MARCH 2021 by LMP THE REVIEW MAGAZINE

KAMALA

HARRIS MADAM VICE PRESIDENT

4 9 T H

V IC E

P RE S ID E N T

THE 1ST WOMAN VICE PRESIDENT

IN USA HISTORY

KAMALA DEVI HARRIS

Kamala Harris, in full Kamala Devi Harris, (born October 20, 1964, Oakland, California, U.S.), 49th vice president of the United States (2021– ) in the Democratic administration of Pres. Joe Biden. She was the first woman and the first African American to hold the post. She had previously served in the U.S. Senate (2017–21) and as attorney general of California (2011–17).

ESTABLISHED FEBRUARY TWENTY 16 Grace has a way of hitting you just right We couldn’t be more excited and humbled by the grace that we’ve received in developing and sharing this publication for the past five years. LMP - the Review is more than a highlight reel of some of the best and brightest couples, business owners and community leaders. It’s a shared vision to edify positivity, purpose and partnerships. Join us in the celebration of all that was, will be, and most certainly is Love, Marriage & Partnership - the Review. Happy 5th!

IN HONOR OF

22 ISSUES IN 5 YEARS

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LOVE, MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW is a monthly publication sponsored by MR & MRS KING that focuses on married couples that are in partnership with each other through service and/or business to their communities and abroad. The goal of the LMP | THE REVIEW is to inspire readers to look at the essence of partnership in marriage as shared by exemplary couples, ultimately moving readers to actively define, develop, and devote to their purpose as a couple.

It’s a New Year! We encourage you to look at where you are and where you decided to be at the beginning of the year, and truly celebrate the goals that you set, take responsibility to stay on track, and simply be grateful for it all. As we honor the excellence in the achievements in Black culture and share love across many platforms, we charge you to be a history maker and embrace the journey of self-love. IN THIS ISSUE OF LOVE, MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP THE REVIEW, be inspired to use a few new things, get organized, or take your love experience to a new level of being, giving and having. COUPLES IN PARTNERSHIP This feature is the heart of the publication, so become acquainted with phenomenal couples from all over that are building businesses and serving their communities through a loving partnership. DATE NIGHT IDEAS Do more than flirt with the idea of Date Nights, make a commitment. These sweet notions will spark dedication for that much desired QT whether you’re single, just having fun, or in a committed relationship. ON THE LOOKOUT Consider yourself well informed of this set of business owners and public figures that are impacting their respective fields with grace, style and so much more.

loveHER

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loveHER

H T T P S : / / L I N K T R . E E / L E G A C Y N A T I O N

Dismiss every misconception that you have about Dating, be open-minded, and expect to have fun! Who says that Dating has to be anything other than what you want it to be? No one- it’s up to you how creative you want your predetermined moment of eminence to be! It is also important to note that Dating is for anyone: married, engaged, and yes, SINGLE.

LOVE MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW

IDEAS

BY: MR & MRS KING

CHECK OUT A NEARBY CITY YOU’VE NEVER VISITED AND JUST EXPLORE! You don’t have to leave the country to experience a “new culture.” Subcultures within the mainstream are often just a drive away. Road trips are wins. EXPLORE A NEW COFFEE SHOP. Every coffee shop has its own character. There’s nothing that says “no pressure” better than coffee. The ambiance is a huge part of what you’ll remember when you think back to when you were both starting out. PRINT AND FRAME YOUR FAVORITE PHOTOS. Take phone photos a step further and put your best memories permanently on display in your home. That really shows commitment. It’s a nesting behavior and a show of gratitude. WATCH A MOVIE OUTSIDE. Recreate the old-fashioned drive-through experience. A bit of wind and weather invites lots of cuddling opportunities.

Ary Gordon a certified personal trainer whose health journey from 230 pounds to now 145 poundshas proven to be more than physical and way bigger than herself. She has started her own business, “Teamgreatness Fitness LLC and is very excited about the next chapter in her life. Gordon says that her job as a personal trainer is to assess her customers' bodily strengths and weaknesses and create customized workout plans. The work is physical and mental guidance, which includes monitoring customers' progress on a regular basis.

ARY

GORDON

Have you ever sat on the back of a 1,000lb animal and pushed through the language barrier to create a flawless performance? Jessica Sales shares how working with horses radically shifted her mindset, communication, and overall leadership.

JESSICA

SALES

LET’S FIRST ACKNOWLEDGE WHAT IT IS TO RIDE A HORSE. Horses are prey animals. However, they allow us to sit on the most vulnerable spot of their body; their back. This takes an immense amount of trust from your horse. Remember, this is a living animal with a mind of its own. If they want you off, they’ll get you off! Horses are very intuitive animals and possess the ability to sense an elevated heart rate. So at any time if you are nervous or afraid, they can sense that. Their performance will typically shift when they sense “something is wrong”. This is where your confidence as a leader comes into play! You must remain calm, breathe, and make sure you are setting up your partner for success! While you are riding, there are many hand, leg, and verbal cues to communicate to your horse what you want them to do. It is important to be clear about what you are asking of them to again set them up for success. Otherwise, they will not perform to the standard in which you are asking.

By the way, this will happen! Making mistakes is how both horse and rider learn to better their communication with each other. How many of you have experienced frustration in the inability to communicate to your partner what it is you’re trying to convey? I sure have! What I have learned through horseback riding is that it’s not my horse’s fault for not understanding what I want from him. It’s my job as his partner to not get upset with him, but rather find another way to communicate to him in a way that gets through to him and keep trying until we achieve our desired result. Working with horses has taught me to be patient in the midst of resistance and to look for different ways to communicate to support my partner. It has also taught me dedication, focus, and perseverance. This has radically shifted how I operate in friendships and relationships. Creating a seamless performance of synchronicity and synergy with your horse is hard work, but achievable. This also applies in creating a strong healthy relationship with your partner. The question I ask you is, how hard are you willing to work to level up your leadership and communication to improve the relationships around you? -Jessica

FEATURED FEATURED FEATURED

Jordan & Ashton

WALKER

Ashton Walker is a 33-year old native of Jackson, Mississippi. She graduated Cum Laude from Mississippi College where she minored in Spanish and studied abroad in Costa Rica for a summer. Ashton is a REALTOR® licensed in the state of Mississippi serving Hinds, Rankin and Madison counties at W Real Estate. Jordan Walker is a 28-year-old native of Prentiss, Mississippi. He graduated from Hinds Community College where he majored in general studies. Jordan has worked in Automotive and Transportation industry for nearly 10 years. His passions include all things fitness and basketball. The Walkers have two sons, one 12-year-old, Tristain, and one 8 month old, Kyrie. The Walkers met at a lounge in Jackson in 2016. They dated for two years before

COUPLE COUPLE COUPLE getting married on the white sandy beach of Destin, Florida in 2018.

the

REVIEW

WHAT IS THE MEANING OF MARRIAGE TO YOU? Marriage means compromise, love and grace. It’s hard work that holds the greatest reward, life long partnership and reassurance. WHAT DOES “BECOMING ONE” MEAN TO YOU AND WHAT DO YOU DO TO WORK TOWARDS IT? Becoming one is probably the hardest challenge when getting married because you’re merging two backgrounds, thought processes, beliefs and experiences into one. This can allow for an “intense time of fellowship”. We actively work towards becoming one by trying to see where the other is coming from, gaining an understanding of their personal experience and communicating how we should move forward. WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING THING THAT YOU HAVE ACCOMPLISHED TOGETHER? The most rewarding thing we have accomplished together is life with children. Life because it’s what this is all for, building a great life with someone and adding great kids to the mix gives us greater purpose. HOW DO YOU GROW YOURSELVES WITHIN THE RELATIONSHIP? We grow ourselves by understanding that we are individuals who are married. We’ve learned you don’t lose your identity when married. We have a goals board where we outline how and where we’d like to see ourselves in every aspect of life; physically, emotionally, spiritually, financially and personally. We grow the relationship by actively searching for ways to become closer. HOW DO YOU FOCUS ON THE SUBJECTIVE AND RELATIVE STUFF AROUND YOU AND FOCUS ON TRUTH? Being honest leads to uneasy conversations but consistent expectations and understanding.

the

REVIEW continued

WHO DO YOU SEE WHEN YOU SEE YOUR SPOUSE? When we look at each other, we see the true version of each other. We see our safe place that resides within each other. WHAT ARE SOME BENEFITS OF HAVING A SHARED VISION? Having a shared vision gives you a sense of peace when working towards anything in life. Being honest, we don’t always have a shared vision on every topic, but we fall back on compromise, love and grace. HOW DO YOU SOLVE PROBLEMS/BRING SOLUTIONS IN YOUR RELATIONSHIP? ASHTON: ”I’m a communicator by nature and trade. Therefore, solving problems comes natural to me through talking. JORDAN: “I’m a listener but I don’t always talk as much. So, solving problems can be more of challenge for me as I don’t welcome confrontations and excessive communications. We have and still work on problem solving through counseling. One of our counselors suggested that we argue naked and see if we’re still angry during our conversations. WHAT IS A QUOTE OR SCRIPTURE THAT YOU BOTH USE AS YOU FUNCTION IN PARTNERSHIP? As Christians, we don’t throw scripture at each other. We typically try to live by example. Our common ground is worship. We love engulfing ourselves in times of worship as it brings peace and grounds us.

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from the

DESK OF MR & MRS KING

LOVE MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW

loveHER

To love her is an incomparable ability. It is a function that is both a responsibility and a gift, a worthwhile and laborious skill and art. To love her is to love the law of multiplication. She is a creature who is designed to receive, incubate, produce, nurture, and encourage. To love her is to love the very resource that proclaims the vision. To love her is to educate the commanding post that will educate a nation. She is a woman, a lady, a queen. Valued and worthy beyond qualities of precious stones, and that is perhaps why society has found it necessary to harden the environment that she is in, to show the strength and beauty of love once again. The celebration of women this month rides the heels of the first woman in history becoming the Vice President of the United States, Scotland being the first country to provide free and universal access to menstrual products, advancements in science and technology, institution of laws regarding women’s rights and many other accomplishments. As the growth for equity continues outwardly, the demand for harmonious growth inwardly remains evident as well. From women empowerment events, to literature, podcasts, the world of social media, mentoring and coaching, and intimate conversations, we have been filled with systems and strategies on how to get to where we desire to be. The constant work towards getting it right is in response to our culture’s emphasis on dominating with the absence of love. Results change when our actions change, and actions change when they are governed by our thoughts. What many fail to realize is that our most heroic act is to surrender the will of the mind to that of the spirit because our spirit is perfect in love.

A woman who moved passed her pain to purpose. Ms. Ned overcame the odds by persevering after the loss of her husband on her birthday December 22, 2006. Her three daughters at time were 17, 10, and 7. They became her driving force to setting a positive example for others. Ms. Ned’s accomplishments include her book “Evolve”, Top Realtor status, and creator of the EVB Workshops. She is dedicated to serving and coaching those that cross her path that have a desire to reach their goals. Whether it’s a dream home or a dream, Ms. Ned has a proven track record in assisting with making dreams a reality. She is committed to her slogan “Where there’s a need, There’s a NED!”

MARY

NED

CARLOTTA TAYLOR is not just a survivor of child abuse, but has grown into what we come to know as our thriver against all odds who no longer flinches at adversity, but overcomes with authority. Despite growing up in and out of foster care homes and shelters, Carlotta has adapted, persevered and overcome her circumstances. Decades later, by deciding to say “Yes” to herself, Ms Taylor has piece by piece faced her biggest adversary - the brokenness. She has healed not only herself, but thousands through her outreach and influence.

Getting to the heart of the matter has always been what Carlotta is about. With fifteen years of law enforcement experience, that desire to find the unadulterated truth burns in her like an unquenchable fire. She holds a Bachelor’s in Social Services, a Master’s in Science and Leadership, and is the founder of a nonprofit organization for foster youth, Somebody Step In. Carlotta is also a certified speaker, trainer, and coach with The John Maxwell Team, and the author of the best-selling book No More Flinching. Everyone is encouraged to become apart of The Heart of the Matter community, because it’s where people bond world-wide, sharing powerful stories, prevailing over adversity.

ANDREA

BLACKLEY

HOW HAS GOD BEEN A HUGE PART OF YOUR BUSINESS? My business is God. It’s a reflection of Him. When he chooses us to house a gift, it’s such an honor! And when we put that gift to work and we create, as He did, I believe that He is pleased. God is the divine orchestrator of my business. He allows me to grow through stumbles and victories. My vision comes from the gifts that God has given me, and the Holy Spirit coaches me. God keeps me going, when I want to stop. He always uses someone and/or something to confirm the route being traveled, when it gets hard. He will use a client’s adoration to add fuel to my fire. I wouldn’t be here if He wasn’t here. Period. WHAT’S BEEN THE MOST REWARDING MOMENT IN YOUR BUSINESS? The responses from my clients, when they go out and get compliments. When I see women and men CONFIDENTLY wearing their ABO pieces, I’m humbled. Just recently, a client had on an ABO SpringSituation top and she was approached by another client of mine, not knowing each other asking the one wearing the top, “Is that an ABO?” The story had me blushing and in awe. So many moments, too hard to choose just one. WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO THIS YEAR IN BUSINESS? I’m looking forward to having my brand with a strong foundation. Structure. Exposure, Experience, Exclusivity...that’s what I’m focused on. Expansion will show up organically...God willing.

W W W . G E T S I T U A T E D . S H O P

ANDREA BLACKLEY is the owner and designer of the innovative clothing brand, AB Originals. Since she was 8 years old, she’s always had a keen eye, and love for style and fashion. Being raised by a fashionable single mother, one of her favorite moments of her childhood, is when her mom would go “Spring Shopping” for new clothes. It would always be a big event because Andrea would be spontaneously surprised after coming home from school, and finding a bed full of clothes laid out for her. “Christmas in Spring”, as she called it, was always one of her favorite times of the year. As an only child, this was definitely one of the benefits of not having any siblings. But it was also the birth of her infatuation with fashion.

W W W . G E T S I T U A T E D . S H O P

H T T P S : / / L I N K T R . E E / L E G A C Y N A T I O N

VICTORIA

& SASHA

Victoria and Sasha met years ago at an event, clicked first and the rest is history. The two developed a friendship and found a common interest in assisting each other with their individual brands and believing in each other’s vision, sparking creativity in their events. They have been seen working together over the years, hosting several events, from meet & greets, to a memorable fashion extravaganza at Neiman Marcus. While working cohesively in each other’s visions, the two had an idea to launch an official company that ties into the foundation of all of their events: Mind, body, and soul. The downtime with Covid-19, gave them the time and opportunity to execute this brand new venture called VAS Creations which coincidentally stands for Victoria and Sasha.

WWW.VASCREATIONSLLC.COM

ASHLEE

MOSS

young black QUEEN There’s a documentary on Netflix right now called “She Did That” showcasing the lives of black female entrepreneurs. They explain how they got started, the obstacles they faced and how they came up on top. I was so inspired to see successful black women going after their dreams. The thing I admire most is we push through no matter what. I also think we forget to take care of ourselves during the process of becoming successful. How many of you practice self care? I know everybody has their own understanding of what self care means and looks like. I’m going to share 3 ways we as young black women should practice self care. YOU SHOULD TELL YOURSELF THE THINGS YOU DESPERATELY WANT TO HEAR FROM SOMEONE ELSE. When you wake up start by giving thanks to God and speaking positive affirmations. We all love to hear “your beautiful” and “I’m so proud of you” from other people. How often do we say it to ourselves? Speaking these things will keep us motivated and empowered. NEVER STOP SPOILING YOURSELF. Weather it be getting your nails done, shopping, or indulging in your favorite food. Pick something that brings you peace and don’t feel guilty. You deserve it Queen! CREATE HEALTHY BOUNDARIES. If someone or something is becoming toxic you have to remove yourself. Who you choose to spend your time with should challenge you and bring out the best in you. On your road to success the company you keep is most important. I want to give a standing ovation to all my beautiful black Queens who are paving the way and creating success. We see you! Keep shining! Keep spreading love! - Ashlee

Tambra

CHERIE

Tambra Cherie has been featured in several publications including Boom’s Magazine Most Influential Person in the City of Jackson, and recipient of the 2014 Woman of the Year Award, alongside the Mayor of the City of Jackson as Man of the Year.

TAMBRA CHERIE

TAMBRA CHERIE TAMBRA CHERIE

TAMBRA CHERIE TAMBRA CHERIE TAMBRA CHERIE

Tambra Cherie, also known as the Midday Diva, is the most popular and highly rated Midday radio personality for 97.7 The Beat of the Capital, in Jackson, Mississippi. She is a full time interactive media talent. Poised and personable, this radio/TV personality, entertainment news reporter, and host brings excitement to every role she carries out. Tambra Cherie discovered her passion for media hosting and the entertainment industry upon graduating from thee Jackson State University. It was during an internship at WRJH, she began to fulfill her goals within the entertainment industry. During her radio internship, Tambra Cherie embarked upon various entertainment-related ventures, serving as host for the once highly anticipated #1 entertainment television show in Mississippi, Admission Granted. Admission Granted previously aired on UPN, CW, and CBS affiliates for over 4 years. She also served a contributing writer for AllHipHop.com and Ozone Magazine interviewing artists & following industry trends. Throughout her career, Tambra Cherie has hosted a number of events, festivals and concerts; and interviewed a multitude of celebrities, artists, comedians, actors, and entertainment moguls including Russell Simmons, Magic Johnson, Kevin Liles, and Sean Diddy Combs.

TAMBRA CHERIE

Tambra Cherie is now one of the star’s of the newest reality television show, Belle Collective, now airing on The OWN Network, Fridays 9pm central/10pm eastern. Belle Collective centers on the personal and professional lives of five successful, glamourous boss women who are redefining what it means to be a southern belle in Jackson, Mississippi. These dynamic women represent Mississippi’s finest Black female entrepreneurs, determined to break ceilings–glass and otherwise–while shredding long-held stereotypes of the South. As a full time popular radio personality in the market, cameras follow Tambra Cherie as she balances her personal and professional life while continuing to grow her brand within the entertainment industry as an on air correspondent. Prior to Belle Collective, Tambra Cherie also served as guest host on Lifetime’s television show, Bring It for a number of episodes and a guest co-host on Dish Nation TV, which airs on FOX affiliates. As the author of her first book, Surrounded By Sin, Grounded By Love: 8 Simple Keys to Becoming a Better You, Tambra Cherie has appeared on a number of radio and television shows, including TV One’s Sister Circle TV, sharing her message of becoming better with audiences throughout the world. As an entrepreneur, Tambra Cherie is also co-owner of an online women’s boutique, 5thandSole.com.

Candace Harris, a photographer based in Jackson, MS, who always loves to share with people how photography changed her life and was truly a gift from God. Candace has been doing photography professionally for about 3 years and it started as a simple hobby but God had other plans. Going from a stay at home mom to a full time photographer, life has taken an interesting turn. Harris shared “I got a camera at the age of 29 and I can't believe how far this thing has taken me so fast.” she went on to share that she loves connecting with people and giving them room to celebrate themselves and the beautiful chapters in their life. “It’s truly a mnistry.” Candace shares that it’s so amazing how people are able to open up to her during their sessions. CANDACEHARRISPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

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H T T P S : / / L I N K T R . E E / L E G A C Y N AT I O N

MARTHA

COOPER-HUDSON

Martha Cooper-Hudson is a woman on a mission to help highly driven others realize their greatness within. She has been called to equip, inspire, motivate and empower women and a few good men to stand up, suit up and boss up in their purpose. Martha can be seen on a monthly basis as a valuable contributor on NBC Charlotte Today. She has become one of the most highly recognized and sought-after business coaches, motivational speaker and trainer to individuals and companies around the world. Her belief in hard work and dedication allowed her to start two highly profitable companies that have benefited the lives of thousands of people. The multi-talented businesswoman and author is rapidly emerging as one of the most dynamic life coaches and empowerment leaders around. Martha Cooper-Hudson has been married to Michael Hudson for 22 years and they are the proud parents of two teenagers Joelle and Mason. Martha is a proud graduate of South Carolina State University where she holds a BS Degree in Psychology and a master’s degree in Speech Language Pathology.

YOUR Uniqueness

IS YOUR Greatest

Gift

THE FOUNDATION

RIA G

THE FOCUS

RIA G R

NE SH THE FRUIT

RT NER

SHI

DESEREE

JABBAR poem

loveHER

THE POEM

“WHEN GOD FORMED WOMEN, HE MADE US WITH LOVE AND PASSION. HE MADE US THE NURTURERS AND I HONESTLY WONDER IF THAT’S THE REASON WE’RE CONSIDERED MOTHER EARTH. LET’S EAT FROM THE DIRT FROM WHICH WE WERE MADE FROM! LET’S STOP EXPECTING TO LIVE IN ACCORDANCE TO MAN-MADE SUBSTANCES WHEN WE ARE MADE FROM GOD! LOVE HER AND CLOTHE HER AS WE ARE THE BREAST PLATE OF THE UNIVERSE. WE HAVE FAITH, WE HAVE HOPE AND WE HAVE LOVE. WE ARE LOVE. ANYTHING CAN BE DONE WITH A GENTLE AND PATIENT HEART THAT’S FULL OF LOVE FOR ONE ANOTHER! TO ALL MY BEAUTIFUL AND GORGEOUS WOMEN OUT THERE, HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S MONTH TO YOU!” P O E T

D E S E R E E

J A B B R

LOVE MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW

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relationship COMMUNICATION James & Natasha King

IT MAY COME AS A SURPRISE TO SOME THAT MERELY TALKING, THE EXCHANGE OF WORDS AND THOUGHTS BETWEEN TWO OR MORE PEOPLE, DOES NOT EQUATE TO COMMUNICATION - EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION THAT IS. Consider these seven habits as you establish and/or grow your relationships. LISTEN WITHOUT CONDEMNATION: Whenever you are engaging in a conversation, remember that the other person trusts you enough to share with you with no fear of judgement. Even if you don’t say anything that is viewed as judgmental during the conversation, guard your thoughts against judgement. Not doing so could impact your thoughts, feelings, or actions towards them later on.

AVOID CRAFTINESS: If you find yourself letting a conversation brew well before it actually takes place, where you craft the other person’s responses, you are unnecessarily tampering with your emotions. Avoid being emotionally disturbed and viewing the other person inappropriately because of comments you’ve developed in your own mind. Allow the other person to communicate with you in their own truth. TALK WITHOUT COVETOUSNESS: It is not a comfortable feeling to genuinely engage in a conversation only to be met with words that are dripping with thirst. Refrain from abusing someone’s listening ear with words and thoughts that stem from longing and desiring what someone else has.

USE WORDS WITH NO COATING: At times, you may feel as if you cannot be completely truthful because you fear that you will hurt them. When this happens, you may find yourself sprinkling sugar over your words to avoid telling the whole truth. Coating your words can be misleading for them and restricting for you. There is a way to use your words wisely, and still be completely truthful.

DODGE THE COPOUT: The copout is that opportune, yet evasive moment where you find yourself using phrases like whatever, that’s okay, or I don’t care. The irony is that it is not whatever, it is not okay, and you do care. We often find ourselves using these elementary colloquialisms, not because we don’t feel like talking at that particular time, but because we have not learned how to communicate beyond our feelings. Depending on the value of the relationship, you have three options: say nothing (some comments and behaviors don’t deserve your response), agree to talk at a better time, talk through whatever the problem is.

BE CAREFUL WITH YOUR WORDS: Being that opportunities wrapped in a particular set of circumstances do not present themselves more than once, you must choose your words wisely. Justifying what you say using, “I just have to speak my mind…” is acceptable only when you are choosing to allow your spirit to control your mind. Too often, when we “speak our mind”, we are really speaking from a place where we choose to allow our emotions to control our thoughts.

TAKE CONTROL: Taking control is not about dominating the conversation or dictating the other person’s thoughts or feelings. Honestly, that type of behavior and thinking typically yields an unfavorable outcome. Instead, being responsible and taking control of your thoughts, words, and actions places you in a much more effective position for communicating. Maintaining positivity while truthfully sharing what you think and feel will have a greater impact beyond the conversation.

FELICIA

BROOKINS AWA R D -W I N N I N G A U T H O R

AWA R D -W I N N I N G A U T H O R- F E L I C I A B R O O K I N S Felicia is the Author of the Award-Winning , Christian Fiction Novel, Sister Nadeen’s WAYS, as well as the Founder of the literary event, ‘WriteTheVision-Aspiring Authors and Writer’s Workshop which helps aspiring authors and writers connect with literary experts in various fields to help individuals become successfully published. This article highlights important tips from her training course for Authors and Writer’s.

REAL ESTATE AGENT/SALESPERSON

LECOURTNEY HARNESS | REAL ESTATE AGENT LeCourtney is a Realtor with Miss-Lou Realty helping clients buy, sell, invest real estate in the state of Mississippi!

Congratulations

SYLVIONNA

M. MOTEN-HORTON M I S S

T O U G A L O O

C O L L E G E

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2 0 2 1

Sylvionna M. Moten-Horton is a senior psychology major from the capital city, Jackson, MS. She is the daughter of Shonna Moten and Nazarea Horton. Sylvionna graduated from Forest Hill High School in 2017 as the valedictorian of her class. Her matriculation at Tougaloo began in the Fall of 2017. Since then, Sylvionna has played an active role on and off campus. She is a member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, American Association of University Women, Pre-Alumni Council, Campus Civitan, and Psychology Club. Sylvionna has also served as Miss Freshman 2017-2018, Royal Court Assistant 2018-2019, and Miss Black & Gold 2019-2020. She also organizes a blessing bags drive every year during the Spring to serve her community. Upon graduation, Sylvionna plans to enroll in a graduate program to obtain her Master’s in Clinical Psychology in hopes of becoming a child psychologist. Sylvionna wants to transform the world around her by sharing her story and leaving behind a legacy. Her campaign platform was “Horton Hears The Loo!” which focuses on mental health awareness, new campus traditions, community service opportunities, increased student morale, and enhancement of a family atmosphere. Sylvionna encourages each of her peers to reach out to their student leaders so they can be heard, listened to, and served as best as possible.

Sylvionna lives by the motto:

“Always stay true to yourself and never let what somebody else says distract you from your goals.” - First Lady Michelle Obama

SABRINA

HOWARD

WHO IS SABRINA HOWARD Jackson, Mississippi, graphic artist and painter Sabrina Howard is impulsive, at least that is one way she describes her vibrant and expressionistic portraits that give subtle nods to social challenges and themes. With her preferred medium, acrylic, Howard handles a brush the way a seasoned writer uses a pen. Taking repurposed canvases and readily recyclable wood, Howard assembles the materials into abstract platforms. The result of her passionate, bold strokes are emotion-laced, multi-dimensional pieces that pay tribute to cubist style with a gritty urban twist. She is the mother of four burgeoning creatives. MY ART TO ME Is an extension of myself. It represents my personal history and experiences combined with current happenings in the world. And as my good friend and fellow artist Talemeika Brice describes me, I create beauty from chaos. HOW HAS BEING AN ARTIST IN MISSISSIPPI BLESSED YOUR WORK Being an artist in Mississippi right now has blessed me by allowing my artistry to help document history in the making. It also has allowed me to give back to my city/my hometown. Headshot by D’artagnion Winford

artist | SABRINA HOWARD

JESSICA

JAMES

Jessica James is a Global Health Ambassador. She has served her community as a National Certified Pharmaceutical Technician and Director of her Nonprofit organization “Beam Me Up Ma”. With 13 years of Private & Public healthcare Advocacy She has worked with Physicians in Granada Spain and Served HIV & AIDS Patients in Cape Towne , South Africa . Jessica has conducted Research to better serve mental health patients in the Southeastern region of the United States as it relates to STI transmission along with postpartum and paralyzing depression. Jessica has created the free therapy movement focusing on normalizing speaking outward about traumatic relationships, fears, and self sabotage with stakeholders in central Mississippi and Louisiana, entitled “SucKaz for Love” . Her ultimate goal is to decrease the Public stigma of mental health and improve the community’s understanding through providing education, treatment and Global intervention. Jessica’s passion is fueled by her own self work and implementing programs for others to increase knowledge of natural wellness & adherence to treatments for all who suffer mentally in silence. Getting them to internalize that they are not alone and to those suffering , they don’t have to anymore.

SHARETHA

NICOLE When is the last time you took a minute to nurture yourself? Do you feel you have to be around a group of friends or in a relationship? Do you dedicate so much of your time to helping others with their problems and needs that you’re drained all the time? New Flash! It’s time for a reality check. Take a step back and get to know – YOU. Your self-worth is the core to your identity. The nurturing of your beliefs, aspirations, and dreams should start at home base. If you never take the time to tap into who are you are, you will never add an important ingredient to your foundation – thus it can affect you later in life. Understanding yourself allows you to become more observant before hanging with the wrong crowd. It allows you to have a clear picture of what you desire and deserve when dating or being in a relationship. It allows you to make better life choices considering your decisions may not just affect you. More importantly, it teaches you how to adapt without the feeling you have to be like other people.

PERSPECTIVE OK, maybe you didn’t grow up under the best circumstances, had a child at a young age, or feel the support you need is just not there. Did you know - some friends or acquaintances are only meant to be there for a season, not a lifetime? Did you know - you may fall “head over hills” for someone that was only meant to teach you a lesson, and not marry them? Did you know - you deserve to take a minute to “woosah”, treat yourself, and spend some time alone without explanation? Furthermore, did you know, the stumbling blocks you encounter really equips to tackle obstacles later in life?

In order for you to be at your best in any situation, you have to take care of yourself first! Whether you believe it or not, when you don’t, everyone attached to you can suffer. Your patience becomes thin, attitude becomes short, and perception of what should be concise and clear become very distorted. Knowing your worth decreases your chances of getting so caught up in the world and viewing yourself from the eyes of others. Yes, many people’s perception comes from what they see on the outside (your physique, clothes, make-up, and hair). But God’s perception comes from what’s in the inside (values, character, heart, and soul). We can’t spend so much time doing things to impress them, because in essence, we become unhappy, even miserable - and it slowly dims the inner light that represents Him!

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SEVEN

CLEANSE HER. LISTEN TO HER.

Listening to your wife allows you to really understand her, and see her inner-most thoughts. You also see her needs. Being able to listen is one of the greatest gifts that you can give to your wife. When you listen, understand that she is not asking for your advice, she is simply looking for you to be open to her feelings and thoughts. Listening allows you to see what she is saying, how she is saying it, and most importantly, why she is saying it. By listening, you can discern whether your wife is seeking your advice or just in need of you helping her to find her own answer.

PAY ATTENTION TO HER.

The more you listen to your wife, the better you will get at paying attention to her. Paying attention allows you to learn major and minor details about your wife, such as knowing her favorite things, her love language, when to do things for her, and how to read her moods. When you pay attention to your wife, you can tell when she wants to do something or have something, but denies it to accommodate you or a situation. Perhaps the greatest thing is being able to recognize who God is in your wife, the strengths and gifts that He’s placed in her. Paying attention allows you to love her the way she deserves to be loved.

APPRECIATE HER.

As a husband it should be a privilege to appreciate your wife every chance you get. Appreciation shows her that all she does has value. Our wives do so much daily to make sure all our needs are met as well as running a household. Appreciate your wife by saying thank you every chance you get. Learn how to edify her at all times letting the world know that she is your gift from the Lord. Appreciate her time, her loving, her respect, her patients, her thoughts and her value to your life. This is an action that will always keep a smile on her face.

Cleansing your wife takes loving her mind, body and soul to a new level. As a husband we are taught to cleanse our wife by washing her with the word of God. As we listen and pay attention to her, please be aware that from day to day so much negativity, disappointments and past hurts fill her mind. Sometimes it’s visible and sometimes suppressed. To cleanse her we must pray with and for her daily, speak positive things into her life daily, speak the word of God with her daily and patently help her to focus on the positive only each and every day. As you cater to her as the weaker vessel the stronger she will be.

BE A GENTLEMAN (CHIVALRY) WITH HER.

Being a gentleman shows your wife that you’re a chivalrous, courteous and an honorable man. Doing this consistently will give your wife the assurance that you love and honor her worth. Your wife deserves to have her doors opened, her chair pulled out, having her hand held in public and private, foot rubs and fixing her plate, just to name a few. Being a gentleman is one of the greatest ways to honor your wife, not only for what she does but ultimately for who she is to you. As husbands let’s show our wives and the world that chivalry is alive and well.

SET GOALS THAT STRETCH HER.

Being the visionary of the home it is our job to set the bar high with everything that we do, including setting goals. The goals should include you and your wife at all times. Because we as husbands desire to see all God has instore for our wives, it is good to set all goals bigger than life. High goals are put into place so that we have to be stretched and grow to reach them. As husbands stretching our wives shows her that we believe in her. Believing in our wives is one of the highest forms of love and appreciation.

PLACE HER AS YOUR NUMBER ONE PRIORITY IN YOUR HOUSEHOLD.

Yes, place her before parents, children, the household responsibilities, work-related duties, and all the other things that attempt to press their way in front

of your wife. Establishing and maintaining this priority is one way of fostering peace, better communication, and productivity within your home and relationship.

SUNJAI WILLIAMS

Sunjai Williams is a public figure who completed college with a double major, one in dance, the other in business. She was one of the original main characters on Lifetime’s Hit Show Bring It where people grew to love her for her determination of never giving up on your dreams. She inspires others, loves talking to her supporters and lets them know that anything is possible if you stay focused and put your all into it. Sunjai has had a makeup line, a Sunjai doll, performed live in front of huge audiences and is currently a new Mississippi Real Estate Agent with The Agency Real Estate Services, where her focus is to help others turn their dreams into reality. The ambitious, serial entrepreneur also has a YouTube channel (Sunjai Williams), and is a top sales agent with a health and wellness company, Total Life Changes. Most recently, Sunjai along with her mom and sisters collaborated with a hair company and launched their 4Star Signature Wig Collection in January of this year.

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SEVEN

LOVE GOD AND BUILD A RELATIONSHIP WITH HIM. This must be priority over all other things. It is not possible to know God and not love Him, and it is impossible to love someone else and not love God. Establishing a loving relationship with God will properly equip you with the strength and wisdom to truly love your husband with an unconditional lovean Agape love. Furthermore, the love that you have for God allows you to accept His commands, and grow in understanding of His word. As your relationship with God grows, so will it with your husband as God shows you how to submit to your husband as unto Christ. LOVE YOURSELF AND HAVE AN INCREASING DESIRE TO BETTER YOURSELF. The better woman that you become, his inspiration to be better is also increased. He sees you as a suitable helper, a true partner – one who completes him as opposed to competes with him. By focusing on positive change within yourself, your husband will view you as someone to be honored, instead of feeling like you’re trying to change him. Also, it may be necessary to tell him that you are working to make yourself better, so that you can be a better help to him. BELIEVE IN AND BUILD UP THE MAN THAT HE IS TO BE. It is vital that you always keep a positive image of who your husband is to be. This takes work on your part, but it’s worth it in the end. There will be moments where it’s easy to see your husband’s weaknesses or areas you feel he needs to grow in, but trust in God to mold and change him. Continue to build him up, encourage him, speak to and treat him like the man that he is to become. Also, be careful not to compare him to anyone else. Ultimately, you want him to be his best self, who God designed him to be – which is more than what you may desire him to be within a moment.

LET YOUR THOUGHTS, WORDS, AND ACTIONS ALWAYS BE POSITIVE OF HIM. This requires self-discipline on many levels. It has often been said that when we do things, we do them three times: in our mind, in our words, and in our actions. Often, there is much emphasis on guarding what we say or do, because those are external things that others can see. However, our thoughts are internal which only God can see. Don’t allow negative thoughts to build up against what you know is true about your husband – that he is your good and perfect gift from the Lord, and that he is fearfully and wonderfully made. Through prayer, fasting, meditation, and God’s word, tear down the strongholds that have built themselves up in regard to your husband so that your words and actions may always be positive both publicly and privately. HONOR HIM AS THE PRIEST, PROVIDER, AND PROTECTOR OF YOUR HOME. To do so requires trust and faith in God at an optimum level. Perhaps this is the area where submission is exercised the most, because it requires a great deal of sacrifice. As the priest of the home, your husband must be respected as the mediator between God and the family. Respect your husband as the one who provides the vision and goals for your family – not just a provider of resources. Understand that God will provide your husband with the vision. Your work is found in his vision. This is not to disregard your goals and dreams. When you sacrifice your personal ambitions, you’ll understand that God has made provisions for your gifts to be used and desires fulfilled in the work that He has given your husband. As the protector of your home, your husband’s fortification addresses anything that may infringe upon the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being of your family. If you feel or see that these components are not present in your husband, pray that God develops these things in him. PRAY FOR HIM. Be attentive to your husband’s needs, desires, strengths, and weaknesses in a way that you can prayerfully ask God to address. When you do so, you allow God to use all of His resources to touch the areas of your husband that you’re praying for. Have peace in knowing that you have no power to change anything about your husband, but God gives you the power and authority to pray for him and help him through God’s strength. PLACE HIM AS YOUR NUMBER ONE PRIORITY IN YOUR HOUSEHOLD. Yes, place him before the children, the household chores, work-related duties, and all the other things that attempt to press their way in front of your husband. Establishing and maintaining this priority is one way of fostering peace, better communication, and productivity within your home and relationship.

MELISSA

BANKS

A native of Jackson, Mississippi Melissa has a passion for helping women from all walks of life find that hidden treasure that abides within them. Her desire is to help individuals push past where they normally would stop. She helps them do that through Motivational Speaking and Individual Coaching. She mentors and coaches individuals who are taking their first steps in becoming entrepreneurs, or more experienced individuals needing encouragement, motivation and skill training in entrepreneurship to further advance in their chosen area of business. Melissa is a Master Event Planner with 20 years experience and mentored by Leading Wedding & Entertainment Expert, David Tutera. She and her team create memorable experiences that her Client and their guest will never forget. She has planned events all over the Southeast and Beyond. Melissa is the Co-Founder of Black Women’s Business Expo, Founder of Let’s Plan Ms, Founder of DMD Event Planning and Design and Creator of The Business of Event Planning, an online Certification Program. Melissa is Co-Executive Producer and Host of Dream by Design, a radio show where Women Entrepreneurs share their Dreams, Struggles and Successes. How they were able to create the life they want and deserve despite their circumstances. Melissa was chosen as one of Mississippi Success Honorees, she received the first ever Scholarship to be mentored by David Tutera and selected as Ambassador for Event Planners Association. She has been seen on ABC, CBS, FOX40 and others. Melissa’s business has grown to be a successful brand and continues to expand in its reach.

ARIA

HOPE

Ms. Aria Hope, a native of Winston Salem, North Carolina was born on October 14, 1989. She attended Appalachian State University, where she studied classical music and was vocally trained under the direction of Dr. Priscilla Porterfield. While at the Hayes School of Music, Ms. Hope performed a variety of arias (a long, accompanied song for a solo voice, typically one in an opera or oratorio) in languages such as German, Italian, French, Russian, Spanish, and English. Aria also studied music internationally in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and Zululand South Africa, at the University of Johannesburg in 2009. Aria’s acting career started in 2007, when she starred in her first rock musical Joseph the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat as the leading role of the narrator. Since then, Aria has performed in the Opera L’elisir d’amore (The Elixir of Love) by Gaetano Donizetti, Building God’s House as Young Mildred with the Winston Salem Performing Arts Alliance, Black Nativity & Glory of Gospel with the North Carolina Black Repertory Company, and Black Stars of the Great White Way in the 2015 National Black Theater Festival.

Since moving to Houston, Texas in 2016, Aria worked under the direction of John Cash Carpenter in Ghost the Musical at Lone Star Community College North Harris, and Harold Jay Trotter in productions including When Temptation Comes & The Messiah of Oz with 1989 Dream Productions. Aria also performed in the 2019 Fade to Black Festival and portrayed artist such as Betty Wright, and Aretha Franklin in Houston’s well know Dancing in the Streets Motown and More Revue in May of 2019. On October 25-27, 2019, Aria played her biggest role, as the lead character Mediyah, an allpowerful Obeah Queen, in the Broadway Play “Pecong” written by Steve Carter and directed by Julio J. Pete Peterson III, with JPETE Theater at the Midtown Arts Center. Aria’s most recent projects include filming a book trailer for the novel “Until You’ve Walked in My Genes” written by Madyme X, and landing roles in the short film “Cairo’s Egypt,“ also written by Madyme X, and “Deception” written by Justin Williams! In her spare time, Aria loves to model, write and perform her original poems and perform on various karaoke platforms around Houston! Aria hopes to one day travel the world and use her voice to restore love and hope into the hearts of many, through her artistic expression and music.

EVERYONE HAS A STORY OF HOW THEY MET THEIR BELOVED. IN ITS OWN UNIQUE, SOMETIMES QUIRKY WAY, THE LOVE STORY HAS THE ABILITY TO PENETRATE ANY HEART. WHETHER YOU’RE LOOKING TO BE MARRIED OR ALREADY VESTED, SHARE YOUR STORY WITH US! OUR TEAM WILL CHOOSE THE TOP FIVE SUBMISSIONS. YOU WILL BE FEATURED IN AN UPCOMING ISSUE.

REQUIREMENTS: - Submit a summary of your story in 700 words or less. Let us know why you feel your story is beautiful. - Send your full name(s) - Send a serious picture and a fun picture of you both. - LMPTHEREVIEWMAGAZINE@GMAIL.COM

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WHY DO WE DO THIS PUBLICATION FOR FREE - to shine a light on husbands and wives positively working in partnership - to edify others in business, community, ministry etc - to provide readers with real-life examples & tools to apply in their own lives

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WOMEN’S DAY

RACHEL LAUREN

Rachel Lauren is a conscious social influencer who is passionate about racial equity, Black life, women’s rights, foster care/adoption, and holistic wellness. By professionRachel is a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion department head within the Tech Sector and also a founding partner and Chief Programming Officer for Diversified, a boutique DEI consulting firm. Through her popular socialplatforms and various contributor positions, Rachel speaks out against racial injustice and advocates most commonly for the lives of all Black people. As a proud adoptive mom of 3, Rachel is no stranger to foster care and adoption, and more specifically how this industry affects Black and Brown children and families. Although a proud Chicago native, Rachel currently resides in Austin Texas with her 3 children.

“Your profession is not what brings home your paycheck. Your profession is what you were put on earth to do with such passion and such intensity it becomes spiritual in calling.” Vincent Van Gogh

Kimberly Strauss is a design expert who believes your purpose in life is to find your purpose and give your whole heart and soul to it! She expressed that she is thankful for her struggles because without them God wouldn’t have revealed her strengths or her profession! Kimberly fondly quoted her grandma saying, “God will never bring you to it and not get you through it!” Amen!! “Yes grandma, and through it he sure did! It was in a season great sadness, despair and the transition of divorce, and the loss of my parents that God lifted and transformed me to walk in His purpose.” With a reflection over her life’s journey to and through purpose, Kimberly conveyed sentiments of gratitude for her profession, cients, and her opportunity to serve God through her profession. Kimberly graduated from the the oldest busines college in the United States, Duff’s Business and Art Institute Of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, owns and operates a notable design firm that was a 2019 Finalist Christmas Designer for The White House, and is a beloved wife and mother.

W W W . K I M B E R L Y S T R A U S S . C O M

MICHELLE GLOGOVAC THE podcast matchmaker

MICHELLE GLOGOVAC

Michelle Glogovac is THE podcast matchmaker, publicist and host of the MySimplified Life podcast. After an 18 year career in corporate aviation, Michelle discovered her passion in changing the world, one voice at a time. She works with entrepreneurs, authors, and experts to nichedown, grow their businesses, and visibility while ensuring their message reaches the masses. Michelle is a natural relationship maker, which is why her love of helping experts be interviewed on podcasts and featured in the media is so successful. Michelle is a wife, mom of two, stepmom of two, and a fur mom. She has her B.A. and M.S. in Law and resides in the San Francisco Bay Area.

loveHER

JASMINE HOLLINGER wife | mother | dermatologist | founder @mothersyoke

An expecting woman is so captivating because it represents her divine, natural capacity to receive and produce.