the Xcellence Xperience. All of us together will make this movement rock! Stay with the movement! Share your successes! You bring so much to the table. Xcellence appreciates you! Because of each of you, the Xcellence Xperience works. Pg 10
Dr. Mary Jo Johnson (Dr. J)
Per Tommy, “I want to be remembered as the man that has one job and that is to be about my father’s business. My occupation is what I do to get a paycheck and earn money. I was born to be brilliant, and to share my experiences with the world. In my imperfections, I messed some things up; however, throughout my life’s journey, I learned the discipline to become a wise steward of the platform that I was given.” This was his heartfelt thoughts to us.
Each of us has been given a hard drive from God. Everything you need to fulfill your life’s purpose is already inside of you. Stop searching and looking for a hocus pocus savior. You will go through situations in life that will consume you like a virus; however, it is up to you to get rid of the toxins and poison, and upload the greatness stored in your hard drive. We all have to reboot our hard drives to get to the God-given destination before us,” said Tommy.
“My message to the Xcellence Community Xcellence, Inc. was proud to honor Mr. is to remember that God uses plain ole Tommy Mikhail Ford for his contributions to ordinary people. Know that God is always community leadership and for being a Man preparing you regardless of your life’s of Xcellence to his family and to the young experiences that you encounter. Someone, men he dedicated his life to from day to day somewhere one day will cross your path in to love on, and made a significant impact in life, and it will present the perfect their lives. opportunity for you to share your story. Always remember that you will go through it, but also remember that you will get through it. Pg 11
MY XCELLENCE COMMUNITY MAGAZINE DISCOVERY It has been a pleasure to be part of the Xcellence Community and especially given the opportunity to be a contributor of this great tool for leadership. The magazine has given me the ability to express my thoughts through writing. The gift of writing has been dormant inside of me since I left high school. I want to thank Dr. A for her long conversations and encouragement to write while doing it afraid. I have published many books and I now own a selfpublishing company “Joy’s Publishing.” I want to thank the Xcellence community. I am also a business owner of one year this month during this Covid – 19 Pandemic. Someone asked, “How do you do it?” and my answer was patience, prayer, and persistence. It is a challenge to stay focus and keep the faith, I knew that this was a God given opportunity. My discovery statement would be I have activated my business and I have gained clarification from God to turn my plan into action. I have discovered the need to take massive action and be prepared mentally for what the future holds for me. Jessie Faye Manuel
Pg 12
MEET
Ms. Viviane Brazil Pg 13
As we highlight several of Tommy’s loved ones and those who were closest to him, it is only appropriate to introduce to you, Ms. Viviane Brazil. Ms. Brazil and Tommy Ford began their friendship back in 2010 on the set of a movie he was producing for a mentee and friend. New to the industry as an actress, Ms. Brazil was looking to gain more knowledge. Although there was no money to add her to the cast, she volunteered to be on set and support in any way she could. Over the months, the cast became a family; however, according to Ms. Brazil, Tommy noticed that she was the quiet and least engaged on the set and began to pull her out of her shell by calling on her more, and then proceeded to give her a nickname on the set by referencing her as, “My Viviane.” “I recall one time I had to go home to Brazil and because I would be gone and I lived closer to the set than Tommy, I offered him to stay at my home and he was shocked. We always were very supportive of each other even when only a friendship existed. While home in Brazil, we began to communicate via email and just being honest, by this time I had begun to have feelings for him, but never knew if he liked me in return. He was a gentle giant with a big personality. He was nice, kind, and supportive to everyone and therefore, I came to that same resolve about his thoughts toward me. Upon my arrival back to the United States we attempted to coordinate flights as he was in Miami visiting his children. However, it was unsuccessful, and I continued my travel plans back to Atlanta. There’s a humorous story here, that we both have our own versions of, but time
won’t permit me to share all the details (laughter). Let’s just say that he wasn’t happy that I flew back to Atlanta without him. Feeling somewhat responsible for the miscommunication, I advised him that I would be at the airport to pick him up from his flight. This was the night that we both knew and confirmed that what we shared between each other was bigger than friendship,” said Viviane. Viviane admitted that although her colleagues would share with her that Tommy was a celebrity and famous, it was hard for her to grasp, because of his beautiful spirit and kindness towards others. She also shared that she had never watched the “Martin” show. “I am from Brazil, I never knew anything about the show,” she chuckled. Once she got to know him more away from the set, she soon realized how big of a celebrity he was and how much his fans adored him. She shared, “He adored them equally. He loved people, he loved community, and more specifically, he had a heart and a calling for youth. He spent many days and nights involved in community initiatives and mentoring youth.” She mentioned how she was his protector, giving him a safe place and boundary when he did not want to say no to projects. “Whenever we would be in a room and he was doing what he loved most, being there for people, rather it was an event, interview, or many of the projects that he was involved; somehow, our eyes would always connect across the room, and in that moment, we knew that regardless of what was going on, we would be there for each other,” said Viviane. Continue on page 18
Pg 14
2021 Tommy Ford Entertainment Award Recipient
Pg 15
Known for his iconic hit single, “With You,” Mr. Tony Terry has become a tenured voice in the entertainment industry. On Sunday, October 10, 2021, Xcellence, Inc. honored Mr. Tony Terry with the Tommy Ford Entertainment Award. The two men were friends and worked very close together to fill their call to humanitarian works within the city of Atlanta, Georgia.
school and when the opportunity presented itself again one year later, he did not ask his mother, but secretly applied, got accepted, and then shared with his mother. He asked for her support again and she immediately said, “Yes,” without any hesitation. He chuckled as he remembered saying to his mother, “Well why didn’t you just say yes the first time?”
The two met in LA and quickly became friends. Once Tommy moved to Atlanta, they became even closer as they realized that they both had a passion for helping people, especially youth. He recalled the day he got the news that Tommy Ford had passed, and the media outlets began to reach out to him for interviews. “I never understood why it was me who they had chosen, but I went, I knew that I had to show up and represent for him,” said Tony.
This conversation and memory would be one of many for Mr. Tony Terry between him and his mother who he loved dearly. Tony credits his success to the loving support of his parents, Mr. Finis and Mrs. Lacy Terry. Earlier this year, Tony’s mother, Finis, passed away. Mr. Terry dedicated his award in honor and tribute to his parents for their many sacrifices made unto him and his career over the years. His career started as a waiter, and he laughed as he said that within one year, he was running his own store. He heard about an audition in New York, and he quit his job and told them he was never coming back. He moved to New York, auditioned for the show, he was added to the cast, and later found out that it only paid $35 per week. He found himself living in the theater and his bed was underneath his dressing room table, which remained for a course of about six months. “I never complained about my situation, I knew I was blessed, I was happy, and I was having the time of my life,” said Tony. As we proceeded throughout the interview, Tony continued to share more stories of his challenges he faced in the music entertainment industry. However, he was always grateful to God for the opportunity to live the life that he had always dreamed.
Tony did not stop there; he continues to show up and represent for the philanthropic works that Tony and his late friend Tommy Ford had in common. Mr. Terry is a husband, father, singer, actor, and humanitarian who has a love for both music and for people. He is from Southern Pines, North Carolina; however, he grew up in the Washington DC area. One day while watching the 80s tv show, “Fame,” Mr. Terry was inspired by seeing others in the performing arts and knew in that moment that entertainment and performance is what he wanted to do in life. He went to his mother and asked her permission to audition to the historical Duke Ellington School of Arts located there in Washington, DC, and she answered him, “No!” Tony was determined to apply for the Pg 16
Continue on page 30
The Xcellence Xperience
Destin Florida
Sisters-In-Xcellence LuxuryLeadership Retreat
Pg 17
On Tuesday, October 12, 2021, commemorated 5 years since Tommy’s death. I asked Viviane, “What do she feel is his living legacy?” She replied, “Tommy’s legacy is alive and living in the lives of his mentees. There is a young man by the name of Tommie Mabry. The principal was about to kick him out of school. He was labeled as one of their worst students, but when Tommy asked why they had not done it, they said he was an amazing basketball player. Tommy was blessed with the opportunity to mentor him and today he is an inspirational speaker, college graduate, husband, father, and recently received his PhD. Tommy was determined to be the village for his mentees even if no one else showed up. One of his proudest projects was the bullying project titled, “Through My Lens.” I enjoyed standing along side him as he did what he loved most. “During this project I made each of the young men a guardian angel through my custom jewelry business. It became a prized possession for the program recipients. They said it made them feel safe and protected. Whenever one was being disobedient or not following the program protocol, Tommy would ask them to take it off. Let’s just say, it didn’t take long before they were in line and had it back on. He was an advocate for issues that mattered the most in the world. He used his comedy and fame as a platform to honor God, he knew that was the job that God had given him while on earth,” said Viviane. She shared with me that one of Tommy’s mentors was the late Dr. Myles Munroe. He lived by Dr. Munroe’s philosophies and was determined to die empty. “I believe he died empty,” said Viviane. I then proceeded to ask Viviane if she wanted to leave a special tribute to him in words, she excitedly said yes and proceeded with these words:
Hi Tommy, I really miss you. I’m grateful for the 6 years I had you in my life. You showed me how I should be loved, a true friendship, and you taught me life lessons that no one had ever done before. I understand that you had to go, and although you’re not here with me, I find myself walking around the house looking for that joy and laughter that we once had when you were here. I miss you calling me and saying I love you baby! I just miss you! You were an amazing person in my life, and I know that others have now joined you since you passed away, and I know you are making them laugh. I just lost my aunt; I know you heard me in my prayers the other day saying take care of her for me. I just want to say to you that, I really look forward to seeing you again because I know one day I will I love you so much!
Ms. Viviane Brazil is a producer and actress. She resides in Atlanta Georgia. Her most recent project is a short film titled, “The Virtual Babysitter.” She is also the Co-Creator of a new YouTube Show, titled, “Grown and Sexy but Single.” She also makes custom jewelry business, Viviane Brazil Collections. To learn more about Viviane Brazil and her works, visit her social media outlets at @ms_brazil.
Pg 18
He gave himself the name because before all the hype about tea! He said, you know tea means gossip so I guess I’m going to call myself, Gary with the Tea! Back in the day, from one queen to another, the question was, “What’s the Tea?” Since he was doing celebrity gossip, it was the perfect fit.
Hayes Rickey Smiley Show
He has been doing radio now for almost 30 years. Gary started with a call into the “The Russ Par” radio show. He became an associate producer aka telephone operator, then he was promoted to getting on the air live.
Pg 19
If you like what you do, you’ll do it for free as he quoted Oprah. He truly loves his career. He can get a story of a celebrity, review it briefly and then just run with it. His mother wanted him to be a nurse so that he could make some money. He is from Port Arthur Texas. His family is from Louisiana. They didn’t know anything about radio. His uncles would tell his mom that there was no money and no career for a black person in radio, especially in his hometown. He started college in nursing, moved to Dallas, and he was doing both. He was working at the health department when he decided he wanted to do it full time and quit his job. He said, “You don’t quit a good job like that.” He had just bought a Land Rover and wasn’t phased at all if they had to take it back, that’s how much he was committed to his decision to do radio. So that is why he quit and started broadcasting school. He knew the challenges were against him as a black man, in addition living an alternative lifestyle. He went t to school and got his degree in business management. His parents didn’t believe him at first but then the checks started to roll in. We chuckled as I said, in other words, “The tea paid off.” He laughed and said, “It has paid off really good.” You do have to follow your own dreams! He was taking care of himself and did what he wanted to do. He was in radio, worked for Steve Harvey for a year and half, then he got out of radio for a season. He began to miss radio, so he prayed to God and said if he was able to do it again, this is what he desired to do in life. An ope door came when he started looking for furniture for Rickey Smiley, then he became Rickey’s assistant. He didn’t know how much to even charge. Continue on page 29
…the tea paid off! -Gary “With the Tea” Hayes
Pg 20
Ebony Porter-Ike It is such a pleasure to introduce to our Xcellence Community, this beautiful mother, wife, and multi-business entrepreneur who has been shaking up the business scene for years.Meet the President & CEO of epiMedia Group, LLC, Ebony Porter-Ike. The epiMedia Group, LLC is a public relations firm conglomerate located in Atlanta, Georgia. When asked what makes her public relations firm different from others in the industry, Ebony expressed, “When individuals come into our office, our goal is to get to the true identity of that client. Every client goes through what I call a “Root Canal” session. It is during these sessions that we find the authenticity of who that person is and what they are called to do.” She then further explains that her true reward comes from seeing the client talk openly about things they once hid. “They are now free to touch the many people lives they are called to,” said Ebony. Therefore, in other words, Ebony truly understands scripturally that, “Who the son sets free is free indeed,” John 8:36 NIV. She also understands who she is in marketplace ministry and her purpose in life, which is to help her clients excel in business and get their brands noticed.“ A client can have the best product or service in the world, but if it does not have marketplace visibility, then it is hard for people to know that it even exists,” said Ebony. Pg 21
Her experience is unparalleled and unique in nature.
She then elaborates on how we now live in a microwave society when it comes to business and success. “There is no overnight success in business. One must know how to fail quietly and succeed quietly. Consistency is starting and going and going and going until God says you have been perfected. When individuals try to jump to the finish line and they are not ready or before their destined time, it is painful. We then spoke briefly about Covid-19 and the impacts it has had on entrepreneurs. “I saw many entrepreneurs running into the industry. Many individuals saw co-workers who they had worked with for years, contract Covid, die from Covid on Tuesday, and have them replaced at work by Wednesday. There was a lot of exposure that happened in 2020. People want to work with businesses and individuals who have the heart of God. The epiMedia group does what it says it is going to do. My team members have heart, and we each care for our clients collectively by using an octopus approach of reaching out and grabbing each one individually to ensure their success. It is through these uncomfortable times and the identification of additional gaps in the industry that Ebony built and launched her additional brands “Coinology” and “Ebony Eyes Entertainment.” It felt great to look across the screen while we were recording to see the heart and passion of Ebony, which reflects myself and the commitment I have, which is to see every individual walking in purpose by pursuing their God-given gifts and talents. She loves her businesses and clients, but her first ministry is her family. She is the daughter of Mr. Gerald and Barbara Porter. The wife to Mr. Nicho Ike, and the mother to two beautiful children, Nicholas, and Alexis. To learn more about Ebony and her additional companies, please visit www.epimediagroup.com. Pg 22
The Xcellence Xperience Atlanta Georgia
Pg 23
Pg 24
Poet Laureate
2021 Tommy Ford Humanitarian Award Recipient He is a man of many accomplishments. He has sat He is a man of humbleness and humility. at the feet of many leadership giants such as the Whenever he opens his mouth, these late Congressman John Lewis and Activist and characteristics are front and center. His spoken Writer, Mr. C.T. Vivian. He has performed his poetry words will capture you as each one is carefully in the rooms with the late Cicely Tyson and spoken and crafted to leave an impact and honored to have graced the presence of former provoking thought. As we began our interview and First Lady, Michelle Obama. He is Mr. Hank Stewart. I asked him why his presence screamed humility, He is a Jacksonville, Florida native but Atlanta, he answered, “People who do things that count, Georgia has been his home now for 38 years. He is don’t take the time to count them.” His love and a Father, Emmy-Award Winning Poet, Best Selling heart for God is what guides his actions based Author, Motivational Speaker, and Writer. His day upon his favorite scripture, Matthew 25:32-26. He to day works consists of him being both a voice and proceeded to share the wording from a billboard advocate for the “Hank Stewart Foundation.” The he saw while traveling I-85 in Atlanta, it said, “One foundation is a youth leadership organization out of 5 people are hungry, but 4 out of 5 can which focuses on developing leaders for tomorrow. help.” He said, “We have to do the work not for the It is through these works that both Mr. Stewart and credit, but we have to do the work because it is the the late Mr. Tommy Ford advocated on the front right thing to do.” lines to save, mentor, and advocate for youth. Pg 25
When asked about his legacy and greatest attribute as a leader, he quickly stated, “Character, Character Matters.” His desire is to leave a good name for his legacy. He stated to, “To lose money, you have lost nothing, to lose your health, you have lost something, but to lose your character, you have lost everything. Character works both ways, it can work for you, or it can work against you. Meaning you can have a good name or you can have a bad name. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. left a good name for his children. Because of his good name, his children were able to enter rooms that he never did. I want to not only leave my son a good name, but I also want him to be able to come and take a seat on the front row in the room.”
One of their most successful projects together was the bullying documentary, “Through My Lens.” Through my lens was a 16-week documentary that took an in-depth look into bullying with a goal to change the lens and vision of the program participants. Mr. Hank Stewart is yet committed to fulfilling this goal through his works at the Hank Stewart Foundation.
“Giving our children a solid foundation is everything. The first brick of a building is called the cornerstone. Everything else is built off the cornerstone. If you remove the brick, the building will not fall, but the infrastructure has been damaged. Our forefathers left a solid foundation for us to build from, and if we are focused and committed to leave a foundation, the generation of tomorrow will be able to build from it. When we do, we are equipping them to have a winning hand in life. It is my responsibility to build and to pass it on,” said Hank.
To learn more about Mr. Hank Stewart or to partner with the Hank Stewart Foundation, visit his website athttp://www.hankstewart.net/. Article Written by: Dr. Angella Banks
Xcellence, Inc. was honored to have awarded the “Tommy Ford Humanitarian Award” to Mr. Hank Stewart. It is his stellar leadership qualities that makes impact in our communities from day to day. Thank you again Mr. Stewart for all that you do today to make our youth leadership greater for tomorrow.
It is this kind of kindred spiritedness and friendship that bonded Mr. Hank Stewart and Mr. Tommy Ford together. Their birthdays are literally one day apart. They both had hearts to give and to serve.
Pg 26
Mr. Tony D. Sanders is a native and resident of Dayton, Ohio. He is the President and CEO of New Image Entertainment Booking Agency, Tony Sanders Enterprises, and the overall parent company, Impact Enterprises. Each of these entities has a foundation of music. He literally carries music in his heart! It all started as a young paper boy at the age of twelve years old. Even in that moment, although it was not fully discovered, he knew he was called to entrepreneurship. He just didn’t know how to fully embrace it, nor did he have the mentors to help him achieve it. As he got older, it was through one of his closest friends, Mr. Mark Parks, who took him from the dream of becoming an entrepreneur to literally walking in and making it a reality for his life. “I come from a musically inclined family. We always sung together. We would gather for the holidays as a family and just sing for hours, especially those old school gospel hymns,” said Mr. Sanders. Tony said he always knew that he was called to the music industry, he just wasn’t sure of the how and the when. It was one day when he heard the voice of God telling him to relocate to Atlanta Georgia. He recalled, “I just did it and my obedience to move when God told me to move, landed me in fertile ground.” The name “New Image” had stuck with him and followed him from Dayton, Ohio to Atlanta. So much so that his first building that he bought was named, “New Image Beauty.” He knew it was a sign and hence the birth of “New Image Entertainment” and later by defining his niche market to the specialization of becoming a booking agency, the current name exists and operates today.
Mr. Tony D. Sanders
In 2009, Mr. Sanders started to work with Mr. Tony Terry as his booking agent. Their working relationship has now continued for over a decade. Through this connection, he has been blessed to make many lifelong friendships, including the one he established with Mr. Tommy Ford. “We would always get together and talk vision. I don’t think he trusted me enough to be his agent as he chuckled, but he definitely trusted me with his vision, his heart, and his friendship,” he said. It is through this connection with Mr. Sanders referral that Xcellence, Inc. and Xcellence Community Magazine had the ability to honor Mr. Ford as our 2016 Xcellence Man of the Year, and was blessed to have completed Tommy Ford’s final interview.
I always knew that music was my purpose, and now I walk in it, live in it, and seeing the fruits of it every day manifest in my life. “God has done and is doing a new thing in my life. On June 4, 2021, I married the love of my life, Mrs. Khonda Lyle-Sanders. For the first time, I planned a wedding. Although I have been married before, I had never had a wedding. I’ve never had the friendship, support, partnership, and love that I am experiencing at this time in my life. I am back home, giving and pouring into my community. My relationship with my kids and grandkids is blossoming, and my businesses are flourishing,” said Tony. Mr. Sanders talks about the hallway process. He said, “I think that it is important for us all to know and understand that overflow is linked to obedience.”
I personally connected with Mr. Sanders in 2013 through a client as we co-worked together for a “James Brown Tribute Concert” in Cincinnati. I personally call him a friend and he continues to be a great resource and connector for me as I pursue my purpose and dream of touching as many lives as I can through Xcellence, Inc.
He then went on to share from a preaching excerpt from Pastor, Dr. Dharius Daniels, that talks about the “Hallway Process.” Before the doors open, you are in the hallway, and when you are in the hallway, you are in your waiting season. However, those doors were always there and visible to you. God will open wide those doors for you, but always remember that there was a hallway process attached to that season and there will continue to be more hallways process seasons in your life. Embrace each one, and go through your own personal process.
Tony no longer resides in Atlanta; however, he remains active in growing his businesses across the country and more specifically in the areas of Atlanta, Chicago, Dayton, Cincinnati, and Columbus Ohio. The same way he stated earlier in this interview that God told him to go to Atlanta, he also heard His voice when He told him to go back home to Dayton. Once again, that act of obedience, without reservations, has allowed him to enter a new season of his life. “This time when I came home, there was such a need and demand for me and the resources, skills, and knowledge I brought with me, that the ground here is fertile, and literally overflowing with milk and honey,” said Mr. Sanders.
Pg 28
Xcellence, Inc. is appreciative of the husband, father, businessman, and leader that Mr. Tony D. Sanders represent for not only his Dayton, Ohio community, but for other communities in which he serves and gives of his business expertise, and talents. To connect with Mr. Tony Sanders or to learn more about his works through his booking agency artist development, event management, and consulting, please email: tonydsanders24@gmail.com
‘Whew child, Rickey was working me, but I did not mind, because I was doing what I loved and I was connected with someone who was more financially and successful than me, which was more valuable to me than a paycheck at the time,” Gary said. Being Rickey’s assistant allowed him to tap into what it truly felt like to financially stable in life and being blessed to afford the nicer things he desired.
He just did what he had to do! Today he will find himself in bed watching television. When he was going through his cancer treatments, he never watched tv in the bed. He said, “It’s all mental. I have faced many challenges in life, cancer was not going to stop me,“ He said. Gary is clinically diagnosed as bipolar. First misdiagnosed as needing glasses. He had an episode while living in Houston and was given medicine but stopped taking it because his family was concerned it was not the right dosage. Then he had another episode, and finally was prescribed lithium. He’s now taken the medicine for over 30 years and lives a normal healthy lifestyle. He remembered when family members thought he should sign up for disability, but Gary had a different vision for his life. Many people are afraid to take the medicine because they think it is going to change them. He takes his medications religiously because he remembers how it affects him when he does not. The medicine will only help.
Rickey knew Gary had done radio before, but the programmer wasn’t fond of him. He started off one day a week and a friend told him to work that one day, and give it all he had, and he did just that! He went from one day to two days, then from two days to everyday, to now three times a day every day of the week. He recalls when he first started off, he was making $20. He said he saw the bigger picture even though he didn’t know what the bigger picture was. He withstood the test of time. “In today’s society, we are living in a microwave society. You can’t get it now! You can have it, but you just can’t have it all right now!
When I asked Gary what was next he shared that he would love to have his own talk show one day. “It is just me, no kids, and no relationship… I am happy in what I am doing and where I am at in life. If the door opens, great! if it does not, I am still happy. I don’t have to have all the money,” said Gary. When asked what is something about him that people don’t know, he said, “ I am a crybaby!”He loves driving home to Texas because it’s his self-care time. He puts on his music and cry it all out. “I tell them, you can’t ride to Texas with me, but you can ride back,” chuckled Gary.
Gary recalled a few years back, he received a cancer diagnosis. Even during those times, Gary continued to go to work everyday. He had the chemo pouch wrapped around him covered under his shirt. He would work and then leave and go for radiation.
Pg 29
“I always knew what I wanted to do, which was sing, therefore I took every opportunity as a blessing and an open door from God.”
He walked up to the couple without introducing himself and asked if he could sing for them for their first dance. Unknowingly, his wife and son could see him in viewpoint and his wife began to record. His wife uploaded the video and the next morning, the video had gone viral with other 400,000 views. All throughout our interview, his humility is a resounding sound as he continuously gives honor to God by saying, “To God Be the Glory!”
It was Tony’s strong intuition of the hit song, “With You,” that led to his most popular song to date. It was not the single that the President of the label wanted released. He advocated for the song, which did not even have an approved budget to produce a music video due to lack of support. One day the phone rung in the office, he happened to answer, and it was the iconic singer, Ms. Anita Baker, calling in to inquire of the song, the singer, and to inquire as to why there was not a music video along with the song. He shared his battle to even get the song released as a single, and in that moment, she immediately told him that she was going to help him produce the music video by funding the production of the video by sending him a check for $50,000.
Today, Mr. Terry is currently in the studio recording another music album. He recently starred in a film titled, “Martin, Malcolm, and Me,” in which he plays Malcom X. We laughed as he shared that people often stated that he resembled Malcom X as I joined in with the sentiments of others. Mr. Tony Terry is definitely a precious jewel and an esteemed leader who understands who he is, his gifts, and his talents of how to fulfill his purpose through music and his melancholic voice to bless others through music and God’s reflection of LOVE!
In later years, during the “Monique” show, he had an opportunity to hear why Anita Baker made that instant decision to support him, she said, “I was being led by the Spirit, I was being obedient to the Spirit, I had to do it.” It has been this type of favor and open doors that has continuously been there for Tony over the years. He was blessed to work all throughout the Pandemic. One of his most memorable life’s moments was teaching his son a life lesson of being a giver and how to bless others verses being a recipient while walking in the park. Shortly after their conversation, he began to jog and noticed a couple getting married there in the park.
Interview conducted and article written by: Dr. Angella Banks, Publisher
“I always knew what I wanted to do, which was sing, therefore I took every opportunity as a blessing and an open door from God.”
-Mr. Tony Terry
Pg 30
2021 Tommy Ford Comedy Award Recipient
On Sunday, October 10, 2021, Mr. Rodney Perry will receive the 2021 Tommy Ford Comedy Award. The two men were very close and joined together to complete several humanitarian acts within the city of Atlanta, Georgia and regionally. “It is such an honor to receive such an award that honors my good friend and brother, Tommy Ford’s name,” said Rodney. Mr. Perry is a husband and has been married for twenty-five years, he’s also a father to five girls and one boy, a comedian, actor, and humanitarian. Raised on the southside of Chicago, Illinois, he always felt a calling to comedy. Most recently during the COVID-19 pandemic, he realized that comedy was truly engrained within his fabric of life. He said, “I realized that I needed comedy more than comedy needed me. Don’t get me wrong, I love and adore my wife and children, but I realized
Pg 31
that the ability to do comedy was part of my psyche.” As a little boy, telling jokes was part of his reward from his 2nd grade teacher to stop talking in class. His friends often shared with him how much of a comedian he was even as a child. “I am from Chicago, everybody is funny, my entire family is funny, the only difference with me was that I was willing to do it in front of strangers. I was bold enough to go for it even when I did not know I was being bold,” shared Rodney. He then stated, “Find something you love to do, do it and never quit.” “At an early age, I found my love for comedy. Everybody now wants to get the bag. But if you get a bag and you’re not satisfied mentally, emotionally, and dread going there every day, then that’s not a good bag. That bag becomes a burden. My bag is light. I am able to take care of my family doing what I love to do,” said Rodney. It was him loving what he does that allowed his paths to cross with the late, Mr. Tommy Ford. “Tommy was a connector! When he called, you just went. You didn’t ask questions. The reason that you never asked questions was because it was never about business, it was always about taking care of others,” said Mr. Perry. Mr. Perry talked about how Mr. Tommy Ford was always there to lend a helping hand when needed. He admitted that many of the people he knows today was solely because of Mr. Ford. One of those friendships is with Mr. Hank Stewart, another 2021 Tommy Ford Award Recipient. The two discovered that it had been over one year since they had
spoken and realized that it was Tommy’s friendship that brought them together and that it should be Tommy’s friendship that keep them connected even the more now to continue their works together. When I asked Mr. Perry what he feels prepared him most for the life and career he have today, he shared, “My Mom was always about being a leader. She would tell me not to be a follower, but to be a leader.” He jokingly talked about his height of 5’7 but even with short legs, he walks with a big stride. His admiration came from seeing Mr. Eddie Murphy. He said it changed everything for him to see someone who looked like him. Now 30 years later, they are working on a movie together. Shortly before Tommy Ford’s death, Mr. Rodney Perry was going through rehabilitation from a stroke he had suffered. He recalled speaking to his good friend Mr. Ford just a few days before his death. When his brother told him of the news he was in disbelief, because they had just spoken. He said, “When Tommy called to check on me he was reassuring me that everything was going to be okay.” He was given the nickname of “Hot Rod” by his late friend. He feels confident that Tommy is in heaven cracking jokes and bringing laughter. He said, “He was in touch with the father.” He shared that Tommy left a legacy in his films and in the lives of those he was blessed to touch. “I learned to be thankful for every moment, the good and the bad. Be thankful for where you are and where you are going. I want to tell Tommy, thank you! Continue on page 34
Pg 32
The Xcellence Xperience The Power of One Leadership Summit & Booksigning
Pg 33
Thank you for leaving when you did, because you gave us all something to look forward to on the supernatural side. I appreciate you for all you did if nobody else does.” He then chuckled and said, “Heaven has to be dope!” Mr. Perry said he was honored to receive the “Tommy Ford Comedy Award” in honor of his good friend. In closing, Mr. Perry said that his heart still goes out to Mr. Ford’s children because of how much their dad loved them and reiterated how much of a great father he was to his kids. Xcellence, Inc. congratulates Mr. Perry on his recent award and commends him for his leadership roles he contributes to society as a Husband, Father, Businessman, Community Advocate and Leader. We simply ask that he continues to use his God-given platform to bring humor and laughter. It is said that laughter is food for the soul and over these years, he has fed us well. Mr. Rodney Perry has several new upcoming projects and shows. To learn more about his calendar and how to book him, visit his website at: https://www.rodneyperry.com/. Article written by: Dr. Angella Banks, Publisher
Pg 34