Summer 2023 - Inspire One Magazine

Independent Consultant

Website: mythirtyone.com/lavernh

Email: lhenryandfriends@gmail.com

Lavern A. Fisher-Henry

Inspire One Magazine, based out of the Eastern Shore of Maryland is a magazine for all people, especially people of color. The magazine was created to help educate all communities about important issues that communities of color face on a daily basis. Additionally, the purpose of this publication is to Educate, Engage, and Energize our community to develop awareness and promote conversations on real issues. In addition, Inspire One hopes to promote unity, support and love through each issue d. Articles presented in the publication are intended to bring about awareness and education. We apologize if the information may be offensive to some but with the climate of our country we must become aware of issues that we face.

If there are story ideas or potential topics that you feel need to be raised, please call 443-962-3169 or email us at media@theinspireone.com. Inspire

One Magazine is published and distributed throughout the Eastern Shore; Caroline, Dorchester, Talbot, Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester Counties and Accomack County of Virginia as well as Georgia, Florida, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Tennessee and other areas around the country. All content of this publication is the sole property of Inspire One Group and may not be reproduced in any form without written consent of the publisher, Inspire One Group. Opinions within do not always reflect opinions of the editor and publisher of Inspire One Magazine. Thank you for taking the time in reading our publication and we hope that you will become a support toward the product.

Website: www.theinspireone.com

Email: media@theinspireone.com

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Gun violence our youth&

For the past few years, gun violence has plagued countless American cities and ravaged the black community. As gun control becomes more of a hot topic on the ballots, American citizens are crying out for some type of reprieve from the trend of mass shoot-

post-traumatic stress, and contribute to the development of mental health struggles, declining academic performance and violent behavior. Access to firearms in the house has also been cited to increase the likelihood of domestic violence and suicide among youth. Without a solid gun control plan, it will be extremely difficult to undo the damage that’s been done by rampant gun violence. Failure to address the issue perpetuates the cycle of violence, creating more people who try to solve their problems by using firearms.

While schools are doing their best to prepare for these incidents, the American Association of Pediatrics published a study in 2020 insinuating that active shooter drills may have a negative psychological effect on children. While it may be helpful for adults to have a plan ready, constant drills may cause even more fear in students who are already experiencing anxiety. This is a reminder that the needs of victims have often

ings. According to the Gun Violence Archive, there have been more than 300 reported mass shootings so far this year. Even scarier, over 38,000 American citizens have been injured or killed by a gun, with teenagers making up more than 5,000 of those victims. In nearly every category of gun violence, the numbers have increased, and this year we are already on track to continue that trend.

As the statistics dictate, gun violence has become a huge concern for parents and youth alike- particularly in Black and Hispanic neighborhoods. The prevalence of mass shootings and isolated incidents are a large source of anxiety and

taken the backseat in gun violence debates as opposed to centering the perpetrators of violence.

While there is no easy answer when it comes to combating violence, it is possible to mitigate its impact on our larger community- and to prevent it. Studies have shown that children involved in after-school activities or ensembles are less likely to participate in gun violence and gang activity. However, these activities may not be accessible to those living in poverty. Addressing gun violence is a multi-dimensional issue that must first address poverty, low wages, lack of access to adequate mental health care, and the shortage of mental health care professionals. Legislation must also be stricter, ensuring that guns are harder to acquire, and that those with malicious intent are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

While Congress has

been under pressure to pass anti-gun laws, it takes a strong community effort to make our streets safer. At its core, gun violence is a human rights issue, and we must address why we feel that violence is the answer to our problems. Taking guns out of the equation, our collective conflict resolution skills need a lot of work, and our children need to learn healthy coping skills both at school and at home. Accepting violence in any of its forms contributes to growing gun violence, as the presence of a gun makes it more likely that someone will be seriously harmed.

While we cannot do it individually, we can change our culture of violence by putting in intentional effort to become better human beings to one another. You can help spare one more life today by talking to your child about appropriate coping mechanisms, teaching them how to manage their difficult feelings, and ensuring that proper steps are taken at home to prevent easy access to guns.

People of the Tidewater

BAccording to the 2021 US Census, Native Americans make up less than two percent of the country’s population. One would be led to attribute this to the influx of immigrants from around the world, however, it is due to nothing else but genocide. Long

tianity, and rob them of their most valuable resources. While the initial motive was to travel to modern day Asia, he found himself in what are now known as the Bahamas, Cuba, Haiti, and Venezuela.

before colonization, hundreds of tribes existed across the continent, and each had distinct cultural and linguistic differences.

Multiple voyages led by European explorers landed in the Americas under the assumption that they discovered new land. In nearly every instance, they observed that these areas had already been inhabited by Native Americans who had already established their own systems of government. When Christopher Columbus arrived in the Caribbean, he led the charge to enslave the natives, convert them to Chris-

Hundreds of years later, settlers were still unsatisfied with their conquest. The Nonintercourse Act stripped natives of their ability to claim, own, or sell the land that they already made home. Though the United States had already been heavily colonized, Congress passed the Indian Removal Act in 1830, which marked the beginning of a decades-long exodus. Countless natives were forced out of states in the Deep South, and moved westward on foot, with tens of thousands dying along the way.

While the majority were ran out of their homes, there were few that remained behind to fight for their land. Multiple wars between natives and settlers broke out and some leaders accepted financial compensation in exchange for ownership of their land. Ultimately, the natives would

succumb to slavery and be plagued by various communicable diseases brought forth from white Americans. Formally known as the Trail of Tears, natives traveled over 5,000 miles to their allocated territory. Thousands starved to death along the way while others gave way to exhaustion.

Although much of the history has been told, there is not a lot of mainstream discourse surrounding the mistreatment of Native Americans- and how they still suffer from these events. The United States has paid restitution to multiple surviving groups, however, the scarcity of natives in our population demonstrates how colonization has wiped out so much American history.

Perhaps the largest monetary form of reparations for natives was the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act, which paid out nearly a billion dollars and distributed shares of the state to its constituents. Similar actions have been taken across the country, with some

municipalities losing lawsuits to surviving tribes. As of now, there seems to be no rehabilitation happening for the community. However, being that many of our country’s cities, roads, and rivers are named after Native Americans, we will never be able to forget who was here before us.

The Nanticoke Association is one of the Native American groups recognized by the state of Delaware. Prior to colonization, the tribe was comprised of skilled hunters and farmers that made up the majority of the native population on the Shore. With their name translating to “People of the Tidewaters,” the tribe honored every piece of creation. They used leftover animal pieces to create tools, clothing and decorations. Unfortunately, like many other tribes, settlers did not appreciate their ingenuity. Their villages were destroyed under the

direction of then Governor Thomas Greene. Despite the mass destruction, a significant amount of them stayed behind, and now reside in Sussex County.

The DOOR Of nO ReTURn

As technology advances, we gain access to more information concerning the history and the current plight of the Black community. Global dehumanization is memorialized by many landmarks placed in the settings of some of humanity’s darkest moments. One landmark- known as the Maison des Esclaves- sits on Gorée Island in Dakar, Senegal.

The Maison de Esclaves, which translates to The House of Slaves, is a museum that commemorates the lives of countless enslaved people that passed away during the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Built in 1776, the house was owned by an Afro-French slave trader by the name of Anna Colas Pépin. Here, Africans were separated from their family members and piled into eight-foot cells with little to no light. Before ultimately being stripped of their identities and trafficked to the West, the enslaved passed through the Door of No Return- where they took their final glance at familiarity.

In 1962, the house was transformed into a museum and its operations were managed by Boubacar Joseph N’Diaye. According to N’Diaye, as many as twenty million Africans exited through the Door of No Return in shackles before being forced into a lifetime of slavery. Academics debate whether the

house was truly one of the epicenters of the Transatlantic Slave Trade, refuting N’Diaye’s estimate of Africans that were exported from the island.

The museum serves as a reminder of a very dark past. Nelson Mandela visited the house in 1991, and according to witness accounts, he was so moved that he crawled inside of a holding cell to experience the conditions for himself. When former President Barack Obama visited the landmark in 2013, he shared the profound effect the experience had on him:

“This is a testament to when we’re not vigilant in defense of human rights, what can happen. Obviously, for an African American, an African American president, to be able to visit this site gives me even greater motivation in terms of human rights around the world.”

In 1978, the United Nations Educational, Scientific Cultural Organization (UNESCO) designated the island as one of its first World Heritage Sites, certifying its role in world history. Today, the island is home to little more than 1,500 residents, however, it sees a great amount of tourism due to its cultural significance. Touring the museum is an incredibly emotional experience- only exacerbated by N’Diaye holding up shackles for guests before they get an opportunity to return to their lives.

“Maison des Esclaves tells personal stories of a private home and the role of its owners in both local businesses and the slave trade. One of the site’s assets is that it tells a very intimate narrative –of the slave trade as a cottage industry undertaken by private individuals.”

As the Haitian population on the Lower Eastern Shore continues to grow, we learn more and more about the things that make the culture so rich. Popularly known as the first free black country, Haiti celebrates its independence on January 1st. To celebrate the anniversary of Haiti’s freedom, we listed four women that represent the power, intellect, and courage that Haitians are known for.

Influential Hatian Women

Yvonne Sylvain

Born as one of seven children, Sylvain had no trouble finding her identity. Her father was a notable activist while her sister was Haiti’s first female anthropologist. Determined to forge her own path, Sylvain became the first female student accepting into the University of Haiti’s medical school. After graduating she became Haiti’s first female doctor, and eventually became a professor at the same school that she earned her first degree.

Catherine Flon

Flon is amongst the most respected women in Haitian history. In 1803, she created the country’s first flag. Although many details about her life have yet to be discovered, her work is still celebrated to this day. In 2000 her image was added to the ten gourdes bill. While the flag has been through a few changes over the year, Flon’s impact is still memorialized in modern Haitian art and recognized as a catalyst to high morale.

Garcelle Beauvais

Beauvais has appeared in many classic American films like Coming to America, Spider Man: Homecoming, and White House Down. Her television debut was an appear-

ance on the popular crime series Miami Vice. Following her debut, she starred in the Jamie Foxx show as the character Fancy before between modeling gigs and music video cameos. In 2020 Beauvais added to her lengthy resume when she joined the all-female led talk show The Real as a host while also starring in Bravo’s The Real Housewives of Orange County.

Suzanne Beliar

Like Sylvain, Beliar appeared on the ten gourdes bill, being forever etched as one of Haiti’s most notable women. She is known for her role as a sergeant, and eventually a lieutenant, during the Haitian Revolution. After being captured by French forces, her and her husband faced the death penalty. Beliar famously faced a firing squad, and before dying shouted “Long live freedom; down with slavery!”.

A Deeper Education

Expanding one’s intellect and maintaining one’s spiritual health are two ongoing projects that keep us busy. While some people approach these as two separate missions, there are others who find it possible to multitask. Religious educational institutions help bridge this gap by creating a foundation that fosters the growth of the whole person. These schools, especially Christian learning academies, have been growing in popularity over the years. In 2021, the New York Times reported that more than half a million of the nation’s students attended a Christian school.

Included in that pool of students is a growing body of minority students. Over the past few years, black students have enrolled at

ministry. Most importantly, Whaley prepares students to be bright and bold evangelists through a variety of missions trips, outreach initiatives, and volunteer opportunities:

“I tell my 12th graders that I don’t like referring to my courses as ‘Bible Class’ as opposed to ‘Life Applications’. I’m going to teach you how to research what the Bible says, and determine how to apply that information to your life. At the end of the day, I don’t want you to be a scripture-quoting individual with no direction. The Devil knows the Word, too.”

to receive a Christian education. The school has offered scholarships to families that want their children to attend the school without worrying about the price tag. We’ve also been reaching out to Black churches that may have not gotten our attention before, and forming partnerships.”

With six years of service at SCS under his belt, Whaley has been a witness to the campus’ progress. He began his journey as a substitute teacher before being offered a full-time administrative assistant position tailored just for him. He was recruited to teach Bible as Whaley was already an pastor.

Today, Jarrell’s work goes beyond filling in when necessary. He pro vides ongoing spiritual support to his students, and his colleagues,

“

At the end of the day, I don’t want you to be a scripture-quoting individual with no direction. The Devil knows the Word, too.

DELAWARE State University

Delaware State University is one of many Historically Black Colleges or Universities(HBCU’s) that was born from the Morrill Act of 1890. The following year, the state’s lone HBCU began accepting students. Originally founded as The Delaware College for Colored Students, the institution offered a humble five courses of study. Following a few tweaks to the curriculum and changes to degree programs, the school passed its first graduates in 1898.

The university went through several more name changes in the following years. Delaware State College became the school’s official name in 1947 after it received accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Ed-

ucation three years before. Unfortunately, the Commission reversed its accreditation of Delaware State before ultimately granting it back. In 1993, the college received its current name after then-Governor Thomas Carper signed a

bill declaring the former ones obsolete.

Delaware State University, which sits in the heart of Dover, Delaware, offers more than 40 undergraduate and 20 graduate degree

programs. The most popular majors at Delaware State include Agriculture, Criminal Justice, Kinesiology, Psychology, and Social Work. The school is also valued at a very competitive price. Tuition and fee costs add up to a little over $9,000 for in-state students and $19,000 for out-of-state students while Delaware’s average tuition is $12,000.

The campus offers an impressive variety of dining options, from the traditional dining halls, to cafes and familiar fast food giants like ChicFil A. In addition to access to many different foods, students are also welcomed with endless entertainment and creative freedom. Delaware State’s students have the ability to choose from quite the range of intramural sports clubs, faithbased organizations, musical ensembles, and professional development networks.

In November of 2022, the University opened its new eSports Lounge and Tech Center.

The University has proven to be quite the attraction to young degree seekers. This year’s enrollment of 6,200 students made it Delaware State’s best year yet, and a marker of the school’s growing progress. Universi-

ty President Tony Allen recently shared how the school will the continue on this path to excellence:

“The best signal of success for any higher education institution is this- more students wanting to enroll, wanting to join our family, wanting to make their mark in a smaller, more interconnected global community. Regardless of what you look like, where you come from, or your financial means, we want a student profile that looks more and more like the country we need to be: inclusive, contemporary, and built for generations to come.”

National Security Agency. Sykes has appeared in, and written for, over 100 onscreen projects. The comedienne has been nominated fourteen times at the Primetime Emmys, and has won at least two awards for her stand up routines and acting chops. After coming out as a lesbian in 2008, she has dedicated her platform to advocating for LGBTQ youth.

Thurgood Marshall - Howard University

Kamala HarrisHoward University

The Vice President of the United States is the very definition of a trailblazer. Her reputation is characterized by being the “first” in nearly every step of her career. She is the first woman, the first Black citizen, and the first Asian-American to hold the second-highest office. Over a decade ago, she was the first of each to be elected as California’s Attorney General.

Langston Hughes - Lincoln University (PA) Hughes

is one of the most influential writers from the Harlem Renaissance.

Born in Joplin, Missouri, he found great success after the Great Migration- a mass exodus that saw Black Americans move to northern states for better financial opportunities. His collections of poems continue to inspire some of today’s flagship black authors.

Having earned more than 16 Stellar Awards, four Grammys, seven NAACP Image Awards and five BET Awards, she is one of the most decorated artists in modern music history. Known for her powerful voice and influence on countless Christian performers, she was awarded the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame.

Wanda Sykes - Hampton University

This stand up comedian got her start in 1987 after working for the United States

Yolanda Adams - Texas Southern University

This gospel legend’s track record speaks for itself.

Marshall made history when he became the first African American to sit as a Supreme Court Justic. Perhaps his most influential act was his role in the Brown vs. Board of Education case, which reversed the Plessy vs. Ferguson decision that made racial segregation legal.

Learning Differently EDUCATION

The first five years of a child’s life is when their brain grows the fast est. This is the best time for families to understand their children’s learning skills and identify their strengths and struggles. Unfortu nately, certain learning disabilities often go undetected by many par ents and educators. Screening for these disabilities may take years to conduct. Coupled with the fact that these may coexist with other conditions, it is crucial to seek out the appropriate resources as soon as possible. Here are 3 of the most common learning disabilities out there:

Dyslexia

one’s ability to read and write, with many having difficulty associat ing letters with speech sounds.

Presence in Ivy League Schools

The Journal of Blacks in Higher Education has been collecting data surrounding black students’ enrollment at the nation’s top ranked

league universities with a student population of more than 12% black students- and only two schools had more than a 10% black student population. This past year has seen a tremendous growth of 14 schools

universities for 29 years. While many schools have rescinded participation in the ongoing study, the organization has continued to share its findings. Its most recent survey discovered that ivy league schools as a whole have been doing a better job at diversifying their student bodies.

In 2004 there weren’t any ivy

that have at least a 12% black population as compared to 2004.

The Class of 2025, however, is looking to keep that upward trend going. Columbia University, Johns Hopkins University, and Vanderbilt University are leading the top-ranked schools in black enrollment with 264(17.5%), 205(15.5%), and 235(14.5%) students at each institution respectively.

Although Singapore did not establish its independence until 1965, the country possesses a rich history that dates as far back as the 14th century. Shortly after recognizing its sovereignty the country became a founding member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

The National Museum of Singapore delivers a comprehensive look into significant events that have occurred since the country’s inception. In addition to a wide variety of breath-taking exhibits and critically acclaimed dining options, the museum’s library consists of more than 15,000 publications that give an immersive learning experience. Fortunately, this is just one of many impressive museums in Singapore. The Singapore Philatelic Museum, the MINT Museum of Toys, and the Asian Civilisations Museum also illustrate a full picture of the country’s progression.

Present day Singapore provides visitors with endless opportunities to enjoy oneself, whether it be for a short term getaway or an extended stay. It also offers a range of activities that will satisfy solo travelers and large

families alike. Theme parks like Wild Wild Wet, Haw Par Villa and Universal Studios will bring the thrill while light shows at the Marina Bay create the perfect backdrop to a night spent dancing to music at one of the many nightclubs.

After exhausting all of the commercial tourist options, the best way to enjoy Singapore is by exploring its many islands. The Sisters’ Island and the Kusu Island have interesting origin stories while Coney Island and Lazarus Island

offer a scenic view of Southeast Asian waters. The nation’s natural beauty doesn’t stop there. Singapore’s Coast to Coast Trail captures the most picturesque views within its borders.

Singapore’s food scene is incredibly diverse with the options that are available. From the abundance of

Michelin Star restaurants and vegan fare, to the easy access to halal options and Chinese-inspired cooking, there is something for every picky eater to choose

from. For those seeking an authentic dining experience, Laksa- a noodle soup made with coconut milk and spices- and Chicken Rice are great dishes to start with.

Your trip doesn’t have to begin, or end, with a trip to Singapore. Its convenient location means that you can choose from a large pool of cruise lines in order to visit any of the surrounding countries. Known as the Gateway to Southeast Asia, Singapore is just a peek into the beauty that Asia has to offer the rest of the world.

Sistas On The Shore

FFor the past five years, the Sistas on the Shore event has bridged the gap for women on the Delmarva peninsula. Tanya Adams, economic development chair for the Princess

church, you’re fine. We’re just women!”

2023 proved to be a successful year. Next year, Adams is looking to expand the event to provide business guidance and create stronger bonds on the Shore.

Anne Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Inc., wanted to create an atmosphere that serviced women of all walks of life. More specifically, the event aims to bring together women

Achievements, Accolades, and Awards Eastern Shore of the

regardless of their accomplishments, titles, and accolades.

“I wanted us to be able to network with each other with no barriers or judgement. If you don’t belong to this organization or this

“This year I enjoyed seeing the growth and the positive feedback. That truly blessed me this year. Any time you plan an event, you worry about your support and turnout.

Despite all distractions, everything came together. Seeing beautiful women come together as one and supporting a black-woman owned business is my proudest accomplishment.”

Images courtesy of photojenic photography

Books, Books Books

Salisbury-born author Frank Bateman has spent more than 20 years in the education system, spending a majority of his tenure as an early childhood educator, softball coach, and administrator. The son of two public servants, he’s carried the torch that his parents passed on to him and uses his tal-

“I want adults to hone in on how kids see themselvesnot how we want them to be. Believe it or not, they see themselves in a certain light and sometimes it’s not in alignment with what we expect for them. What do we do when their vision doesn’t match ours? ‘Mperfect’ says the world may not see me as perfect, but I see myself as perfect, and there’s nothing wrong with that.”

freedom to say things that he would not be able to in a classroom setting:

“I have the ability to express myself. Every book I write is an expression of something

ents to give back to his community. His books ‘Mpossible’ and ‘Mperfect’ challenge adults to see the world through the eyes of our children:

Bateman’s hope is that his books not only sharpen children’s reading skills, but to challenge adults to see them as fully-functional human beings with desires and interests of their own. His books end with a questionwhich provides an opportunity for adults to learn how our children see the world and themselves.

His favorite part about being an author is the

inside of me that I’m able to get out. Some of it has been there for a long time. One of the drawbacks of an educator is that you can think it, but you probably shouldn’t say it. As an author, I get to say some stuff that’s important to me.

Achievements, Accolades, and Awards

In May, the Maryland Chamber of Commerce recognized Eastern Shore native David White with their Rising Star award. The award acknowledges excellence in business and finance, as well as impact on the local and larger community.

“It’s nice to be able to speak with people, and to be able to network, but it also adds a little stress. I’m from a small community, so when something big like this happens, it puts the pressure on and you want to perform for your community. So it’s exciting but it’s also nervewacking at the same time.”

Five years ago, White prayed that he would see an increase in his life. From there, God guided him to find his niche. Tomorrow’s Bio Today creates cutting-edge technology that will allow veterinarians to perform endosco-

Eastern Shore

of the

Patent of a Lifetime

Over the next decade, White sees himself continuing to create tools that reduce environmental waste, address public health crises, and make life easier for the average American:

“I would love for us to go ahead and license out our technology, while I keep my role as a technician. This isn’t the only thing that I plan on inventing.

pies. His hope is to expand this technology to the point of the government use to regulate the quality of livestock and prevent future disease outbreaks.

New Sorority Members

Eastern Shore of the

The Black Excellence Community Fund seeks to elicit economic empowerment for Black businesses and non-profit organizations on the Shore.

ing our heritage, charting our future,” which is evident by the fund’s mission to close the gaps in education and healthcare. While Whited’s foundation announced its first grantee earlier this year, the possibilities for the future are endless, as she’ll continue to issue semi-annual grants to black-owned nonprofits.

The BECF helps these entities by encour

these organizations to meet their communities’ needs.

In addition to providing access to key

They accomplish this by distributing grants and scholarships, providing financial literacy education, and supporting black-owned entities by providing training opportunities-

Founded by Sonya Whited, Sharon Morris, and Lori Carter, the BECF’s goal is “Preserv-

Achievements, Accolades, and Awards Eastern

of the

Shore

aging and breaking down the principles of philanthropy, while also preserving the black community through the support of community education initiatives. The Fund connects local nonprofit organizations with critical resources and an arsenal of strategies for

financial resources and educational opportunities, Whited hopes to elicit dialogue that will set the stage for sustainable economic growth for the local black community.

its future. Her mission is to to bring transpar-

Megan Outten

A Leader with Vision

ency back to local government and create spaces for dialogue and collaboration.

“Community relationships in our local government are so important, and by restoring transparency at the local level we can nurture that community connection. Additionally, I hope to continue addressing the many barriers that exist in our community that prevent our residents from opportunities - from a lack of affordable housing to a low-supply of well paying jobs

in the area.”

Her undying desire to build a better Salisbury has pushed her to familiarize herself

talent in Wicomico:

“The foundation of our community is our school system. When we’re not providing

Achievements, Accolades, and Awards

of the

Eastern Shore

with every nook and cranny. During her campaign, she personally visited citizens from one city limit to the next. Her work includes advocating for the Black community through collaboration:

“Throughout this past year, I have listened and learned and I have educated myself better to understand the challenges my African American neighbors face daily. Not to tell them what I thought they needed, but to listen. In tandem with that work, I have connected with other elected leaders like Delegate Sheree Sample-Hughes, and County Councilwoman Shanie Shields, to collaborate on solutions for issues impacting our communities.”Megan’s platform zeroes in on strengthening community relations and supporting the wealth of

students with the resources that they need to succeed, we’re not only hurting them but we’re hurting our entire community. The teachers and parents need to succeed as well because they all have the same goalmaking sure students have a future ahead of them whether they go on to higher education or into the workforce.”

Acknowledging the colleges on the Eastern Shore, Megan also recognizes the need for keeping Wicomico country attractive to local graduates that may seek opportunities elsewhere. Her plan also includes expanding the county’s water and sewer system, as well as the broadband- as many of our citizens don’t have access to reliable internet. In the end, Outten seeks to provide solutions to issues that affect every single person in Wicomico.

“I will say that I am very proactive. I will have a conversation with you no matter what, even if I don’t know you. I will find a way to track you down and engage with you, and I think that’s what this county needs.”

Teacher of the Year

The coronavirus era has thrown plenty of surprises at our educators, forcing them to transform their classrooms in unprecedented ways. For one Eastern Shore educator, the surprises continued well after the last virtual session. Briana Buelah, an elementary school educator, was recently recognized as Dorchester County’s Teacher of the Year:

“I did not think that I was going to win. When I heard my name, I felt like my breath was taken from me in the moment. I fell into the ground and started praying. People being able to see the hard work that I put in means a lot.”

This honor is a testament to the thankless work that teachers often don’t get credit for. Buelah’s seven year career is characterized by a desire to give back to the area that raised her, and the excellence that black women represent in- and outside of- the classroom.

Protecting Our Roads

For many, the role and efficacy of law enforcement is a touchy subject. Northampton Sherriff’s Deputy Montego Johnson is hoping to change that. For 9 years, he’s worked his way up through the ranks, but his passion for serving the community has been 20 years in the making. He started out mentoring children at Camp Agape in Horntown, VA as the only male employee in its history.

Next for Buelah is her contention for Maryland’s Teacher of the Year award, where she will be honored alongside other counties’ winners. She will also be finishing up her Master’s in the fall and moving on to administration, where she will further serve as an inspiration for her community:

“I want these kids to be able to experience life. Growing up for myself, school has never been my safe place. I want them to see that they have a person, and they can achieve anything, regardless of poverty, trauma and violence. I can see them coming out stronger and as future leaders. I have faith that they can achieve anything that they put their minds to, regardless of what they have going on.”

Achievements, Accolades, and Awards Eastern Shore of the

“What kept me there for 10 years was the kids. You had some that didn’t have a father figure in their life.”

After leaving, he juggled different jobs until he ended up becoming a police officer in 2013, and ultimately applied for the Sherriff’s Office the following year. He continued to advance as he became a correctional officer, worked as a court security officer, and then got promoted to the patrol division.

“The main thing to me is having Christ in your life and applying that to your job. You have to have a great demeanor. Even when you’re dealing with criminals, you have to see them as humans beings, because they are.”

Some of his proudest moments include graduating from the strenuous police academy program, and being able to encourage inmates that their llives can be restored.

Faith Over Fear Growing Together

The coronavirus pandemic changed the world in ways that had a direct impact on every single one of us. We watched rapid developments that ranged from ways to avoid the virus to the cancellation of numerous significant cultural events. More than 200,000 businesses closed during the first year while scientists and politicians scrambled to find viable solutions.

Many small businesses on the Eastern Shore relied on the support of our tight-knit community to stay afloat. The uncertainty of the pandemic challenged entrepreneurs beyond their limits- that was until Salisbury’s Angela Morton stepped in. Having been inspired by a series of sermons from her pastor, and been sought out for guidance by business owners, Morton launched her non-profit organization Faith Over Fear Economic Empowerment, Inc.

Initially, she facilitated an informational workshop about applying for Payment Protection Plan Loan applications. Since then, she has continued to provide professional development opportunities and financial literacy education. Faith Over Fear’s mission is to strengthen the community by connecting black-owned businesses to more resources. Morton, who studied Finance in undergrad at Salisbury University and earned her Master’s of Business Administration from Wilmington University, also uses her platform to enact social change. Her organization pushed

to get residents to vote in the recent midterm elections:

“It was important to ensure that our minority business owners were advocating for themselves and getting out to vote. Many people don’t know about voting, or they may not be interested. I just wanted to get them engaged.

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I went with Mr. Otis Russell and gave out free food to people who registered. We also hosted the National Voter’s Registration Day event at the Amphitheater so that voters could learn about the candidates that were running.”

While her contributions are an integral part of the Shore’s economic development, she doesn’t take credit for much of her impact. Instead of settling for visibility alone, she pushes the members of her organization to pass their knowledge on to the next generation:

“Educate Myself: No Generation Left Behind is one of the initiatives that members of Faith Over Fear are required to participate in. You want to tell the young people the truths about business. There’s an even exchange though. The young people- who are more technologically savvy than their elders- can teach businesses how to maximize their use of social media while business owners share their wisdom and set of specialized skills.”

To read more about Faith Over Fear Economic Empowerment, Inc. at www.faithoverfeareei.org/

Restoring the Legacy

Fresh after graduating with his degree in Mortuary Science with honors, Edwin Lashley is set to carry on the 70-year legacy set forth by his family. The recent graduate will be acting as the latest

“I want to always represent the Jolley name to the highest standard and provide the best service that I can. They’ve worked hard all these years to build this business up with compassion and pride.”

Lashley’s work aims to ease the transition process during sensitive times for the Delmarva Community:

funeral director at Howell & Jolley Memorial Chapel. This business, started by his grandfather Thornton B Jolley in 1949. When he passed, Lashley’s grandmother Loretta B Jolley took over before passing it on to his mother, and now to him.

“This work is a ministry. You help families during the roughest times in their lives. With me losing my mother, the most important person in my life, I better understand what other people are going through. I seek to comfort and support families the best way I can. Nobody wants to see a funeral director, but if it’s a part of life. If they’re going to come to us, I want to bring a sense of peace.”

Achievements, Accolades, and Awards

Eastern Shore

A Mother’s Love

For many restaurateurs, the love of food has been the driving force for their endeavors. For Gina Simmons, her love for her son is what got her started in the business. Her food truck That Kitchen started as a fundraiser to pay for her son to go to preparatory school to play baseball. Years later, she has acquired a second truck and can be found all over the Delmarva peninsula. Since the untimely passing of her son, her drive has only increased as she works every day to make him proud:

“I don’t want to work for someone who

of the

doesn’t have the family values that I have. And it’s all because of my son. I just want him to be proud of me. I think the things that I’ve done and put in place so far have put a smile on his face, and that’s all I care about.”

Simmons continues to honor his legacy with the D-Rod I Made It Home foundation, which supports youth looking to play baseball and football by exposing them to schools beyond the Eastern Shore. As her business

continues to grow, she enjoys spreading the love of food throughout her community:

“My favorite part is preparing foods that you can’t get anywhere else on the Shore. Watching someone take that first bite of whatever they or-

Honorable Mayor

Mayor Todd Nock made history when he was elected as the first black mayor of Pocomoke City. While this is a great cause for celebration, there is a bittersweet taste left behind:

“It feels great, but it’s sad that we’re celebrating the first anything in 2023. It is definitely a nod to the work that people have been putting in over the years to propel the black community.”

His vision includes cleaning up the city as much as

possible. His main focuses include fighting for higher wages for city employees and creating a more equitable workforce.

“When you realize that a restau rant is not clean, people will stop going there. If the streets and the water aren’t clean, people aren’t going to want to come here.”

When asked about the legacy that he would like to leave behind, Mayor Nock shared:

“The brilliant thing about being the first black mayor is that I’m able to serve beyond bounds. No one has done it before. I really want to bring the framework for our commu nity.”

Achievements, Accolades, and Awards

Eastern Shore of the

Camera Man’sLove

Tony Weeg is an award winning photographer who uses his art to transform the Eastern Shore one portrait at a time:

“What inspires my work the most is gratitude. I love the feeling of gratitude. Sometimes it takes a new look at a situation to inspire new things. Although I am a recent “come here” to Berlin proper, a number of my long-term friends are Berlin lifers so I have always had a small

connection to the place. Berlin is a special place, inhabited by a special group of people. I love this place, and I love cultivating gratitude by making Berlin better.

Weeg’s work with the Henry Park courts is just the beginning of his mission to create a greater sense of community, and provide safe spaces for the youth to commune:

“This place is a storybook small town, and is built like a movie set. It is what it is because of this scale, and infrastructure. If it becomes victim to urban sprawl or encroachment or unfettered growth - it will no longer be what people have grown to love in the last 30 years. It is a microcosm of the beautiful tones of small-town life and it must stay that way to never lose its color. In addition to this, we must work towards making successional housing a thing of our future.”

I am able to SERVE beyond bounds

PURPOSE for Success

Author Ty Pinkett’s latest book ‘Purpose’ is a guide for those searching to direct their lives in an intentional manner:

“Purpose allows you to identify your purpose based off of three sections: expression, action, and your pivot.”

Throughout his writing journey, he has learned to improve his own life by helping others. He began by posting motivational quotes on social media, mainly tailored towards men, before expanding his message for a wider audience of people seeking to find them best selves.

“I never really had good life choices or mentors. Even if you don’t know me, you can still read and be inspired to be and do better, and inevitably define your own purpose. Anybody can tell you what a man is supposed to be, but you don’t really hear

anyone share the responsibilities, duty, dignity, and honor of being a real man”

‘Purpose’ is available on Amazon in two editions: the men’s guide and the women’s guide. The guides allow readers to find themselves through carefully curated research and input from a variety of successful career professionals. Having learned a lot on his own, he encourages others to tell their stories in the most authentic way possible:

“You should just do it. Do your research, but most importantly write the book. I’ve learned more in the first few weeks that I did self-edits. I didn’t want it to be in the traditional format; I want you to see that I’m trying to assist you into evolving into the best person that you can be.”

Achievements, Accolades, and Awards

Eastern Shore

Stephen Feliciano works with the Salisbury Human Rights Advisory committee to envision a city that champions diversity and inclusion. His work recognizes the constantly changing demographics on the Shore, and the growing needs for the community:

“We live in a diverse community that is growing exponentially year after year. Within our community there are persons giving selflessly of themselves, their time and efforts to those in need. They motivate me to be a part of that kind and compassionate act. I love being connected to the needs of my community and share with them my own story. Helping assist others realize their self-worth, instill confidence in them, and hold a safe space for them when needed.”

The projects most dear to his heart are those that help the unhoused.

“We must address and deal with the underlying root causes of the homelessness crisis. From the lack of affordable housing, and the need to provide additional supportive services such as medical care, mental wellness and

of the

Human Rights

social work. In the State of Maryland there are no restrictions on rent increases. Rent in Maryland is consistently higher than the national average. I would like to see legislation that restricts landlords/property owners from increasing tenants’ rent above 3% over a 12-month period.”

Ray Charles Lockamy

Life Learning

of Music

Achievements, Accolades, and Awards

Ray Lockamy’s newest single “You Are” is a culmination of a lifelong learning of music and the

Eastern Shore

of the

mother discovered his talent and love of music at a young age, and his family nurtured his gifts even further. He played drums for his family choir before becoming a keyboardist and director:

“Everything came full circle for me in regard to the James Family Singers. They are legendary in this area and I can remember being on the road with them back in the day and taking all those bus trips to sing up and down the east coast. There were no babysitters because everyone in the family sang in the group, so all the children had to tag along.”

“You Are” is a collaboration with artists Jaye Harmon and Toneisha Harris. The song brought Lockamy back to the studio after a break, and unlocked a part of himself that’s ready for the next part of his journey:

“I definitely intend to be more

involved in writing, arranging and producing my own original songs. I know in my heart that God has something great planned for my life, if I continue to just tap into Him it will come to fruition. God has need of me to reach people that others cannot reach through music. I’ve worked in mental health case management for the last 11 years and people often say it takes a special person to work and be successful in this line of work because you’ve got to have compassion and a heart for people to reach that population. That’s my goal through music and I want to reach those that don’t necessarily attend church and those that may not even believe in God.

Fashion with a Plus

he Coronavirus pandemic signaled the end of life as we once knew it, but it also ushered in new opportunities for many. Jamie Jenkins, owner of Jamie’s Closet, is one of those who used the pandemic to create something special for plus-sized women on the Shore:

“I had to downsize my home because of the pandemic and I ended up with lots of clothes and shoes. I was taking my stuff consistently to Goodwill and my kids told me to try and sell it. I had about 25 pairsof shoes that I put up online, and they all sold out

fter that success, Jenkins connected with vendors to expand her offerings for women who had difficulty finding high-quality articles of clothing for their body types:

Achievements, Accolades, and Awards

Eastern Shore

“There were a lot of plus sized ladies with no where to shop.”, re marked Jenkins.

There’s Lane Bry ant, there’s Torrid, and that’s it! There was not a place on the Shore that you could dip in and

Jamie’s Closet recently moved to the plaza on West Main Street, and continues to offer an array of fashionable pieces. “When they try on their clothes and feel good about themselves; that brings me the most joy! Their smiles and praises about what we purchase means a lot to me.”

Crisfield’s Andre Collins may have accomplished a lot during his basketball career- including a stint overseas and multiple championship- but his biggest moment is just on the horizon. Through all that he’s been able to do, his focus has always been on being his best self:

“Coming from the Eastern Shore and being able to do things that I’ve done

Achievements, Accolades, and Awards Eastern Shore of the

is a blessing in itself. I’m proud of staying focused and keeping my dreams in reach.I can’t single out one individual accomplishment because they all were a part of the process. They were major for me.”

Collins’ hunger to perform at his highest level has manifested in his nonprofit organization Project Xposure, which seeks to empower youth through mentorship, athletics, and the trade education. The organization has completed multiple community projects like remodeling yards and painting house, while a recent trip culminated in a group of high school students playing basketball in a showcase in Rome. Italy. Collins plans to continue passing the torch that was passed to him through mentorship:

“I know what being exposed to a different lifestyles, areas and cultures

did for me. I had a mentor that sent me to

camps beyond the Shore and it inspired me to dream and see something different. I saw that the things people were doing on television were attainable for me as well.

Hoops on the Ave is a day-long festival packed with a wide variety of events, entertainers, and amenities. This year featured free haircuts, multiple contests and giveaways, as well as food trucks. Since its inaugural date, its organizers have worked tirelessly to provide the community with a wealth of family friendly fun.

“It came about when we had to cancel the Governor’s Challenge in 2021 due to Covid and lost most of our teams. Myself and Drew Davis of Mizzle House were down in the dumps and started discussing other impactful things we could do. This came out of that. We wanted an outdoor festival that encompassed and celebrated basketball culture.”

While this is new to the Shore, its impact will surely ring through the years to come.

“Our goal is to have this be the kickoff to the summer. It’s neat to see the community come together. I learned that that is important in Wicomico to provide something for all demographics and minorities. We want to make sure we’re hitting all parts of the community. Last year I felt like we hit the mark, and doing it was a valuable lesson.”

Summer 2023

James Simmons, Recreation Superintendent at Wicomico Parks and Recreation is one of those organizers who has been bringing this unique event to life:

An Olympic Champion James Cleveland “Jesse” Owens

Olympic Gold medalist James Cleveland Owens, better known as Jesse Owens, was a trailblazer in American track and field, earning four medals during his career. While this is impressive in its own right, his biggest accomplishment was breaking three world records- and tying another- during a track meet in 1935.

Born in Oakville, Alabama, Owens’ family moved him up north during the Great Migration of the early 1900s. He found his passion for running while working many different jobs throughout his teen years. In 1933, Jesse caught the attention of the athletic world when he tied the world record for the 100 yard dash while attending East Technical High School in Cleveland.

His scholastic success continued when he joined Ohio State University’s track team, breaking yet another record. Owens earned eight NCAA records in individual events and, despite his impressive athletic feat, still did not earn a scholarship at the college.

1936 proved to be an even tougher year for Jesse. He had previously qualified for the Olympic Games in Berlin, Germany which was under the rule of dictator Adolph Hitler. The NCAA attempted to convince him to withdraw from the Games, citing anti-black racism-as if this did not affect his career in the United States, as he was often relegated to “blacks only” housing. Despite caution from the NCAA, Owens participated in the Summer Olympics and walked away with four gold medals- in the 200 meter dash, the long jump, the 100 meter dash, and the 4 x 100 relay.

Even with the success he achieved, he was still treated like an outsider in America. He was barred from making commercial appearances and his accomplishments were not acknowledged by former president Franklin Roosevelt. While he was welcomed with an honorary ceremony in New York, he was not allowed to come in the main doors to accept his honors.

His job prospects were also incongruent with his exemplary running career. He often raced against horses and working as a gas attendant to make extra money, and eventually started his own dry cleaning business. These clearly weren’t enough to make ends

meet, as Owens faced both bankruptcy and tax

Despite the challenges that he faced, Jesse Owens’ grit and pure talent have cemented him as one of the greatest athletes to have ever existed. He was honored with the Associate Press’ Athlete of the Year Award in 1936, the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1976, and a track and field award was named after him in 1981.

The Eastern Shore has produced countless talented individuals that have excelled in academia, politics and entertainment. It has also nurtured the talents of athletes like hometown hero Fernando Guerrero and Hall-ofFamer Art Shell. Joining the Shore’s roster of distinguished athletes is 23 year old Keve Aluma, from Berlin, Maryland.

Aluma, who stands at six feet and nine inches tall, plays the power forward position for Niigata Albirex BB- a professional basketball team in Japan. The Stephen Decatur High School graduate was always active, but his talent is credited to his incredible work ethic

KEVE ALUMA

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and his drive. Aluma grew up playing soccer and did not start playing basketball until he stepped on the court during his freshman year:

“My transition from soccer to basketball was not a good one. It was a pretty rough start. I’m not going to lie. I didn’t have good hands and I didn’t really love it at first.”

Eventually, Keve found his rhythm and commanded the court in years to come. He was part of Decatur’s starting lineup for three years, and eventually was honored as Bayside South Player of the Year. After graduating, he committed to Woofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina, where he met coach Mike Young. After two years Keve and Young transferred to Virginia Tech,

where the duo continued to make magic, defeating competitive giants like Villanova, before Keve declared for the 2021 NBA Draft:

“COVID-19 hit when I first got there. So, trying to balance school and basketball while

continued from pg 37 being attentive to the coronavirus was tough. Those were some of the best years of my life.The last two years were very special and we got to win that Atlantic Coast Conference(ACC) championship ”

The star earned a slot on the Second

Team ACC honors list during the 2020 and 2021 seasons, making him the only Virginia Tech student to appear both years- and one of only 3 players in the nation to be listed in those years. Aluma continues to stand out amongst his peers in Japan, with an average of 16 points and 7.6 rebounds per game; he also leads the team in assists this season. With so many accomplishments under his belt, it can be easy to get caught up in all the chatter and

fanfare surrounding his performances. However, Aluma handles the noise with a level-headed approach:

“There are always going to be people

You should listen to the group that encourages you.”

criticizing you, but there are people that have your back and support you.

COPING with Male Infertility

The Roe vs. Wade repeal elicited plenty of conversation surrounding reproductive rights, forcing us to acknowledge the physical and social complexities of childbirth. Many women have shared the cultural pressures placed on them to have children- whether or not parenthood is something that they’ve planned for their own lives.

On the other hand exists a growing issue that affects more than 48 million couples worldwide. Infertility, the inability to conceive despite deliberate efforts, is becoming a concern for more men than ever before. Male infertility, in particular, has often gone unrecognized, but that is changing as the market for treatment has just exceeded six million dollars.

While there is no singular cause for male infertility, there are plenty of contributing factors- most of which appear to be linked to lifestyle

habits. Low sperm production and sperm blockages are the most known causes for infertility, though they are caused by many different physiological events. Smoking and habitual consumption of alcohol appear to be two of the most common habits that result in damaged DNA in sperm. Diets high in heavily processed oils or low in essential nutrients and vitamins also create a biological landscape that aids to fertility issues in men. Other contributing factors include obesity, age, and prolonged exposure to stress or chemicals used to treat food.

While there is no “cure” for infertility in men, treatments exist. ARTor Assisted Reproductive Techniques- like intracytoplasmic sperm injection(ICSI) provide hope for couples that wish to bring children into the world. Since infertility is often linked to pre-existing conditions, treatment also includes tackling other health issues that may be present. As science continues to advance, researchers predict that ICSI will be able to bypass poor sperm production in 90 percent of infertile men.

While exploring the many options may seem like a daunting task, doctors recommend that men ask about reproductive healthcare. Men are less likely to visit their care providers than women and, due to dated patriarchal ideals, feel as if sterility is a failure. The truth is that there is plenty of research being done to understand the underlying causes of infertility, and that is only possible when men come forward. As reproductive rights and health sit at the center of national discourse, we must do our due diligence to debunk myths, so that we can have honest conversations about our bodies- and how to take care of them.

Mental healh Matters

As technology continues to advance, the ways in which we receive health care have transformed. The coronavirus pandemic caused a boom in virtual doctor’s visits, a higher demand for therapists and psychiatrists, and a spike in reported mental health crises stemming from loneliness and uncertainty. As we move past the pandemic, mental health professionals are still swarmed with countless prospects. However, access to adequate mental health care appears to be an issue that will not go away easily.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide was a top ten leading cause for death for all ages between 5 and 64 in 2030, and a top 5 cause of death for ages 10-44. Meanwhile, more than 187,000 citizens visited the emergency room for intentional self-inflicted injuries during the same year. According to data collected by the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 22% of Americans experienced mental illness, with

5% experiencing more acute episodes. As the cost of living inflates across the nation while wages stay stagnant, one can predict a spike in visits to mental health facilities.

The number of people receiving mental health care has steadily increased over the past six years, demonstrating the growing demand for mental health providers. However, a few barriers exist, making it much more difficult for some of us to receive adequate and affordable care. Those barriers include a shortage of qualified medical professionals. A study done by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) found that less than 40% of the nation has enough mental health professionals to properly address their state’s population, while 51% of counties in America have no practicing psychiatrists. While the rise of virtual visits makes care more accessible for some, medical professionals are still overwhelmed with the influx of patients who need help the most.

At Inspire One Group, we encourage everyone to take charge of their health and to be the best advocates for themselves. Know that there is absolutely nothing wrong with asking for help, and that there are a variety of resources available for use. While some of the aforementioned statistics may be alarming, there are countless stories of people who were able to turn their lives around after a

mental health crisis. Also, receiving adequate mental health care is vital to our lives even if we are not currently experiencing a crisis or if you don’t have a diagnosed mental illness. Getting started on a mental health care regimen may be difficult or scary in the beginning, but it may just be the best decision you make in your life.

If you feel like you are not yourself, or you are experiencing one or more of the following symptoms, it may be time to reach out to a mental health professional:

-Changes in sleep patterns that are not explained by physical conditions

-Rapid or dramatic changes in mood

-Dramatic changes in productivity at school, work, or at home

-Loss of interest and participation in activities one usually enjoys

-Unexplained withdrawal from friends, family, and other loved ones

-Frequent or unexplained panic attacks

-Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

-Thoughts of death, self-harm, or suicide

If you or someone else are currently experiencing a mental health crisis, there are hotlines available for you to chat with someone about your feelings. If someone is in immediate danger of harming themselves or others, dial 911.

Suicide and Crisis Hotline - Call 988

The Trevor Project (LGBT) - Call 866-4887386

Crisis Text Line - Text HOME to 741741

National Domestic Abuse Hotline - Call 800799-7233

of E RAW Q Sounds

Black queer artists have historically taken a back seat to their straight counterparts in the music industry. Whether it was making sure a singer’s face was beat to the gods, putting together iconic choreography, or penning some of the most powerful lyrics to date, they’ve often operated from the shadows. Today, however, we are

fortunate enough to experience a variety of LGBTQ+ performers across every genre of music. For every Sylvester or Josephine Baker that existed in earlier times, we have ten times the amount of artists today paving the way for more LGBT artists to thrive.

Singer and songwriter E Rawq seeks to incorporate elements from each of these worlds in his own artistry:

“I always wanted to make music that a queer audience could enjoy and identify with. We always have to change pronouns to enjoy R&B songs, and there’s no one telling our stories. This is the first project where I fully live in who I am outside of music. I grew up on Brandy, Beyoncé, Usher, and Jay z, so I always wanted to hear that kind of music from a queer musician.”

A lifelong musician, his talent is a product of nature and nurture. His family is full of singers and instrumentalists, and he also has classical music training of his own.

“I went to Mississippi Valley State University for music education. It was an HBCU, so coming from Omaha it was the blackest thing I’ve experienced. Even though I went to an HBCU, some of my professors were white and very by the book. I felt like they

The Allen’s

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were taking away all the things that made me dope. It’s something every musician has to experience in their journey. It balanced me out creatively, but it also strengthened me in my musical identity. I felt that if I didn’t stand strong in who I was, I would’ve become who they thought I should’ve been as a singer.”

E Rawq’s most recent effort, the Funboy Mixtape, is an eclectic project that seamlessly teeters between hard-knocking beats and tender cathartic release. From his cover of Ariana Grande’s “Break Free,” to dance hit “Wrist Broke” and contemporary R&B-inspired “Tinkerbell,” he covers plenty of ground in terms and genre and

lyrical content. This body work is also a departure from a more aggressive and brash sound that he was accustomed to.

“I felt like it was very important to be vulnerable. I talked to my husband and he said ‘Everybody around you that knows and loves you knows that you’re an artist. We want you to express yourself to your fullest ability. Even if it’s about me- if that what helps you express yourself and feel good, then do it.’”

While E Rawq traverses various topics and sonic planes, he packages the project perfectly with his ability to reign in each of

his individual talents- singing, rapping, writing lyrics, and producing records. Funboy Mixtape is now available on all streaming platforms, and be sure to check out his new music video for “Wrist Broke” on Youtube!

The many styles and faces of Delmarva’s own, Jimmie Alloen

Warwick Theater

Iconic singer-songwriter Dionne Warwick is the latest legend to be honored with a venue named in her honor. Bowie State University, a Historically Black College in Maryland, recently added the artist to their history after naming their performing arts center after her. This decision followed the premiere of the “Don’t Make Me Over” singer’s docuseries.

Dionne Warwick is one of the most successful artists of our time, collecting more than 100 million record sales, 56 Hot 100 singles, and six Grammy awards during her decades-long career.

In a public statement, Bowie’s vice president of Institutional Advancement, Brent Swinton shared the meaning of this decision:

“We are very grateful that Dionne Warwick recognizes the value of this storied institution, and for lending her iconic name to the Main Stage Theater inside of our Fine and Performing Arts Center. Given the rich history of artists and performers such as Myles Frost who have originated from this university, the naming is even more appropriate because of Ms. Warwick’s lifelong advocacy for higher education, healthcare and the arts.”

at Bowie State University

Love of Music

For recording artist Keiaaron, professionally known as Kokane, music has been a familiar friend throughout all that life has thrown at him. His love for the artform came early, as he often reminisces about singing in the shower all the time when he was as young as five years old. Having two musically inclined parents, it is no surprise that he was also gifted with a variety of musical abilities.

Kokane started writing his own songs at the age of 17, but it wasn’t until he was 19 that he first stepped foot in the studio and his life changed:

“My first time in the studio was very therapeutic. I could just have fun, let out everything that I was feeling, put it on a track, and make it come to life. Then I kept going.”

While he has yet to have his headlining debut, his future performances are highly anticipated by fans and friends alike. His talent has been encouraged by the affirmations of a mentor and the compliments of strangers who connect with the contents of his material. Through raw honesty and hard-hitting lyrical prowess, he hopes that his authenticity reaches people where they are:

“I hope they feel good listening to it. I hope it makes them feel better and lets them know they aren’t the only ones going through it. Keep it pushing; keep your head up. Live your life to the fullest and don’t let anyone ever choose your lifeyou choose it.”

Visual artist Drack Blagon is the mastermind behind Noir[x]Cry, an urban comic book series. The story follows the 7 Blagon Brothers and their family-owned demon hunting business. The Noir[x]Cry universe is geared towards an adult audience, drawing from some of the characteristics of older animated series.

The Noir[x]Cry comic has been a life long project, incorporating talents that Drack discovered at a young age. His earliest memory of creating comics was during his 5th grade year, where he made one based off of the Digimon cartoon. During his teen years he began writing his own original story.

“The inspiration behind it is hard to determine,” says the creator. “It’s like a combination of everything I want in my own realm. All of the Blagons are heavily based on me, just different versions of me. A few characters are based on my friends in real life and others I created based on ideas from childhood. “

Drack’s style is self-defined as ‘an American cartoon style with a hint of anime.’ Fans of the genre may find similarity between Noir[x]Cry and the cult classic Dragon Ball Z, which is no coincidence- as its creator Akira Toryama serves an inspiration for the artist.

“I love the fights, the yelling and the insane use of superpowers! It’s very intense. My favorite part is creating random scenarios and trying different dialogue. It’s easy to make things look cool or different, but provoking laugher or a response from people is hard.”

As Drack continues to map out his storyline for his comic, he has his eyes on bigger

“After finishing the story by hand, I want to draw it all out again with some digital art elements. I may give animation a go, but ultimately, I think the goal is to turn Noir[x]Cry into a video game.”

In the pursuit of his mission to be the next black video game designer, he has remained true to himself in the process:

“I allow myself to mess up. I can accept visual flaws. Most artists start over if they make a mistake, but I continue drawing unless I messed up real bad.”

To keep up with Drack Blagon’s Noir[x]Cry comic as it unfolds, you can follow his page on Facebook- where he previews panels from his chapters and gives sneak peaks to full episodes. This artist will definitely be one to watch in the world of animation!

Barbershop Tales

The black barbershop has always been a sacred place for black men to safely exist in the fullness of their blackness. In a world that villainizes them, barber shops provide a place for black men to show up authentically. For Taz the Barber, it has also been a source for self-improvement and

“The barbershop is one of the last places where we don’t have to worry about offending people. When we’re in our space, we can speak freely. We talk about politics, sports, social problems, fashion, animals, pretty much any topic. Everyone is able to have the floor, even when we disagree. But that doesn’t mean we have to hate each other at the end of the conversation. We can be cordial even though we’re not on the

Growing up in Monroe, Louisiana, Taz sought to avoid the troubles that come with living in an impoverished area. His search for a better life led him to Dallas, Texas, which he ended up making home in 2016. His start as a barber stemmed from frustrations after a sequence of bad haircuts- which prompted him to begin learning how to cut hair himself. After receiving information about a local barber school, Taz enrolled and started his journey juggling different jobs.

the door for a larger network:

Enticed by the flexibility and stability of the job, Taz kept at it, becoming a highly sought after barber in the Dallas area who often sees celebrity clients. The long road has changed how he approaches life, and has opened

“You meet a lot of people and you can get a lot from it. It was harder for me at first because I wasn’t a people person; I’m super private. Being a barber changed that for me. It was a challenge at first, but it was something I wanted to do.”

The most rewarding part of his job is perhaps the transformation that his clients go through once they receive their services:

“I love when they get out of the chair and you see their whole personality change. They could have been going through something, not in the mood to talk, but when they get up, they have some enthusiasm and some pep in their step. Now they want to go outside to be seen.”