MidsConnect Magazine February 2019 by MidsUp Worldwide

Contents Mids on the M.O.V.E.

DEPARTMENTS

013

I was the first black woman to make moves in my industry. Read my story.

006 Spirituality 008 Mids on the move 014

Sisterhood

017

Mids Adventures

021

Fashion

041

Events

043 Dating and Marriage 049 Health and Wellness 054 Ageless Beauties 070 Haircare

What made me say yes?

021

My sisters and I are sharing our special day with everyone. Hear our stories of how we came to the point of saying, "I DO."

076 Top Contributors

Ageless Mids

054 ON THE COVER

We have been blessed with style and youth. Can you guess our ages?

Miss Black USA CA

Christol K. Alexander

064

I am the reigning , 'Miss Black USA California." Read my story as I make my plight to the, "Miss Black USA." crown.

WHAT ARE THEY SAYING ABOUT MIDS CONNECT? This was awesome! Loved the highlighted stories on weddings, twins, actresses, deltaveraries....just everything! Great job Queenm Johnson

❤ the content! ❤ the layout! Lauryn Bryght Absolutely amazing❤ Lesley Jordan

This is the best! Kim Roper

An exceptional publication. Thanks! Jacqueline Blue

Can’t say enough about how much I love this. Great content and aesthetically beautiful. Jerlena Denise Griffin-Desta

Loving everything about this! Alicia L Thomas

MIDS CONNECT PO BOX 83403 | Conyers, GA 30013

Happy Valentines Day and Black History Month!

We first would like to thank you for reading, "Mids Connect;" a publication produced to highlight our sisters in the group, "MidsUp Worldwide."Â It is a blessing to share your accomplishments, creativity, and careers to the community; along with love stories that inspire our sisters to the life of matrimony. Keep posting the great things that have happened in your life so we can support one another. Also, when you need the love from a sister, the group is a great support system. Remember, you are not alone and this is why we created the network and publication. In this issue we touch on our sisters that have impacted the community and breaking barriers as women. We are also celebrating love and the foundation of marriage. Make sure you share the publication so we can spread the love. If you would like to be a part of, "Mids Connect," feel free to reach out to us. Thank you for the connection!

Sisterly Yours, MidsUp Worldwide

EMAIL. MIDSUPWORLDWIDE@GMAIL.COM WEB. MIDSUPWORLDWIDE.COM TEL. +1 (910) 876-6437

PRAYING FOR MY SISTERS SHAVETTA WILLIAMS

Most Gracious and Heavenly Father, we give all thanks, glory and honor unto You for and in all things! We give You thanks for an abundant life in You! We thank You for waking us up in our right mind full of love, power, peace and joy! We thank You for the canceling of assignments sent forth by the enemy this day! What he meant for harm shall turn outText for placeholder our good! Oh yes God! We thank You for giving us sweet rest in Your arms all the night long! We are grateful that we are mighty kids of the King! We thank You that we are Your beloved, the very apple of Your beautiful eyes! That we are counted as Your sheep! We thank You for Your perfect plan concerning us! That our future is bright! Thank You for allowing us to be a part of Your kingdom building! Oh yes Lord! Thank You Lord for guiding, protecting and keeping us for we truly don't know how to keep ourselves! We are forever grateful for Your grace and mercy! For the precious blood of Jesus! I praise You for being our All in All! That whatever we need, we find in YOU! Yes God! There is none greater than You in the heaven, earth or universe! My blessed Father, thank You for having the last say so in all things concerning us! For fighting our battles! For picking us up when we are down! For clarity when we are confused! For being the Lamp unto our feet! We ask that You have Your way this day! All things have already been worked out; we walk in Your divine will and favor! Yes Lord! We know that no weapon formed against us shall prosper! We know that we have the victory! We know that all needs and concerns have already been met! And we go forth with great expectations that You will blow our minds this day! We believe it and we receive it! Yes! This here we do declare and decree to be in that name above all others, that of Jesus Christ! And it is so! Amen! Amen! And amen! Song: Don't Do it without me, Lord - Bishop Paul Morton

PRAYING FOR MY SISTERS LAKERIE WILLIAMS

Hope you all are doing well. I was tasked to share this positive message so please read in full. AOML! Crimson hugs and cream kisses to you and blessings for a positive day. "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm placeholder you, plans to give you hopeText and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11, NIV) God has big plans for you Sorors! I hope this blesses you, so here you go: If God had a refrigerator, your picture would be on it! He could have lived anywhere in the universe, but He chose to live in your heart. You are His most prized possession, and He has an amazing future planned for you. God wants you to be free today. He is asking you to forget the past and start fresh with Him today. Stop beating yourself up over your past mistakes. Quit thinking that you don't deserve anything good. You are a child of the Most High God. Begin seeing yourself the way God sees you. How does God see you? He sees you as His masterpiece, the apple of His eye, His precious child. Throughout the day, declare what His Word says about you, “I am a victor. I am a masterpiece. I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” See yourself as the champion He created you to be! A Prayer for Today "God, I believe my better days are still to come. The pain in my life prepares me to receive twice what I have lost, so I will face whatever comes with steadfast faith. Thank you for giving me this hope. In Jesus' Name - Amen."

Our History Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander The first African-American woman to receive a Ph.D. in economics in the United States (1921), and the first woman to receive a law degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School. She was the first African-American woman to practice law in Pennsylvania and served as the first national president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, serving from 1919 to 1923. In 1946 she was appointed to the President's Committee on Civil Rights established by Harry Truman. She was the first African-American woman appointed as Assistant City Solicitor for the City of Philadelphia. She was President of John F. Kennedy Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law (1963).

Barbara Charline Jordan Jordan was an American politician and a leader of the Civil Rights movement. A Democrat, she was the first African American elected to the Texas Senate after Reconstruction, the first southern black female elected to the United States House of Representatives, and the first African-American woman to deliver the keynote address at a Democratic National Convention. She received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, among numerous other honors. She graduated magna cum laude in 1956 from Texas Southern University, where she was initiated into the organization. She later attended Boston University School of Law, graduating in 1959.

Our History Leontyne Price Leontyne Price is an American soprano. Born and raised in Laurel, Mississippi, she rose to international acclaim in the 1950s and 1960s, and was the first African American to become a prima donna at the Metropolitan Opera. 57 years ago this Laurel, Mississippi native made her debut at the Metropolitan Opera House, in a double-debut with the Italian tenor Franco Corelli in Verdi's II Trovatore. The performance was a triumph and ended in a 42-minute ovation, one of the longest in Met history.

Clara Adams-Ender Clara Adams-Ender, a true pioneer in leadership, Mentorship and setting the standard. Adams-Ender was the first African-American Army Nurse Corps officer to graduate from the United States Army War College. A graduate of North Carolina A&T State College in 1961, she received a commission into the Army Nurse Corps. Adams-Ender served as the Chief of the United States Army Nurse Corps from September 1987 to August 1991. She also was the first female officer to receive an Expert Medical Field Badge (1967) and the first woman to earn a Master of Military Art and Science degree while attending the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College (1976).

Our History Patricia Robert Harris The first African American woman to hold a U.S. ambassadorship, when President Lyndon B. Johnson appointed her U.S. Ambassador to Luxembourg in 1965. She was the first African American woman to serve on a presidential cabinet, in 1977 appointed secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development by Pres. Jimmy Carter, and two years later, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare, later Health and Human Services. She was also the first woman to serve as dean of Howard Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School of Law. She was the first national executive director of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Shirley Anita Chisholm Shirley Anita Chisholm was an American politician, educator, and author. In 1968, she became the first black woman elected to the United States Congress, and she represented New York's 12th congressional district for seven terms from 1969 to 1983. In 1972, she became the first black candidate for a major party's nomination for President of the United States, and the first woman to run for the Democratic Party's presidential nomination.

I'm A Change Agent

Gena Yuvette Davis

MIDS WHO ARE CHANGE AGENTS Gena Yuvette Davis I was the first in my entire family to get a BA and I will be the first in my entire family to earn a doctorate in May 2019. For my career, I am an organizational change agent! I help companies transform into collaborative and thriving work environments!

Wakeena Dickens I was the first one in my family to be commissioned as Army officer in 1999 and earn a doctorate in 2011.

Amira Davis I was the first Black woman to graduate from Rider University/Westminster School of Performing Arts dance program. I did it as a double major with a minor in 4 years and honors! 2018.

Melody Phillips I was the first and still only on my motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s side of my family to graduate with a BS degree in Criminal Justice and a MA degree in Forensic Psychology. I also co-founded a non-profit I Am My Sisterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Keeper (MSK) in Delaware. A Rites of Passage program for girls 12-18. We have seen rapid growth over the last 3 years. Going from 8 girls in the program in our first year to now more than 40 girls and a new chapter in Chester, PA. I was initiated into Delta, March 2018-Wilmington (DE) Alumnae Chapter.

SISTERHOOD M Y L E G A C I E S

Photography Credit: Terri Baskin Photography

(Dwan-Mom) What made you choose DST over other sororities? And where were you initiated? I was exposed to Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. at a very young age through my older cousins. Several are in the sorority and since elementary school, I admired them because they carried themselves in such high esteem, were very grounded and were committed to working in our community. As I grew older, I researched and learned more about the organization and became even more determined to become a member. Though I did not have the opportunity to pledge while in college, that didn’t diminish my desire to join. Two years after completing my undergraduate degree, I sought out the local graduate chapter, Dayton (Ohio) Alumnae Chapter, and in the spring of 1991, I was initiated into and became a proud member Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated.

(Dwan-Mom) How important was it to you that your daughters followed in your footsteps? It was very important that my daughters follow the path that I had laid, however I never forced the organization on them. Being an only child, I grew up cherishing sisterhood. After joining the organization and experiencing Delta sisterhood for myself, I wanted nothing more than for my daughters to experience that level of sisterhood, scholarship and service for themselves. Yes, they could have freely chosen another organization (and broken my heart), but I was confident in the example that I and my sorority sisters had set and I knew that showed in our commitment and dedication to Delta and what Delta women represented. In 2014 and 2016 respectively, my dream for them and me became a reality! I was overjoyed when both daughters were initiated and I could finally call them my Sorors—what an indescribable feeling of happiness! My pyramid was finally complete!

(Daughters) Seeing your mother as a Delta, did it spark your interest to know more? Morgan and Sydney: Absolutely! Growing up, we saw the elephants around the house and wore the “Future Delta” hats and T-shirts, but of course, we didn’t fully understand what any of it meant. We often told people that our mom was a Delta, but we undoubtedly didn’t comprehend what that truly meant, so growing up, yes, we were very curious! We wanted to know and had to figure out why our mother was so passion Morgan and Sydney: Absolutely! Growing up, we saw the elephants around the house and wore the “Future Delta” hats and T-shirts, but of course, we didn’t fully understand what any of it meant. We often told people that our mom was a Delta, but we undoubtedly didn’t comprehend what that truly meant, so growing up, yes, we were very curious! We wanted to know and had to figure out why our mother was so passionate. about this “club”. We also wondered why she didn’t complain about getting up on Saturday mornings to volunteer (and dragging us along with her!). We had to figure out why she was so proud to make a triangle with her hands, surrounded by a bunch of her “sisters” in red and white. Morgan: When I was old enough and able to explore, I was fortunate enough to find the answers to all of our burning questions, and in turn shared that information with my sister, Sydney. My mother had given us a glimpse into the world and lifestyle of a hardworking Delta woman very early on and we’ve both been blessed to have the opportunity to see and experience it all for ourselves!

Continue ....

Photography Credit: Terri Baskin Photography

(Girls) Did you feel it was important for you to become a part of the Sorority as a legacy of your mother? We did. We knew that it was important to her, so it also became important to us; but this should not to be confused with the idea of pressure! Every child wants to make their parents proud of them and that still holds true for us today. Our parents instilled pride in us: if you’re proud of the person you are, the work you do, how you treat other people, etc. then they’ll be just as proud and probably even more proud. So sure, we wanted to carry on the legacy of being a Delta to honor our mom, but becoming a member was a decision we both made to better ourselves as individuals, and to join forces with women who were making positive changes and differences in the world we live in.

(Girls) Where were you initiated? Morgan: Spring 2014 of the Iota Alpha Chapter at James Madison University Sydney: Spring 2016 of the Iota Alpha Chapter at James Madison University

(Girls) What would you say to your daughters when it’s time for them to know about the sorority? Morgan: I don’t have daughters yet, but I imagine I would say something along the lines of... “Delta Sigma Theta is the only way!” No, I’m kidding. I’d want her to make a choice for HER, not me. And if I’ve done my job as a Delta woman - showing her the ideals and morals of the sorority, then I won’t have to worry about her doing anything else. Sydney: When I have daughters, I will strongly encourage them to consider Delta Sigma Theta. I won’t necessarily force it upon them, but I will set the example that my mom set for me. Obviously, I will support them regardless, but I will urge them to lean toward Delta!

(Girls) Can you tell us a special moment you all shared as Sisters/Sorors? Mom: Initiation of both girls would be my number one special moment because there are no words to describe the proudness I felt, but a close second would be when we all attended our first (alumni) chapter meeting together once both girls had graduated. It was so awesome having the two of them by my side, meeting new Sorors, signing up for committees and conducting the business of Delta at the graduate level! Morgan: I would have to say my baby sister’s initiation ceremony is one that I’ll always remember. Seeing her follow in my footsteps, was priceless, but also seeing her so proud of what she had finally accomplished and just basking in the moment was very gratifying. Also, being able to witness my mom’s pure joy was one of my proudest moments. I could tell that she was overjoyed by seeing both of her babies join the organization she loves. Sydney: One of the best moments that we have shared is definitely when I was initiated. I remember when my mother pinned me at my initiation ceremony, and I could see the tears welling up in her eyes. Then I looked at my sister, and she was grinning from ear to ear. I was so proud of my accomplishment, and even more proud to have accomplished something that my mom and sister wanted so badly for me and themselves to achieve.

MIDS WHO RIDE

MIDS WHO RIDE Interview with: Dr. Machell Dailey Sigma Phi Spring 03

This area I found to be very interesting, because who knew we had so many sisters that ride motorcycles and they have a group. After discovering this, I had to have a talk with my sister, Dr. Machell Dailey who rides bikes frequently. Yes, I said, "Dr, Dailey." So there is no categorization of a person who rides motorcycles. I became informed. In the words of Kevin Hart, "You Gonna learn Today!" Sitting down

I grew tired of being a back seat rider, so I

talking to Mahell, I wanted to learn more about the group and what

was

they do. My other interest was, "What type of bikes you ride?" These

determined

ladies definitely did not ride a MoPad. Ok , sis as you can see I am very much interested in what you all are doing but first, when did you start riding bikes?

to learn to ride myself

I started riding bikes three years ago.

Ok , sis as you can see I am very much interested in what you all are doing but first, when did you start riding bikes? My husband rode bikes before we ever met. He decided he wanted to ride again and so he bought a Harley. He would take me riding. I grew tired of being a back seat rider, so I was determined to learn to ride myself. I love the freedom, the oneness with God's beautiful scenery! It just became a great way to clear my mind! Continue ....

MIDS WHO RIDE I can understand that because Deltas are not know to take the backseat. LOL Now, that you have learned to ride bikes and became the driver, how did you find other sisters that ride? Also, tell me more about the, "Delta's Who Ride" group. I was a member of another Delta group and there was a post about something unrelated and a Soror shared a picture of her and her bike. Several of us began to communicate on that post and so I then decided to create the group! There are 42 members in the group. It was so awesome to find other Deltas who liked to ride motorcycles. That is awesome that you found your sisters that have shared a passion with you. Are they all in the same area? We are all from different areas! Unfortunately we have not had a chance to meet. We discussed doing a Founders Day Ride so that we could try to meet up, but we have not been able to make that happen yet.

We ride everything from Harleys, Hayabusas, and Spyders. You name it, a Delta rides it.

Now, I have to ask.... What type of bikes you all ride? Ohhh, we ride everything from Harleys, Hayabusas, and Spyders. You name it, a Delta rides it. Sis, thank you so much for informing us about the group and one day I hope to see you all rde out in the sunset with your Crimson and Cream Hey, that sounds like a bike club. The Crimson and Cream Riders.

Here Comes

The Bride

1974 GINGER MILLER RAWLEY

PHI CHAPTER, DRAKE UNIVERSITY

Met in Stuttgart, Germany in August, 1972. I was a teacher for DOD schools & he was in the Army. We met in the Officers Club the my first night in Stuttgart.

Von & Ginger

RAWLEY

07.13.74 • DES MOINES, • UNION BAPTIST CHURCH

1981

CHERYL BUNDICK BONNER PETERSBURG ALUMNAE CHAPTER

Warren and Cheryl (Bundick) Bonner!!! Met in September 1980, 1st date October 1980, engaged January 1981, and married in November. Still going strong. Praising God! We took a chance at just “enjoying the moment” ... and eventually LOVE took a chance with us.

Cheryl & Warren

CHARLES

11.14.81 • ACCOMACK • VIRGINIA

2005 AYANNA

CABRERA COOK THETA NU FALL 93

I met him when he was 20 and I was 28. I saw him often but never paid any extra attention to him. He was my neighbors nephew who I saw outside in his work uniform talking to my younger sister and his cousin. One day he became attractive to me. I knew he was younger but I couldn't help it. I asked my sister to ask him if he wanted to go see Spiderman that night (May 25, 2002). Back story, my sister start coming home say Kerry thinks you are beautiful and he if he ever go a chance to be with you he would never let you go. I would just laugh and keep on pushing. He was a baby for Christ sake. He didn't have the resume the other guy's I had dated or was currently dating had. So for months I again kept it pushing. Until he became attractive to me. So we went to the movies and that was the beginning. He was 21 when we start dating and I was a 29

Kerry & Ayanna

COOK ll

07.01.05 • KEY WEST • FLORIDA

2010

KRISHANNA COLEMAN-LESANE 18-FAAC-SPR 18 FREDERICKSBURG AREA ALUMNAE

Both my husband and I attended HBCU's and marched with our respective band programs. Music and band brought us together. At our reception, we had a "5th Quarter" Battle that included myself and several of my college friends against my husband and his college friends. All of our guests thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

Mitchell & Krishanna

LESANE

04.03.10 • LANDOVER • MARYLAND

2014 RACHELLE GUILLORY SHERMAN THETA PSI SPR 84

We were married July 27, 2014 in Los Angeles, California. We wanted to marry on the 27th because his birthday is December 27th and mine is August 27th. My maiden name is Rachelle Guillory and married name is Sherman. We met through my sister who attends the same church. My sister thought his divorce was final for our first date. He told me it was almost final. I told him I would not see him again until it was final. Ain't nobody got time fo' that! Lol. So, we didn't get together again for five years, When my sister pressured me to go out with him again. That was that. His mother told me she didn't understand why both her sons married Deltas. She's an AKA.

Kevin & Rachel

SHERMAN

07.27.14 • LOS ANGELES • CALIFORNIA

2013 CHANDRA SHACKLEFORD ROBINSON CHARLOTTE ALUMNAE

September 28, 2013 in Goldsboro, NC. I went from Shackleford to Robinson. My husband and I have known each other since the 4th grade in 1986. We were not high school sweethearts, but we may have rode the bus together on a few band tripsđ&#x;&#x2DC;&#x20AC;. We are forever friends who found ourselves reconnecting in 2010 and ultimately becoming Mr. & Mrs. I have known my husband nearly my entire life. #godstimingisperfect

Germaine & Chandra

ROBINSON

09.28.13 • GOLDSBORO• NORTH CAROLINA

2017 SHAYNA JEFFERSONWILLIAMS SPR. 18; MIAMI ALUMNAE CHAPTER

Marcel’s mom is a police officer. She was called to a scene on the campus of my job (University of Miami Health System). I happened to be at the scene. She and I started a conversation and by the end of the convo she said, “you would be great for my son”. She asked that I text her a picture of me right then and she would send it to him. A few minutes after she sent him my picture, her son texted back asking that I give him a call. I gave him a call later on that night and it’s been great ever since.

Marcel & Shayna

WILLIAMS 12.17.17 • CORAL GABLES, FL •CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH

2018 BRIA COFIELD WRIGHT MU OMICRON (NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY IN RALEIGH), SPR 2016 MORGAN CRUTCHFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY

Bria and Rob met the summer before their freshman year at North Carolina State University in 2016. Although they both grew up in Raleigh, attended Wake County Public Schools, and had friends in common, it wasn’t until July 2016 when they met. She is an elementary education major, and he a Textile Technology major, matriculated and graduated in four years. Both began their adult lives, fully employed, within a few weeks of graduation. It was on a trip to Miami when Rob asked Bria to marry him. Over the next 11 1/2 months, July 7, 2018, to be exact, Bria began the preparations for her big day with her mother. With three of her line sisters among her wedding attendants, their 17-month-old son as one of the ring bearers (he was eating an orange Lance cracker while her brother carried him down the aisle), her cousin Pastor Jonathan Crum officiated their wedding and blessed them by doing so. It was a great day!

Rob & Bria

WRIGHT 07.07.18 • RALEIGH • NORTH CARILINA

2018 ERICKA COCKRELL DE LEON

BALTIMORE METROPOLITAN ALUMNAE SPR 1996 We met May 23, 2014. We were introduced by his cousin who was friend of the family. We had a long distance relationship for 4 years traveling from Back and forth from Maryland to San Antonio, Texas. My husband is Mexican and it was great dating, and learning to mix our family cultures and traditions together. We realized our families were a lot alike. I had prayed for a loving, kind and family focus mate. Family was very important to us both and we adore our siblings and parents. He finally proposed when he spent Christmas with my family December of 2016. Our families were so excited! We planned a June wedding in San Antonio, Texas. It was a Mexican inspired wedding with a mariachi band and bold bright colors. The McNay Art Museum was perfect! Our summer evening wedding was June 23, 2018. It was a dream come true with my handsome husband and our family, my church family, My sorors and closest friends were in attendance! God always hears us when we pray!

Misael & Ericka

DE LEON

06.23.18 • SAN ANTONIO, TX • MCNAY MUSEUM

2018 HOLLI POUNCEL CHARLES NEED INITIATION

Holli Pouncel married Cortez Charles on 8/31/18 at City View Loft in his hometown of Chicago. We’ve been together 7 years. My uncle is a bruh and he gave me away. I’m IB made and 8 of my Sorors were there including 5 of my Sands.

Cortez & Holli

CHARLES

08.31.18 • CHICAGO, IL • CITY VIEW LOFT

2018

NANCY COPPEDGE BENTON REPUBLIC OF KOREA ALUMNAE SPRING 2011

Ray and I met on Facebook talking trash to each other in one of the online chat groups. We DM’d a few times and exchanged numbers. Ray eventually invited me on a weekend getaway with him to New Orleans, LA for the Atlanta v/s New Orleans NFL game. We truly shared our LIFE stories with each other and found out that we both were survivors of “LIFE.” LIFE truly happened to both of us and ironically we bonded over a few shared life experiences. Ray told me, “I fell in love with your loving spirit and giving heart after our first conversation at the bar. I’d be a fool to let you go.” Needless to say... we ENJOYED the rest of our weekend in NOLA ... especially the Olive Oil and Mint massage ( he’s Da Bruhs) and we left that weekend as a couple and the rest is history. We took a chance at just “enjoying the moment” ... and eventually LOVE took a chance with us.

LaRay & Nancy

BENTON

11.10.18 • ATLANTA • GEORGIA

25th

MI DSUP WORLDWI DE

SIP & PAINT NYC On January 27th, Mids in New York came together to fellowship through the art of paint. Hosted by MidsUp Worldwide but facilitated by admin, Erika Ewing. Not only was sisterhood being celebrated but birthdays as well. DMV, got next! Sign up for March 23rd 3pm or 7pm.

. . . e v o L d n u o f AND HE'S GREEK

GREEK LOVE

REAL LOVE AND HE FOUND ME!

Lamonica Lanier 1993 I was standing on the cafeteria steps with a friend and saw him across campus (Lane college). I was like who is that? That's gonna be my boyfriend..well here we are..My husband

DECEMBER 2018

Yolanda Cox-Bey

Carmella Penn

I first met my Kappa Hubby at the Tuskegee University circa 1989...I was a freshman and he says he remembers saying he had to watch out for me, protect me...we never dated in college. He was my ride home on breaks to the Chi. Fast forward, we ended up in Nashville together, started dating and got married in 2010. We have two little ones. I love my Klassic Kappa Man! I knew I liked him when we took this homecoming photo....

Married for 26 years, Kenneth (Omega Psi Phi, Beta Sigma Spr '90) and I grew up in the same small town. Got married in the church we grew up in (and had our first kiss in after choir rehearsal one Saturday long ago). We dated off and on during our middle and high school years. We have been together, continuously, now 28 years with 4 children!

I'm All Ears...

A word of advice to our single sisters from our married sisters

Never Settle!

The best advice is from those that have gone through the process and can share their experiences. We had over 85 comments from our married sisters helping singles get to the ring. We are all ears...

STAY OPEN FOR LOVE Dana Jenkins-Krind

Stay open for love. It could be anywhere. So never know where you might meet someone. If you pray be clear in what you are seeking. I made a list, put it my Bible, met my husband 2 years later.

TRUST THE PROCESS Angel C. Pendergrass

Trust the process. If anyone tells you marriage is easy, they are lying. However, being yourself and loving yourself will make for a happy relationship. Trust your gut when dating and remember that if it doesn’t seem right, that won’t change with a ring.

READ AND STUDY THE VOWS Cheryl Cannon-Sessoms

Marriage is God’s Image Of Intimacy Read & Study The Vows that you will be expected to take. •Talk to God about The Vows. •Ask Him to bring you the spouse He has for you, who you came honor The Vows with for this life. JANUARY 2019

I'M STILL LISTENING SIS... 04

PUT IT IN GOD'S HANDS Joyce

Put it in Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hands. I prayed hard. I dated six guys in eleven days. Met him on the eleventh day. Married him three and a half years later. Praying made the difference, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m convinced. My list to God: please make him intelligent, mentally and emotionally healthy, have a good sense of humor, believes in You, Lord. Going on 35 years.

NO ONE IS PERFECT Dawn Williams Strobert

There are no perfect men. Now I'm not saying take any BS. But, sometimes we throw him away the first time he disappoints.

BUILD YOUR LIFE Debra Clark

Continue to build your life by the grace of God. If it is meant to be, he will find you. If not, you will have created a life tailored just for you by God. Enjoy the life you have and continue to have faith in your journey.

www.AlanaFinds.com

INFLUENCER Congratulations to our admin, Alana Sanders for becoming an "Amazon Influencer." Which means she was chosen based on her social media to select items on Amazon that she loves and to tell the world about them. Alana is not a retailer but an influencer and has featured her sister's products on her Amazon personalized storefront which she customized to www. AlanaFinds.com for easy access. From Workout equipment, gowns to paraphernalia she will suggest it from approved vendors on Amazon. If you have a product on Amazon or looking for something in particular, she can find it. Your free persona; shopper!

TAKING BACK OUR HEALTH

FEBRUARY 2019

MIDS IN THE FITNESS INDUSTRY Meet Robin Grant Great speaking to you today sis. Tell us when and where did you enter into the sisterhood?

East Point/College Park Alumnae Chapter January 27, 1996 “Tina Turner” The LIVE Five When did your love for fitness begin?

Truth be told, my LOVE for Fitness started from the womb. My late father founded a track club in our home town that was later renamed in his honor after he made his transition. My father taught me the benefits of exercise, and health, and even weight lifting (Much to my mother’s chagrin laughing Remind me to tell you about my first impromptu weight lifting session with Dad.), and that passion leaked into junior high school when I became a junior coach for my P.E. class. My adult career began in 1997 when I became a part of Sportslife’s Community Outreach, and Promotions Team, and teaching classes sparked shortly thereafter. Sportslife was bought out by CRUNCH Fitness two years later, and full circle, I returned to CRUNCH once it made its return to the Snellville area last year. Did you have a career before fitness? Is so, what made you cross over full-time?

The year I started my fitness career was the same year I acquired my provisional teaching certificate, so I taught high schoolers in the day, and adults at night. (Ask me about those awkward moments when the parents of students came to my classes-I look a lot different in the gym clothes than I do in school clothes Laughing) I taught high school for 15 years, which is when I also acquired my Masters in Education, and my Specialist degree. I opted to extend my degree program to add Adult Education because I saw the need for Andragogy to become more important in Professional Development, and it fluidly translated into the gym. I had dual rolls as teacher mentor for both high school teachers as well as new instructors, which continues in a greater capacity to this day I left the school halls in 2012 to step out

MIDS IN THE FITNESS INDUSTRY Meet Robin Grant

of Faith and employ my skills to the Fitness industry full time as both a personal trainer, a group fitness instructor, and a fitness presenter. I am currently a group fitness Master Instructor/Instructional Coach for CRUNCH Fitness. What are some career paths in the fitness industry?

The career paths in fitness vary as do the categories of fitness. One can readily become a fitness instructor, or a personal trainer, but folks with degrees or certifications in physical therapy and chiropractic medicine, or physical therapy are also essential, not just as athletic trainers, but as therapists for various facilities. It goes along with the total wellness package. Many facilities donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a therapist in house, but they have a partnership with wellness centers. Furthermore, the more we understand the dynamic between diet and exercise, the need for certified health coaches is growing. Having a professional who can determine the proper food that will fuel the body of the individual makes a great difference. Got an MBA, but the idea of working in the suit and tie world of corporate America is not appealing-Consider a position as an Operations Manager. Early childhood degree holders can become managers of the child care center at their facility, which allows one more autonomy than a daycare

MIDS IN THE FITNESS INDUSTRY Meet Robin Grant center, or preschool ever could. There are so many options for one to explore. My soapbox stands with Education (Once a teacher, always a teacher ; -)), so it is tantamount to have instructional coaches, and coordinators who can assist the fitness professionals within their facilities to become effective teachers, and not just trainers. Knowledge Transfer is a life and death situation in the gym, and empowering individuals to understand the dynamics of their bodies doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make one lose money (A trite excuse I hear from trainers far too often.), but it bolsters trust to draw a person to learn more as s/he further develops.. Having a professional who can determine the proper food that will fuel the body of the individual makes a great difference. Got an MBA, but the idea of working in the suit and tie world of corporate America is not appealingConsider a position as an Operations Manager. Early childhood degree holders can become managers of the child care center at their facility, which allows one more autonomy than a daycare center, or preschool ever could. There are so many options for one to explore. My soapbox stands with Education (Once a teacher, always a teacher ; -)), so it is tantamount to have instructional coaches, and coordinators who can assist the fitness professionals within their facilities to become effective teachers, and not just trainers. Knowledge Transfer is a life and death situation in the gym, and empowering individuals to understand the dynamics of their bodies doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make one lose money (A trite excuse I hear from trainers far too often.), but it bolsters trust to draw a person to learn more as s/he further develops.

Become A Presenter or Vendor

MEET

Ageless Beauties Can you guess our ages? The answers on pg. 61

How important is health and nutrition to you? Health and nutrition is extremely important to me. I have been on the path of being a vegetarian since the 90’s...it’s a work in process, and my health is my wealth. Given my past health challenge-(thanking God I overcame ), my consciousness has been heightened even more when it comes to what foods I put in my body, learning to grow my own food, as well as proper rest, drinking enough water, limiting sugars, being at peace, loving and having compassion for myself—i have a wholistic mindset that is ever evolving.

What is your fitness regiment? I work out 4-5X week-strength train, 2 of those times with a trainer, also cardio 20-45 min 2x week. Want to increase to 3x/week. My plan is to do a figure competition in Oct 2019 as a comeback to a setback from breast cancer twice that had me sideline my plans for a body building competition in 2009. Any advice to living a healthier lifestyle? Advice for others—be conscious of the foods you eat and portion control - watch out for artificial hormones in foods (that is a big contributor to BC) ; exercise is important; take vitamins and supplements; drink lotsa water; be at peace; don’t hold on to baggage, drama, stuff that does not serve you and weigh you down - that stuff ages you and is a waste of precious time and causes dis-ease; live and experience life as much as you can; strive to be happy and fulfilled; dream; travel; and love.

MEET JANITA GREEN Ageless Mids Can you guess my age? Answer on pg. 61

MEET LONNIE MICHELLE TAYLOR Ageless Mids Can you guess my age? Answer on pg. 61

How important is health and nutrition to you? Oh my, it is a huge focus. Getting older we cannot escape, the more birthdays we celebrate, the longer we live ;-). But our weight, our health is most definitely the one thing we can control. When you feel better about YOU then you continue to chase that feeling. I haven't dieted...I don't want to deprive myself. However I do watch my intake and I consider the time of day just as much as my portion. I eat my heaviest before 12 noon, and spend the rest of the day burning it off. I try super hard not to eat past 7pm. Though I sometimes fail at that one. My biggest rule....I treat my body/nutrition like a bank/checking account. I save for what I want and I only spend what is necessary. I eat what I need and for special events, parties, holidays, then I go harder on my workouts to balance.

What is your fitness regiment? For the last few months, my regime has been light. I tore my rotator cuff and recently had surgery. So currently, I'm taking it easy and starting PT next week. Prior to my injury/surgery, I hit the gym 3-4 times per week, at least 60 mins. On a day when I felt super heroish, I'd spend hour/forty five minutes. I always do circuit training. At this age, it is necessary to work the whole body. Isolations, for me, where good when I was younger. And I try to do no less than 15 minutes of cardio, but shoot for 45 mins.

Any advice to living a healthier lifestyle? Will Power is hard, possibly the hardest element. We want instantaneous results but it takes will power to stick to it. If you want BETTER then you have to DO better. There are no short cuts to hard work. Allow rest in between goals, so you don't burn out. I've done that before. Set small goals with either minutes in the gym or slight modifications in diet. Keep it up. Build momentum. The End results in you loving yourself MORE than ever.

DR. RACHELLE GUILLORY-SHERMAN Ageless Mids

Can you guess my age? Answer on pg. 61

MEET JUDY EVANS ELLIS Ageless Mids

Can you guess my age? Answer on pg. 62 How important is health and nutrition to you? What is your fitness regiment? I never paid enough attention to health and nutrition, until I was diagnosed with prediabetes when I turned 50. That was a turning point for me. I started lowering my carbohydrate intake and now follow a ketogenic diet which has reversed the prediabetes and allowed me to be taken off of high blood pressure medication after 12 years of being treated. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve lost close to 50 pounds and plan to keep going until I have a healthy BMI and work my way up to exercising 5 days/week.

Any advice to living a healthier lifestyle? Any advice you would give to someone to look as fabulous as you when they reach your age? Make time to care for yourself through every stage of life, and get enough sleep. I would also say, make friends with a millennial! They know the hair/fashion/makeup game! LOL. I use one of my daughterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s makeup artist friends for special occasions.

MEET REGINA LAJANDER

How important is health and nutrition to you? My health and nutrition are very important to me more now than ever. Getting older changes

Ageless Mids

the body and limits what and how it can perform in some instances. The multitude of dance teams, cheer squads, step teams and coaching stents I have participated in have afforded me the

Can you guess my age? Answer on pg. 62

opportunity to rely on muscle memory to get the look I have today. As for my nutritional intake, I have always maintained the general practice of eating until I am satisfied as opposed to eating until I am stuffed. I must admit that I have a complete weakness for those multi-flavored conversation hearts! Yep, the ones with the cute, “I love you, will you be my valentine...” notes on them.

What is your fitness regiment? Honestly, I don’t have a regular workout regiment. However, do I try to stay somewhat in shape creating, teaching and learning step routines, strolls and being responsible for the Waltz/Dance portion of my current chapter’s (Contra Costa Alumnae Chapter), Debutante program for the past combined total of over 33 years.

Any advice to living a healthier lifestyle? Advice for others—be conscious of the foods you It’s awesome that someone would consider me to look fabulous at my age. My advice to anyone trying to preserve a healthy lifestyle is to be mindful that what you do to your body now will reflect what your body does to and for you later. Take care of yourself; mind, body and soul. It’s the only one you get.

MEET DANA MARIE ROSSER Ageless Mids

How important is health and nutrition to you?

Can you guess my age? Answer on pg. 62

I believe the greatest wealth is your health. It's important for me as a woman to take back my power when it comes to my health and nutrition. I give so much to so many and I've finally learned that MY HEALTH and WELLNESS should be my main priority. If I'm not healthy and whole how can I take care of my family? Feeding my body healthy foods and water, making my annual checkups, exercising, and being spiritually connected has been essential to my progress in being the 'best" Dana I can be.

What is your fitness regiment? I work out at least 3 times a week at Orange Theory Fitness. I also love to take long walks and ride my bike...I really enjoy the fresh air.

Any advice to living a healthier lifestyle? Any advice you would give to someone to look as fabulous as you when they reach your age? Having good genes is always a plus. My mom and Nana's skin is flawless. But Finding a really good skin regiment is key. I have been using Mary Kay Cosmetics for years and it has worked for me. Also, laugh as much as you can. Laugher truly is the best medicine. Lastly be a giver. Giving to others is one of those things that brings joy to all. Research shows that giving a gift, as well as volunteering or donating to charities, has a positive impact on your physical and mental health and can contribute to a longer life. ..

Did you get it RIGHT? JANITA GREEN, 51 I am divorced and no birth children. 2 godchildren ages 12 and 10; 2 cats and my 89 year old beautiful mother

LONNIE MICHELLE TAYLOR, 50 There are four kids that I claim. I birthed two and my marriages gave me 2. My first marriage, my ex had a son who is the older brother of my two. I heavily a participated in his life and consider him mine. His mother allows me that luxury. He is 29; my first born, a son is 24; my 2nd born, a daughter will be 21 in a few weeks (02/21); and my bonus son #2 (my husband's son) is 20. the three younger are still in our home.

DR. RACHELLE GUILLORY-SHERMAN, 56 I am the mother of two adults. My daughter is our soror, Dr. Jazmyn Childress, and she is and looks AMAZING. She is the mother of my two grandchildren, Joahnah and Jourdan. My son is a member of Omega Psi Phi and is currently in the last year of his MBA program. I am blessed and thankful. I am married to Kevin Sherman. My husband's mother, who is an AKA, wondered why both her sons married Deltas. I love her to pieces.

Did you get it RIGHT? JUDY EVANS ELLIS, 56 I have been married for 29 years and within that marriage we produced three wonderful children. Jillian-26 Eric 2-24 Evan-22

REGINA LAJANDER, 54 I have been blessed to be the mother of three adult children who may or may not realize they are my inspiration for life. I have an incredible musically conscious 30 year old daughter, Krysta who gave me the best gift a mother could have...my loving and kindhearted first grandson, Darius. I also have an intellectual 26 year old entrepreneur, UC Berkeley graduate and my Delta Legacy daughter, Dominique. She also blessed me with the next lil love of my life, Daniel, my second grandson. And I have the most handsome 23 year old son, Terae who constantly challenges me to be a better me.He recently challenged me to a cook-off, and being a true Southern (Louisiana) raised girl, I fancy myself a great cook! Well it seems after the taste test results were in...HE WON! He just may be in line to be the next Top Chef yâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;all! Stay tuned!

DANA MARIE ROSSER,54 Yes I've been married for 23 years. How many children ages? I have 5 children (blended family) and their ages are:. Kevin 43 Duane 41 Nikki 38 Taylor 22 Tianna 22

Miss Black CA USA SYDNEY COLBERT

SOROR, IT'S AN HONOR TO SPEAK WITH YOU TODAY. PLEASE TELL THE READERS WHEN YOU WERE INITIATED INTO THE SISTERHOOD?

Soror, the honor is all mine. I am a Spring 2018 initiate of the San Diego Alumnae Chapter. HOW DID YOU GET INTO THE PAGEANTRY INDUSTRY?

This is actually my first pageant ever. I've always wanted to be a part of the Miss Black USA pageant system because I loved what they stood for and how they changed the way pageants are run and this year I finally took the leap. And that leap paid off. NORMALLY IN PAGEANTS THERE IS A TALENT COMPETITION, WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT TALENT? ALSO, TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT THE PAGEANT.

I haven't chosen what I am going to do as my talent yet! It'll be a surprise for everyone once the national pageant happens! And sure, I would love to. Miss Black USA is the largest and oldest scholarship pageant for Black women in America. The pageant is all about empowering women to use their voice and their power. Many of the national titleholders have gone on to be doctors, lawyers, entertainers and are really the "who's who" of young women of color.

Miss Black CA USA SYDNEY COLBERT HOW MANY CONTESTANTS WERE IN THE PAGEANT?

The national pageant doesn't occur until August and the recruiters do a great job of always trying to have all 50 states represented. AS A PAGEANT GIRL, WOULD YOU SUGGEST PAGEANTS FOR GIRLS THAT LOOK LIKE YOU?

I wouldn't call myself a "pageant girl" just yet - I feel like that comes with so much negative stereotype nowadays as the world has become so judgemental - and this is only my first pageant. But, with that being said, I would DEFINITELY suggest black pageant systems. Alleson Knox, Miss Black Illinois USA 2017, put out a statement a few days ago explaining why she chose to be a part of a black pageant system and I couldn't have said it better myself. To summarize what she said, basically this pageant helped her love everything about herself - from her skin tone to her natural curves to her curly hair. We need black pageant systems to be able to uplift and empower us when the world consistently pulls us and puts us down DO YOU HAVE A PLATFORM? IF SO, PLEASE TELL US ABOUT IT.

Yes I do! My platform is to bring awareness to the racism embedded in the U.S. justice system. Specifically against African Americans. I plan to work with and support organizations who primarily focus on restoring

Miss Black CA USA SYDNEY COLBERT the rights of disenfranchised black and brown individuals and organizations that are centered on mending our broken criminal justice system. IS THERE ANY FORMER PAGEANT QUEEN(S) YOU LOOK UP TO? WHY?

All previous Black Beauty Queens I look up to, especially the ones in the traditional pageant systems simply because they already break barriers by taking the first step of getting on that stage. Sometimes they are the only person of color on that stage and yet they portray the confidence of a goddess. They know they belong on that stage and they know they are as good as anyone else. I look up to them because they are un-apologetically black and that is what I try to embody daily and I hope to portray when the national pageant occurs. WHAT IS YOUR NEXT STEP IN THE PAGEANT INDUSTRY?

Hmmm...my next step? If this all goes well, I would love to see if I can get into the Miss California USA system and compete for Miss USA but as of right now I am just focused on winning Miss Black USA. I am looking for sponsors and partnerships for hair, makeup, photographers, clothing designers, shoe designers, pageant coaching, travel costs, lodging costs and so much more. I'm open to any assistance on my journey to Miss Black USA. @MissBlackCAUSA2019

MidsUp Worldwide

Got Natural?

What Are You Looking At? What are you looking at? Why do you stare? Is it because you do not understand the complexity of my hair? Let me enlighten you Maybe shed a little light I wear my hair natural It is my birthright For years I abused and tortured it, I was addicted to the creamy crack My hair is now sober and there's no turning back You see I like the way my stands twist, turn and curl up tight Rebelling against society's demand that they lay flat without a fight They have a heritage, a lineage with soul stirring stories to share They have earned the right to be free, so go head and stare Society has failed to make them conform, despite how hard it tried My hair is just like me, Beautiful, resilient and full of pride!

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Natural Beauties Morgan Douglas

5 years natural

Kimberly Holloway

25 years natural

Ess Tee Ess 10 years natural

Natural Beauties Lisa Lewis 7 years natural

Renita Leak Webb

10 years natural

Michelle Montez

10 years natural

Natural Beauties Erika Ewing 10 years natural

Danielle Regis

8 years natural

Mary-Elaine Horn

10 years natural

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MidsConnect Magazine February 2019

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MidsConnect 6th Edition