Urban Sentinel (Feb | Mar 2022) - E.W. Brooks

FEB | M AR 2 0 22 EDITIO N

Brooks E.W. ARefreshingVoice InBlack Film Speaks onher Latest Project

W W W. U R B A N S E N T I N E L M A G A Z I N E . C O M

EDITORIAL

From The Desk of The Editor Reginald Kearney Editor

Corretta L. Doctor

Brandon J. Jolly

Business Manager

Layout Designer

Where is the love? First I would like to recognize that February was the month for lovers and I hope that everyone had a great Valentine’s Day. I hope that we will continue to spread the love throughout the rest of the year. With March around the corner, spring will soon be here along with flowers and warm weather. Let’s continue to pray for this world as we are faced with many challenges when it comes to the wars and covid.

This issue of Urban Sentinel Magazine features E.W. Brooks who is a great author, writer, and filmmaker. She recently released her first film which was filmed in Oahu, Hawaii through her company, Eagle Brook Entertainment. Please check out her article as you read and learn more about this dynamic filmmaker and author.

Bridgette Alfred

C. NaTasha Richburg

Writer

Writer

Claudia Newby-Tynes

Anita Davis-DeFoe

Writer

Writer

Urban Sentinel Magazine Address: 102 Discovery Ct. La Plata, Maryland 20646 Phone: 301-661-3989 Editor Reginald Kearney Advertising Inquiries Phone: 301-661-3989 E-mail: reginald.kearney@marylanddailyexaminer.com Website: www.urbansentinel.com

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This issue also features a plethora of great stories that are filled with heart- warming sentiments and words of encouragement. We are excited for you to turn each page and enjoy the articles from front to back.

We are striving to be a favorite magazine to readers around the world. We are reaching homes across nations and sharing stories of empowerment, inspiration and entertainment from the film, music and literary industries. In keeping with our broad approach to bringing you the very best information in a highly professional manner, we are striving to be the best.

We value the feedback from our readers because it helps us to grow. Please email us at reginald.kearney@marylanddailyexaminer.com with your feedback. If you would like to advertise with us, send an email with the word ‘Advertise’ in the subject line. Like us on FaceBook at The Urban Sentinel, follow us on Twitter at @ UrbanSentinel and you may follow us on Instagram at @theurbansentinel . Visit our website at www.UrbanSentinelMagazine.com .

I invite you to view our show, ‘Urban Sentinel Live’, which can be viewed on Facebook @UrbanSentinelLive on Monday nights at 8:30pmET. It is a half hour show that features guests that have been featured or will be featured in the Urban Sentinel magazine.

Thank you for your continued support. The Urban Sentinel magazine and talk show are great ways to share amazing stories about amazing talent. We thank you in advance for sharing our brand with your fans, family, and followers. We hope you enjoy all of the great stories in the Febuary/March 2022 edition.

SUMMARY

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Jodie Watley

Steve Pemberton

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Rev. McCALL

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4

Integrity What Is It? Does It Guide You?

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If Love Finds You, Just Say Thank You

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Jodie Watley is Still A Thrill!

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Alex Haley’s Connection with Annapolis, Maryland

14

E.W. Brooks-Mafietta/Eagle Brook Entertainment

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If Foster Care Is a Challenge

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Manifest Your Business Breakthroughs in 2022

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The Greatest Love of All

28

Forged in the Fire-This is What I Was Made For

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Rediscover Your Passion-Reimagine Your Worth

36

The Gowns Little Girls dream of with Celebrity Designer Travian Vann

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Clarity, Awareness, And Excellence: Meet Lori Gentles

44

New DVD for New year 2022

46

Shining A Light In Difficult Times

48

Reverend Rose H. McCall and the Life of Pageantry

50

Every Now and Again

56

Sisters In Music

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE FEB | MAR 2022

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INTEGRI T Y WHAT IS IT? DOES IT GUIDE YOU?

by Dr. Kim R. Grimes for urban sentinel You may have heard the saying before: "fake it 'til you make it." There may be some truth to that in terms of overcoming self-doubt, but it's not a sustainable mindset for life. To be successful in life, you need to live with integrity.

Integrity is one of the most important traits a person can have. It is what helps to guide our decisions, our relationships and is what keeps us on the right path. Without integrity, relationships ultimately will not be satisfying nor fulfilling.

But what is integrity, exactly? And how can we make sure that it remains our guiding light in everything we do?

We all want to be seen as having integrity. We want others to think of us as honest, truthful people who always do the right thing. When most people think of integrity, they likely think of honesty. And while honesty is certainly a key component of integrity, it's not the only one. Integrity is defined as having "composure and consistency in PUBLISHING ACTIONS CONSISTENTLY with your VALUES." (you may want to reference where you got this definition). In other words, living with integrity means behaving in ways that are consistent with your beliefs and value system. It's being able to look yourself in the mirror and knowing that you've done the right thing - even if no one else knows. It's about making decisions based on what you believe is right, not what is easy or popular – even if it costs you. Having integrity can mean sacrificing personal gain. Integrity is about being honest and authentic in all your dealings — with yourself and others. It's about doing the right thing, even when no one is looking.

And it may be difficult. Integrity takes courage and will power to be true with yourself. And that is why it's a virtue that people respect and admire.

Integrity is a topic that has been around for centuries. We all

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have an innate sense of integrity. We know when we're acting in line with our values, and when we're not. Personal integrity is a fundamental part of who we are. When it fails, the people around us begin to feel stress and tension increasing in their day-to-day lives. This occurs because they're worried about what might happen next in their lives.

The idea of maintaining our word and doing what we say seems to be an important one, which can sometimes go overlooked in today's world. Unfortunately, many of us find it difficult to stay true to our integrity in the face of temptation or opposition. At times we are willing to abandon our integrity because we are more concerned with looking good then being good. That can lead to being willing to do bad in order to look good. We all have an obligation to be honest with ourselves and others, but sometimes we forget this basic tenet of life. This is one of the reasons why there's an increased need for integrity in our world.

We are always being pressured to compromise our integrity.

The difference between right and wrong, good and bad is razor thin at best. But we must preserve what's important no matter the cost! By following this proverb, you can make integrity your guiding light in every decision you make. “The integrity of the upright will guide them, but the crookedness of the treacherous will destroy them” (Proverbs 11:13, NASB). This proverb is straight forward. We should always stay true to our intentions. We can’t let the pressures of the world obscure or change who are. It is important for everyone to know this truth. This proverb reminds us that we should always be guided by our integrity, our uprightness, and stand strong against the but the crookedness of those who are treacherous.

Having integrity is a challenge because you don't know if it is working until maintaining integrity costs you. Ask yourself what’s more important: your integrity or looking good to others? If your trigger response in a challenging situation is to lie or blame others, then there's a clue as to what you're being guided by. Ask yourself, Am I quick to abandon my integrity? If so, then you are more concerned with looking good then being good.

When you adopt a posture of integrity, your words and actions will be genuine. You'll stand tall with pride in everything that is true about you. Your integrity reflects who you really are deep down inside. When you are guided by integrity, you can feel it in your backbone. Your spine straightens and you stand tall, with your head held high. The world can be an uncomfortable place, but with integrity as your guide you will always know what's right. Integrity will always guide you to the truth.

Integrity is a powerful guiding force that can impact your world and the people around you. When positioning it as a guide, it becomes the key to living with authenticity.

Integrity can be your guide as you navigate through this world on your own terms, doing what is right instead of following someone else's rules.

When we live our lives guided by integrity, our friends and family members who surround us every day it benefits. If you have been struggling with how-to walk-in integrity, consider these three steps: 1) Commit to living an integrous lifestyle; 2) Speak out against injustice or wrongdoing when you see it happening; 3) Be honest about who you are and where your values lie so others will know how they fit your life journey.

It all starts with you committing to being your best self for the sake of those around you. You can strengthen your integrity with each passing day, just by exercising it. Walk in Integrity today!

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE FEB | MAR 2022

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If Love Finds You, Just Say Thank You

by Catherine Tyson for urban sentinel As we approach Valentines Day and the month of love, a lot of single people look around and feel very lonely and just want to find their “soulmate”. Many times they wonder if they will ever find that or also may wonder what is “wrong” with themselves. Like the rest of us, I know I sure had moments like that. If you are one of those people, do you also find that you spend a lot of time worrying about the packaging of love a lot more than you probably should?

He’s not tall enough, dark enough muscular enough.

She’s just too plain and not flashy enough. How much education does he have again? What kind of job? How much do they make? And again I say, I know I sure had moments like that, insert hand over face emoji here.

Sometimes we kid ourselves into thinking that the perfect person actually exists, and yet, we are not, perfect that is.

Life is a lot simpler than we make it and we go and often make it more complicated than it really should be. There are even times when we worry what people might think about that person more than what we think and often cannot even differentiate who is doing the thinking. When it comes to love we have to start thinking for ourselves and when it calls then we need to just answer. The packaging may not fit a particular description but who cares about the packaging if the person is who we need them to be or who fits us. I have a friend who is always falling prey to the gorgeous. muscular, gym types and she herself will not, I repeat not, step inside of a gym; ever. She refuses to even consider someone with a little extra weight on them yet she has a little extra weight on her. Now even though she has been burned a few times by her eyes and what she likes to see and not what her heart may need, she continues on in the same vain. It's tough standing by and watching it play out over and over again but those eyes can really get us into trouble. Feel free to insert sheepish grin

emoji here! Yet there are many people who can attest to not even being attracted to a person at first sight and eventually fell insanely in love with them after getting to know them.

Being blessed to find someone who you can relate to and who loves you as you are, and has your back is simply a blessing. Sometimes we think the timing isn’t right, but if the stars line up then maybe your timing is off. There are some people who don’t want to be in a relationship and that is fine too but for those of you who want to be in love and who lament about love and who cry about love, then just look around. Love is not going to come to your door and knock and say “here I am, the love you are looking for”. Sometimes we might have to be a little more realistic when considering love. And sometimes we have to go out and see what’s out there or when we’re out there, we might just have to pay closer attention. Maybe you have been passing it day in and day out while being so focused on “finding” it. Maybe it is the single guy at your local grocery store or the girl who works at the delivery company. You never know where love is hanging out these days. Maybe it is even in your own neighborhood, going for an evening walk all alone; stranger things have happened!

Just follow your heart and let it lead you. Live for today and not what might or might not come tomorrow or what may or may not ever be. Today is what’s important and if you are lucky to find someone that you love and loves you back, then thank your lucky stars that you found them. Love is nothing to scoff at or plan. Love may not look like what you thought at all. Love is there, waiting for you and when it comes, surprise yourself and take it and just say thank you!

Good luck with your search! And Happy Valentine’s Day. Follow me on Instagram or Facebook.

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Jody Watley

IS STILL A THRILL!

by Corretta Doctor for urban sentinel

She celebrated the 35th anniversary of her massive blockbuster self-titled album in true festive style coupled with a birthday balloon drop into the audience on Friday, January 28th at Sycuan Casino and Resort in San Diego.

The sold-out concert began with a standing ovation from her fans when the Grammy award-winning iconic singer appeared on stage.

Her 90-minute set did not disappoint! She delivered a high energy performance from beginning to end.

To the surprise of the audience, she introduced musician, songwriter, and producer Andre Cymone who joined Watley for the first time onstage in celebration of her 35th Anniversary Solo Debut Concert.

In the show, Watley said, "It's an historical night."

Cymone was an early collaborator with Watley on her solo debut album, co-writing hits like Looking For A New Love, Still A Thrill, Some Kind of Lover and subsequent hits Real Love, Friends, I Want You on their work together over 4 albums. With sheer delight from the crowd, Cymone was well-received with continual applause from fans as he jammed with Watley and her band throughout the show.

Andre sat down for an interview and also recorded this message for the Grammy winner, also giving respect and praise for her influence on other female artists. Click here to watch The former couple were also married, divorcing in 1994 and have one son together, Arie. Andre Cymone has since remarried. Their son Arie was in attendance along with daughter Lauren along with Andre's wife Katherine to join in the festive occasion.

"The night was truly special, especially with Andre graciously accepting an invitation from me to play with my band on stage in celebration for my birthday and 35th anniversary of my solo debut album," says the legendary singer.

As a solo artist, the ageless pop and R&B singer has 6 Billboard Hot 100 Top Ten Singles, 13 Number 1 Dance Singles, 2 R&B Number 1’s, 15 Top 40 Singles, Gold and platinum albums, 2007 Billboard Dance Lifetime Achievement, 2017 recipient of the Black Music Honors Crossover Music Icon Award and nominations from the American Music Awards, MTV Awards, NAACP Awards and Soul Train Awards.

Watley is a trendsetting pioneer in music, video, fashion and style, one of the architects of 21st century pop.

The cultural music iconic singer in Pop/Soul/R&B continues to amass chart-toppers!

She also performed the upbeat dance song, Whenever from her latest EP release, Renderings, a special collection of Alex Di Ciò Dance/Club remixes. Alex Di Ciò is a world-renowned producer, and remixer.

Congratulations, Ms. Watley!

You can follow the iconic singer on her social media @jodywatley

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE FEB | MAR 2022

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Alex Haley’s

Connection with Annapolis, Maryland

by Brandee Johnson for urban sentinel One of the many reasons why Black History Month is so

enlisted in the military when he turned 18 and would spend

special is that we can grab inspiration from our ancestors’

the next 20 years of his life in the Coast Guard.

many achievements. From science to the entertainment industry, there is no field that Black people haven’t excelled

It was during his 20-year career in the Coast Guard Haley

in, despite the insurmountable odds thrown their way.

discovered his passion for writing. He taught himself how

Even more inspiring, many of our ancestors changed the

to write stories, and would even be paid by other sailors

world just after coming to a specific decision. Take, for

to write love letters to their girlfriends. Once World War

instance, Alex Haley, one of the greatest writers to come

II ended, Haley appealed to the U.S. Coast Guard to be

from America. Like many of us, Alex Haley had a desire to

transferred into the field of journalism. He made history as

discover more about his lineage and where he comes from.

the first chief journalist in the Coast Guard based off of his

His curiosity and desire to learn more about his family tree

literary ability.

led to the creation of one of the greatest novels on family history – Roots: The Saga of an American Family.

After he retired from the Coast Guard in 1959, Haley had the opportunity to write for various publications and interview

Alex Haley was born Alexander Murray Palmer Haley on

some of the most acclaimed figures of his time. Some of

August 11, 1921, in Ithaca, New York. The oldest of three

his most notable interviews include Martin Luther King, Jr.,

brothers and a half-sister through his father’s second

Sammy Davis Jr., Jim Brown, and Muhammad Ali. In 1965,

marriage, Haley and his family lived in Henning, Tennessee

Haley had published his first book, The Autobiography of

until he was five years old. His father, Simon Haley, was a

Malcolm X, a novel that is still considered one of the most

professor of agriculture at Alabama A & M University. While

influential nonfiction novels of the 20th century. During

growing up, Haley always spoke of the racist obstacles his

the process of writing the novel, Haley had asked Malcolm

father had to overcome and how proud he was of his father.

to share something about his mother. From that question,

Haley enrolled in Alcorn State University at the age of 15,

Malcolm shared his entire life story with Malcolm. Little

and enrolled in Elizabeth City State College the following

did Haley know that his next novel would contain a portion

year. After withdrawing from college altogether, Haley

of his own life story.

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which spanned over a dozen years, Haley discovered that he was a seventh generation descendant of Kunta Kinte, a former African who lived in the Gambian village known as Jufferee. It was during his genealogical search that Haley

discovered

Kinte

was kidnapped and sold on the auction steps of the Annapolis City Dock.

In fact, one of the most emotional

moments

of

Haley’s life was standing on the actual site where his ancestor arrived in chains 200 years ago, in Annapolis, Maryland.

During his genealogical journey, Haley was able to visit the village of Jufferee, where he learned more about Kunta Kinte and heard from an actual tribal historian about his ancestor’s

capture.

He

was also able to trace the ship that transported his ancestor to America, The Lord Ligonier. Roots was so impactful for several reasons. The novel not In 1976, Haley published Roots: The Saga of an American

only initiated a conversation about one of the most heinous

Family. This groundbreaking novel was inspired by Haley’s

periods in American history, but sparked a genuine interest

personal quest to learn more about his family’s lineage. It was

in genealogy. The novel was so popular and well-received

not only a story about family lineage, but one of the most

that the following year, Roots was adapted into a television

accurate depictions of slavery at its time. Through his research

miniseries, breaking records again as the television series was

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watched by 130 million viewers. The series was also one of the first times on television that the talent of Black actors and actresses was prominently featured.

Today, Alex Haley’s legacy is alive and well. Last year, on what would have been Haley’s 100th birthday, the city of Annapolis declared August 11 to be Alex Haley and commemorated Haley with a public ceremony. The city also hosts the annual Kunta Kinte Heritage Festival, where you have the opportunity to view many historical exhibits. If you ever find yourself in Annapolis, Maryland, stop by the Kunta Kinte-Alex Haley Memorial, where you can see Alex Haley’s statue sitting telling a story to a group of children. At a time where many Black people believed it was impossible to locate your ancestors, Alex Haley’s determination proved otherwise. Because he did not give up, Haley had the ultimate opportunity to learn about his lineage and inspire others to learn about their lineage. Let’s honor Alex Haley’s legacy and do something out of our comfort zone to make our ancestors proud.

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Brooks E.W.

MAFIET TA/EAGLE BROOK ENTERTAINMENT

AS THE AIR GETS THINNER, THE HIGHER SHE FLIES

by C. NaTasha Richburg for urban sentinel

E.W. Brooks walks through a room with an aroma of excellence in which everybody wants to partake. She fills a space within the essence of a woman determined to make a difference. E.W. can soar to heights that many only look up to without the incentive to climb. E.W. has climbed the ladder of success, telling stories of real-life experiences to audiences who can smell and taste their familiarity using memories in the back of their mind. E.W. is a filmmaker and executive producer of the film "3 Days Leave," which tells the story of the:

Community Activist Antonio Snipes is senselessly shot and killed by a small-town police officer, ringing bells in his older sister's ears. Major Andrea Snipes, a decorated Army officer and sniper, takes "3 Days Leave" from her active-duty service to return to North Carolina and bury her kin. Once Andrea arrives, she discovers the harrowing facts behind her brother's murder and has no problem dispensing her version of justice.

The movie production of "3 Days Leave" took place in Oahu, Hawaii and the movie premiered at Pearl Ridge’s Consolidated Theatre on November 18, 2021.

E.W.’s company, Eagle Brook Entertainment, filmed on the island with local talent and crew. Local female cinematographer Jannis Ortegon and Hawaii 5-0 actress Judy Nguyen was a part of a slightly over 50% female cast and crew.

If we all do our part to tip the scales toward equality in the workplace, maybe we can look up one day and see something different out there --E.W.Brooks.

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E.W was forced to move outside her comfort zone to embody the character written in the pages of the script. The following cast was introduced to E.W. by Hawaii Film Production: Sam Bass....................Officer Oldcap Judy Nguyen.....Maj. Andrea Snipes Mathew Crouse........................Frank Julian Cepeda..........Antonio Snipes Bradley Anderson...Officer Rodgers Grey Buxton..............Officer Westall Ronyé McCarthy.......Dianna Rogers Lawrence Parker...............Mr. Snipes E.W.'s goal was to promote local businesses. “We’re a new presence here [in Hawaii] and were able to hire ten crewmembers from the community,” said E.W. E.W.'s CFO said “the magic is behind the scenes…that’s what makes it worth it” for the community and E.W.’s production outcome.

All who worked as part of the cast and crew for "3 Days Leave" felt the positive energy E.W. brought to the set. They weren't deterred by the fact that E.W.’s film pushed a difficult conversation about people of color onto the screen. The

push gave the audience a peek at what happens behind some unpleasant closed doors. She aims to enlighten audiences about the offensive language that enrages the spirit. “I have a young son. So, for my son to be safe when he's my age, we have to continue to push the conversation. We can't let the push to achieve justice stop because Ahmaud Arbery's murderers have been sentenced. What about everybody else?” With the movie “3 Days Leave,” the storytelling proficiency of E.W. puts audiences on the edges of their seats, cheering the achievement of justice for all.

Our goal [as filmmakers] was to create a piece that would push the dialogue forward. That is it, and that is all.--- E.W. Brooks.

How do you see yourself? I see myself as a work in progress.

I see somebody who, you know, is much like Kevin Hart, I want to know what's behind the next door, and then I want to know what's behind the door after that, what’s behind that.

Because I have a relentless work ethic, I don't know how I see myself yet. I'm not there.

What pillars set up your life's achievements? For me, it's love

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because I find that doing things from that space help make sure you’re guiding yourself with a positive intent. So yes, for me, that's the safest place to be; that's where I operate from; a place of love. So if somebody is offended, I'm sorry you're offended. What I do comes from a place of love.

How often have you had to exclude individuals from your business process in the last seven years because they didn't get what you’re trying to accomplish? Oh, wow. My brand became known through the Mafietta book over seven years ago. Then there's the long story about the court case that I just won to keep it. So this has been a seven-year journey. I’ve learned so much, and I understand now that I wouldn't be able to do what I'm doing right now without the experience.

The struggle enabled E.W. to exercise her creative muscles, propelling her wisdom to engage in higher heights in the intense struggle that prepared her to realize her higher potential. The saying “you can't cheat the hustle" is the reality E. W. lives, as revealed by the example of the trials and tribulations that forged her first movie release, “3 Days

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Leave," in the Hawaiian homefront.

What makes you most grateful? First, gratitude is waking up.

I’m like, thank you, God, that I woke up. While 2021 it was one of the best years for me professionally, I lost my father and then my uncle months later due to COVID. So gratitude is, first of all, waking up. It's like looking over, and your husband is OK. Your son is OK, then it's like, OK, I can go out there and take my moment with God and be thankful. I am grateful for my family.

The feeling on the red carpet of the "3 Days Leave" premiere was radiating energy. The cast of actors was genuinely happy to be back together to witness their work with an audience.

The movie was filmed on three consecutive days; the movie shoot had some “running and gunning, " yet the actors’ perspectives were important to the filming process. “The actors were doing their part, and they had no clue how this thing was going to come together," E.W. said. The actors trusted E.W. to represent the story in a manner that would make all involved with the process proud.

How did you find the actors for the movie “3 Days Leave”?

I'm very thankful for Hawaii Film Productions because they were exceptional in helping me get the film cast. Actually.

They did the casting for me and gave me the options. Yeah.

Oh wow. I'm sure they felt good about that too. Absolutely.

Also, they were a husband and wife team. So the wife was my director of photography, so she filmed everything, and he was one of the production managers, and it was great.

which is slated for a release with Shondrella Avery's Glass Slipper Pictures in 2022. E.W. has signed a multi-project deal with Avery's distribution company powered by the mighty Homestead Entertainment Team to bring new movie releases for years to come. Audiences can access E.W.'s movies if they text the word, MAFIETTA to 844-480.1156.

I'm a woman who likes to create content about strong women who WIN. Yes, those are the stories I want to tell.

That is the content I want to bring to the screen. –E.W.

Some people are dream chasers. Some people catch dreams. How would you describe yourself? In the beginning, for the first five years, I chased it. I chased it, and it wore me out. It wasn't turning out as I wanted, and it wore me out. I knew the vision I had in the beginning. I know what God showed me.

I understand what he showed me. I have interviews early on saying I know God showed me this would be a movie. The movie is going to be on TV. I'm saying this, but this was seven years ago. So, imagine me saying that on TV in front of people putting this out on social media in five years, and nothing happened.

But I know what I saw. I know what he told me. One day it finally happened. I don't even know how to describe how I feel.

How did you find a mentor? I once sent a message to a Celebrity Apprentice winner and asked him to be my mentor, and the man responded, “When the student is ready, the teacher appears.” I never forgot that quote. My lawyer set up a meeting that put me in the space of an entertainment business powerhouse and she has become such an inspiration. Once I met her, it was like lightning struck. She's teaching me things about the industry. Having a mentor is golden. I felt like I was stumbling in the dark for years without anyone to help me and then she just turned on the light.

E.W. is a woman with a great vision. With galeforce winds streaming under her wings, she has been lifted to the heights of her dreams. The ray of light will continue in E. W.'s next film, "Mafietta,"

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AN E . W . BR

3 DAYS 18

ROOKS FILM

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“If Foster Care is a Challenge, then those who age out is a Crisis…”

by Nanette M. Buchanan for urban sentinel The chapters in our lives are not always authored by us.

Steven Pemberton’s childhood experience as a ward of the state gives one an in-depth view of how one’s journey is often not their path of choice. The successful author, speaker, and executive reveals in his USA Today bestselling memoir, A Chance in the World. His personal experience, this unstable foundation, one built on physical and verbal abuse, and his survival has made him the highly respected man he is today. Steve Pemberton’s memoir, his extraordinary life journey has been featured in People Magazine, CBS Evening News, The Washington Post and The Today Show. The film with the same title, A Chance in the World, was adapted into film in 2018, it is currently airing on Prime Video and other networks.

Mr. Pemberton is the Chief Human Resources Officer for Workhuman, which is a leading online platform providing employees an opportunity to recognize each other. Through the program employers invest in the recognition of their employees. This creates cultural bridges, empowerment, and value within the workplace. Workhuman brings continuous performance

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development solutions, that brings humanity to the world through positive recognition in the workplace. It is no wonder how Steve’s responsibilities today would reflect the environment he longed for as a youth.

Steve has been showered with well deserved accolades.

His advocacy for the disenfranchised, dedication to public service, his personal and profession achievements have earned him Honorary Doctorates. He has created his own foundation, A Chance in the World, that specifically focuses on helping young adults who age out of the foster care system in America. He has taken the opportunity to provide scholarships to middle school students in his hometown of New Bedford, Massachusetts. Steve completed his undergraduate and graduate work at Boston College, where he also serves on The Board of Trustees. He also resides on several non-profit boards including UCAN, Loyola Academy, Boys Hope Girls Hope and DisabilityIn. Steve and his wife Tonya are the proud parents of three children.

The personal impact from the publication of his first book

brought many referrals, advocates, updated information regarding Social Service agencies, and having to navigate through the court systems, and new policies and procedures. We discussed his personal experience and though that was then, now doesn’t seem to hold many changes.

When asked, what are the differences for the youth that age-out of the Foster Care System today? The answer was an eye-opener. It was discouraging. “Very little has changed. The stress and strain on the employees, the Social Worker, the Counselors is overwhelming; and then there’s the dangers for the youth.”

Steve went on to explain the depth of the problem we, society, don’t realize until there’s undisputable evidence. Incarceration, the lack of education, homelessness, and community discord.

“If Foster care is a challenge, those aging out are a crisis.” The lack of school and home placement create an unstable environment. With those limits, the youth become rootless. “You don’t have what is needed to plant your own seeds.”

For most foster kids, the day they turn eighteen (18), they’re suddenly on their own, responsible to find a place to live, and manage their money. They become responsible for their living, support, care, and necessities. Aged out usually occurs once they’ve graduated from high school. “There is no next. Transition homes exist in some states, but most states ignore the needs of the youth that has aged out.”

The aged-out youth in the system has often survived more than one or two homes, become aware of the crisis he or she had no choice in creating, and wears societies labels.

“It becomes a generational crisis, just like prison and addiction. One either pays now or pays later. Many of the youth have skills. They dream, but they face reality and

don’t take things for granted. Speaking to their future… they just want to be normal.”

Steve was placed with an abusive family. Although the family structure; mother, father, sister, and brother existed each member abused him regularly. It was his sophomore year in high school when his life changed.

His desire to know who he was, who his parents were, and simply who did he look like were daily questions.

His reflection in the mirror couldn’t answer and his foster family wouldn’t answer his cry for identity. Although they were compensated for taking him in, he didn’t mean much more to them then that stipend.

Most foster children are labeled. They wear the labels

given to them by the system and it extends to the home.

“Labels limit and invite an idea and belief, ‘This is all you are’.” This categorizes who they are in the world. “It’s the first picture of who you are.” A child living daily in this environment wears the label and without that resilience, the survival instinct, they fall victim to becoming a negative statistic. “Expanding beyond the label behavioral label causes us and others to think we know who they are.”

Record levels today show family discord and separation have continued to climb leaving many youths to become

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need to be the lighthouse for someone else.”

part of the system, now or later.

“All resources must be partners. Private and community based as well as government agencies must work to one end. What it really means is, we must provide a vision. When that vision is seen and shown the endless possibilities can be accomplished.

“Our culture is adrift in division and distrust, and we need everyday heroes more than ever.” Steve’s newly released book, The Lighthouse Effect is based on this principle.

He shares the stories of the ordinary people who quietly change lives and bring change to their communities.

“Ordinary people can have an extraordinary impact in one’s life and the world.” Steve was touched by this effect and it changed the direction of his life.

Reading was his outlet. While being punished in the cellar he found reading would take him away from the circumstances that met him daily. He spoke of the Lighthouse Effect and I had to admit it broadened my understanding as he explained. “All around us are people whose stories and journeys are lighthouses for us. They impact us in small ways and lead us through our stages in life. It’s not always the celebrity or the family member. It may be a coach, a teacher, or our first boss. When you go through your life’s journey and you are now responsible, your past, that part of your journey is lit because of the lighthouse effects in your life. You can be a lighthouse or

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Steve found his lighthouse in Mrs. Leven, who provided him with books to read, Mr. Slyvia, his caseworker, Ms. Dolton, and Mr. Skyes who lit the way for him to receive a scholarship to Boston University through the Upward Bound program. Although they lit a way for his survival and redirection, he had to suffer through what would be his last bout of abuse. It was then that Mr. Sykes took him in until he graduated from high school and left for college. The Lighthouse Effect for Steve Pemberton was based on the vision of possibilities.

A Chance In The World Foundation supports aspiring youth in an effort to help them reach their goals. Through Steve’s miraculous story, his memoir has inspired young people to persevere, to realize they aren’t alone, and most importantly, to realize the power of possibility.

Interview: Steve Pemberton www.stevepemberton.io Writer: Nanette M Buchanan ipendesigns@gmail.com

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Manifest Your Business Breakthroughs in 2022!!

by Ambassador Dr. Anita Davis-DeFoe for urban sentinel

Without question, 2021 was a year filled with uncertainty and swift transformation in all industry sectors. A toxic political environment, a vacillating economic environment, and when you toss in issues like injustice, climate change, regulation, policing, and gun violence, business enterprises of all sizes have been impacted in some fashion. Doing business in 2022 may require new strategic pivots, or at the very least, modifications of business approaches in response to current industry disruptions.

Every entrepreneur envisions scaling and achieving ongoing business growth, so check out this list of nine strategies and replicate those that can foster achievement of your 2022 enterprise goals.

1. Are you leveraging?? - Leverage your suppliers’ new product rollouts Every distributor and business across the country has had to deal with supply chain issues with the continuation of the COVID-19 pandemic and its subsequent economic disruptions. In 2022, businesses must be aware of scarcities within the supply chain and get ahead of manufacturing and transportation challenges by working collaboratively with their suppliers.

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2. Educate and Innovate -Educate client partners on new paradigms Inform your clients and partners about changes you’re making to better benefit your business across a shifting economic landscape. Changes maybe ongoing, and if so, seek solutions and make as many modifications as deemed necessary in order to sustain and expand your business.

3. Show Me the Contract!! – Prepare for potential contracting opportunities with state and federal governments Some 4.4 million new U.S. businesses were created in 2020 according to the United States Census, the highest total on record. While business creation has soared, data is showing that a large number of companies have left the state and federal government markets. This means that opportunities for contracts may be more readily available, and strategic sourcing and category management are becoming more important business services to offer.

4. Get creative on sales and marketing opportunities The digital marketing landscape has become increasingly challenging due to congestion and evolving regulations.

Today’s business owners must be open to exploring a

variety of marketing strategies and communication channels.

5. Footprints!! Widen your business’s online footprint Widen your business footprint, as small businesses must adapt and be “practical” when it comes to sales, as consumers continue to favor online and mobile shopping. Sell your products and services using a blend of approaches.

6. Video It !! Learn video SEO strategies to rank higher on search engines Video marketing has become an integral part of a successful marketing strategy with the rise of live videos on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. It’s estimated by ServisBOT that by the end of 2022, videos will account for 82% of all consumer traffic. So every savvy entrepreneur should include video as a top marketing strategy, Small businesses that incorporate short-form videos into their website posts will see more organic traffic coming from search engines; and it is anticipated that search engine algorithms will shift to articles and posts that include short-form videos and short-form videos may even become the main point of ‘how to’ searches.”

7. Partnership Power!! Utilize partnership marketing to reach a broader audience Partnership marketing is a strategic collaboration that gives you and your partner company a chance to reach a wider audience together. Collaboration with another company can aid in the development of better marketing initiatives that benefit both companies. When the target clients are similar, pooling resources leads to better marketing techniques, and expanding audience reach.

A good place to start may be with a complimentary items or services from one company offered with a purchase from the other. Co-branding of a product or project can also boost both companies' marketing power.

has grown exponentially over the last few years and they make up a large portion of workers within the current market. This trend is expected to continue.

Small business owners will now be able to bring in more specialized freelance workers to carry out tasks without having to deal with the hiring and training costs that are often associated with recruiting a full-time employee.

With the importance of being agile in today’s economic environment , as well as the rise of remote work, skilled outsourced contractors will be key to successful business growth moving forward.

Throughout the pandemic, businesses have been dealing with “The Great Resignation” as workers are quitting their jobs at record-high rates. One of the reasons for this is that people are changing their definitions of what they consider a healthy work-life balance and what they want in a company culture.

The pandemic has shifted the way people incorporate work into their life, whether it’s moving to another state for cheaper housing or not going into the office every day and [getting] the opportunity to do remote or hybrid work So having an organizational culture strategy in place is important to foster talent retention, gig worker or full-time worker.

9. Work with micro-influencers While small businesses may be competing against larger businesses to work with online influencers, collaborating with micro-influencers is an option to consider.

Influencer marketing is becoming more popular than ever and micro-influencers are going to be the best option for small businesses because they don’t cost as much and they are more open to collaborating with small businesses too. Influencers can help your business reach specific audiences.

Layout your business strategy, identify opportunities for improvement and growth, pick strategies that support your business aims, and work to achieve your breakthrough in 2022!!

8. Consider hiring more gig workers The number of gig workers, freelancers and contractors

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The Greatestof Love Of All S P I RI T UA L NO U RI S H M E N T B RO U GH T TO YO U B Y URBAN SENTINEL AND UPSHIFT GLOBAL

by Ambassador Dr. Anita Davis DeFoe for urban sentinel While sometimes complex and even illusive, love is a tremendous gift, a mysterious blend of emotions, respect, partnership, intimacy, and commitment.

Although most of us feel uncomfortable admitting it, we all crave love. In fact, love excites our entire being as it floods our hearts with unending joy and brightens our lives with an indescribable sense of fulfillment.

Love can also be a source of pain when we lose it, when love disappoints us, when love betrays us callously.

For some of us, a love lost cripples us mentally and emotionally for a lifetime.

There are all forms of love; love for family, love for friends, love for one’s mate or significant other, and love for humanity. Generally, when we think of love and being “in love” immediately we tend to think of sharing love with another person, the giving of kindness, compassion, caring and consideration to another individual.

Learning to have healthy, loving relationships with others is indeed an important aspect of our lives, simply because relationships are a key component of the human experience in both work and play. Even still, until we experience the greatest love of all, our ability to love others is significantly impacted. Too often, we find ourselves trapped in a revolving door cycle of unhealthy relationships and constant drama that seen to show up wherever we go.

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What is the greatest love of all? It is self-love. Do not confuse self-love with selfishness or an inflated ego. In its purest state, self-love is merely the desire for personal happiness, the care and nurturing of self, the appreciation and valuing of self, the act of being as kind and accepting to yourself as you are of others.

In today’s world, there is much discussion about selfesteem; do you have any, is your self-esteem high or low, how do you repair it, even how do you define it.

Self-esteem and self-love are companions; they share a common unique space deep within our spirits.

Together, they can propel us onward in the face of life’s inevitable challenges, and in their absence, we find ourselves floundering filled with self-doubt and always filled with a feeling of inadequacy and a longing to be like others and to possess what they have accumulated.

Although through the masks that we wear, many of us project a happy image to the world, but inside we are suffering; we are miserable, we are filled with despair.

In quiet moments when we are alone, our true feelings surface, and too often these feelings are dominated by self-hatred, personal loathing, learned hopelessness.

Without self-love and self-awareness, we are without purpose, and we are constantly ambivalent. Each of us has a desire to feel confident in our abilities, to feel hopeful about achieving our dreams, and certainly to

feel personal value. If we were to be honest, we all have a deep longing to feel comfortable in our own skin.

Until a person learns to love and accept all aspects of their being, including the acknowledgement of those traits and habits that he or she would like to change, it is virtually impossible to truly give and receive love, or successfully accomplish personal goals. Without making a genuine connection with your true “self ”, it is tremendously difficult to recognize and develop your true potential. Once we take off our masks and “get real” we are better able to move forward in matters of love and life. When we fail to do this, our existence becomes filled with sadness, doubt, anger, hopelessness and eventually our spirits become so broken we waste all of our talents and our potential is lost.

Decide that you will spend just as much time getting to know and love yourself as you spend getting to know and love others. Decide to celebrate all of your personal strengths and talents and be courageous enough to work on those areas of your life you know require improvement. Decide from now on, that on a daily basis, you will relish the greatest love of all.

Decide to get to know that person whose reflection greets you in the mirror every morning. Decide to know and love yourself, for self-love is the key that unlocks the door to endless possibilities.

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Forged in the Fire THIS IS WHAT I WAS MADE FOR

by Blaise Hunter for urban sentinel Have you ever felt beaten up by the storms of life? Have you ever pleaded with God to make it stop? This is my journey of transforming from a firefighter to a mighty weapon.

My name is Blaise Hunter. I am an author, international speaker, award winning advocate, fertility expert, 2020 Women of Inspiration award nominee, mother of purpose and breaker of chains. For most of my life, I believed the lie I was unworthy and had no purpose. I allowed the fires of life to destroy me rather than strengthen me. I resented the flames and questioned why I was facing such devasting blows.

Then everything shifted when I came across a quote by Sherrilyn Kenyon. “Strength through adversity. The strongest steel is forged by the fires of hell. It is pounded and struck repeatedly before it's plunged back into the molten fire.

The fire gives it power and flexibility, and the blows give it

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strength. Those two things make the metal pliable and able to withstand every battle it's called upon to fight.”

Like a sword, this is what I had to endure to harness my power. We all have a unique destiny. When we face the fire, breakthrough begins. The flames burn away the things that no longer serve us. I needed to learn the flames weren’t there to obliterate me but rather shape me. Self-hatred was a fire I fought tirelessly. I was stuck in a pattern of emotional cutting.

Low self-esteem followed me like a lost puppy throughout my childhood and clung to me as a woman. I allowed it to chase me because deep down I believed I wasn’t good enough. I was at war with myself.

The ember of low self-worth grew into a fire of illness. I developed a disease called Churg-Strauss. For years I tried to put out the flames, but nothing could stop the wildfire inside my body. “You have an auto-immune disease, where

your body physically attacks itself.” “Do you think there’s a link with your disease and the fact that you hate yourself so much?” Those profound words made by a friend were the catalyst to me walking through the fire and becoming my own hero.

Self-hatred is gradual and eats away at your soul. There wasn’t one major event that made me feel unworthy, it was many moments built up over time. The traumas and tragedies scorched my voice and hammered away my power. I lost myself and misplaced my purpose. It all began when my house burned down when I was 17 years old. This was my first taste of the molten heat. An inferno stole the structure of my life and left me feeling unsafe. For years I would choke on the emotional smoke. I didn’t know how to deal with this traumatic event, and it started to chip away at my spirit. I was lost and needed comfort. So, I sought refuge in men who in turned abused me emotionally, mentally, and physically. Each relationship chained me more to the idea I am not loveable.

Then at 22, my dad couldn’t see his worth and decided to run from his pain. He faked his own death. He made us believe he drowned in the frigid waters. Hundreds of people scoured the shore searching for him. We dragged the river for three days before accepting he was gone. The flames grew. The most important man in my life abandoned me. This devasting event destroyed me and left me with third degree burns and ugly scars. In a twist of fate, he couldn’t go through with it.

My father returned home. Only now can I see how incredibly brave he was for coming back. However back then, we were filled with humiliation.

On the outside we were one happy family but, on the inside, we were broken. The fire of depression branded us to be social lepers. We were left to feel ashamed of a man battling his demons and faced the stigma of mental health issues. I masked up my pain and internalized it. I punished myself. I loathed the heat and resented the blows. I withdrew further from the fire. However, when we don’t deal with our emotions and learn to accept the flames, they will eventually deal with you. Two years later I developed this life-threatening disease.

The burns consumed me, and I couldn’t see through the smouldering maze. I felt if I could project perfection and mask up my agony, then I could survive it. The problem

with that mentality is, you will never thrive. Enduring the beatings, the heat, and the flames shattered me even more.

In 2013 I received a ray of hope when my baby girl was born.

She was the light that pierced the darkness and showed me what unconditional love means. God knew I needed her love to bring me to the other side of hell. I fight through the flames for her.

Three years later, I experienced my first miscarriage. Lies flooded my mind again and I thought agony was my life sentence. I spiralled into a deep depression and thought my baby girl would be better off without me. I was an unworthy woman and now an unworthy mother. Each devasting punch caused me to retreat. I still couldn’t see these blows were there to help me.

Then a defining moment changed the trajectory of my life. I went to a church meeting where a woman healing minister was going to be, and I felt drawn to go. I said a prayer to God, “If there’s any hope for my life, please God, give me a sign.”

In the middle of the service, the woman stopped and said someone was drawing on her so much she couldn’t continue.

She walked over to me and told me, “God hears your cry. He sees your pain. The tears will end. Joy will come and you will write a book about it.” That was my sign! Hope reminded me my life wasn’t over, and I still had purpose. The fire was there to build resilience and power within.

What I didn’t know is that I needed that sign of hope to carry me through more traumas and torment. I ended up having a collapsed lung while pregnant. I needed an emergency chest tube and a three-hour ambulance ride. I battled for my life and fought to keep my baby alive. My body couldn’t hang on though – another miscarriage. The flames of grief burned deep. This time was different though. Instead of resisting the firestorm, I stepped further into the blaze. This led me to write through my pain. I took those encouraging words from that minister and I birthed my book.

Another blow was about to test my commitment to resiliency yet again. While writing my book, I experienced a third miscarriage. This was my transformation. I knew I could push past the suffering and rise through the ashes. This is what I was made for. I had set out what I wanted to do.

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Even though I had struggled to birth another baby, I was not barren. I began to birth my purpose and a Heroine was born.

I realized if I hadn’t gone through all those fires, I wouldn’t have ever authored my book and rewritten my narrative.

Heroine: Embrace Your Flaws & Own Your Awesome is the ultimate love story that embodies women empowerment.

My story inspires people to draw their swords and breathe fire on this world. It shines a light on the issues women face and shares how to find freedom in the flaws. Through this remarkable message of self-love, imperfectly perfect motherhood, and fertility struggles, I demonstrate how to lean into the pain and let it become your gift to the world.

Resiliency is the greatest legacy to leave behind.

After I released the book, it became evident this was my path.

Women joined my Heroine Movement and we smashed the glass ceiling on taboo topics. I began speaking on stages around the world and in schools. Vulnerability is what connects the shred of collective experience that strengthens the line. I started out to find my purpose and it ended up becoming a movement. From my pain I birthed The Footprints Infertility & Pregnancy Loss Support Initiative. I give a voice to parents and make our angel babies count. For the first time in my life I let people see me. I let them see through me, and what they saw wasn’t perfect, but it was heroine. I have risen from the ashes and I breathe fire for me and for my daughter. I went through the fires of hell to go get the keys and free myself from the prison I was dying in. I recovered the keys to unlock the shackles holding women back. Now I break silence barriers on forbidden issues and cause positive change. I brought myself back from the dead.

I am still walking out my healing and believing for my baby, but I stand tall upon

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the ashes. My identity and my purpose were fashioned by the flames. I no longer question the blows, instead I welcome them. Because this is what I was made for. I am strength. I am swift. I am flexible. I am mighty. I choose life not death. I am Blaise Hunter.

“She laughs at fear, afraid of nothing; She does not shy away from the sword. The quiver rattles against her side, along with the flashing spear and lance. In frenzied excitement she eats up the ground; she cannot stand still when the trumpet sounds.” Job 39:22 To learn more about Blaise Hunter and her Heroine Movement, visit blaisehunter.com

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Rediscover Your Passion.

REIMAGINE YOUR WORTH

by Andrew E. Guy for urban sentinel I grew up on the Island of Jamaican, but sad to say I knew

Many of us came from broken backgrounds we haste to

little about this great place where some of the world’s fastest

forget, but struggle to erase the memories of our past. It’s that

humans are born. Even though I was born on the same soil,

part of us we are least proud of, but I’ve learned many years

breathing the same air, there were many things that were

ago that your success, your purpose and your future has a lot

different for me.

to do with where you came from, but what you ultimately become is how you see yourself in the crowd.

To begin with, I was born in a taxicab; I almost died in my mother’s womb as she once struggled to cross the busy

The crowd is the people we try to live our lives for so they

Kingston roadway. My parents left me to follow their dreams

would accept us, or what’s left of us after we’ve been trodden

of creating a better life for me and my siblings when I was

under the foot of those who are clueless of the greatness

only six years old. I grew up in foster care, struggled to find

that lies within us. I often considered myself in the likes of

myself, my worth, my identity and almost gave up hope.

Joseph from the bible. Not because of hurt as the hands of “not-knowing” brothers, but as a result of the struggles I

I was considered as dumb as a doornail, so I told myself after

endured. But regardless of your place of birth on earth, I want

many times being told by others that I would never amount

to encourage you that the greatest part of you came from a

to anything good. I could not read; I was as illiterate as they

Creator that knows you better than those who hurt you.

came. Didn’t have a clue about reading until I was almost 14 years old. I did not receive much formal education in

Be encouraged, keep hope alive because having a vision of

my early years; sometimes one day, if I were lucky, I would

who you could one day become will ignite a mission in your

get to attend school. The rest of my time was spent, missing

heart that becomes your lifeline. I’m always reminded that

my parents, praying they would one day return and take me

dreamers never die, only people without a vision do!

away to be with them.

After many years of waiting and praying, my mother did School was not a priority, and even though I seldom grazed

fulfill her dreams, returned to the island and took all six of

the doorway of a classroom, most of my time was spent doing

her children and immigrated to Canada. I’ve learned a lot

endless choirs around the yard: touting firewood, hauling

from my mother; she became the MOSES to our family.

water, even when it rained. But while these many reflections

Many times, mom would sit me down and explain how time

may sound like complaints, they are not; these tracks of my

is all we have on earth, but God owns the clock, and nothing

past are only a living testimony of the Grace of God, his

happens until he says so. Be strong; hang in there; weather the

Divine Purpose for my life and his faithfulness to complete

storms regardless of how hard the wind blows; forgive more

what he’s started...a great work in me.

than you forget, because forgiveness is the key allows you to forget the hurts of the past, so you can enjoy the present and

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use it to prepare for your future. She would say, spend time talking to God, and he will answer you in time. He may not come when you want it, but he always comes when you need him.

Mom...wow! She was my rock until I discovered that the same strength that was inside her was also in me. Mom took us from a place of bondage and brought us to a place of opportunity, Canada. Ever since, I’ve spent my life empowering everyone I know to NEVER ALLOW THEIR PAST TO HINDER THEIR FUTURE. My message to any who struggles with their past life and setbacks is to FACE IT, FIX IT, GET READY FOR IT! Too many times we allowed our past to blight our present and terminate our future. It doesn’t matter how ugly your past is--FACE IT! LOOK AT IT! OWN IT! THANK GOD FOR IT! Because every bit of your dark days is part of the making of your brighter nights. Don’t allow your gaze in the rear-view mirror of your past to distract you from the present opportunities in your windshield. SO, FIX IT OR IT WILL BREAK YOU! Next, stop wasting time being terrified of the unknown, PREPARE YOURSELF AND GET READY FOR IT. Times spent can never be regained, so spend it wisely.

My life is no bed of roses. Not even to the stretch of the imagination. I have experienced a lot of pain growing up, and I was so determined that one day, if given the opportunity I would use my life to bring hope to the hopeless, joy to the sad, laughter to the broken, inspiration to the doubtful, motivation to the demotivated and empowerment to the weak.

After immigrating to Canada, I struggled with reading, literacy, math, every subject you could think of, I was terrible at it. I was so bad that I spent most of my time in the school library learning how to sound letters and recognize phrases and patterns. I managed to graduate after many hours, days, months and years of frustration.

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To motivate myself I started watching comedy and anything

show was a big hit. But again, I noticed something peculiar.

that would make me laugh. I became very interested in

The same sort of thing that happens after the shows at

stand-up comedy and started taking classes at Yuk Yuks

YUK YUKS in Toronto, Canada! After every show since

comedy club with Canada’s funny man, Kenny Robinson. I

then I was driven to give a pep talk to the audience before

had a desire to learn and caught on very fast.

they leave the auditorium, and the subject of passion kept coming up.

It wasn’t long after Kenny and the Yuk Yuks staff noticed my natural ability to connect with people on stage, which

It wasn’t long after that I started doing speaking

led to me joining the “NUBIAN DISCIPLES OF PRYOR”

engagements at high schools, churches, community events

comedy team. A group of young Afrocentric comedians

and I was even invited to speak for the Mayor. Horace G.

bringing joy to visitors at Yuk Yuks one Sunday of every

Shipp of Texarkana. Many of my peers, including Mr. Stuart

month. I was fortunate to perform with greats like Tommy

encouraged me to start doing more talks to help encourage

Davidson, Russell Peters, Kenny Robinson, John Paul, and

others.

many others.

I took their advice, but I started noticing other qualities, Soon, my life changed. I started noticing that after doing

like leadership, delegation, management, negotiation,

stand-up, that most people, especially my JAMAICAN

motivation and the ability to lead a team of people. This

PEOPLE, would laugh until their bellies ``BURST”, a term

led to me running for the student body president, of which

people from the island used to express when something or

I was awarded president of the year, and most outstanding

someone is very funny and tickled their funny bone until

student leader of merit. A very prestigious award, especially

tears roll from their eye. By the way, JAMAICANS really

for international students.

know how to laugh. We put everything into a good cackle!

The change came when I looked around after the uproar of

My passion to inspire others took on a new platform. My

echoing laughers and the celebration came to a halt, people

dream of making a difference took roots and my passion

sort of--slipped back into their regular routine after the

for public speaking was ignited.

dose of laughs wore off and the lights turned off.

I came a long way from that six-year-old boy who was hopeless. Today I am the husband of a beautiful bombshell

I enjoyed every bit of the comedy life, and even came close

Bahamian Queen, the father of two amazing boys, a

to making it on the David Letterman Show. That’s a long

professionally certified science educator and teacher of the

story, I’ll have to tell you about that one day. But since

year recipient. Learn more and connect with Andrew Guy

we’re talking about it, I also made it to the finals in the

at the following links!urban SEntin

“SHOWTIME AT THE APOLLO” contest in Shreveport, LA., when I was attending University in Arkansas. But it is after embarking on my journey to pursuing a higher

WHO'S THIS GUY?

education that I realized who I was, what I was good at and

MY TEDX TALK (As We Grow Up)

my place on earth.

FACEBOOK (Follow my adventure) TWITTER

I attended Southern Arkansas University and during my

(Follow my tweets)

INSTAGRAM (In the now)

tenure as a Medical Biology student, I was granted an opportunity to do a comedy show for Mr. Cledis Stuart

WHERE I HANG OUT

for the university’s Multicultural Service Department. The

www.andrewguyspeaks.com

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THE GOWNS LITT WITH CELEBRI

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TLE GIRLS DREAM OF RITY DESIGNER

Travian Vann

I am Travian Vann, owner of Travian Vann Bridal, where we create our gowns in-house. I am a Fashion Designer specializing in bespoke bridal. My bridal boutique and workshop are located in Hampton, VA. I create dream gowns and I absolutely love what I do! My future brides come to me for one-of-a-kind gowns that they cannot find in a bridal boutique. (They can’t because I haven't created them yet!) I make sure the bride's look is complete from head to toe by creating veils, designing, or supplying accessories and styling assistance with the bridal shoe. I also have a sister company that I work with, W Bridesmaids & Alterations, owned by Jennifer Wells.

Together, we create the perfect custom designs for the bride and her bridal party.

As a woman, it can be very hard to move around in a career field that is run predominantly by men. As an African American woman, I face an even greater challenge. It is an awesome feeling to be one of the women to help change that narrative.

I've been fortunate enough to dress a few clients for the red carpets like Erica Campbell, Iyanla Vanzant, Jazmine Sullivan, SWV, Sasha Banks, and few other celebrities. To see my work in magazines, on TV, and noticeable social media platforms was unbelievable. My bridal designs have also been featured on large platforms like Essence, Munaluchi Bridal, The B Collective, Weddings on Point, and Bride 1998.

I'm a self-taught designer, that has invested in years of studies abroad to become an expert. I am also an illustrator which is the part that my clients love! It’s one thing for someone to give you a verbal explanation, but the ability to see the vision is what gives the bride to be a lot of excitement!

My ideal client seeks to be the center of attention on her day. My client loves to be unique and has an open mind to fashion. My client trusts my judgment as a professional.

My clients love to feel great while looking great!

Fashion has always been a love of mine since a child.

Fashion came so easy to me from my father's side. They're known for being stylish. As a teen, I knew that I wanted to be in the fashion industry, but it took me to the age of 30 to realize that being a fashion designer was my calling.

Growing up in Virginia, the options to advance in a fashion field were slim to none. Most people who loved fashion as equally as I, moved away to areas that were known for fashion or had areas that were more likely to open doors.

I guess I wanted to prove to myself that I had what it takes to create in a dormant fashion area. I opened my first boutique in 2010 in a flea market. From there, I co-owned a brick and motor location. Soon after in 2012, I started my journey as a fashion designer. I haven't looked back. I do what I love while giving some hope to people who are seeking a career in fashion while living in Virginia.

The best piece of advice I can give is to never let age define your timeline of success. Here I was almost 30 years old with no degree and with student loans starting a career in something that most people around me said would never work out in Virginia. It’s almost eight years since I first laid my hands on a sewing machine.

I am on all social platforms as Travian Vann/@travianvann.

Our website is www.travianvann.com where you can find out more about the brand.

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Clarity, Awareness, And Excellence:

Meet Lori Gentles

Author of OhSLAP! MyChoicesDetermineMyDestiny!: The#1Guideto MakingBetter DecisionsandLivingaSelf EmpoweredLife

by Lori Gentles for urban sentinel Have you ever been overwhelmed by your circumstances and felt there was nothing you could do about it? Have you ever struggled with saying no, even when you knew you should? If you’ve answered yes to either of those, it’s time to reevaluate some things and author Lori Gentles is here to show you the way. I recently had the pleasure of talking with Lori about the release of her new book, Oh SLAP! My Choices Determine My Destiny!: The #1 Guide to Making Better Decisions and Living a Self Empowered Life, and she shared some very powerful gems.

Born the seventh of eight children, Lori’s grandmother knew there was magic in the number seven and she always assured Lori that she was destined to do great things. Now, Lori hopes to take that same confidence that was instilled in her and pass it on to others. Although she never fancied herself a writer, the universe clearly had other plans.

In her book, Lori offers a pathway to a more confident and empowered life. With more than 15 years of human resources experiences, Lori is no stranger to helping people work through various conflicts and other issues. As a result, she has a unique point of view and she’s ready to share it with the world.

Lori is a big believer in the importance of perspective, and she feels that one of the first steps to “living a self empowered life” starts with seeing yourself as a victor instead of a victim.

She wants people to know that “with every breath, they are making a choice. And it's that kind of clarity, that I'm trying to convey”. Oh SLAP! aims to assist readers in building confidence by teaching them to understand the power of choice.

The book is the true definition of a labor of love, and Lori has filled its pages with life changing information. Through her writing, Lori hopes to help people identify what she calls “slap moments”. By her own definition a slap moment is “a moment of sobering clarity, awareness and excellence.”

Essentially, these wake up calls serve as turning points to make people realize that it’s time to make a change.

While it can be easy to feel like your circumstances have limited your possibilities, Lori wants her audience to know that nothing is ever out of reach. If you’re unhappy with your situation, you have the ability to work towards improving it. Sure, you may not be able to accomplish your goals overnight, but progress is always the key. Lori likens these moments to a game of chess in which every small move gets you closer to your ultimate goal. In fact, this analogy reminds her of a saying taught to her by a former coach: “inch by inch everything’s a cinch, yard by yard, everything is hard.”

Oh SLAP! was written to help people of all ages and all walks of life. Even if confidence and decision making aren’t things you struggle with, there is still something you can learn from reading the book. Lori says, “If we can get people to [move] even one degree in their behavior towards the positive, the collective benefit will be exponential. Let’s all do our part to change the world; to contribute to the betterment of the world. If we can get people to do that through reading the book...then we’re doing a wonderful thing.”

With all of the self help books on the market, some people may be wondering ‘what’s so special about this one?’ That’s easy. All of the advice Lori offers in Oh SLAP! is advice she’s already utilized in her own life - and it’s worked. In fact,

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Lori even reads the book from time to time when she needs some guidance. Not only is Lori’s voice refreshing, but her insight is truly enlightening. She understands how hard life can be, but she also understands that positive change is always possible.

When asked if there’s anything she wants to leave readers with, Lori simply said “keep moving forward, you’re never

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stuck”.

Oh SLAP! My Choices Determine My Destiny!: The #1 Guide to Making Better Decisions and Living a Self Empowered Life is currently available on Amazon and all other major book retailers. Lori can be found on Instagram @weareichoice or on her webpage at www.thechoicescompany.com.

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New DVD for New Year 2022

by Claudia Newby-Tynes for urban sentinel A New Year...a new month...a new you! February is the second month of 2022, and every year, month, and day counts. As the flames of excitement are ignited for my NEW adventurous encounters, the glow emanates all over me too (see photo). I am indeed excited and intrigued to enter into 2022. What about you? There is nothing more exciting and intriguing than creating and writing a new movie script or a new book and adding new scripts and chapters yet to evolve from your life’s journey.

Well, have I got some good news for you! Here is a new prescription for creating your new DVD. Access is now granted for you to create (write, rewrite, edit, view and produce) your DVD. I am also reminded that scripture teaches us that our expectations come from God only (Psalm 62:5).

So what does DVD means in layman's terms? According to the Oxford Languages, a DVD is a type of compact disc able to store large amounts of data, especially high resolution audiovisual materials. The abbreviated form stands for digital versatile disc or digital video disc.

But my desire is to show you a new angle for DVD. The acronym for this DVD stands for: Direction Vision Destiny Aha! Are you getting it now? This new angle will give you the alignment needed and spiritual insight to move forward when God says move.

A new year creates a new you! But there is a caveat: you have some work to do too. Didn't God say in Isaiah 43:19,"Behold (look), I am doing a new thing; now it shall spring forth, do you not perceive it?" The Word really works, but we have to work the word with our faith. My question to you is, "Will you let it work for your life?"

Now what does a DVD has to do with you? And what kind of data or materials will you store on it for others to see? I 44

am so glad you posed these questions. But let me ask you, "Did you set goals and objectives for Year 2022? Are you still moving towards accomplishing those goals you have set? Or have you given up already because the work and time needed to accomplish them are just too hard; and the climatic conditions are chaotic and toxic?

I encourage you for 2022, you will have no more delays, and you will have no more excuses. So go full speed ahead; move forward. Why? Because God got you! This article will serve a reminder for you to keep moving towards accomplishing the goals and objectives you have set because God has already predestined and orchestrated some divine plans for you in this New Year. When you align your plans with His plans, He promises to give you the desires of your heart.

February is one of my favorite months. We celebrate February 14th, Valentine's Day (for lovers); and February 27th, that’s our 51st Wedding Anniversary (our personal lover's day).

We had a blast celebrating our 50th Wedding Anniversary in 2021, even in the midst of the pandemic. Many thought (including me) that this pandemic era would have been over; but it's still wreaking havoc globally. But I'm so thankful because Abba is omnipresent (His presence fills every space).

He is never caught off guard about nothing. Everything He has planned for us will manifest in His timing. He has not changed nor will He change. He is the same yesterday, today and forever.

If you are willing and obedient to move forth using these three key biblical components for creating and producing your own DVD, you will see His plans manifest before your own eyes in 2022.

• Divine Direction - (Hear) - I like this quote by Jimmy Dean, “I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.”

Before moving forth on any assignment or travel, you will need directions from where you are to get to your destination.

Have directions will travel. There are many voices speaking, so it’s vital that you know whose voice you are listening to.

The still small voice you hear in your spirit is not the loud, screaming and demanding noise from the outside. This still small voice will align with the Word. Here are some scripture to steer you on the right (write) path.

Proverbs 3:3-5 says, "Trust in the Lord with all of your heart and lean not unto your own understanding.

In all of thy ways, acknowledge Him, He will direct your path."

• Vision (See before you see) - In order to move forth in the things naturally or spiritually, you will need natural and spiritual vision to see where you are going. Going forth with impaired vision will take you way off course and endanger your life too.

But spiritual vision, with clarity and perfect vision, is purposed by God. Remember what we see with our physical eye is temporary. But those things we cannot see physically are permanent (eternal), and are seen through our eyes of faith in the promises of the Word of God. Every promise He has made to us, in Him, are “Yes” and “Amen.” You can take His Word to the bank.

Psalm 32:8, "I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you." (NIV) • Destiny (Obey as you Go) - God has a divine purpose and destiny for us as believers. We were predestined in Him before we were formed in the womb, even before the foundations of the world.

Will you say, “Yes” to His will and His way? Will you say, “Here I am Lord, send me?”

Jeremiah 29:11, He knows the thoughts and plans He has for you and me.

Isaiah 55:8, God’s thoughts are not our thoughts.

His thoughts are so much higher than ours.

Will you take this challenge with me? Will you take full advantage of this new and fresh start for 2022?

You have a blank script or blank computer page or blank pad with pen in hand before you. Now is your time to create and produce new memories as the Master Planner gives you divine directions perfect 2022 vision (this is not a mistake) to reach your destiny.

Kingdom Blessings on creating, writing, and producing your DVD in 2022!

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Shining A Light

IN DIFFICULT TIMES

by Arlette Thomas -Fletcher for urban sentinel 690 million people globally are undernourished. That means that many people are finding it difficult to get food for their families. According to the Gallup survey in 146 countries, 13% of adults worldwide rated their lives poorly enough to be considered suffering in 2011 which was pre-pandemic.

No one knows how the devastation of our recent times is affecting every family all over the world. Often, we are being impacted by individuals in the workplace and home and feel like we have nowhere to turn. Many times, we find ourselves being misunderstood by others who have not walked in our shoes to understand our difficulties. Nevertheless, we have not walked in their shoes either to see the complexity of their life.

Frequently, there is a divide in the comprehension of individuals conveyance of communication and their intentions. How many times have you given your all to something to only have someone come along and destruct it, rebuilding it to something totally different than what they asked for? Occasionally, we find ourselves whirling around in our own world because people do not know what they want or how to convey it to others. On the other hand, our voice 46

is crushed and not heard since there is no one open to listen to our version of a task. It is difficult for people that consider themselves to be right always to understand that we all have imperfections. So, when we find that we are hitting a wall, we must determine how to move over or around it to find the solution.

I am a Christian and a person of strong faith. So, when I am dealing with difficulty, I look to the heavens for my guidance. It is through prayer and guidance from God that I make it through hard days and nights. Sometimes, the days are grueling for some of us as we find pushy difficult people who seem to be focusing on their own lives and not thinking about others. I understand that at times, there appears to be a weight on us, and we feel like we are pushing a truck up a hill with the break on.

Many of us are not in a good place with family members, so we do not have the support system of turning to a loved one for assistance when we are hurting. I challenge you today to bend your heart down and pray to God. I know everyone is not a person of faith, so I compel you to look inside yourself

to find a positive thought or moment that happened before brokenness entered your life. If you have no reflection, then I charge you to go seek counseling or help. Humans need to have coping techniques to deal with injury. When you injure your body, you go to the doctor for a diagnosis and to receive medication.

out to the Black Mental Health Network can also help with counseling that may be needed. Lashing out is not the answer to any problem and does not bring peace. Solitude comes from quieting the pain from within and accepting assistance to cope. As the world around us continues to challenge us, we grow strong in how we function in it if we accept support.

Therefore, when you are hurt emotionally or spiritually, healing is still necessary. Statistics show that there are so many people walking around us that can explode at any time.

If you look at the violence and anger in our world, you can see a connection to hurting humans and the need for a light to shine on them during these difficult times. Where does that light come from? For me, my light comes from my savior and my spiritual relationship. It is imperative that we all have a positive coping technique to deal with our problems. No man is an island, so we all will break eventually. Whether you are the head of your household or you are by yourself, it is essential that we all have someone to vent to from time to time when things fall apart. There is no harm in reaching out for help when you need it. You may still find that times are difficult but how you deal with them will change the impact they have on you.

Reference: https://www.actionagainsthunger.org/world-hungerfacts-statistics#:~:text=The%20proportion%20of%20 under nour ished%20p eople,million%20p eople%20 globally%20are%20undernourished.

Reference: https://news.gallup.com/poll/153869/one-sufferingworldwide.aspx

Resources for Help: https://www.opencounseling.com/public-mental-health-md https://blackmentalhealth.com/ https://dhs.maryland.gov/tag/homeless-and-hungry/

There are services available to assist with difficulties in Maryland. Contacting your local Department of Human Services can guide you to assistance that you need. Reaching

For More Information about Arlette Thomas-Fletcher go to https://www.arlettethomasfletcher.com/

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Reverend Rose H. McCall

AND THE LIFE OF PAGEANTRY

by Syreeta Gunn for urban sentinel Reverend Rose H. McCall, a native of Montgomery, Alabama, is Miss Alabama Senior America 2020 - 2021. Rev. Rose McCall, who is the granddaughter of a preacher and the only one in her family currently in ministry. She is also a writer, pageant coach and has been a pageant judge for almost 31 years, having judged more than 150 pageants at the local, State and National levels including the Miss America System.

This October 2021, Rev. Rose will compete at the National Senior America pageant in Atlantic City, New Jersey. She will be 67 in March and says “new experiences are always around the corner.”

"You can't teach what you don't know.” ~Rev, Rose H. McCall Rev. Rose stated that competition became the turning point in giving her students a view from the other side of the stage.

After working with a young lady for more than 3 years in the Miss Alabama program many years ago. Her student turned to her mid conversation, as they were discussing the student’s upcoming pageant. She said, "Miss Rose, you've never been on stage so you have no idea what it's like." Although through their work together the student had become the 4th runnerup at the State pageant and won several local titles, Rev. Rose knew that her student was right. That's when Rev. Rose began looking for pageant opportunities. In 2003, she earned her first major title as Ms. Plus America and hasn’t looked back since.

Rev, Rose remembers at the age of 50, when she decided to try her hand at pageants, opportunities were very hard to find. Most pageants were requiring her to be 60 years of age.

“Today, neither age nor size are a factor,” states Rev. Rose, reflecting on the progress in pageantry culture. Rev. Rose,

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who is a plus size woman, spoke of how in the early 2000’s it was normal to see very skinny women competing. Over the last few years the body types have evolved and become more inclusive. Rev. Rose credits this success to women becoming more vocal about the pageants over the last few years, and she is excited that there are now more opportunities in pageantry.

Rev. Rose is currently preparing for the National Ms. Senior America Pageant, typically held in October in Atlantic City, NJ. The Ms. Senior America Pageant, which has been around for 42 years, is the world's first and foremost pageant to emphasize and give honor to women who have reached the "Age of Elegance." It is a search for the gracious lady who best exemplifies the dignity, maturity and inner beauty of all senior Americans. According to the Ms. Senior America website, their philosophy is based upon the belief that seniors are the foundation of America, and our most valuable treasure. It is upon their knowledge, experience, and resources that the younger generation has the opportunity to build a better society. This October will be the first virtual Ms. Senior America Pageant in 42 years. While others are concerned about the virtual pageant, Rev. Rose is excited. “As a pageant holder, you are the face for the organization, '' says Rev. Rose, who jokingly referred to herself the Quarantine Queen. However, she takes her title very seriously and has kept in contact with state organizations and continues to build rapport with pageant sisters during the pandemic. As a result of remaining connected, she says it has become more like a sisterhood.

Rev. Rose, who has arthritis, says she maintains a diet and exercise regimen to prepare for the Ms. Senior America Pageant. She drinks only water and herbal tea, eats by 7:00pm,

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and walks at least 800 steps daily. She also joked about her “5 lb. Pageant Notebook” that she has created to stay organized.

She says this notebook has everything pageant related in it. From her entry forms, resume, to the research that she has collected, Rev. Rose prides herself on documenting everything. She believes that this is essential because it helps her bridge the gap between where she is and where she needs to go.

When Rev Rose was asked “what will earning the title Ms. Senior America means to you,” she sincerely spoke of how only 2 black women have ever won this pageant, and that the last time was in the 90's. She says winning means representing her community and representing Alabama, a state with lots of history. She believes winning would allow even more new doors to open, allowing her to represent the state of Alabama, as well as the nation.

What will you do with your platform once you win the title?

Rev, Rose, Ms Alabama Senior America 2020 - 2021 says that she would use her platform, entitled “Nowhere to Live,”

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to address homelessness in America. She states that in Alabama there are dilapidated homes, and foreclosures, which could be used for the homeless. Knowing this, she inspires to help women with children find suitable housing. The Lynching Memorial, a national memorial that honors Black victims of lynching in the United States, which is also formally known as the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, is within walking distance of the 1900’s homes that are now dilapidated, says Rev. Rose. She goes on to explain that lots of revenue is in that area but isn’t being funneled to the community that lives there.

Rev. Rose shared that her family, like many others, was a victim of the Eisenhower Highway Project that forced them to move in 1967. Black families were given very little money in exchange for their homes.

She is very passionate about finding places where people can live and although her efforts have been on hold due to the pandemic, she hopes to partner with Habitat for Humanity in the near future.

Rev. Rose hosts a Podcast twice a week called Pageant Journeys w/ Alabama Sr. America 2020 - 2021. During her show, she speaks candidly about pageantry and discusses its role as a multi-billion dollar business. She offers this advice to women seeking a pageantry title. “Regardless of your age, look into the pageants before you step into it and research it thoroughly.” Rose adds that “seniors [should] check out all senior pageants for requirements [and] consider wardrobe, Judge interviews, and stage presentation.”

“This is not a hobby, it’s [about] teaching yourself and others and opening the doors for other women also.”

“You can become famous from pageants,” but Rev. Rose McCall reminds us that “patience is important, you may not win at first.” In closing, she says “it’s not the crown on your head, but the crown in your heart, Christ is the crown. As

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EVERY NOW

AND AGAIN

by Author Carol Gee for urban sentinel

Forty-seven years ago, as an F15E Strike Eagle airplane took off from the base flight line, the sound rattled the stainedglass windows in the base chapel. Standing at the altar, two young military airmen, pledged “to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, in sickness and in health.” That couple was Ronnie and I. Growing up, I adored fairy tales. Those tales were as far from my life as a little, inner-city girl with brown skin, and two thick braids as they could be. Now, here I was with my own, real-life prince, about to embark on our very own “happily ever after.”

In those fairy tales, my prince would be tall, dark, and handsome. With his caramel complexion and beautiful hazel eyes, my hubby is certainly that. As a hopeless romantic, I imagined my prince would also be romantic. As a big talker, I envisioned all the great conversations the two of us would enjoy.

Bit by bit, my fairy tale started to lose its luster.

That’s when it hit me— that there were tons of things that I would learn about my new husband.

Was he romantic? My idea of newlywed romantic gestures leaned toward chocolate bonbons, perfume,

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and lace camisoles. Our first Christmas together, he gave me a four-slice toaster that was professionally wrapped and topped off by a huge, red bow.

“Baby, you know that we received three toasters as wedding gifts, right?” I asked. (Seriously, how much toast did folks think we ate)?

“But honey, this particular one is better because you can toast four slices of bread at one time instead of just two,” he said, his hazel eyes flashing his excitement. Aww, he thought he was making things easier for me. How could that be wrong?

Two months later on my birthday, he bought me a mixer. A Sunbeam, which was top of the line back then. Three days later on Valentine’s Day, he gifted me an electric can opener.

This time I held my tongue, promising myself that I wouldn't say anything until my kitchen appliances were complete.

After all, you know what they say: blenders are like men. You always feel that you need one; you just don't know why.

"To have and to hold from this day forward" can still be quite challenging, no matter how complete your line of kitchen appliances is. Our first year was spent getting to know each other and learning to live together harmoniously. It also included relocating to a new military base and all that entailed.

Then, I discovered that my new, husband was not a talker.

How had this been missed when we were dating? I pondered.

Oddly enough, it wasn’t a deal-breaker. Despite, our differences, the two of us were in it “for better or for worse.”

The two of us coasted down the highway of life, fairly unscathed. One year passed, then ten, and then twenty.

Around year twenty-five, “in sickness and in health” suddenly, reared its ugly head, with the first of what would end up being two heart attacks.

“Blip, blip, blip!” The sound of the machines keeping him alive seemingly reverberated throughout my entire body.

Underneath the tangle of tubes and wires, and oblivious to

everything around him, my husband slept.

“Myocardial infarction,” the doctor said, walking into the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit with my husband’s chart in his hand. “A heart attack,” he clarified, noticing my confused expression.

“How old is your husband?” The doctor asked, glancing at the chart as if to see if it was written down someplace, among all the other medical notes.

“He is 44,” I responded, thinking that was way too young for something so serious to have happened. Standing by, I felt helpless: a feeling that I absolutely detested. Unknowingly, that very same feeling would be repeated over and over, throughout the years.

The past twenty-eight years, one illness or another, has been my spouse's constant companions. Throughout those years, I’ve been an interpreter of every illness since, recounting them in minute details to doctors, nurses, and everyone who needed to know about them. They included heart attack number two which required quadruple bi-pass surgery, a mini-stroke, and diabetes.

All of this caused me to momentarily rage at God and ponder angrily why these health issues kept happening to such a lovely man. Admittedly, I’ve wanted to scream at the top of my lungs; break something! Then, just like that, my fury lost most of its heat.

If I have learned anything, it’s that heart attacks don’t discriminate by age, nor gender. That strokes–mini or fullblown–do not discriminate by gender, race, or class. Nor does diabetes care whether you are politically aware or even politically correct.

Every time I’ve waited in the “Family” waiting room of Emory University Hospital, where my husband was also employed, I’ve felt like Alice tumbling down the rabbit hole: frightened and because I’m his only family, alone. Many nights as

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my husband slept fitfully in his little man-cave across the hall, because he was in pain, or couldn’t get comfortable, I burrowed deeply into the mattress of our marital bed, finally, letting fall the tears that I’d kept at bay during the day.

“If there ever comes a time that caring for me gets too much for you, you can just put me someplace. It would be alright,” Ronnie remarked one day. Every time I recall this, tears fill my eyes.

Wishing to protect him from having to endure what was to come, every time we’d had to deal with a health crisis, sadly, the only thing I could do was pledge that we would get through this one the same way we had gotten through all the others. Alas, Scripture tells us, “The Good Lord does not put more on us than we can handle.” Yet, sometimes I’ve wondered if that was true. Still, whenever my mind touches on that place inside me where fear constantly lives, I realize that I wouldn’t be the wife, the partner, or even the person that I am today, without these seasons in our lives.

I will always be a romantic. Do I still wish that Ronnie were more so? Yes. A few rose petals thrown around the bedroom, a few candles, what’s not to like? Then, one day it finally dawned on me that perhaps I was looking at romance the wrong way. You know, making it about grand gestures and things that required lots of work, which often meant time and/or money. Who needed that, right? Seriously? Frankly, I do.

In truth, over the years, I’ve discovered romantic gestures frequently comes in the form of a loving act. Like when one of my kitties had to be put to sleep, causing me to cry so much, Ronnie contacted our vet to see if he knew of any needing a home. Hearing about one, he drove several miles in a brand-new city to get it for me.

As such, through the years, I have fallen more and more in love with Ronnie. This realization, when it came, was similar to shrapnel penetrating my chest. Although, maybe not the scintillating conversationalist I once dreamed of, we have

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somehow learned a way to communicate that is uniquely ours.

“Give me your hand,” he says, reaching for it as we start to cross a busy street. That he sometimes holds it for a few minutes longer than necessary before relinquishing it, does funny things to my foolish, girlish heart. Silly? Perhaps.

Special? Definitely!

Much like my husband and me, our marriage is also perfectly imperfect. However, it makes me cherish it even more. Yes, while his on-going health challenges impact us, they have also strengthened our bond. They have also strengthened our resolve to live as full a life together as possible.

Today, my husband’s health is stable. For that, I’m extremely grateful. As for the next health crisis? Well, I have faith that we’ll weather whatever comes along. Both retired, military veterans—warriors, we warriors fight.

Long ago, I realized life does not come with guarantees. As I look forward to the rest of our journey together, I now know the secret to “happily ever after.” It’s despite his health challenges, I still have my husband.

At night, as I lay my weary,= head down, where beside me my husband starts to snore, a feeling of peace surrounds me that’s all-encompassing. I realize that I’m truly happy. That much like miracles, every now and again, a real-life, fairy tale comes along.

Carol Gee, M.A., a retired education administrator, is the author of the “girlfriend” series of books of which Random Notes (About Life, “Stuff” And Finally Learning To Exhale) is her most recent. See www.VenusChronicles.net for more information.

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Sisters in Music

A COLLECTIVE SISTERHOOD EMPOWERING WOMAN

by C. NaTasha Richburg for urban sentinel Nicki Kris and Natalie Jean are co-founders of Sisters In Music (SIM), an organization with a mission to promote a collective sisterhood empowering woman and the men who support them through collaborative musical works, performances, radio play, interviews, and educational opportunities. They believe in an inclusive and supportive environment one, where all voices are welcome. We believe we are better together. We're passionate about advocating for each other.

SIM support and inspire one another by helping to lift our community with promotion and performance opportunities, education, advice, connections and encouragement.

"Together We Are Stronger" isn't just a buzzword for us, it's the real thing. This introduction of its members reflects the positive energy of women positioned to present music to the world. Website: www.sistersinmusic.org

Anaya Kunst (Anaya Music) is a New Age Music composer and MultiAwardWinning Artist (MSc, Ph.D., PostDoctor) Filmmaker, Producer, Recording artist, and Author. Anaya is passionate about elevating the human spirit through the power of music and visuals with the universal Vibration of Love and Peace. She is a GRAMMY® and ASCAP voting member.

An accomplished and MultiAwardWinning composer, performer, producer, recording artist, and filmmaker, Anaya passionately expresses her spirituality with the influence of her roots through music, art, and poetry. Her style truly captures music's soothing, inspiring, and energizing essence, which delivers a stellar synthesis of genres such as New Age, Electronic-ambient, and Melodic soul music. Her musical journey began on guitar and piano, which led to many years of dedication to studying, composing, and producing her albums. Her remarkable artistry is always full of musically harmonic magic that is appreciated on a purely visceral, emotional level and in spiritual ways that no words can adequately capture.

Anaya is a multi-talented professional with a Post Doctorate in leadership (Syracuse University, USA) and a Ph.D. in Information Technologies (Loughborough University of Technology, England) Anaya Music has become a powerful voice in New Age music. Listen to her music, and that will show you why.

Why do you love being a musician?

I love to be a musician because music directs me straight to love vibration. That is my spiritual Path.

Website: www.anayamusic.com Filmmaker | Album Rising Sun | Twitter | Facebook | Pandora | SoundCloud | Instagram | Spotify

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Elena Gilliam Elena Gilliam is a self-professed late bloomer, has become a celebrated extraordinary jazz vocalist.

Elena polished her remarkable vocal style over the years. She found her spotlight in countless local venues, events, and festivals, such as; The SoCal Jazz Festival, the Hyatt Newporter Jazz Festival, the KKJZ 88.1 Jazz and Blues Sunday Brunch at the Hollywood Lowes, Spaghettini Grill & Jazz Club, The Lighthouse Café, the Festival of the Arts Laguna Beach and most recently at Steamers Jazz at Jax Artist Showcases in Newport Beach, CA. Elena's recording career varied widely. From Big Band arrangements to private producers and her first CD in 2008 with her gifted husband, guitarist George Gilliam. Moments in Time with the George Gilliam Quartet was a "swinging" expression of their unique musical journey. After ten years, she released "Then Another Turns," with the powerhouse of vocal expression. The release includes remarkable standards with fresh arrangements and a turn at a Bessie Smith Blues.

Elena truly believes that performing nurtured and empowered her character and strives to help teenagers and adults needing a positive focus. In 2013, after being awarded the Kenneth A. Picerne Foundation Artist Outreach Project Grant, she subsidized her volunteering efforts. Elena developed and instructed performance workshops. She also promotes young jazz artists and bridges the generations with an annual jazz concert, "Young Lions of Jazz." Most recently, as a faculty member of SoCal Jazz Academy in Orange County, CA, she proudly works with students of all ages. Elena is just hitting her stride as she reaches unbelievable new heights of lyrical expression. Her strong following relishes her natural style, versatility, and energy.

Elena's the "genuine article," the "real deal," as lauded by fans and fellow musicians! Your heart will embrace her beautiful sound and endearing spirituality.

Website: www.elenagilliam.com Instagram

Lisa Jeanette Lisa Jeanette is a native Philadelphian and performing singer-songwriter who has recently released her second album, Jellyfish on the Moon, which charted at #4 on the FAI Folk DJ Chart for March 2021 and who’s single, Mrs. Claus, charted at #1 in December 2020. The youngest of nine siblings, Lisa took to time-sharing her brothers' guitars growing up. Since then, she's become a multiinstrumentalist accompanying herself on piano, guitar, bass – and sometimes the harpsicle (the next step forward in light lever harps)! The best way to describe Lisa's style of music is Kaleidoscope Folk, which represents a wide variety of genres in a diverse collection of songs.

Pre-Covid, Lisa performed at the Black Bear Festival and local Philadelphia areas festivals such as the Ladybug Fest, the Turks Head Fest, The Downingtown Arts Fest, the Wayne Porchfest, and the Chester County Restaurant Fest.

Her music is on streaming services, such as Spotify, iTunes, CDBaby, and Amazon Music.

"Why do you love being a musician?" - You can put me in a room with people from all walks of life that have different value systems, beliefs, fears, dreams, and sometimes, you can get them all to feel something together in a safe place. Music can get the hardest hearts beating again in a world where people are so divided. Music heals, overcomes dementia, equalizes the unequal. Music saves people because they know they are not alone in this world. How can you not love that?

Website: www.lisajeanette.com.

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Helen O'Shea Helen O'Shea is an Irish-born singer, songwriter, and recording artist based in Princeton, New Jersey. In New Jersey, she leads the Celtic band "Shenanigans" - Songs Of Ireland, Old & New - as well as "Helen O'Shea & The Shanakees," performing her original songs in the style of "AmeriCeltiCana" - Americana with a Celtic twist! Her first EP was "Mama Told You..." Her subsequent CD was "Turning Tides..." featuring her original songs about life, love, loss, and legacy; two-time Grammy winner Marc Swersky produced the projects at Shorefire Recording Studios in Long Branch, NJ. Her latest EP is "Know You're Enough..." and was recorded at Shorefire and Sound On Sound Studios in Montclair, NJ. The project was released on July 16th, 2021, featuring her most recent singles "Someone Is Waiting" and "Only One" as well as her original tribute to John Prine, one of her all-time favorite songwriters, in "Primetime."

Her favorite project is her New Jersey version of The Pogues & Kirsty MacColl's "Fairytale Of New York," which she rearranged for US radio with singer-songwriter Mike Montrey and her longtime producer Marc Swersky.

"Why do you love being a musician?"

I love being a singer-songwriter because I am driven to share the healing power of music - which I have experienced personally over and over - with anyone who will listen! It is a privilege to create a song from nothing and have it express an experience or a feeling better than words alone. And when that song connects with others in similar situations and touches, moves, or inspires them, the power of music is clear to everyone.

Photos: by Conni Freestone

Suzanne Grzanna Suzanne Grzanna is a Multi-Award Songwriter, Saxophonist, Vocalist, Arranger, Producer, Music Publisher, and Sync Music Library who composes (Music & Lyrics). She has nine albums released on her label Diva Records and recorded over eighty songs of her compositions and other musicians' releases. Her music has been featured in many films and played across the globe on the radio.

Suzanne loves to connect with the audience and share her love for music with them. She is very passionate about creating and loves being a part of the amazing musical community.

Suzanne Grzanna was born and grew up in a small suburb of Milwaukee. Her parents, Don and Maureen Grzanna, are professional musicians, and she started piano lessons with her mother when she was five. Suzanne changed her primary focus to alto-sax in seventh grade. In addition to jazz and hearing her father and mother perform, she enjoyed other genres. Suzanne sang and played piano in her family band from a very young age. While in college, she not only performed with the jazz band but the school's symphonic orchestra and a Christian rock group. Suzanne also sang with the Milwaukee Symphony Chorus for many years, starting at 18. After attending Wisconsin Lutheran College and earning a music degree from Carroll University, she formed her jazz quartet. Suzanne is a part of Seaper Powers (Kim Cameron - Director), a children's animated film airing on the Dove Channel. Her solo saxophone recording of "Oh Christmas Tree" is also airing on The Hallmark Channel (My Family Christmas Tree Jason Bourque - Director). Suzanne has an upcoming role in the new film Western Conviction (Colleen Ann Brah - Director) in 2022. Her new jazz album will be released in 2022.

Website: SaxDiva.com

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Ruth Weber and Emilia Lopez-Yañez Ruth Weber and Emilia Lopez-Yañez, the mother/daughter music duo, perform in several genres, including classical, folk, and children's music. The two are both classically trained musicians with Master of Arts degrees in Music. They work as college music educators in their communities and concertize throughout the U.S. and abroad.

The BILLBOARD charting duo's Music has appeared on television in film soundtracks, symphonies, and choral and orchestral music arrangements. The two have won numerous awards for their two children's albums "Kokowanda Bay" and "The Spaceship That Fell in My Backyard," including the Parent's Choice Award (2020), Mom's Choice Gold Award (2020), KidsFirst! 3-star endorsement (2020), Grand Prize-Hollywood Music in Media Award (2020), L.A. Music Critics Award, The Creative Child Magazine's CD OF THE YEAR Award (202), The Family Choice Award 2018, the John Lennon Songwriting GRAND PRIZE (children's music 2018), National Assoc. of Parenting Product Awards (NAPPA 2018 and 2020), Clouzine International Music Awards (children's), and many more! Their song, "We're Gonna Be Legendary," is the theme song for the San Diego Public School System.

The duo's most recent album, "I Had a Dream: Songs of an Immigrant," began as a labor of love when Ruth set poems of her late Grandma, Betty Karon Hertz, to Music. The music tells the story of her Grandma's impoverished childhood in Russia that includes a daring escape during the Bolshevik Revolution. The music that expresses the truth about life as an immigrant in the United States is forever memorialized. The song has won recognition with The American Prize.

Ruth Weber is the music director of the Billboard Charting group, San Diego Jewish Men's Choir, which has toured nationally and received high critical acclaim. Recently she was the choral arranger/director on the soundtrack of the MultiAwardWinning film "One Little Finger," by Rupam Sarmah, about ability in disability.

Emilia Lopez-Yañez was one of the featured vocalists and oboists on this album and played with many orchestras in the greater Southern California area.

The duo just received their first film nomination in the Music Cities Film Awards for "Best Music For Sustainability."

"Why do you love being a musician?"

Both Emilia and I are professional musicians, and we both agree that music is the one thing that has always been there for us and has been the thing we knew we MUST DO! Emilia Lopez-Yañez- http://www.emilialopezyanez.com/ Ruth and Emilia- https://www.ruthandemilia.com/

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Setoria Setoria is a Singer, Songwriter, and Model who fell in love with the way music made her feel at the tender age of 6. Born in Florida, Setoria began singing in church and school choirs and also explored the art of theater as she participated in many musical plays. Raised in the Washington DC area, Setoria makes her mark by regularly performing with a live band executing energetic and soulful tunes. Her first original single, Shorty, released in May 2014, hit the ground running with international recognition.

Setoria has shared the stage with notable mainstream artists and worked with well-respected music makers such as Grammy AwardWinning engineer Michael Makowski and Multi-Platinum and Grammy Nominated producer Herb Middleton.

Alongside music, Setoria has explored modeling, acting, entrepreneurship, and radio as she co-hosted several internet radio shows. She also had the experience of producing her independent radio show advocating for independent artists in music, film, and fashion. As a curvy model and brand ambassador for the Smooches Woman Movement, she has become an inspiration to women of all walks of life as she openly celebrates her Bossy-Curves. The multiple AwardWinning singer has earned recognitions at various independent award shows such as the well-known Josie Music Awards and the 2019 Philadelphia Independent Film Festival, where she took home the award for Best Music Video for her single “Say My Name.”

Setoria continues to advocate for the empowerment of self-reflection and self-love in her 2021 spring release of “Back 2 Me”, which is scheduled to be the first single on her upcoming EP. “Why do you love being a musician?” - I love being a musician because music is an influence. Music rules the world! A song can either stimulate love or endorse hate. I am blessed with the gift of song and the ability to share pieces of myself to promote positivity, love and encourage people to live their best life on PURPOSE. Website: wwww.setoria.net

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Sophia Agranovich Sophia Agranovich, a multi-award-winning virtuoso pianist, recording artist and educator, is "a bold, daring pianist in the tradition of the Golden Age Romantics…A tigress of the keyboard" – Fanfare. Her performances are captivating audiences by the "orison of uncommon beauty" – Audiophile, "interpretation that dares to be different," "magnificent shading and superior musicianship" – American Record Guide.

A Steinway Artist, Ms. Agranovich, performed in the USA, Europe, Israel, and Canada and was invited to China. Some of her prestigious venues are David Geffen Hall, Bruno Walter Auditorium and Paul Hall at Lincoln Center, Carnegie Well Recital Hall, Merkin Concert Hall, Roerich and Metropolitan museums, Steinway Hall, Bargemusic, Tenri Cultural Institute, Polish Cultural Foundation, Lambert Castle, Watchung Arts Center, Salle Cortot, Ehrbarsaal and Kaiser Hall. Ms. Agranovich has collaborated with such notable musicians as Mark Peskanov, Shlomo Mintz, Christopher Collins Lee, Andrew Litton, Alexander Mishnaevsky, Andrew Lamy, Brett Deubner, Gregory Singer, Anatole Wieck, Kathleen Supove, and members of the major orchestras. Sophia Agranovich has released nine solo albums from 2010 through 2021 on Armonioso, Romeo, and Centaur labels to wide critical acclaim. She was awarded a First Prize in the All-Ukrainian and Bergen Philharmonic Competitions, Gold Medal and eight Silver Medals from Global Music Awards, two Gold Medals from Prestige Music Awards, Best Classical Solo from Akademia Music Awards, three Best Classical Piano Albums from Clouzine International Music Awards, Radio Music Award and Hall of Fame from Indie Music Channel, Industry Leader, and Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Awards. Ms. Agranovich holds Bachelor and Master degrees from the Juilliard School, where she taught piano on a Fellowship, and she continued Doctoral studies at Columbia University.

Ms. Agranovich is listed in Marquis Who's Who in America and Who's Who in the World, she is a voting member of NARAS, Artistic Director of music series at the Watchung Arts Center, and Program Chair/Board member of Music Educators Association of New Jersey.

“Why do you love being a musician?”

"Music is a universal expression of what is impossible to describe in words. It attunes us to divine truth and beauty vibrations, liberating, balancing, and healing. It helps and supports us through trying periods of life. Being a musician, I feel blessed to teach my art and share my innermost thoughts and emotions with the World."

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EW Brooks: Cover, p. 14-19: Photo Credit- ATOC Guthrie Bonnett

Sophia Agranovich In red dress - Andrew Agranovich (my son); at Carnegie Hall Bohdan Borovets from Bohdan Studio.

Setoria Photo credit: Setoria Anaya Music Photoshooting: Savio Kzam Photo production and image editing : Anaya Music Brasilia, 2020.

Lisa Jeanette Both photos were taken by my husband, Rich DeAngelis.

Suzanne Grzanna Photo Credit for sax photo: Ciro Hurtado , Photo Credit for Vocal Picture: Diane Yokes Ruth Weber Photos of Ruth and Emilia in kids costumes-credit Suzanne Parlett -parlett design Photo of Ruth and Emilia in the woods credit Leah de Leon www.storiesbyleah.com Helen O'Shea Photo credits are both by Conni Freestone: 1 The Bitter End, NYC 2 Sound On Sound Studios, Montclair NJ Elena Gilliam BW: Valerie Herring Color: Tony Guerrero

PHOTO CREDITS

Sisters in Music Pages 56-61

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