BRPP Issue 13 by BlaqRayn

MYLASTWRITES.ORG

For Your Promotional Needs

Contact Kosha Jordan: cospromo@gmail.com

sapphirebluechats@gmail.com

POET’S PENS AND VOICES

DEAR POET COLUMN BY NATHAN P. 3 FEATURED AUTHOR YARA KALEEMAH ERIC CROW DRAVEN

DEAR POWERS THAT BE by KHALIL

TINY LITTLE BIRD (POEM BY LeShawn Smith THE ARTIST NIMA (PAINTINGS)

JUST MY THOUHGTS (Article) by Loiusa W. Johnson Author Ra’Mone Marques SCARECROW IS COMING

RAVISHING ROZZZZ (Cover Story)

I deep stroked, no orgasm; twisted my face, lost my voice. Fingers said it all in silence. GOD is still speaking to me... -Crow

POETS LIFT THEIR PENS & VOICES JOE DAVERBAL MINDDANCER Senseless Protest We laid the slain to rest today Only to have that moment taking away Every one is upset about these unexplained killings We marched in the cold, amid being spat on and beatings But this evening this very day, at the funeral of Freddie Grey We took out our frustration where we live eat and pray Pounding inanimate objects that can't feel a thing Destroying what little trust that we wouldn't act this way So we strike the beehive, that's already stung our ass There's a fire burning, and we pour on more gas. Got some free shit, did you? got your boys with you Now your ass can't be outside cause you earned a curfew Your Mother needs to get her medication You burned down the store where her prescription was waiting Your brother who just got a job, trying to be a good father You've looted his place of business but to you it's not a bother. It's hard enough being black, just walking down the street Ask Micheal Brown may he rest in peace. So this is what you do, in an effort to seek justice Young man young lady, you've just lost it and caused it to escalate, Those trigger happy cops can't wait You throwing rocks at cops with glocks Got your ass on TV pants down low to your socks Ooh so scary, and don't carry any weight That is not the way to demonstrate All you've done was disrespect the struggle They'll forget about Freddie Grey and focus on how you acted today more fuel to justify why the police act a certain way just a senseless protest for some trinkets Justice now, don't even think it. It's open season, cause you gave'em a reason They already treat us like we're heathens Now you cheesing for the camera in that orange suit they hand ya It okay to demand your rights But not with violence and destroying your own lives. 1

RIOT VS REVOLUTION A Riot is NOT a Revolution Riots stem from unchecked emotions. Feed by the voices of ignorance Usually the loudest ones in the crowd Throw a rock kill a cop Burn baby Burn But he's from a different state Most likely a government plant First rock thrown he's gone And you're a block from away from home Then you have the vultures of opportunity Break this window I want that TV No longer a protest or a peaceful march Yo Junebug keep a lookout for the cops We gonna hit the jewelry store for diamond rings I'll grab you a real nice watch. Molotov cocktails burst into flames Grocery store drugstore your neighborhood business are in flames But its funny police station still remains Brothers and Sisters fill the cells Police in riot gear National Guard on alert. Take your dumb ass home before you get killed or hurt Unspoken order shoot to kill And be careful don't get hurt It's easier to bury there ass in six feet of dirt. Revolutions start with intelligent plans Know your enemy study that man Infiltrate become one of them Study their tactics and use it against them For this it will take intelligent leaders and warriors that can think Well known saying The revolution will not be televised That's because it will be done in stealth It will be a big surprise But it will be the end of tyranny It will be evils demise. So I will not pray for those willfully involved in the riots of today But I will pray for those who inspire the revolutions of tomorrow.

WALI ABDULLAH

THE REVOLUTION WILL NOT BE TELEVISED

Nathan P. & Dear Poet 2-ORGANIZE YOUR SET When a feature steps on stage with books and papers yet they don't know what they want to do, it takes away from the impact of their performance. A strong feature will pick pieces carefully that will showcase their different writing styles or delivery styles. There is nothing worse than hearing a feature come across as one dimensional because all of their poems sound the same with the same cadence and rhythm. Try to vary the themes. If every poem is about a failed relationship, or the revolution, once again you come off as one dimensional. Also draw on your personality strengths. If you're good at light banter then you might structure your set where you have short dialogues with the audience between poems. Myself, I prefer to string my poems together with planned segues that make the performance a seamless mini-production.

DEAR POET.... You've finally got that opportunity you've been waiting for....a chance to feature! Without a doubt it is an exciting event, but one you should not approach lightly. Just a little bit of prep can be the difference between you being a one shot deal vs a much sought after feature performer! 1-TIME YOUR SET There is no excuse for a feature to ask the host during their set, "How much time do I have left?" Or "Can I do one more piece?" If I'm asked these questions my response is stepping on stage and telling the audience to give the feature a nice round of applause. When you're booked to perform, you're told how much time you have. Time your set. If you're given 20 mins, look to do 15 mins of poetry, leave a few extra minutes for applause throughout the set or banter with the audience. Hosts will spread the word about features that run over time. It's a turn off and can impede your ability to land future gigs!

3-DON'T EAT UP TIME PLUGGING YOUR PRODUCT Get down to the business of reciting! A good host will plug your product in the intro and outro. Therefore you can focus on being a performer, instead of pitching products. Also see if the venue can set you up with a table to display your wares. It adds a nice touch. 4-ARRIVE EARLY Does this really need any further explanation? 5-PROVIDE THE HOST WITH A SHORT BIO Just a few key things you would like mentioned in your intro. 6-THANK THE HOST/VENUE/PROMOTER You would think this would not have to be said but you'd be surprised how often a feature never says a simple thank you. Bad form to say the least!! As you can see these are just a few minimal things, but doing them can make a big difference in your performance and how you are perceived!

A little goes a long way, and be sure to enjoy the experience!! ~~~Nathan P.

YARA

KALEEMAH

Yara Kaleemah was born in Newark, NJ in the early 90’s. As a child she would spend hours writing stories. When her friends were outside, playing, she was in the house writing. Being that she was an only child she had a lot of time on her hands. Naturally, when people asked what she wanted to be when she grew up she would say “an author.” She is a leader. In 2006, Newark Public Schools opened the doors to American History High School, where she was a part of its first class. Being a part of the trial run at the school a loud her to help build the school’s motto and have a voice in what the school’s expectations were. As a freshman, Yara was voted class president. From then on, she worked as a spokeswoman for the student body. As her thirst for knowledge grew, she graduated from American History High School and enrolled in New Jersey City University. Studying to become an English Teacher seemed to be the right fit for her. She loves to read and write. Most of all, Yara is passionate about education, as she believes that academic excellence is the key to the future. Recently, however, she changed her course of study to Sociology and plans to become a youth counselor. In 2013, Yara published her first novella, Too Much to Chew. It was the greatest accomplishment. Soon after came three more outstanding urban fiction novels. Then, she teamed up with Dhakirah Tahani and started S.W.A.G Productions. Wanted to establish something creative, they decided that the acronym stands for Strong Women Achieving Greatness. SWAG Productions is a platform for self-published authors. The company offers services such as editing, proofreading, and typing. Now, Yara is working hard at school and becoming a bestselling author. Sometimes it is difficult to juggle motherhood, being a wife, a student, an author, and a publisher but she manages. With hard work and dedication she will achieve all of her goals. Books by Yara Kaleemah Brick City Chick- http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JDW66N6 Camilla Morrell was on her way to college, living like a princess when she met her first love Duke. Duke was charming and swept the girl off of her feet. Then, the summer ended and their teenage love affair dwindled. That’s when TJ stepped on the scene. He was older and street wise. The girl was overwhelmed with excitement when she became his girl, however, his love was way more than she bargained for. Finally, the girl came to her senses and kicked him to the curb. She never expected to be expecting but Duke saved the day. Will TJ sit around and allow another man to take care of his seed? Would Camilla be able to accept the fact Duke would do whatever it takes to keep her safe? Brick City Chick 2: Strange Fruit- http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OV5WC5Q Just when it seemed like things were settling down for Camilla and Duke, a member of the Diamonds of Hearts decides that showing off is more important than his loyalty to the most notorious street gang of Newark, NJ. Newark’s war on crime has never seen anything quite like the scene at the Shakil Williams Playground. When loyalty dies, so does Spruce. Blood could not be any thicker than a noose. All hell is getting ready to break loose and a tree in this town will bear a strange fruit. As Detective Xena Myers zeros in on the suspects of a brutal murder, witnesses start to die and buried secrets of Camilla and Duke will be revealed. Will a forgotten handgun send the Brick City Chick to jail for the rest of her life or is there a far more sinister plan in line for the Diamonds of Hearts? Jasim- http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RI7QZMU Jasim Williamson’s life crumbled and burned when his parents were killed during the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center. Devastation sent him on a downhill spiral of destruction until he met Zakiyyah Ali. Though he could see no more than her eyes, he felt a sensational connection to her. Demons of his past will surface though and change the course of his life. Will his love for Zakiyyah grow or will she sit back and let it die? This love story illuminates family values, religion, and one man's journey of pain and gain. Gossip Village - http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TM6UHEC Gossip Village is a story told from the view point of Mrs. Ida Mae Peabody, the nosey neighbor. Mrs. Peabody takes us through the rollercoaster lifestyles of several members of a Newark NJ housing complex.

complex. Mita and Javier have been together through drugs and jail. Mita is trying to save her marriage but she finds herself in a whirlwind of drama when Javier is arrested, leaving her high and dry. Will she stick by her husband or find stability in the arms of another man? Vanessa has been doing drugs most of her life, sleeping with everyone for a taste of the dope. The only person she seeks love from is dying. Will she sober up or use dope to numb her pain? Marianna was living in the fast lane, seeking attention from the corner boys. She just wants to get her box wet but has she bitten off more than she can chew by knowingly sleeping with two men who don't know they are father and son? While Mrs. Peabody wastes no time telling everybody's business she is keeping a terrible secret of her own. Will she be able to fess up before a fatal disease eats her alive? Gossip Village is full of drama, secrets, and betrayal. Yara Kaleemah is bringing her ‘A’ game in this uniquely told novel, depicting the lives of ordinary people. Please Don’t Kill Me: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NCBZ75W Please Don’t Kill Me: An Anthology against Domestic Violence is a compilation of short stories, written to advocate against and raise awareness for domestic violence. Some of the stories depicted in this anthology are based upon true stories while others are fiction. Domestic Violence affects thousands of women, men, and children across the country each year. In an effort to give back, using our unique talents, the proceeds for Please Don’t Kill Me: An Anthology against Domestic Violence, will be donated to domestic violence organizations around the country. Even The Bluest Eyes Tell Lies: http://www.amazon.com//dp/B00VMFE620/ Even The Bluest Eyes Tell Lies: The history of a small Alaskan town is about to change drastically. In a place where everyone seems to know everything about everybody, no one was prepared for the scene at the home of the beloved Sherriff. Madison Turnoff wanted nothing more than a family. She did everything right and when she found out that she and her husband would be welcoming a baby boy into their family she couldn’t be more excited. Their happiness was cut short when she miscarried. Michelle Spencer was pregnant with her first child and trapped in a loveless marriage. Although she would do anything to protect her baby, she knew that the only way out was in death. Forced to make hard sacrifices, she leaned on the help of her new friend, Madison. By the end of this daunting tale, the truth will linger; even the bluest eyes tell lies.

Contact Yara: Website: www.yarakaleemah.com Email: swagproductions2014@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100006212446013 Twitter: @_SWAGBOOKS_ AuthorGraph: http://www.authorgraph.com/authors/_SWAGBOOKS_ Blog Talk Radio: www.blogtalkradio.com/swagaliousradio

NEW RELEASE

Jasim Williamsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life crumbled and burned when his parents were killed during the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center. Devastation sent him on a downhill spiral of destruction until he met Zakiyyah Ali. Though he could see no more than her eyes, he felt a sensational connection to her. Demons of his past will surface though and change the course of his life. Will his love for Zakiyyah grow or will she sit back and let it die? This love story illuminates family values, religion, and one man's journey of pain and gain.

NEW RELEASE

The history of a small Alaskan town is about to change drastically. In a place where everyone seems to know everything about everybody, no one was prepared for the scene at the home of the beloved Sherriff. Madison Turnoff wanted nothing more than a family. She did everything right and when she found out that she and her husband would be welcoming a baby boy into their family she couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be more excited. Their happiness was cut short when she miscarried. Michelle Spencer was pregnant with her first child and trapped in a loveless marriage. Although she would do anything to protect her baby, she knew that the only way out was in death. Forced to make hard sacrifices, she leaned on the help of her new friend, Madison. By the end of this daunting tale, the truth will linger; even the bluest eyes tell lies... 7

Khalil Abdul Muhammad

Dear Powers That Be :by Khalil Abdul Muhammad I'm writing this letter because once again death has crept into our backyard as if it was a fox hunting the rooster. Now this type of barbarism sport that you're playing where lives don't matter Has really gotten out of hand.. I ask only one question. Who and what started the domino affect of lives dying. Black lives gone without reasoning. Can you honestly live with yourself after the murders of so many. Is it fear you were hoping to instill in us. Do you want us as a race to throw in the towel. I can't fathom one black person that's willing to give up their life to injustice. But you keep pushing us to the breaking point. But the humbling thing about the whole situation is that we want to show compassion when none is deserved. We want to embrace peace but peace has a two faced coin he flips to see what kind of mayhem he can conjure up to destroy my people. It's becoming personal I say. I look at Freddy Gray and see any one of us. I see Michael Brown as a lost NFL prospect because we nor his family will see that now. I grew up loving police officers because of my big Cousin Colin Allen. He was a DC cop that loved his job, his family and his people. I wonder what would he or any other officer that respect the oath they took under God would say. Speaking of God what God do you serve. Because the God I serve doesn't condone mass homicide. He doesn't condone racial profiling. He doesn't condone falsifying documents before they reach the Judges chambers. The God I serve doesn't even condone us as your brothers in his name to bring harm to you or your next to kin. Am I my brothers keeper. I often have to ask myself, does this saying mean anything or is it just a cliche' that sounds tangible to the ears. We heard the shots that has taken the lives of our brothers. That are now fallen soldiers. Some may even say that their casualties of war. What war I ask. Would that be the war that was mentioned before Jesus was crucified. Could this be the war on human race. One could only wonder Mr Powers That Be. One could only wonder Dedicated to Kim Morrow We believe that lives matter Not just Black lives but all lives..... Assalaam Walikum

Kim Morrow

Dear Powers That Be... u kill me...no, no, literally. Death and lack of humanity has been my reality since we stepped off the boat, your slave, your prize and often your scapegoat. Abused mentally, emotionally, spiritually and physically, we have been the targets of your rage continually, yet we strive to achieve our place, our freedom, our justice peaceably. We only ask to live and be left alone in this country you brought us to forcibly. With guns and heavy artillery, you stripped us from our land, our mother home and we have been your property...never allowed to live freely among your kind, yet time and time again, we have rebelled and raised holy hell in the streets of this YOUR great land, trying to make a mark...to take a stand...to in some way understand why we die at your hand for no reason...with you it's forever hunting season and we are your prey...marching towards the day when the tyranny will end. Of what Sin are we so guilty? We did not ask to be..here...that's your responsibility...horded in chains with whips on your ships to this place of no accountability. However, your chains and whips can not change that WE ARE ROYALTY!!! The father and mother of this Earth were black you see, so our lineage goes back way further than slavery, back further than your inhumanity and treating us so indecently. It is from our black mother's womb that even you were born so together we should mourn the plight of all man but you fail to overstand...Or Maybe you do and that is the core of your anger...your stew. You feel left out of the family plan because your skin is now pale and no longer tan. No more does your flesh bare the great sign that you are a member of this awesome bloodline. So in your rage and feeling misplaced, you need your black brothers to feel humiliated and disgraced. To feel the way you felt when you stepped from those caves and realized your true identity was buried in those dark graves. I think I have found the answer to the question old...why your hatred and malevolence has been so bold...why your once warm heart has turned so cold. You want so desperately what you see in us but cannot find...the MELANIN you lost in those mountains for all time...because see even after you've tried to throw us under the bus...when you die, your pale skin must too return to the dust... Answer and Edition to Dear Powers That Be By: Khalil Abdul Muhammad 10

路tiny little bluebird路 I tickled the moment tho a little scared danced in the song of a tiny little bluebird shedding pins and needles of seasons past basking in the sunlit glow I dare to laugh I exist, I believe I too deserve to belt out a giggle No longer am I a frail little girl who's afraid to be heard .. I am brown. I am bold. I am alive, I'm new, I'm old I won't bow my head when the sky's finger points to scold .. I humm, I sing I rejoice in my good, if I knew then what I know now, I would've, could've, should I'm cracked, I'm damaged, I am a work in progress I am mother,I contain passion I know I'm loved from above. I accept the love the universe sends my way I gather my moments like posies, skipping through calendar days twirling in pouring abundance rains I do, I dare, I'm here, I deserve pocket full of bricks for the living on a curve .. I heard the word and it was good, I drank the verb cause I knew I could I am better, time is infinite when trying to heal nowhere near my arrival~ but I am here.

As the wind blow kisses, I kiss back when the breeze caress my spirit, my soul claps I ache still .. I am true to my staples but born of a pure heart that's fertile and fortify, I will always identify with the strength and beauty of maples I am a child that loves to smile, my mouth corners twist upward in faith Only average I consume my food off my plate~> I see greatness up ahead I shed, I shed My pen is my spout; my passion pour ETH out I tickled the moment tho a little scared danced in the song of a tiny little bluebird shedding pins and needles of seasons past basking in the sunlit glow I dare to laugh ...

LeShawn Smith

The Artist NIMA

NimaShiningstar-El... Author and Poet took up painting as a hobby two months ago as a way to channel her energy. Once she put the brush in hand and took her first stroke against the canvas she was transformed. She calls her form of painting...Nabstract Art which is Nima & Abstract combined...with no formal training other than the will to express herself. 12

JUST MY THOUGHTS Louisa Woods Johnson

ď&#x201A;? We have outrage and cry "foul" when others disrespectful behavior becomes ""Breaking News",however, the same actions come out in everyday life by us. My sincerest sympathy goes out to those who lost their lives, not because they were black or brown but because they were Human!. The violence and rioting are weak expressions of anger. The peaceful protesters understand the proper way to receive the attention that is needed to help resolve some of the issues, however, the masses have the ignorant mind set that tearing down their own brick and mortar establishments will somehow bring them justice or some satisfaction. Truth is, it only feeds into "their perception of us being lawless animals". If only we could get the leaders of that element of people to spread the word. I know that the peaceful protesters know this .It is the ones who seek to continue bad behavior that need this information to be drilled into their minds. It is often said, that "once you know better, you do better", however,our past bad behavior is proving that statement to be a non factor. Our history is our best weapon for change. We can know with certainty what the newest "Jordan's", are, the newest Dance, what is cool to say and who is sleeping with whom, yet not know our history, and how it applies to our current living conditions. The world has changed its "Clothes", not the unspoken truth. There will not be any opportunities for equality unless we educate ourselves and fight for it. We need to know our Laws and how and when to push. We often focus on one incident and move on, we need to continue, follow through to completion. Action is a necessary component of a positive resolution. Unfortunately, there is no strategy to our urban war, only senseless moving in the wrong direction. If we were educated we would know this....it saddens me that this will be our legacy. Some of us consistently see ourselves as "Victims" and enjoy the sympathies that come with being a victim,however, we are a powerful people. But there is a component of fear that prevails. One who is in power also needs to be accountable for how, when and where the power is used. Most people give their power to others, such as Senator's, Mayors,or Congressmen. They would rather pass it onto them and let them make the power work.

Â?

It is fear that stops us from being able to use our strength, knowledge and power. It is fear that holds us to Victim Status, unable to connect the dots, unable to see that being the "Victor" is the goal. People will treat you just how they want when you exude a defeatist attitude, when your spirit is broken and they know you will accept whatever they dish out. Negativity is the norm, positivity does not emanate from us. This needs to be eliminated from our mindset. Fear keeps us from change, and change is needed for our survival. We aren't prepared for what comes along with change, it is very difficult and takes time. We must take a chance and experience change or we will forever be fighting ourselves and blaming our circumstances on others.

Author Ra’Mone Marques Ra’Mone Marquis is a native of the State of Florida. He received his Bachelors degree from Florida International University where he became a proud 2005 initiate of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. he went on to receive his Masters degree from the University of Phoenix. Mr. Marquis currently lives in Miami, Florida. Life experiences and literary idols such as Omar Tyree, Terry McMillan, and Eric Jerome Dickey; have shaped Ra’mone into the author that he is today. This is what formed the foundation of him being considered a unique and relatable author. Due to a desire to provide people with an uncensored, entertaining, and informative place to learn and express one’s self regarding everything sexuality; Ra’Mone created an experience known as The Quis Box. It includes everything from a blog, discussion topics, videos, drink recipes, and more. He is also the Founder and President of True T.A.L.E.N.T.S. Foundation, Inc.; a 501c3 nonprofit that he started in 2011. Its mission is to mentor and enrich the youth of our communities, ages 13-18 years old. With talents including music and dramatic arts; Ra’Mone finds joy in writing, cooking, entertainment, exercising, eating, and traveling…just to name a few. Courtesy of Kace Books, LLC. Ra’Mone’s first novel is a highly reviewed novel entitled District 69: The Crimson Edition. It’s highly reviewed followup is District 69: The Color Haven, which takes readers to unprecedented heights on a highly unforgettable literary journey, heightened by intricately selected colors. The third installment in the District 69 Series is District 69: The Greek Chronicles. Rooted in drama, traditions, sex, and real life experiences; this novel goes to a whole other level as it looks at all the facets and dimensions of fraternities and sororities. 17

Chapter 3: Ra'Mone Marquis District 69: The Greek Chronicles (Volume 3) Everyone was lost and concerned from the time I started talking, but when I ended it by mentioning the rape of the brotherhood; they were extremely disturbed. I bent down to take it out. It being another name for my granny’s gun. I started by shooting at the ceiling once. I pointed the gun at the floor and ceiling, as I proceeded to talk about being raped by the brotherhood. Dylan, Bernard, and Nathan kept asking me what I was talking about. I told Dylan to shut up because it wasn’t him. Individuals started guessing who I was talking about, but every name they said was the wrong one. I pointed the gun at Perry and asked him what he had to say for himself. I went on to tell him I dare you to lie or play stupid. He stuttered and said that he could explain. Bernard and Amare started to walk towards me. Without even looking in their direction, I advised everyone that it would be best that they do not come near me. Aaron, Bernard, Stephen, Julius all attempted to tell me to calm down, to tell them what’s wrong, and how they could help. Everyone was nervous. They all did their best to keep calm. I cocked the gun. Still having it pointed at Perry, I proceeded to tell them every backstabbing detail about what happened. When I finished the room was divided in reactions. Some started to cuss Perry ass out, the rest tried to calm me down and tell me that it’s not worth it. The gun remained pointed at Perry. Perry said my name. I responded by saying “fuck you!” He said my name again and I responded with the same response. I was through playing. My patience was empty. Perry fixed his mouth to say something else. Before I knew it I fired off the gun 1-----2-----3 good time.

Contact Info: Email: kacebooksllc@yahoo.com Twitter: @ramonemarquis Instagram: @ramonemarquis & @kacebooks Facebook: www.facebook.com/ramone.fl uellen

To keep up with all things District 69, check out its fan page on Facebook: www.facebook.com/district69tce You can enter and enjoy The Quis Box and everything associated with Ra’Mone Marquis at: www.ramonemarquis.com You can find additional information about Ra’Mone Marquis’ nonprofit, True T.A.L.E.N.T.S. Foundation, Inc., at: www.ttfoundation5.com Twitter: @ttfoundation5 Instagram: @ttfoundation5 Facebook: www.facebook.com/truetfan or www.facebook.com/true.talents

Q. How long have you been a part of the industry/business? A. I have been in the industry since the early eighties. Q. How did you get your start? A. One day while sitting in a hair salon a woman approached me and asked if I ever thought about modeling, of course my answer was no she said I should think about it and handed me her business card. The rest as they say is history. Q. If you will, give me one pro and one con you have found in this industry. A. The one con I found in the industry is that most of the work involved long hours. The one pro is the interesting people that you meet, people from all over the world some who become lifetime friends.

Q. Has this always been a lifelong dream or something that happened unexpectedly? A. It was something that happened unexpectedly...never would have imagined it in my wildest dreams! Q. With whom have you had the pleasure of working? A. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just say I have worked with some interesting folks over the years...LOL Q. People see the glitz and glamour, but how hard is the work? A.Models are considered to be glamorous people who live glamorous lives. I have found it to be hard work. I liked to sit and meditate (when time permits) and get into character. I try not to think about anything except walking down that runway. If you're not careful, what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re feeling will show in your photos.

Q. If you weren't doing what you do, what do you think would be your chosen profession? A. I love to read and write so my chosen career would be an author. I would love to be my own boss, work my own hours and at my own pace. I would be able to use all of my intellect, my talent and creativity. That would be the life. Q. Who and what inspires you? A. I had a lot of inspiration from my mother for one. She always told me no matter what I do, do it to the best of my ability. My children inspire me. I would love for them to see that in spite of obstacles, you can still achieve whatever you want in life. 25

Q. What is your advice to anyone trying to succeed in this industry? A. My motto for life is when one door closes another one opens I would also use this in the modeling industry also make sure you do your research, everyone does not have your best interest at heart. Q. Any words of encouragement or shout outs you would like to add? A. I would love to give a shoutout to my two beautiful children Courtnee and Andre, to my husband Robert who has always been there and my cousin Sharon Moffitt; you've always had my back and my cousin Kim Morrow who's hard work and dedication has allowed me this opportunity. 26