I-Female Magazine | May 2012

Pg.15 Make Over Recipients / Inspirational Stories

Pg. 20 “Vendors/Entrepreneur Spotlight”

Pg.4 Quotes of the Month Pg.11 “10 Things We’re Talking About” W.O.W Woman To Woman

Pg. 6

“I Am A Survivor” Fundraiser Gala

Pg.5 Mother’s Day Tribute I-Female Magazine $6.50

May 2012 | www.i-female.net | I-Female Publishing

Publisher Stenell Greene-Myers whosgonnapaythemortgage@ifemale.net Assistant Editor James Chandler Design Trudean Wright Le Petite Capella www.aurigacapella.com To contact I-Female Magazine P.O Box 935 Vineland, NJ 08362 Phone: 856-366-0333 215-613-5207 Fax: 215-613-5000 Email: magazine@I-female.net www.i-female.net www.facebook.com/ ifemalemagazine Twitter @IFemaleMagazine

Letter From The Publisher I- Female Magazine welcome you to our May 2012 issue. This month’s issue is special to me because we get a chance to bring the community to you in more ways than ever imagined. April 28, 2012 “I AM A SURVIVOR” 1st Annual Fundraising Gala was a huge success. We had over 130 people at our first event. This was an awesome empowering experience I will always remember. As you know, I-Female Magazine is about helping to inspire, motivate and encourage each and every woman. We exist to educate, empower and uplift women in areas such as entrepreneurial development, while bringing awareness to the female psyche dealing with depression, low self-esteem, and loss and domestic violence.

We began the event with our vendors who stepped out on faith to work for themselves, also each vendors gave away something to our audience raffle draft for free. A personal thank you to each of our vendors Stacey Mitchell (Dezirable accessories), Mike Santiago (Poetic Vibes), George McIntosh (Velcress), Shay Thompson (Traci Lynn Fashion Jewelry), Wilma Turner (Mary Kay), Arvis Smith (All Over Me Soaps), Romona Ware (Mona’s Designs), Regina Grace (Fancy Girl) Tracey Richmond (Rich events) Carolyn Douglas (Douglas Exquisite Fashions), Sharon Pierce (The Personal Chef), Kingdom Things (Darlene Byrd), and Herb Parsi Photography.

Thank you to our speakers, Pastor Betty Hawkins from Voice of Deliverance Church came out and delivered a powerful message sharing her personal story. She filled the room with praise as she blessed the entire room giving God the honor and all the praise as He pulled her out of darkness into the light. Keynote speaker Andrea Johnson from GIRL U CAN DO IT, INC., a non-profit community based organization that provides comprehensive health and awareness education and prevention services for disadvantage youths and families came out on her Birthday to bless I-Female guests with her love and energy. Andrea began by sharing her story about a girl she knows very well. As everyone sat in silence they listened to her sharing how she had been infected with HIV. The voice inside Andrea left everyone inspired by such powerful words from a strong Women. Andrea was blessed by her sisters from Butterfly INC. as they came out to not only celebrate Andrea Birthday, but support her by showing that as women we all are sisters and need each other. Thank you wonderful ladies for coming out and sharing your voices and stories.

I want to thank our four recipients who wrote into I-Female sharing their survival stories. These Women received a complete make-over and participated in our fashion show. They touched the audience as they stepped out of their comfort zone to share their personal stories. They expressed the pain they individually endured and how that pain has groomed them into the beautiful women they are. Thank you for not only sharing your stories but your strength and encouragement.

Regina Grace from Canvas Hair Salon worked very hard for months creating hair, make-up and styles for each model. She and her team gave the event the Big Explosion everyone was waiting for. Sanja Knox owner of I.A.M Fashions gave each model and elegant affordable look from affordable stores. Sanja put her personal creative touch on I-Female T-shirts that will be out soon. Charlena Barnes creator of Dramatic Eyes-Lusionz created everyone’s makeup to fit their personalities. They worked very hard and I greatly appreciated everything they put into making I-Female First Annual Gala a success.

A Special Thank you to Trudean Wright from Le Petite Capella my personal assistant/ manager/ PR and Designer of I-Female Magazine as she worked very hard to complete I-Female’s mission. Thank you to Felicia White coming all the way from Saint Croix and Corleta Mckenzie-Jones Thank you ladies for helping me to keep a straight head all night. To all family and friends who came out to our 1 st Event, I thank you dearly and God Bless you.

See you next year stronger, wiser and more beautiful, as everyone was dressed in their best. I love you all and remember you are I-Female.

I-Female Magazine. Inspire, Motivate and Encourage!

5 | Mother’s Day Tribute 8 | I Am A Survivor Fundraiser Gala 11 | 10 Things Were Talking About Woman to Woman 13 | The Same Box “Who’s Gonna Pay The Mortgage? A Woman’s Guide To Relationship Recovery”

15 | Inspirational Stories & Make Over

20 | Vendors/ Entrepreneurs Spotlight

TalkingBack! MailTime! Letters From Readers WRITE US I-Female Magazine welcomes letters from its readers. To contact Editorial: Send us a fax (215-613-5000), email (magazine@i-female.net) or mail (Letters to I-Female Magazine, P.O Box 935 Vineland, New Jersey 08362).

Letters should include the writer’s full name, address and daytime phone number. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.

May 1: “Be not afraid of growing May 10: “The person who sends out slowly; be afraid only of standing still.” positive thoughts activates the world Chinese Proverbs around him positively and draws back to himself positive results.” Norman May 2: “Thousands of candles can be Vincent Peale lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. May 11: “Some days there won't be a Happiness never decreases by being song in your heart. Sing anyway.” shared.” Buddha Emory Austin

change our lives, we need to stretch our minds.” Wayne Dyer May 21: “No bees, no honey; no work, no money.” Proverbs May 22: “Pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work.” Aristotle May 23: “I have heard it said that the first ingredient of success - the earliest spark in the dreaming youth - is this; dream a great dream.” John A. Appleman

May 3: “Give a man a fish and you feed May 12: “Carry laughter with you him for a day. Teach him how to fish wherever you go.” Hugh Sidey and you feed him for a lifetime.” Lao Tzu May 13: “Optimism and humor are the grease and glue of life. Without both of May 24: “Every great dream begins May 4: “Everything has its beauty but them we would never have survived with a dreamer. Always remember, you not everyone sees it.” Confucius our captivity.” Philip Butler have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the May 5: “A mother is the truest friend May 14: “No pessimist ever discovered stars to change the world.” Harriet Tubwe have, when trials heavy and sud- the secrets of the stars, or sailed to an man den, fall upon us; when adversity takes uncharted land, or opened a new May 25: “Things turn out best for those the place of prosperity; when friends heaven to the human spirit.” Helen who make the best of the way things who rejoice with us in our sunshine Keller turn out.” Jack Buck desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still will she cling to us, and May 15: “Happiness is not a destinaendeavor by her kind precepts and tion. It is a method of life.” Burton Hills May 26: “You can do it if you believe you can!” Napoleon Hill counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to May 16: “Every breath is an opportuMay 27: “Fear of failure must never be our hearts.” Washington Irving nity to receive and let go. I receive love a reason not to try something.” Frederand I let go of pain.” Brenda MacIn- ick Smith May 6: “Change will not come if we tyre wait for some other person or some May 28: “Limitations live only in our other time. We are the ones we've May 17: “Hope is like the sun, which, minds. But if we use our imaginations, been waiting for. We are the change as we journey toward it, casts the our possibilities become limitless.” Jathat we seek.” Barack Obama shadow of our burden behind us.” mie Paolinetti Samuel Smiles May 29: “Don't let anyone steal your May 7: “Clinging to the past is the problem. Embracing change is the solu- May 18: “Joy is a heart full and a mind dream. It's your dream, not theirs.” Dan Zadra tion.” Gloria Steinem purified by gratitude.” Marietta McCarty May 30: “If I have the belief that I can May 8: “Nothing lasts forever? Not even your troubles.” Arnold H Glasgow May 19: “Let us be grateful to people do it, I shall surely acquire the capacity to do it even if I may not have it at the who make us happy; they are the beginning.” Gandhi May 9: “I would rather stay positive charming gardeners who make our and get 60 percent good results than souls blossom.” Marcel Proust May 31: “The best way to predict the stay negative and get 100 percent bad future is to invent it.” Alan Kay results.” Joyce Meyer May 20: “What we think determines what happens to us, so if we want to

Happy Mother’s Day Prayer For All Mothers By: Daphne McDonald Aaron The Lord blesses each mother with a love of Faith and Hope in our children’s destiny that the Lord had predestined for their lives while they were still, yet, in our womb. A Love that stands by them and holds them up in prayer from beginning to end, An undying love that stands beside them and encourages them through the smooth and rough patches of life Lord as mothers we need the strength to be courageous like Esther. That nothing or no one will stand in the way of us fighting for our children’s survival at home, school and where ever they go in this world May we be like the women that walked with the mother of Jesus, Faithful and Prayerful in all things concerning our children, our home, and the kingdom of God. May we trust the Lord with all our heart, all our soul, all our might, and trust him always covering our children with prayer and giving them good instruction. Lord make us the Teachers you would have us to be in our homes, instructing our children in the ways of the Lord and being examples that they can follow, making steps that they can mirror that lead them to the Path of Righteousness and the things of God. May we teach our children to seek after the lord, trust the lord, resist temptation and evil that comes to disrupt their lives and hinder the future; the Lord has placed before them that lead to success and prosperity. Lord cover each mother here with your blood of protection, speak to our hearts and soul giving us the wisdom we need to be good Mothers today and everyday of our lives. For once you are a mother, you are a mother for life, when they are young you give them love and care, when they are older, you give them love, guidance and advice. And if you raise them right, in their youth you carry them, and in your old age they will return the same love, and carry you. May God Bless and keep every mother here, giving them the wisdom and strength to be the best Mom they can be.

In Jesus name we pray Amen.

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Love Is A Mother’s Gift

When God made mothers, He took great care To fill their hearts with love so rare.

Their children are their greatest prize; You can see the great love in your mother’s eyes.

My Mother kept a garden, a garden of the heart, She planted all the good things that gave my life it's start.

She turned me to the sunshine and encouraged me to dream, Fostering and nurturing the seeds of self-esteem...

And when the winds and rain came, she protected me enoughBut not too much because she knew I'd need to stand up strong and tough.

Her constant good example always taught me right from wrongMarkers for my pathway that will last a lifetime long.

I am my Mother's garden.

I am her legacyAnd I hope today she feels the love reflected back from me

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Love, love is a mother’s gift To their precious children, their hearts to lift.

Warm, tender and giving love That grows them up healthy and happy.

Thank you, mother for all you give To help me grow and to help me live.

I will love you forevermore, My mother, my mom, whom I adore.

Love, love is a mother’s gift To their precious children, their hearts to lift.

Warm, tender and giving love That grows us up healthy and happy.

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I Am A Survivor 1st Annual Fundraiser Gala

Thank You for coming out to our 1st annual “I Am A Survivor” Fundraiser Gala

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Keynote speaker Andrea Johnson owner/founder of GIRL U CAN DO IT, INC. located in Philadelphia an organization that helps ENCOURAGE and EMPOWER youths and young adults to become our SUCCESSES OF TOMORROW and help in the FIGHT to end HIVAIDS, especially amongst people of color. www.girlucandoit.org Andrea provides comprehensive health and awareness education and prevention services for disadvantage youths and families came out on her Birthday to bless I-Female guests with her love and energy. Andrea began by sharing her story about a girl she knew very well, HERSELF! As everyone sat in silence they listened to her sharing how she had been infected with HIV. The voice inside Andrea left everyone inspired by such powerful words from a strong African American Woman. Andrea was blessed by her sisters from Butterfly INC. as they came out to not only celebrate Andrea Birthday, but support her by showing that as women we all are sisters and we need each other. Thank you wonderful ladies for coming out and sharing your voices and stories.

Pastor Betty Hawkins from Voice of Deliverance Church Her mission is to build a army of believers who know that the name of Jesus really works. Pastor Betty came out and delivered a powerful message sharing her personal story. She filled the room with praise as she blessed the entire room giving God the honor and all the praise as He pulled her out of darkness into the light.

A Special Thank you to Trudean Wright owner of Le Petite Capella Events Planning my personal assistant/ manager/ PR and Designer of I-Female Magazine as she worked very hard to complete I-Female’s mission

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Left: Sanja Knox Owner I.A.M Fashion Middle: Gina Grace Owner Canvas Hair Salon Right: Charlena Barnes Owner Dramatic Eyes-Lusionz

Regina Grace owner of Canvas Hair Salon worked very hard for months creating hair, make-up and styles for each model.

Sanja Knox owner of I.A.M Fashions gave each model and elegant affordable look from affordable stores. Sanja put her personal creative touch on I -Female T-shirts that will be out soon. Charlena Barnes creator of Dramatic Eyes-Lusionz created everyone’s makeup to fit their personalities.

They worked very hard and I greatly appreciated everything they put into making I-Female First Annual Gala a success. Thank you to the wonderful models Princess Paige, Shayla Sway Cook, Jennifer Rayford, Talia, Sharon & Evelyn- You Ladies Rock!

1.

Woman to Woman; a group started on facebook

inspired by the desire to see women encouraged at

Community-based Organizations W.O.W supports:

all time, empowered to be and do their best, and

Multiple Sclerosis (MS),

embraced women through sisterhood, friendship,

Breast Cancer Awareness,

business and the pursuit of dreams blew us away.

Only 2 months ago we talked about them in our “Top Thing We’re Talking About” only a group on facebook W.O.W is now a non-profit organization, In 2010, founder Shondale “Ms. Cookie” Hurst had

Girl Scouts of America, National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Rock the Vote, HIV and AIDS Awareness,

an epiphany that many women share: as many

American Heart Association

achievements in which we are capable of making

And a host of other charities and community causes.

today, there is still the need to have a support system in place for those who struggle and for those who are growing into womanhood. Ms. Cookie decided it was time to take her love for her sisters

PO BOX 15684

and build a movement out of it. In 2011, she part-

Colorado Springs, Colorado 80935

nered with the firm Mayhem Media Group to expand the network and elevate it to the next level of connection. Through W.O.W, Ms. Cookie is dedi-

www.pwowerfulone.com

cated to helping women and girls discover their pWOWer. With the help of a dedicated team and partners, Ms. Cookie is bringing that vision to fruition. I-Female Magazine commends Ms. Cookie

Email pwowerfulone@gmail.com

and W.O.W and we are looking forward to hear great things about Woman to Woman Organiza-

Follow Us www.facebook.com/pWOWerfulones

tion.

Make sure you subscribe to the W.O.W website. www.pwowerfulone.com The membership is FREE and the exclusive offers from the Pwower Partners are GREAT!

Twitter: @1womantowoman

10 Things We’re Talking About

NEWS & HOT TOPICS 2. Founded by Andrea Johnson, motivational speaker and HIV/AIDS advocate, GIRL U CAN DO IT, INC. helps to ENCOURAGE & EMPOWER youths and young adults to become our SUCCESSES OF TOMORROW and help in the FIGHT to end HIV/AIDS, especially amongst PEOPLE OF COLOR. www.girlucandoit.org 3. Peas In Their Pods, Inc. provides a specific service to those who have missing loved ones. The organization is selffunded, and is comprised of a team of volunteers who work diligently to assist families during their time of greatest need. They are here to help parents find their missing children. Peas In Their Pods Organizational goal takes pride in helping to find missing children of color, fight against child abuse, and provide information to the public. www.peasintheirpods.com 4. Mighty Writers' free programs teach city students to think and write with clarity, so their self-esteem grows and they can move toward success at school, at work and in life. The first Mighty Writers center in Philadelphia is located in a corner building at 15th & Christian, formerly served a field office for the “Obama for President” campaign. www.mightywriters.org “Our free writing programs help students (ages 7-17) develop the writing skills they need to advance through school and succeed afterward—in college or trade school and into the competitive and ever-changing job market.”

5. KT TERRY THE POETIC QUEEN-FOUNDER & ORGANIZER HOMELESS NOT HOPELESS POETS FOR CHANGE. Homeless Not Hopeless Poets For Change is a newly formed non-profit social service organization founded and facilitated by, KT Terry The Poetic Queen, a spokenword artist, playwright, vocalist and social activist. Her primary mission is to bring awareness to and support positive change to citizens going through the "hurdle" of homelessness, joblessness and poverty. Homeless Not Hopeless Poets For Change welcomes likeminded organizations and individuals who are committed to helping those to overcome obstacles to make better lives for those in transition. ktterrythepoeticqueen.weebly.com 6. www.leavethedetailstoome.net Leave The Details Too Me, LLC has been servicing the Tri-State area for over 12 year and been in the Event Management business for over 20 years. Chef, Caterer, Event Manager and Owner...Dawn Frazier is a seasoned experienced professional. Located at Freeway Golf Club, Sicklerville, NJ; The First African-American owned and operated 18 hole golf course in the US, they offer full-service catering on-site at our restaurant/banquet facility or at your off-site location for your wedding, birthday party, private party, baby shower, corporate meeting dinner party or event.

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7. What an interesting title “I Married Satan” this new book details one woman’s struggle to endure until she triumphs over a marriage full of domestic violence and abuse. How did she get into that situation but even more importantly –how did she get out? Was he really that bad? The book I Married Satan self published by LaDonna Smith takes you inside the life of a woman who suffered, endured and eventually triumphed through an abusive marriage; swallowed the pain; forgave her ex and has since become stronger, wiser, and more spiritual than she could have ever imagined.

8. Only 15 years old Eleanor Leonne Bennett has made her mark in the photography world.

A photographer and artist, Eleanor has won contests with National Geographic, The Woodland Trust and the World Photography Organization etc. She was also the only person from the UK to have her work displayed in the National Geographic and Airbus run See The Bigger Picture global exhibition tour with the United Nations International Year Of Biodiversity 2010. www.eleanorleonnebennett.zenfolio.com 9.

Jacfred Creative is very creative indeed. In business since 2009 there mission is to provide the best! And they mean THE BEST beautiful handcrafted custom greeting cards invitations.

Visit Jacfred Creative for many amazing design and to find your handcrafted custom greeting cards invitations. www.jacfredcreation.com

10. www.squarepegrestaurant.com Sometimes you hear about good food, then someone comes along and tells you about GREAT food. Square Peg located in Philadelphia have gotten a lot of great reviews from it’s customers making IFemale wondering what was so great about their food.

MOUTH WATERING!!

929 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA .

Square Peg is most definitely a place you want to have on your MUST EAT AT list.

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CHAPTER

5

THE SAME BOX Coming out of a marriage or long-term relationship is very difficult and can leave many wounds. Sometimes many of these wounds are still open, not healed. Instead of cleaning the wound with patience, taking time out to learn ourselves, we try to heal the wound with another man. We go out of our way to assure that the new man is nothing like the man we had.

Sometimes in making the transition, we miss some very important valuables about the new man in which you will see later in this chapter. This is a common factor and major downfall; this leaves the woman settling to satisfy the last emotion for a new one. I was having a conversation with a female who was trying to give sound reasons to marry her fiancé. She really loved this man; however, she had some serious undercover reasons to second-guess the long-term commitment she was about to make. This woman is a very smart professional who divorced her husband of ten years of marriage who was completely the opposite from her. Her ex-husband had potential to succeed in his career which would be an advantage to their lifestyle, but he did not seek to grow in his field of work, and they grew apart. The more she advanced in her career, so did her personal desires to have a better home and education for her family. The more she strived to succeed, the more she felt alone, with no support from her husband. She felt drained and alone, trying to grow and build a better life without her partner. The loved sparks were blown out; they no longer had the sweet intimacy connection they once had. There was no passion, love, or anything close, and they could not have a conversation without arguing. Eventually she took her children and left him and moved into her new house she bought alone.

She dated, and met a wonderful man that had her best interest. This man gave her his breath and every inch of his soul and proposed to her. She was very sure her fiancé loved her and would do anything to accommodate her happiness. She definitely loved him as well, but again they were not on the same track setting goals. She had a clear plan that she continues to follow and reach, making the necessary sacrifices to achieve the goal she set. She said her man wanted a different career path, which would improve his finances.

When asked what her man had done differently in three months to achieve this goal, she could not provide an answer. Finally she found a man that was passionate, sensitive, and sweet. She was blown away on how much he loved her – so much to where she began to question whether his love was enough to sustain their relationship. I was confused – she now had a good loving man that observed her values, which was different from how her ex-husband felt about her, and she was questioning his love? She explained that although she needed to be loved and secure, she also needed a man that had the same or similar values as she to grow.

Someone that is capable of fixing a leaking toilet, or at least tries by going out and purchasing a how-to book

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and following instructions. She was tired of making all

this is called unspoken expectations. If you want

the decisions in her previous marriage, which was the

your man to be able to fix a leaking toilet, install

main reason she left. She wanted a man that would make decisions and not seek for her approval for once; all she wanted to hear was “Baby, it’s all taken care of.” Although she deeply loved this man and he

motion lights, paint, or install a new kitchen, tell him. Don’t expect him to know how to do these things; after you fall in love and you find out one of

loved her, they did not possess

the most important aspects you

the same values and goals,

wanted the man to have, he did

which is a major ingredient in a

not, you brought it to his atten-

relationship.

tion after the fact. Just like a

This lady had a different

man tells you what he wants;

man that loved her and it

you do the same.

showed by his actions; how-

Statements a man will say:

ever, when FedEx came to her door with a different box, she opened it and it was the same man. Both men apparently did

counteract them with another when FedEx came to her door with a different box, she opened it and it was the same man.

your man, as you should meet a set of requirements for him. Don’t get caught up in the sex and emotions and lose yourself with the same box, same problems, different man. Entering a new relationship should be a new set of issues, not the same. Don’t leave a man because he did not meet your requirements to fall back into the same identical track. Get a brand new

and have a beautiful body.

Women: Are you domestic? Do you know how to cut grass?

Men: You are an amazing woman. I can get used to you cooking dinner for me.

Women: I need new windows in my house. Do you know how to install them? Also, the roof leaks when it’s a bad storm. Can you fix roofs?

This may sound extreme, but I’m serious;

box with a big red beautiful ribbon, which will come with a set of problems, but the problems are new and you will find new solutions.

This specific subject really inspired me to write this book, as I was having a conversation with a fe-

unspoken expectations can ruin a relationship.

When you start dating or began a new relationship, make sure it’s a different box.

Stenell Greene-Myers, Author of Who’s Gonna Pay The Mortgage?: A Woman’s Guide To Relationship Recovery.

male. Ladies, know your worth. Identify exactly what

Now Available Amazon.com BarnesandNoble.com

the new man must have that the last one did not –

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Men: Of course I want to have sex with you; you’re gorgeous

not reach their full potential, as she did, which was a problem for her. It is okay to have requirements for

question.

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Congratulation to our 4 make over recipients who shared not only their stories but their strength and encouragement

ALEGRA

GERALDINE NICOLE

SHARON

INSPIRATIONAL STORIES > NICOLE

I was Bless through it all The day before the storm, I had called my sister in New Jersey and she told me to evacuate. My family members were thinking that they were going to be alright. They said did not believe anything would happen, but I convinced them to leave anyway. My husband, four children, my mother, and I packed and left on the road. The traffic was bumper to bumper. When driving across the New Orleans highway, the water was even with the bridge.

My daughter saw an alligator in the water, and the sky was dark black.

We were sliding from side to side.

Derek was hutch over the stirring wheel just to keep the stirring wheel straight. I was paranoid, so I started crying, because Derek said he could not hold on. We both held the stirring wheel, and started speeding just to get to safety. We couldn’t stop to rest, because the storm was behind us. We were so tired, and we were running out of gas. My sister wired money for gas to Alabama, but when we got to Alabama everything was closed.

We jumped on the highway and we saw a man and we asked him for gas money. We fill the tank and headed to Atlanta Georgia, and got

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the Western Uni o n mo ne y.

We drove all the way to st r a ig ht to Delaware. We were lost and my brother in - l a w came to get us. It took two and a half days just to make it to New Jersey. That was the beginning stage of me rebuilding my life.

When I finally thought that I can start my new life, I found out that my husband was diagnosed with diabetes, in 2007. He had it under controlled. He went to his doctor appointment on the regular.

He was losing weight. He was eating right. Everything was going good. One day, after hanging out with my husband and made it home at 7:30am. I was tired, so I said I was going to sleep. Derek (my husband) said he could go to sleep. He was going to get something to eat.

At 10:30am, I heard a scream from my daughter. I thought she was playing, but she said Derek was breathing funny. I went running downstairs, and he was sitting up. I said call 911. The paramedics tried to help him as they went to the hospital. When I arrived at the hospital, I was going through my head trying to figure out what was wrong. My mother went to the emergency room, and she started screaming.

The doctor came up and said, “Ms Jefferson, we did all we could do.”

I just lost it in the hospital. I was thinking the doctors made a mistake, but it was true. He was gone.

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It took me years to accept that he was gone.

In 2011, on his birthday, I went where he used to fish. I had laid one rose on the water and watch it flow away, and I said to myself. If he was here, what would he tell me to do? He would tell me to pursue my list, so I did make a big list. My list had three things on it: 1. Get my GED 2. Go to college 3. Buy my family house Then, I have made some rules: once I start I can’t stop. I must hold my head up at all times. I must smile even when I don’t want to. I must believe that God has brought me through for a reason: to tell my story.

“As long as I do and believe in these things, I will be blessed, through it all” ~Nicole~

Nicole walked the runway bold and fierce.

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INSPIRATIONAL STORIES > ALEGRA A Mother’s Love For Her Daughter She is my hero! She shows me strength and faith and I wish I had half of what she has.

I want to nominate my 18 year old daughter Alegra. We have had a very rough year. Her twin brother was hospitalized in March, they’re both bipolar. Most recently she was sexually assaulted at school and came out to police that she was raped 16months ago. My daughter is a senior in high school and what should’ve been a magical time for her has been a nightmare. Alegra can’t attend school, has no friends and suffers from eating disorders. But despite all that she has been through she’s a fighter! A Survivor! She hopes to be able to help others, share her story to let them know they are not alone. She advocates to other via Facebook and Twitter. Her dream is to help educate our young men and women. I am so thankful God blessed me with such beautiful role model and I wish I could be half the woman she already is. I love her with all my heart.

Alegra rocking a more laid back summer trend look

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INSPIRATIONAL STORIES > SHARON Where do I start? Me, Sharon being honored for all that I've been through...God is this what you mean? When you say it's not for me, but to help someone else? Well GOD, I wish I wasn't the one who had to watch and raise her three brothers, I wish I wasn't the one who got left back in the sixth grade, not because of bad grades but because I missed to many days of school staying home while mom was in the crack house, leaving my brothers while they were asleep in a cold house with no heat, to go to the crack house before they woke up, to ask my mom if she would come home and watch them so that I could go to school, or GOD, the time when the city was flooded and the fire trucks had to rescue us, where was my mom? God all the times we were evicted, moving from house to house. My father got shot to death when I was a little girl 3 or 4 years old, my three brothers had the same father, and I always knew that I was the black sheep, never feeling loved, never feeling apart, but this load that I was made to carry wasn't light. I didn’t even know GOD; I never knew to pray and even though I went to church with my grandparents and even joined the church choir, I often questioned who is God? Where was God? I was a child, living an adult life. Survival was the name of the game. I can remember as a little girl on the avenue with my mom and brothers, It was the first of the month “my no good father” died as my mom would called him and every third month when we received a social security check that’s when mom came home. I can still remember the brown envelop, she would get the check, cashed it and disappear again. After being gone for weeks at a time, she would check on us from time to time then go missing again. My mom and her boyfriend or one of the men I use to see coming and going, would walk so far in front of us as if we weren’t her children, I told my brothers to hold hands and keep up, walk really fast and keep an eye on our mother. I HATED THAT LIFE! If I knew my past was going to make me APPRECIATE my future, I would have embraced it, But God! He knew the end at the beginning.

Trust in God he will always guide you in the right direction!!!

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Described as a “tom boy” Sharon’s make-over took her out of her comfort zone as she rip the runway in a business suit.

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INSPIRATIONAL STORIES > GERALDINE I never saw myself being where I am today, let alone being alive. Being born into an alcoholic family, molested by friends of the family from the age of 6 and going from foster home to foster home was not the ideal life. I was told by family members, so called friends as well as teachers that all I would ever be good for was to lie on my back and have babies. I’ve tried numerous of times to commit suicide but Allah had another plan for my life. I am now a MSW working on my Doctorate. I counsel young ladies and women and work at Rutgers University. I successfully raised two responsible young men and young ladies, all without the help of their fathers or family. Even though I couldn’t see it, Allah had and has a wonderful plan for my life. I can now look at myself in the mirror. I know I am special and I am meant to help others.

Geraldine A. Camden NJ

Geraldine ripping the run way fashion show make-over segment

NETWORKING

Each vendors gave away something to our audience raffle draft for free.

Mary Kay Cosmetics-Wilma Turner Tracy Lynn Jewelry- Shay Turner All Over Me Products- Arvis Smith Mona’s Designs- Ramona Ware Fancy Girl me Accessories-Kamilli Walker/Gina Grace Children’s Books- Mike Santiag Photo Frames- George Sister to Sister-Stacy Rich Travel & Events-Tracy Rich Kingdom Things- Joyce Johnson Baked goods- Sharon

Broaches- Carolyn Herb Parsi Photography-Herb Parsi

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1. Romona Ware (Left) owner of “Mona’s Design was relocated from New Jersey to Seattle, Washington to purse a career in the airline industry in 2001. Always wanted to create her own jewelry line in 2002 “Mona’s Design” was launched after designing and wearing her very first necklace, Romona got the support and encouragement from friends and family. Her designs are one of a kind jewelry pieces, handcrafted into artistic work of art. Each piece are unique and inspired by what’s hot and trendy. Not only are the pieces 4.Owner Sharon and Matthew Pierce simple and chic, but very affordable.

(Right) knows that planning a private party or corporate affair, small or large, 2. Mike Santiago ( Right) is the owner of can be stressful or even intimidating. They “Poetic Vibes” an illustrated children can help so that you can relax and feel like books, gospel t-shirts and poetry books. a guest at your own event. At the Personal Chef, Customized Catering & Design, 3. “Fancy Feet Boutique”, which provided they are passionate about entertaining. unique handbags and shoes. Owned by Whether it is an intimate dinner party or a Kamili Walker (Left) alongside Regina magnificent social event, a corporate Grace. After Partnering with small busi- luncheon or a casual weekend gathering, nesses, fashions shows, vending events they can help make it memorable and and Tracy Lynn Jewelry creating Fancy Girl delicious. From your first phone call until Productions. FGP is a vending agent to you last guest leaves, they are there to organize and operate vending events on provide menu planning and provision, all levels allowing not only FGP an oppor- staffing and serving, set-up and clean up, tunity to showcase its goods but also other plus much more! vendors

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5. Arvis Smith (Right) was searching for years for a beauty bar that delivered a deep moisturizing lather from head to toe and one that indulged her senses. After retiring she found her NEW PASSION “All Over Me Soap” leaving your skin feeling good, looking good and smelling good. “All Over Me Soap” had recently expanded to include a line of Organic products, some made with Honey Shea Oatmeal, Citrus Lavender and Thyme to name a few. Her hand soap for men are made of Apricot Kennels and Ground Coffee naturally exfoliates and is pleasantly scented.

6. “Velcress” owner George McIntosh (Right) is a publisher of inspirational writing and creative expression. Velcress offer custom printing on some productions whenever possible, such as adding names, dates and photographs to print.

7. Kingdom Things (Left) owned by Darlene Byrd and Joyce Johnson provides church suits for women, business attire, costume jewelry and fashionable hats.

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8. Shay Thompson (Left) has her own business at “Traci Lynn Fashion Jewelry” where she provides quality fashion jewelry bring a touch of bling for your beauty.

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9. “Rich Event! Event Planning and Travel” gave away a 3 day trip to Las Vegas to one of our guest (Right). Owner Tracey Richmond (Left) and Dwayne Walker specialty is destination wedding and honeymoon travel. They also coordinate family, luxury and group vacations and cruises.

10. Carolyn Douglas- Co owner/ Creative Designer of “Douglas Exquisite Fashions” is extremely proud of their very own accessory line called “The Phenomenal Petal Pin” The Phenomenal Petal Pin are tenderly hand designed silk flower brooches, accessories and fascinators with meticulous attention detail, rich color combinations and exuberant embellishments.

Douglas Exquisite Fashion is also a traveling couture clothing boutique; they bring the store to your door.

11. Wilma Tuner, “Mary Kay” business owner provides facials, skin care classes for men, women and teens. She also provides body care and glamour makeovers.

12. Herb Parsi, owner of “Herb Parsi Photography” located in New Jersey provides photo shoots for any occasion. Also the photographer for I-Female Magazine.

13. Stacey Mitchell owner of DeZirable Accessories have worked for Nieman Marcus as a personal shopper for 5 years. Working with a few celebrities she gained a passion for accessories. Following countless compliments on my personal accessories she decided to create a mobile jewelry box and become an Accessory Coach. After working many events and styling 100s of women DeZirable Accessories was birthed in 2008. In 2012 DeZirable Accessories was featured in the annual Burlington County College Fashion Show directed by Jacqui Fryar (LIAJ Productions)

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