JAN + FEB 2020 VISIT TUVMAG.COM
AN EMPOWERING CONVERSATION With
TUV Editors
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
Overseer Pastor
Dr. DARNELL GOOCH Jr, DMin
Senior Pastor of Cathedral of Praise Church talks candidly about being a spiritual leader for the LGBTQ community in Memphis, TN
THE 6 PRINCIPALS OF NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE BY DR. BRADLEY M. FREEZA, ND. MH
An Empowering Conversation with TUV Editor VISION CATHEDRAL OF ATLANTA EXPANDS CAMPUS INTO THREE MAJOR CITIES
TAMIKA TRANELL HEARD FOUNDER OF LOCAL VIBES ONLY
THE ELEVATION ISSUE P O S I T I V E V I B E S O N LY
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THE ELEVATION ISSUE P O S I T I V E V I B E S O N LY
CONTENTS
7 Tammie T. Polk Focus on Your Forward
10 Overseer
Dr. Darnell Gooch Jr., DMin Cover Feature
14 E. Warren
The Power of Positive Thinking
23
Qiana “Chanzizr”Chance W? Not Brand
06 | An Empowering Conversation Gwendolyn D. Clemons, MBA, MSM
08 | Spirituality Lead Pastor Sammie Haynes, Vision Los Angeles, CA
09 | Spirituality Senior Pastor Tye Williams and Pastor Jamie Townsend
15 | Motivational Monick and Sime Monell “Breathe You”
16 | Community News Local Vibes Only Founder Tamika Tranell Heard
18 | Health & Wellness The 6 Principles of Naturopathic Medicine by Dr. Bradley M. Freeza, ND, MH
21 | MSM Black Gay Nudity | By Anthony Green
22 | Literary Corner
Gee Smalls | Black Enough , Man Enough
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Correspondent
| THE EDITOR’S LETTER
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learned that there is nothing more powerful than a made up mind. I learned that I can achieve anything I put my mind to. I learned that changing my mindset was the kryptonite to stop repeating my same destructive cycles. I learned that the times when I couldn’t fully explain myself or what I wanted was not an example of my ignorance. What I lacked was the ability to translate my needs articulately so that I could get the help I needed. Write this down, it is called “Lost in Translation.” Our January – February 2020 magazine is called The Elevation Issue and it is about “Positive Vibes Only.” The intention behind this title is to use our platform as a source to promote doing good deeds! Through this platform we will offer advice and encouragement to anyone who may be seeking answers to a better life. One of my favorite life mantras was coined by the great Les Brown, “if you don’t take risks, you cannot grow, if you cannot grow, you cannot be happy, if you can’t be happy, then what else is there?” This quote sums up the advice I live by and offer to anyone seeking on how to get and maintain a positive state of mind. For me, it is totally about maintaining a high level of happiness!
By Gwendolyn D. Clemons, M.B.A., M.S.M.
F
or five years I’ve been looking forward to the year of 2020. For me the year 2020 means that I get to meet the 2020 version of myself. In 2015, Gwendolyn made a promised to execute some goals so that I would be further in my personal, professional, and academic growth. I am proud to share that I did it! I did it for me! I stopped making excuses and smashed my goals! You too can smash your goals and anything else you make your mind up to do. Notice I said, “make your mind up to do.”
Positive Vibes Only 06
If you want to become a “Positive Viber” check out a few of my top tips: 1. Don’t Compare Yourself to Anyone – You were only born to be you! 2. Find A Way To Serve - Not everybody can be famous but everyone can be great. Greatness is determined by your service. 3. Take Responsibility – You are your rescue. Only you have the power to take responsibility to move your life forward. What happens next will depend on what you do today. 4. Solve Problems – What mountains could we move if we work in gridlock to effect change in our world. Pick a Problem and do something about it! 5. Always Do the Right Thing – Be excellence! Become unforgettable by the way you treat people. The 3rd law of Motion is always in action – It will come back to you. 6. Find Your True Passion – This is the thing that you will do for nothing. This is how you know this is your passion.
On the Cover: Overseer Dr. Darnell Gooch, Jr. exemplifies the meaning of the Elevation Issue. Dr. Gooch is the Senior Pastor of The Cathedral of Praise Church of Memphis, Inc., where he courageously leads a diverse congregation teaching them about the agape love of God. On behalf of TUV Magazine we thank you for your support over the years. It is our intentions to continue to use our platform as a source of inspiration to heal our community. Remember #PositiveVibesOnly!
GUEST FEATURE |
All of these things will help you have a more positive outlook on life and business. How so? It’s because you will start to leave things behind that you have carried for far too long! You will finally be able to release the pent up negativity that you’ve carried for YEARS. You will laugh as you think about the things that you used to allow to get under your skin. You will catch yourself when you are about to say something that really doesn’t need to be said. You will have QUALITY people around you and not just people.
By Tammie Polk
FOCUS
As entrepreneurs, we have things that happen which rock us to our core. The key to regaining your focus is all in how you react to those things that rocked you! When you make a conscious effort to focus on your forward, here are some things that are going to come out of that:
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o n y o u r f o. r wa r d You will be more cognizant
. You will start finding the positive in even the most negative of situations. When you are focused on your forward, you will start to say things like, “Yes, this happened to me, but I’m not going to let it get me down because I was able to do _____ to help the situation.”
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. You will start to see how much the things that bother you really don’t matter as much. When you are focused on your forward, you will build a stronger level of discernment and better gauge what you should give energy to and what you shouldn’t.
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of your words and how you use them. When you are focused on your forward, you will have a better understanding of how what you speak to yourself and to others has on what you are endeavoring to achieve.
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. You will have a much smaller inner circle. When you are focused on your forward, you will start to see people as they really are, believing what they show you the first time.
Our positivity is determined by what we read, what, listen to, and do as well as who we hang around. When you are focused on your forward and moving towards it, getting those five things in order becomes more important than you think! So, ask yourself the tough question: “Which one of these is keeping me from my forward?” Tammie T. Polk is the owner of Professionally Sassy, LLC, a women’s empowerment entity with the goal of helping women to understand that personal and professional development are a part of self-care. She is an author, speaker, and coach who has the goal of helping women to eliminate excuses and excel in life and business. Since 2015, she has penned and published over 50 books on life, faith, family, ministry, education, business, and fiction with more on tap in the coming year. Using her books as a springboard, she helps women to see that life is not standing in their way! When she’s not running her empire, she is fully engaged in the most important role of her life – being a married homeschooling mother of three girls from Memphis, TN who enjoys WWE wrestling, police crime dramas, and word puzzles! Learn more about her, her mission, and her message at http://www. professionallysassy.me
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| SPIRITUALITY
VI S I O N EXPANSION in the City Of Angels 2020 Bishop O.C. Allen, Senior Pastor VISION Cathedral of Atlanta extends new campus into Los Angeles market, VISION LA with lead Pastor Sammie Haynes Photocredit: Blair Devereaux
L
os Angeles, California -- December 9, 2019 – Bishop Oliver Clyde Allen, Senior Pastor, Vision Cathedral of Atlanta and Presiding Prelate of the United Progressive Pentecostal Church Fellowship recently announced on World Aids Day in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, December 1, 2019 the expansion of the VISION brand in three new markets: Nashville (Tennessee), Raleigh (North Carolina) and Los Angeles (California). Pastor Sammie Haynes founder/ CEO of Love Freedom Movement and former Editor In Chief of SHEEN Magazine has been named the lead servant for the Los Angeles, California VISION Campus. Pastor Sammie says, it is my desire simply to create a bold space for ALL people to know at Vision LA you have a seat at the table. The MISSION for VISION LA is to be a multi-cultural revolutionary platform distinctively crafted to BE a BOLD space for ALL People to unite in an expression of FREEDOM and LOVE to achieve their personal and corporate destiny. We do this by empowering people spiritually, emotionally, educationally, socially, economically, and politically. As a Christ-centered ministry, we are inclusive of all people, fully embracing in our lives and ministry people of every race, gender, culture, affectional orientation, family configuration, physical or mental condition, and all other distinctions which are the rich tapestry of God’s creation. VISION LA seeks to connect with creative agents, leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, influencers and curators of their dreams becoming a reality experiencing life in focus
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into 2020 and beyond. This is a movement and not church as usual. The creative energy is to resemble not only the founding church, but the expression of a new trendy stylistic and contemporary ministry infusing empowerment, motivation, and life tools to foster success. Its core is to create a Jesus culture for ALL people to embrace first the power of Love and secondly the Freedom TO BE - for ALL people to discover the Jesus internally beyond religion and traditional methodologies.
First official VISION LA MEET & GREET informational is scheduled for Saturday, December 21, 2019 at 11a, 904 N. La Brea Ave. Inglewood, California. ALL are invited to attend to meet Pastor Sammie and learn more about the Vision, the Plan and the Execution. Attendees can signup directly via email: thevisionchurchla@gmail.com. Facebook Like Page: Vision Church Los Angeles
Pastor Tye Williams & Jamie Surgeon
SPIRITUALITY |
O
n the surface, Pastor Tye Williams is dapper and attractive with a welcoming personality. But there’s more to this man than meets the eye. His strong faith and determination has impacted the followers that he’s been called to lead as the founder and pastor of The Vision Church of Raleigh. His congregation has grown from a couple of faithful members in the living room to weekly Sunday services at The Experience Christian Church. The Vision Church is a united Progressive Pentecostal Church originally founded by Bishop O.C. Allen III in Atlanta, Georgia. Affectionately known as “Vision”, this church is a place that intentionally and joyously welcomes all people. Williams says that “Jesus graced me with a seat at the table and I don’t get to dictate who else gets invited. All are invited to the table!” This includes individuals of the LGBT community. With deep rooted African American Pentecostal traditions, Vision includes and affirms people that would otherwise be excluded and ridiculed in the traditional church setting. Executive Pastor Jamie Surgeon, works alongside Pastor Williams they tirelessly ministering and serve the community. Pastor Surgeon says “God rewards faithfulness not perfection” as they push to bring the gospel to people across the nation. Together they raise awareness concerning many risk factors such as HIV, AIDS and mental health awareness. Vision Church of Raleigh conducts homeless initiatives and back to school drives in support of families in need. This is a global movement and the new Vision Church of Raleigh is not only focused on churching, but empowering individuals to live up to their fullest potential and tap into their God given VISION. It’s on a mission to create a bold space for individuals seeking direction, leaders, creatives, innovators, entrepreneurs, influencers, and anyone with a VISION.
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| COVER FEATURE
What do you think is the significance of Being an openly gay pastor?
I
n one of the lectures in my Doctoral class at United Theological Seminary, the Rev. Dr. Matt King Carter once raised a question and he said what would have happened if Pharaoh promoted Moses to be vice-pharaoh? Dr. Carter replied, “Nothing would have happened and that’s why God took Moses out of there. Carter further adds, “Nothing happens in the palace unless you go out and change it.” And so, when I think about the significance of being a “Prophetic child” as my Presiding Bishop, O.C. Allen, III, calls it and being a pastor, I think of being a person who goes out of the palace to change it. I am charged with taking care of the people of God. Although my congregation is majority LGBTQ, we are not all LGBTQ. We are diverse in many different ways. I pastor African Americans, Caucasians, heterosexuals, Transgender individuals, Same Gender Loving individuals, Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennial, Gen Z, and Traditionalists of all faiths. I also pastor individuals who yet don’t have the courage to walk through the doors of my church because of the religious, theological and pedagogical dogma concerning faith and sexuality but they view our worship services live on social media. As a “Prophetic child” and pastor, Bishop Allen also stated, “Your courage is somebody else’s cure. There are people that can’t be free until you are free” and for me to learn to free myself in order to preach Jesus and offer somebody else liberation in their truth I find it a tremendous blessing. I owe gratitude of thanks to God, my husband, Dr. Davin Clemons, my brother, the Rev. Dr. Darron McKinney, Sr. and wife his First Lady BJ McKinney, my sister Darnita Gooch, my mother Bernita McKinney, my father Darnell Gooch, Sr., my grandmother, Arverline Harper, my aunt Sharon Hall, my mother-in-law, Elder Gwen Clemons and her wife Shawn Clemons, and a host of other family and friends who loved me, encouraged me and supported me in my quest to make disciples and not members. In making disciples, I had to realize how can I pastor and preach to people if I didn’t fully embrace the call and ministry that God has trusted me with. For me, my victory was not staying in a closet but rather my victory was when I walked out the closet. Although, many individuals, including other pastors, leaders and individuals, would not admit publically, but I have receipts of their congratulatory remarks and many prophesies concerning my spiritual journey and my theological stance. I am glad to know that I am on the right side of history and I owe it to my home pastor, the Rev. Dr. James L. Netters, Sr., pastor emeritus of 61 years at the Mt. Vernon Baptist Church-Westwood, who was not only a pastor of pastors, but a mentor, father, Civil Rights leader, Humanitarian, Civic Official and the late Bishop Charles E. Cartwright, my second pastor, on what it really means to be a pastor to all people. I had to let the Church know that our God is not always in places where we think that God is but that God is also in the unfamiliar.
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Although, many individuals want to coin me as the “gay pastor” or my church as the “gay church” technically I am not the first and I won’t be the last. I am proud to know that I pastor a Progressive, Pentecostal, Christian Church that will be viewed as a movement and not a monument.
COVER FEATURE |
Serving The Least of These
by Overseer Pastor Dr. Darnell Gooch Jr., DMin
What has been your biggest challenge pastoring? Some of my biggest challenges in pastoring sometimes have been finding the grace to lead, govern, and rule people who have experienced a lot of trauma, oppression, discrimination, church hurt and who sometimes don’t want to be led. There are times when I see why Moses and the Israelites stayed in the wilderness as long as they did was because the Israelites related to what they were accustomed to and didn’t want to move from worse to better. Oftentimes, people are accustomed to experiencing worse that they forget that Jesus came so they could experience better. I recall one of seminary professors and mentors at the United Theological Seminary, in Dayton, Ohio, the Rev. Dr. Gina M. Stewart of the Curtis/Stewart Fellows, who once stated, “It’s the job of the pastor to empower
What message would you like the LGBTQ to know about the interpretation of God’s word toward them? What I want individuals in the LGBTQ
community to know concerning God is that you don’t have to be confused about God and God’s word. As one of my former seminary professors, Dr. Matt Matthews, at the Memphis Theological Seminary, says in his lecture on the Bible and Homosexuality, “The Bible must be read as a witness to Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ, not the Bible, saves us.” We must know that the Bible is a book written by ancient people who had a limited view concerning theology, spirituality, religion and even including sexuality. Some of our
the people to come up to your level.” This is not to suggest that the pastor is belittling the pew or promoting a sense of superiority of the office of the pastor but what I have matriculated through my years of school I want to share with the pew. What I have come to learn is that preaching the gospel will cause suffering and pastoring is a greater suffering. Largely, what has caused some of my greatest sufferings is when I stood up to the Church, especially the Black Church, and expressed how wrong the Church was in its conversation on faith and sexuality. I remember how I used to preach in the Church circuit and then when I stood up to the Church my preaching engagements stopped. When I founded the Cathedral of Praise Church of Memphis, Inc., the Cathedral Foundation, Inc. and Tri-State Black Pride, in the South, the Bible belt and home to the birthplace of the Church of God In Christ, Inc., many pastors and individuals labeled me as a heretic and having a reprobated mind. I was
forefathers couldn’t articulate theology as well because theology can sometimes be complex. However what we do know is that our salvation is not predicated on the Bible but rather it is based on our acceptance of Jesus Christ. I believe it becomes a problem with God when we leave LGBTQ individuals out of the sacred scriptures. Because if we preach that we can take on the identity of Jesus, then this suggests to the LGBTQ community that Jesus can look like us and I’m not talking about physical characteristics or pigmentation. Like Dr. Matt King Carter said, “Jesus is nothing but somebody who does what I want him to do.” Therefore, we must as Dr. Matt Matthews states, “…read the Bible in its historical, literary and cultural context, trusting that when we do so, God will speak a fresh word to us today.” There are only seven scriptures that mention homoerotic acts: Genesis 19, Judges 19, and Leviticus 18:22, Leviticus 20:13, I Corinthians 6:9-10, I Timothy 1:910 and Romans 1. These scriptures do
raised with some of these pastors and individuals. We also sung in the same choir, served in ministry together, I’ve given them monetary gifts, supported them in various ways and so much more. As a pastor I couldn’t get the funding, resources and connections like many of the others pastors who identify as heteronormative or closeted. However, my church, foundation and other entities and I continued to do ministry, advocacy work, and outreach with a passion but with less. I’ve had people to come and go in my ministry, but I continued to be faithful to what I knew God had called me to do and because of my faithfulness, dedication and consistency over the course of years. God has opened doors and allowed me to sit at tables in the White House and in the boardrooms of my local government. I was inducted into the Martin L. King, Jr.’s Board of Ministers and Laity at Morehouse College in 2019, and so much more. My challenges were preparing me for something greater all I had to do was wait for it.
not speak to same sex relationships or Christian marriages. It is about hospitality, purity while in exile or exploitative forms of sex-trafficking and idolatry. There is no use of the concept of sexual orientation in the Bible and neither does the bible address gay marriages or relationships. So, if God has delivered you from Pharaoh then stop going back. I close with saying this, Dwayne Wade recently posted a twitter response to his critics concerning his love for his LGBTQ child and he replied that he must get smarter and educate himself more. It’s about love and nothing should change concerning his responsibilities. This is the same statement that I speak back to LGBTQ individuals, allies and those who don’t understand. Do yourself a favor become smarter and educate yourself concerning the interpretation of God’s word and LGBTQ culture and issues. It’s about love and nothing should change concerning your responsibilities.
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IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY®
This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.
(bik-TAR-vee)
MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY
POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY
BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including:
BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including: } Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section. } Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY. } Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY. } Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat. } Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain. } The most common side effects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%).
} Worsening of Hepatitis B (HBV) infection. If you
have both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months.
ABOUT BIKTARVY BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults. It can either be used in people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS. Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains: } dofetilide } rifampin } any other medicines to treat HIV-1
BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY Tell your healthcare provider if you: } Have or have had any kidney or liver problems,
These are not all the possible side effects of BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY.
including hepatitis infection. } Have any other health problems. } Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if BIKTARVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY. } Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk.
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY.
HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take:
Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food.
} Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-
counter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.
} This is only a brief summary of important information
} BIKTARVY and other medicines may affect each other.
Ask your healthcare provider and pharmacist about medicines that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is safe to take BIKTARVY with all your other medicines.
Get HIV support by downloading a free app at
MyDailyCharge.com
GET MORE INFORMATION about BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more.
} Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5. } If you need help paying for your medicine,
visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.
BIKTARVY, the BIKTARVY Logo, DAILY CHARGE, the DAILY CHARGE Logo, KEEP PUSHING, LOVE WHAT’S INSIDE, GILEAD, and the GILEAD Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. Version date: December 2018 © 2019 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. BVYC0102 01/19
KEEP PUSHING.
Because HIV doesn’t change who you are. BIKTARVY® is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in certain adults. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS.
Ask your healthcare provider if BIKTARVY is right for you. To learn more, visit BIKTARVY.com.
Please see Important Facts about BIKTARVY, including important warnings, on the previous page and visit BIKTARVY.com.
| MOTIVATIONAL
The Power of
Positive Thoughts H
by E. Wa en
ow would you feel if I told you that your next thought has the power to change your life. Start thinking through life on purpose and not auto pilot. A lot of my conversations lately involve some sort of language around purpose. Purpose has a couple of levels to it, I’m finding out. The desire to want to know why you are here on earth is the groundbreaking path to your purpose. If the sincerity is there trust me God has your back protecting you at all times. The universe is in constant production of whatever you need to strive and survive off of. Success or determination isn’t something that someone was giving out and passed you by. Drive, ambition, persistence, positivism are just a few things that there is an unlimited supply off to everyone. The tools that are needed to pave the path to your destiny are already planted along the way. They are just waiting for you to arrive. There are certain people that you are supposed to cross paths with. There is always something going on around you that involve your talents. Workshops, seminars, webinars, podcasts, best of all, in my opinion, Youtube videos. There are a plethora of things to Google how to do or what interest you. You just got to get to moving. Progress is a slow process but at least you’ll be moving. When you were younger what where you good at? What is the thing you most remember being complimented for? What are you currently great at? That just might be a clue to your why. Your why will have to stand the test of time against naysayers, family, friends and enemies. There will also be setbacks and failures among many pondering thoughts of am I sure this is my why. Most of all it has to glorify God. You have to build a defense for your reasoning to your way, that my friend is how you become passionate about something. You defend it by any means. You hold it near and dear to you. You dream about it. You get excited talking about it. God gives your heart skipping visions about it. Does the vision that God gives you have you scared, pinned up
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to the point of you getting anxious just thinking about it? Stop fighting against that feeling aka yourself, your gut intuition. Ultimately, the God in you. Restart wherever you are right now. Breaking old habits is critical in changing your life’s design. Commitment can’t wait. Don’t wait for Monday. If you have gotten a glimpse of what you are destined to do, I encourage you to find your strength by doing it. Endurance is strength. Your endurance with thanksgiving plus God’s strength equals blessings of abundance to use for the greatness of your purpose. In your path to your purpose you must allow yourself to realize that your failures are lessons not blocked blessings. Self-growth comes with a lot of trial and error. Error is the way we learn our toughest lessons. Don’t ever use past failures to invalidate yourself from wanting to be better or do more. Procrastination can and will happen, its life and its ok. Just realize when you fall back on old habits that have you stuck you just have to come harder the next time. Change the way you handle yourself. Take the limitations off of your life. Be more gentle and forgiving. Encourage yourself with positive affirmations. I am ...worthy enough, strong enough, wise enough, tough enough, smart enough, young enough, consistent enough, creative enough. Just to list a few. You are worthy of every dream you could ever imagine. Don’t let the internet make you bury your talent and skills just because you tell yourself you’re not good enough. Growth is not like a lot of people’s attitudes 0-100 real quick. It’s not that simple. Fear and negative self-talk will sabotage everything around you and help to keep you captive of your dreams and desires. If you say you deserve better then chose better and don’t settle for anything less. Be clear and purposeful about why you deserve better. Let us get the best life that is promised to us all. This walk of life does not have to be lonely. God will lead people to you that will share the same ambition and drive as you to help light your path along the way. Make room to receive them and God will handle the rest.
MOTIVATIONAL |
Breath e by Monick & Sime Monell
T
You
he 2020 Word of The Year for the Monell’s is “Breathe You.” People usually ask us how do we find time for our individual selves and as a couple. In our case, we are able to manage a balance of a higher purpose for work and life. When the Monell’s say “Breathe You” it is about finding that joy that can bring you an elation, a moment in time. The purpose is to ignite the life in you to make you feel alive, find your inner child, open a photo album and share it with your positive close friends, put on those roller skates, or go see an old friend. There are chapters in your life you never knew existed. Exploring these new chapters can inspire you, ignite the light in your soul and everyone around you souls as well.
Mother. She believes finding quality time in silence can replenish your heart and soul deeply.
Sime Monell works in a medical care facility which is a global leader in LGBTQ healthcare in New York City. “Improving other people’s lives and circumstances is a higher purpose letting them know there is a space you can come and be welcomed no matter what the circumstances are,’’ says Sime. Sime finds downtime by reading a good book and spending time with her
We find at least once a week to go on a date or experience something new together. The truth is you can’t predict when your best memories will be made. The Monell’s focuses on being present so that their eyes won’t miss the pleasure of seeing the moment coming…
Monick M. Monell works for a LGBTQ organization. She finds purpose in volunteering, mentoring, creating safe spaces for the youth and elders. She believes it is important to teach life skills to others. “There is power within ourselves and I work hard explaining this concept to our community via social media. I meet someone in person at least twice a week that has benefitted from my social media posts. I believe encouraging others and spreading positive vibes can go a long way in uplifting people to find their way. The Monell’s find meaning in the gift of time.
@brooklyn_Moz @westindie83 Facebook: Monick Monell Photographer: Chantele Clark
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| COMMUNITY NEWS
Create With Your Crumbles Many times we feel as though our world is crumbling down around us but that’s just a little life happening. We all have bad days and we all have days when it seems like nothing is going our way. I was listening to one of my favorite Periscope scopers and he said these very words “with your crumbles, CREATE” and that inspired this piece today. Everyday isn’t going to be a championship day but you must remember that you are a champion everyday. You can’t please everybody, everyone is not going to like you, and you have to find peace with that. You can’t be everyone’s cup of tea. Another phrase came to mind when I heard this one and it was “Build with your brokenness”. It doesn’t matter how many times you’ve failed or how many no’s you’ve gotten; you still have the ability to win at whatever you do. Don’t allow your current situation get you down. Remember you were born to Create and you were born to win so get out there and start CREATING AND WINNING! As Zig Ziglar would say, I’ll see you, yes you, at the top!
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Tamika Tranell Heard
SOCIAL NEWS |
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6
| HEALTH & WELLNESS
the
P RINCIPALS OF PRINCIPALS NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE D
r. Bradley M. Frezza, ND, MH is a Board Certified Naturopathic Doctor and Master Herbalist in Memphis, Tennessee. He is the founder and CEO of AHE Inc’s, Alternative Health & Beauty. He is first and foremost a Seventh-day Adventist Christian whose faith and hope is in Jesus Christ and secondly a natural medicine advocate and teacher.
Dr. Frezza has received diplomas as Doctor of Naturopathy, Certificate in Nutritional Counseling and Master Herbalist from Trinity College of Natural Health in Warsaw, Indiana. He is a Diplomat in the American Association of Integrative Medicine (DAAIM), is Board Certified in Naturopathy by the American Naturopathic Medical Certification Board, and is a Certified Natural Health Professional. He has also been trained by BioMeridian in EAV/BIM assessment and is a Hydrocolon Therapist. Dr. Frezza has lectured extensively at local schools, churches, community centers and private organizations. He has also appeared on local television news programs, radio shows and has written articles for natural/alternative health magazines. His faith is unyielding when it comes to approaching any type of chronic disease with logical explanations, whether it be simply migraines or as extensive as cancer, as opposed to suppressing symptoms that mask and prolong sickness. The average individual could agree that it is important to identify and eliminate the underlying cause of the disease, rather than concentrate on symptoms alone.
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clients principles with which to live a healthy life. They focus on education and encourage selfresponsibility for one’s own health and sense of well-being.
First, Do No Harm
(Primum non nocere) Naturopathic Doctors prefer noninvasive procedures which minimize the risks of harmful side effects. Combinations of herbs and nutrients have fewer side effects than most commonly used pharmaceutical drugs.
The Healing Power of Nature (Vis medicatrix naturae)
Naturopathic Doctors strive to restore health by recommending nutritional supplements, herbs, dietary changes and detoxification methods which enhance the body’s ability to heal itself.
Identify and Treat the Cause (Tolle causam)
Naturopathic Doctors are trained to
identify and aid in the removal of the underlying cause of a disease rather than merely eliminating or suppressing the symptoms. Doctor as Teacher (Docere) Naturopathic Doctors teach their
Treat the Whole Person (Tolle totum)
This is a holistic concept that recognizes the body as an integrated whole. Naturopathic doctors focus on the client, not the disease. A naturopathic assessment addresses the nutritional status, lifestyle, and family history, physical, mental, emotional, genetic, environmental and social factors in a person’s life.
Prevention
(Praevenic) Naturopathic doctors promote a focus on overall health, wellness and disease prevention.
Most medical doctors are quick to label one’s illness with a diagnosis and proceed with pharmaceutical drugs, surgery and/or radiation in an attempt to suppress the condition and related symptoms. If the underlying cause is still present, then it would be only a matter of time before new or preexisting issues occur that could be even more detrimental.
HEALTH & WELLNESS |
Over time, this process leads to a snowball effect that result in further degeneration and chronicity.
At AHE Inc., our on staff naturopathic doctors interest resides in identifying and eliminating the actual cause for one’s health ailments. They know this is the only way to successfully assist their clients in overcoming the burden of agitating symptoms with seemingly no end in sight. After all, the real “dis-ease” is the root of the problem, not the side effects that show in reaction to such.
So ask yourself a few questions.... • • •
Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? Have you been fighting with chronic illness without understanding its cause?
Do you think it is time for another opinion that focuses on the root cause of your illness rather than just keeping it at bay?
If you answered “YES” to any of these questions, Contact us and you’ll be glad you did. Our doctors are educated and well versed in alternative, natural and nutritional approaches that assist the body in regaining its natural vitality, vigor and overall health. Alternative Health Empowerment 670 Colonial Rd. Suite #5 Memphis, TN 38117 Monday - Thursday Friday 9:30am to 7pm 9:30 am to 4pm Walk-ins welcome for clinic store. Services by appointment only.
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| MSM
New Black LGBT ComedyThriller PARTY-N-PLAY Executive Producer: Sampson McCormick Written by Sampson McCormick In association with BLACScales Productions Directed by Spencer M. Collins IV Director of Photography William Scales
Starring: Justin-Rayne Bryant (Triangle: The Series) Sampson McCormick (BET, TV One, VICELAND) DeMarco Majors (LOGO’s Shirts & Skins, Hello My Name Is Trouble) Donnie Hue Frazier (GIANTS) Synopsis: We all stand for our favorite divas, but what happens when Blue (Justin-Rayne Bryant), the typical enthusiastic and fully dedicated Beyonce fan, makes the decision to overdraw his account to buy a ticket to a concert, when rent is due, he neglects other responsibilities and things begin to quickly go downhill for him? This comedy-thriller is a fun watch accompanied by lots of laughs, and a couple twists. Themes: Black (African-American), Queer, LGBTQ, Pop Culture, Comedy, Polyamory, Sex Positivity, Coming Out, Religion, Relationships, Mental Health
BLACK GAY
MSM |
by Anthony Green
I
’ve recently arrived at a space within myself that I can openly state that I am a nudist. The word ‘nudist’ still feels dirty to say out loud. It evokes images of elderly white people on beaches or gym bodies seeking attention or high-risk orgies. None of that is what I connect my nudist identity with. As someone who has struggled with finding myself attractive and worthy; nudity helps me work through those insecurities. It’s a revolutionary act for me to have imperfect skin, an overbite and be slightly out of shape but enjoy the liberty of unapologetically existing in my most natural state. My journey towards identifying as a nudist has been about finding God in the beauty of the vessel that he has gifted me. It’s not about celebrating how much I’ve worked out (or not) or about sexual arousal. I live in a world where I’m heavily policed and have severe limits and expectations placed upon my body. Black people are typically raised in environments that teach us a general shame about our bodies; to cover up. Who we naturally are is not suitable for the rest of the world. That messaging is totally contradictory for black gay men. Our body often becomes our worth whether as objects of desire, protection, athletic ability or labor. For many, it is the only valuable currency they possess. My love of being nude began in childhood. As the son of a single mother, I was often left home alone to tend to myself while my mother worked the evening shift. The first thing I’d do would be to strip myself from the confines of my school clothes. That ceremonial un-layering released me of the weight of that day. With the privilege of privacy, I’d engage in activities totally free of clothing. I watched tv, completed homework, performed chores, and ate meals all in the nude. By the time my mother came home, I was in bed wearing pajamas. I never gave much thought to the implications of my naked exploits. I experienced nudity with another person during Sophomore year of college. My
room mate was another a gay undergrad. After our showers, we’d have this ritual where we’d prep for bed in the nude. We’d engage in long conversations about our days, watch trashy reality tv or have silly dance competitions between the two of us. There was nothing sexual and the act was never really a spoken thing. After that, I was only nude with boyfriends. The nudity was purposely and not healing or freeing like with my college roommate. The lovemaking was passionate expressions of our mutual affections. We’d cuddle nude or simply sleep together but once we left that bed, we’d slide back on our underwear. Our full and naked form was reserved for before/ after sex. We’d have to cover our privates in order to exist together, even in the exclusive space of our own apartments. As time progressed, I learned about nudism. I researched opportunities to connect with others who felt most themselves in nude situations. What I found were expensive gay getaways with older white gay men on the advertisements. While I imagine those events probably do provide a wholistic nude experience, something about my nudity being observed through the white gay gaze doesn’t feed my purpose for doing it. I require being with other black gay men but not because that’s who I’m attracted to. I need to be nude around black gay because when it comes to my body, that is the demographic I’ve had the most trauma. I was raped by a black gay man; cheated on, beaten, and judged all by black gay men. They’re also who I love, desire and plan to spend my life with. There’s restoration in being nude and completely defenseless in their company yet feeling totally safe. For me, the healing space of communal nudity must exist in the company of other black gay men. What first comes to mind when we think of a haven for black gay male nudity is a sex party or bath house. If you’re
venturing to any of those places with hopes of finding healing, you’ve already failed. These gatherings are meat markets where men are categorized and chosen based on their physical attributes or sexual abilities. While this space might stroke egos and provide release, it won’t provide the sense of brotherhood that I desire with my nude experience. The first affirming space I’ve found has been a naked yoga class. The instructor is an incredibly kind black gay man. This skilled yogi travels the world creating these sessions that celebrate our relationship with our bodies. The classes are not cheap, but they only occur every few months. They’re also diverse in race but the DC classes are predominately African American. The next space has been a nude game night. Black gay men of all shades and sizes drink as well as socialize just like a regular game night. I love getting to know other black gay male nudists in a non-sexualized setting. The first time I went, I’m ashamed to admit I had to fight the urge to cry. The men were so damn beautiful, not in my desire to be with them romantically but their openness. The politics of engaging with other black gay men can be tricky but there’s an honesty that nudity brings which is comforting. Even witnessing the other men’s flaws. We give so much to hide what make us human. The cellulite, acne, scars and body hair didn’t lower their value but increased it. It meant that their bodies had stories to tell of which I enjoyed listening. Not all of us are blessed to live in a liberal area like I am to have these outlets available. My advice to any emerging nudist is to seek out your people. Either travel to an event that speaks to you or create your own. You are NOT alone.
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| |ENTERTAINMENT SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR
Pop/R&B OUTMusic artist, Marck Angel released his brand new single, “Justice” – the Black Lives Matter themed track from his upcoming album “Seraphim!” Written & produced by Marck Angel, “Justice” is the “Black Lives Matter” themed track from his upcoming project, “SERAPHIM”. The up-tempo Pop/Hip-Hop track features up & coming Hip/Hop artist (and LGBT Ally) Los Lauren 718. The collab comes as a first between the two cousins. Dripping with heavy influences of Dance, House and Funk, Angel’s Pop falsetto juxtaposed with Lauren 718’s rapid-fire Bronx cadence, the two kin chant for “Justice”! The single is now available via www.MarckAngel.com and all major digital download/ streaming platforms including iTunes, Tidal & Spotify!
LITERARY CORNER |
Gregory “Gee” Smalls is a father, husband, entrepreneur, life and relationship coach, and restaurateur, owner of Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen & Bar in historic College Park. In 2010, Gee co-founded Juan & Gee Enterprises which included the web-based talk show series LoveWorks with Juan & Gee, relationship and life coaching services, as well as custom event design services. He has been featured on HGTV, PeachtreeTV, V103 Atlanta, WAOK, as well as in publications such as Ebony, Swerve, Kontrol Magazine, RollingOut, The Huffington Post, and more. Excerpt from the book: “I knew I was different, called ‘faggot-ass half-breed,’ teased for my light bright skin, soft curly afro, freckly face, and feminine ways. Growing up the child of a black daddy and white momma in the black Gullah Geechee culture on James Island, South Carolina in the 80’s, I was an outsider. Pre-order your copy by visiting www.GeeSmalls.com or on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VS26WX9 Disclaimer: Book cover and bio information retrieved from www. geesmalls.com. (no copyright infringement intended. Photos are used for free promotion by TUV Media for Gee Smalls profit ).
W?NOT
Q
iana “Chanzizr” Chance of Newark, NJ is the Founder and CEO of Winot Brands est. 2002. One of the main factors in starting this company derived from hardship, obstacles and a lack of a place to record music. The name was created in a basement after pondering the thought “why not us”? If Master P could distribute cd’s from the trunk and invent his own business model then we could too. Qiana and a former business partner came up with a plan to create a one -stop-shop atmosphere where artist could not only come to record but also have their projects manufactured and distributed locally. Artistically known as Chanzizr (pronounced chances are), she began to flood the streets of Newark and the Tri-State area with various mixed tapes selling them for only $1. This helped her gain an underground buzz. Two of her more popular street anthems “Wash Your Ass” and “My Mother” quickly became hood staples and the rest is history.
During a night out selling cd’s at one of Newark’s most popular chicken shacks Jersey Fried, a shootout ensued in which thankfully no one was injured. However, this caused Qiana to take her music to Northeast, PA in search of a different scenery. It was there that she was able to build a solid fan base through getting her songs in rotation on college radio stations such as WCLH 90.7 FM and WUSR 99.5FM. Moving through the years from 2006 until late 2009, Qiana set out to relentlessly push the brand traveling along the East Coast making stops in Philly, Baltimore, NC, SC, Atlanta and just about every small town in between finally landing in Tampa, FL. One of the biggest feats for Chanzizr was the 2009 collaboration with Germany’s own hip-hop artist Queen Raheema on the “Like A Star” remix. But as real life and life changing events began to unfold, the dream to pursue music
slowly fizzled out. Fast forward to 2010, Qiana found herself back in NJ in a toxic relationship and what would seem like a downward spiral. Forced to re-enter the work place, she struggled to find viable employment. However, in 2014 this all changed when she was hired as a live chat agent for Moodfabrics.com. This is the online store for “Project Runway’s main source for threads. Mood Fabrics is one of the more sought out fabric companies in the United States. Accepting this position thrust Qiana into the world of e-commerce. She began to expand her thought process and started to understand that in order to obtain real wealth, various skill sets would need to be learned. “Music was always a big part of my life but I knew that by becoming knowledgeable and educating myself in different areas, I would be able to add value in any setting “. Things came to a screeching halt when her grandmother suddenly passed away in 2016 from heart failure. But no one could’ve prepared Qiana for what she recalls being the shock of a lifetime. She had discovered that her mother gave birth to a son two years after she was born, whom was given up for adoption. Her brother had spent his life searching for his biological family and finally in early 2017, his prayers were answered. Qiana, who was raised as an only child would now have to sort through heartache and despair in attempts to connect with who she was and who she was becoming. By dedicating herself to work and selfdiscovery she became whole. As she describes it, “I became re-invigorated with hope once I became completely
SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR |
self-sufficient. I knew that if I gave up on my dreams and decided not to share my real life experiences, I couldn’t help or inspire anyone on their journey.” She also states that she found peace at her part-time job which is a Jewish Synagogue. “Everything over the past year has seemed to align perfectly, my e-commerce store is in route, my brand is growing steadily and lately I have been doing more Andro-Modeling which has been exciting. I also have tons of new content to create brand awareness on the horizon. I believe 2020 will be a phenomenal year”. Qiana’s story is very unique. From being born a mystery on Halloween, to now being a force in e-commerce to possibly being the first openly gay black woman to assist in overseeing a Synagogue. These are the stories that go beyond social media. These are the stories that quietly help change and impact the world. WINOT is the acronym that represents winning over time. If you dedicate yourself to something it doesn’t matter how long it takes you to succeed. Over time, you will win. Chanzizr’s Music on Tidal and all other streaming platforms Follow @Chanzizr @winotbrand
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TUV SUPPORTS
1. Do not listen to that little voice instead go through motions that is causing you opposition.
2. We all get 24 hours in a day; your success
is dependent upon how you use yours. What is your Why?
3. Write down your daily schedule.
This will give you a clear view of what you are doing with your 24. This is the difference between where you are and where you want to be.
4. Your worth and value is tied directly to
your behavior. What is your behavior telling you, you are worth?
5. If you master consistency and discipline it will set you up for success!
6. What happens when your motivation
wears off? And, it will happen! Your discipline must kick in to keep you on track.
7. Success is about quiet action and getting rid of things that are unnecessary.
8. The fastest way to change your life TUV MISSION
The Unleashed Voice Magazine will cultivate the stories of LGBTQ people with engaging and empowering conversation to people of the world about the multicultural LGBTQ Community.
TUV VISION
The Unleashed Voice Magazine (TUV Magazine) will aid the LGBTQ Community and its allies in redefining how the diverse LGBTQ person wishes to be viewed or spoken about. TUV Magazine will be the optimal print and media hub for the affluent LGBTQ consumer and those who want to be included in the “Unleashing� movement.
is understanding that daily routines are required to retrain your brain and killing procrastination.
9. Do not get satisfied and comfortable with mediocre growth. What are your goals for 2025.
10. Your future Self is depending on you.
Will you do the work for the person you will become in 5, 10 or 20 years?