Urban Sentinel (Nov 2022) - Regina Taylor

ur ban

S E N T I N E L

R

r o l y a T a n i eg Playwright, Actress & Phenomenal Lady

N OV EM B ER 2 0 22 EDITIO N

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

EDITORIAL

From The Desk of The Editor Reginald Kearney Editor in Chief

Corretta L. Doctor

Brandon J. Jolly

Business Manager

Layout Designer

Bridgette Alfred

Anita Davis-DeFoe

Writer

Writer

Claudia Newby-Tynes Writer

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

2

The end of the 2022 calendar year is near as we enter the month of November. In November 2021 many families were still celebrating the holiday season under the social distancing requirements due to the Covid-19 virus. It is still suggested that we monitor our health to reduce risks of infection and transmission. It is time to remember our Veterans and prepare for the Thanksgiving season. This month is the start of the holiday season in many homes across the globe and with so much to be thankful for, along with the observance of many other causes and honorable mentions this month, we are grateful for the readers that keep our magazine in circulation. It is a Blessing to see our brand, #UrbanSentinelMagazine, across social media, in email lists and across the globe.

This month’s cover features Regina Taylor, an Actress, Writer, Director, and Playwright that many will remember from the movie, ‘Lean on Me’, a 1989 drama film starring Morgan Freeman. Regina Taylor portrayed Mrs. Carter, a struggling single mother that left an impressionable memory on those that watched the film.

Regina Taylor’s IMDb shows an impressive list of works and awards. She is phenomenal and we are thrilled about having her as our Cover Story!

This issue features amazing photography and great stories that are written to share the passion and work of very talented people across the world. We are excited for you to turn each page and enjoy the articles. We even have a unique preview from Author and Activist Joshua Proby. Mr. Proby visited Copenhagen, Denmark last month spreading his brand, and his book, while in country. What an amazing journey and we can’t wait to share more details! With a brief intro this month, we are excited to bring you a special feature in our upcoming issue that will highlight the author’s recent trip to the beautiful country of Copenhagen, the national capital of Denmark located on the islands of Zealand an Amager, at the southern end of The Sound.

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 Tuesday nights at 8:30pmET. It is a half hour show that features guests that have been 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 November 2022 edition.

SUMMARY

25

Shonda Scott

Jolie Noire

35

Rashida Z

28

4

Suicide Prevention Awareness

7

Model Series: Reily Blu and Roxy Knightly

14

To Haiti, With Love

20

Model Series: Reily Blu

25

World Traveler Shonda Scott

28

Sister, Founders, and Fashion

30

She is Regina Taylor: Playwright, Actress, and Phenomenal Lady

37

Debra Germany

40

Joshua Proby: A Success Story

41

Music Is Art

43

Model Series: Brian David

45

A Stroke Survivor

47

Recipe: Christmas Cherry Cornbread

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER

3

SUICIDE PREVENTION

AWARENESS

September 1-30, 2022 was Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in the United States. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) presents information and education on the topic of suicide prevention through its website at www.nami. org. Although we highlight the topic of suicide awareness and prevention in the month of September, the efforts are ongoing year round and there are many organizations that are available to provide support.

Suicidal thoughts can enter the lives of anyone at anytime and it does not matter the age, race, religious background, education level or socioeconomic status of the person it impacts. To help those with thoughts of suicide, NAMI and other organizations use the dedicated month of September to raise awareness of how to look for signs of suicidal ideation, how to help those in need of therapy, how to match people that need help to resources in their areas, to provide hope for individuals and their family members that are dealing with the topic of suicide and to band together survivors and friends/family members of survivors in an effort to shed light on mental health advocacy.

By highlighting the national health problem of suicide, information reaches masses of people from a variety of sources. According to information on the Jason Foundation’s website (www.jasounfoundation.com) suicide ranks as the second leading cause of death for ages 10-45 and yet suicide is one of the most preventable types of death in our nation.

NationalToday.com website states that there are an average of 123 suicides each day in the United States. Why is the number so high? A quote by Judy Collins found on the aforementioned website sums it up: “I think suicide is sort of like cancer was 50 years ago. People don’t want to talk about 4

it, they don’t want to know about it. People are frightened of it, and they don’t understand, when actually these issues are treatable.”

In my community that includes women of color, veterans, disabled veterans, and mid-career professionals, the topic is silent. No one talks about until it happens. A depressed person or someone dealing with mental instability is very skilled at projecting a positive image, even though it is a daily struggle to hold it together. It is important to them that what the public sees does not reflect the desperation behind the smile. The pain of the past, the stress of the present, and the uncertainty of the future lay hidden between the folds. Help is available. For those that are strong enough to press through the pain, try to share the hope and encouragement that you have found. Talk with others and become stronger in unity.

Talk saves lives.

Here are some important numbers to keep close by and to share with others that need help and support. If someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is always available.

TEXT: NAMI to 741741 to be connected to a free, trained crisis counselor on the Crisis Text Line.

Chat with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988lifeline.org Call or Text 988 if you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis.

Call the NAMI Helpline at 800-950-6264 Visit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) website at www.afsp.org to learn more about participating in outreach activities such as Out of the Darkness Community Walks.

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER

5

6

Photography by Jerry A. Barnes

Reily Blu

Roxy Knightly

7

8

Photography by Jerry A. Barnes

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER

9

10

Photography by Jerry A. Barnes

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER

11

12

Photography by Jerry A. Barnes

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER

13

TO HAITI

with Love

As a young man, Leon Pamphile left his native land, but never forgot it; 40 years later, the nonprofit he created continues to provide education, health care and hope to the island nation

by Ervin Dyer for urban sentinel Some 66 years ago, Leon Pamphile’s academic gifts were recognized by a group of local Pentecostal ministers. Their scholarship to the young man lifted him from a two-room schoolhouse in his impoverished Haitian village, Laboule, and carried him to a rigorous Christian academy in Port-auPrince, the nation's busy capital.

Pamphile eventually made his way to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and to a new life of teaching, writing and preaching. He went on to earn a degree from the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and a doctorate in education from the University of Pittsburgh.

A few years ago, he retired from as high school French and Spanish educator and became the Bishop of Haiti for the Church of God in Christ.

No matter his accomplishments, the challenges of life in Haiti never faded.

“I recall the toughness of life,” said Pamphile, describing his days in Laboule, where there was little electricity or running water. Most people in the village harvested coffee and bananas, but still struggled to feed their families.

“As I grew up, I was concerned for a better Haiti,” said Pamphile, who was the eldest of 10 children and the first in

14

his village to escape the grinding, subsistence lifestyle.

Today, there are lots of reasons for Pamphile to remain concerned. Haiti and its 8 million citizens are beset by often violent social and political unrest. Gangs, with ties to business and political leaders, have cut off most of Haiti’s economy.

Food and fuel prices are escalating. The scourge of cholera, a disease that once killed tens of thousands of Haitians, is again on rise in the island nation. The fear of kidnapping haunts the nation.

Pamphile’s affection for his country led him to found a ministry to improve people lives.

“My greatest dream has been to build a better Haiti through education, health and hope,” he says.

In 1983, with the support of his wife, Rozelle, who grew up orphaned in Haiti, he founded the Functional Literacy Ministry. Next year, in 2022, the group, known as FLM Haiti, turns 40.

In 1984, FLM Haiti opened its first four literacy centers.

Today, it supports more than 70 government-certified literacy centers in 11 communities; 103 educators serve this ministry with instruction in arithmetic, reading, and writing.

Yearly, FLM Haiti graduates 1,256 young and adult Haitians

other construction trades.

Before the recent unrest, every summer Pamphile would return to Haiti for about two weeks with as many as a dozen volunteers. The pastors, physicians, dentists, educators, writers and others would offer medical attention, educator training, and sessions in leadership as a way to partner with the Haitians, helping them to help themselves.

In the two decades since he founded the charity, FLM Haiti has raised more than a million dollars to support its missions. More than 90 percent of the funding goes to “work on the ground,” says Pamphile.

It is used pay teachers, purchase equipment, upkeep the infrastructure and more.

That level of support is key as the United Nations reports that two-thirds of Haitians are unemployed, and most live on about $1 a day. Life expectancy is little more than 50 years.

In many ways, Pamphile is driven by the enterprising spirit and history of Haitians overcoming the odds.

In 1803, when its enslaved community overcame the advances of Napoleon, Haiti stood as an international symbol of Black liberation. who complete the two-year literacy program.

On land donated by his father, Pamphile built a school. The school educates 650 children from elementary to high school levels. It hires local teachers to improve students’ reading and writing skills. It feeds the minds of the youth as well as their bodies, providing daily food services.

With the help of David Robinson, a now-deceased Pittsburgh area Presbyterian minister, Pamphile expanded the ministry in 2000, to bolster the health of the poor. They built a clinic.

It provides health services such as blood pressure screenings, maternal care, pharmaceuticals, dentistry, and more.

“When the United States was still upholding slavery, Haitians told the world Blacks could be regarded as equal to everyone,” says Richard Gosser, a former Saint Vincent College professor who lectured on Haiti.

“Haiti is facing extreme challenges, but I like to focus on the positive,” says Pamphile. “Haiti has survived so much.

However, FLM Haiti knows that helping the people, we can draw on their deep faith, strength, and creativity to help them carry on. We’ve done that for 40 years and we’re going to keep doing it.”

In 2016, FLM Haiti created Excelsior Technical Institute, one of few academies of higher learning in the mountainous community it serves. The institute, or ETI, provides skilled training in plumbing, electricity, computer technology, and

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2022

15

16

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2022

17

18

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2022

19

20

Photographer: Jerry A Barnes Model: Reily Blu Designer: BatuCollection

u l B y l i e R URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2022

21

u l B y l i Re

22

u l eily B

R

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2022

23

Reily Blu

24

WORLD TRAVELER

Shonda Scott CREATES POPULAR

12 NEW THINGS

LIFE JOURNEY CAMPAIGN she says, "As part of my birthday celebrations in 2019, I created the 12 New Things™️ campaign, to do something new and different each month for a year, forcing me out of my comfort zone and embracing change in a fun, positive way.

12 New Things™️ has now become a lifestyle of evolution and renewal for me and others."

Challenging yourself is one of the most important aspects of self-growth. Without challenge and change, there can be no progress or improvement.

"We often talk about things that we want out of life, things we dream about, and that’s where it ends - with us talking about it. We’re not always willing to challenge ourselves, to step out of our comfort zone and actually make things happen.

Change and challenge, doing things that scare or intimidate us might seem difficult, but it doesn’t have to be," Shonda added.

Shonda 12 New Things over coming fear of heights Ziplining in Puerto Vallarta.

World traveler Shonda Scott creates popular 12 New Things Journey Challenge that has resonated with many.

What started as a goal of 5, spring-boarded into thousands deciding to join the challenge with her to make an on-going lifestyle change.

When we asked Shonda about the 12 New Things™️ Challenge,

Join Shonda on 12 New Things™️ lifestyle journey! You can watch for tips on 12 New Things™️ for you to try, hear her lessons learned, and learn how to share your 12 New Things™️journey. When sharing on social media, use hashtag #12newthings.

To join the 12 New Things Journey Challenge, visit www.12newthings.com

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2022

25

ABOUT

Shonda Scott

In 2006, CEO Shonda Scott created 360 Total Concept as part of the solution by providing management services to organizations needing support in public relations, monitoring and compliance, logistics, and facilities management. 360 is headquartered in Oakland/Bay Area, with a national footprint.

360 has a portfolio of mega projects, which includes giants such as Uber, Kaiser Permanente, major transportation agencies, airports, and stadiums. 360 has provided support services such as creating diversity spending strategies, which Shonda 12 New Things finding peace on Reboot float.

has helped generate over $100 million reinvestment back into historically underserved communities and increase the utilization for small businesses.

In 2012, Shonda was appointed to President Obama’s Platform Committee. Based on her civic and community leadership, in 2006 Congresswoman Barbara Lee recognized Shonda as a CBC Young Leader. Shonda was inducted into Alameda County’s Women’s Hall of Fame in 2018 for her business acumen.

In addition to her entrepreneurial and civic work, Ms. Scott is the executive producer and host of a talk show "Spotlight with Shonda Scott,” a lifestyle show, highlighting local and national influencers and unsung heroes.

Shonda is a lifetime member of CAL/UCLA Alumni Association, active member of UCLA Bay Area Black Bruins Alumni Association and supporter of Arthur Ashe

Shonda 12 New Things discovering new places in the Maldives.

26

Foundation: 360tcpr.com.

27

Sisters, Founders & Fashion Sisters Keyondra and Kimberly Lockett: Founders of

Jolie Noire Athleisure Brand Kimberly and Keyondra Lockett, the founders of Jolie Noire, (which stands for Pretty Black in French) has found their niche in fashion wear. Their elevated women’s athleisure wear brand is a HUGE hit with consumers.

Sisters Kimberly, (a celebrity stylist) and Keyondra, (an award-winning gospel artist) Lockett searched high and low to find cute and comfortable gear that displayed black women as the art they are. They saw a need for clothing with faces that look like theirs, so they created graphics tees that really represent them.

When asked what advice they could share to budding entrepreneurs on building a business empire, Kimberly says, "When you choose to start a business, there should be a demand for it. There is no point in starting something that won’t have any takers."

Keyondra chimed in and added, "When we started our business, we came out with a strong brand. When Jolie Noire was contacted by Target headquarters to be featured in their stores for Black History Month, they knew our brand was strong. Find something where there is a need for it."

When the sisters were asked if they had an inkling they would be business partners, Kimberly shared, “We always knew that we wanted to have our own business within the fashion industry. Keyondra and I work well together and we respect each other’s opinions and ideas. We listen, share and execute ideas well with one another. So, yes, we knew would be business partners."

To learn more, visit Jolie Noire online or @joliexnoireapparel on Instagram or Facebook.

28

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2022

29

30

She is a walk of grace, beauty, honor, and inspiration.

SHE IS

ReginaTaylor Playwright, Actress, and & Phenomenal Lady

by Corretta L. Doctor for urban sentinel Regina Taylor is an American actress and playwright. She has won several awards throughout her career including a Golden Globe Award and NAACP Image Award. Regina is the new Denzel Washington Endowed Chair in Theater at Fordham University. She has held various roles in films such as Clockers, Courage Under Fire, A Family Thing, The Negotiator, Losing Isaiah and Strange Justice where she portrayed Anita Hill. You may also remember her dynamic performance in the CBS drama, The Unit.

In addition to film, Regina Taylor is a well accomplished stage actress and was the first black woman to play Juliet in Romeo and Juliet on Broadway. Additionally, she performed in Macbeth and As You Like It, also on Broadway. Her Off-Broadway credits are highlighted in her Wikipedia biography: Regina Taylor - Wikipedia.

Regina lives a life of selfless service to others. She is deep-rooted in her efforts to thoughtfully give back to her community of neighbors, students, fans, and followers using multiple platforms to help raise awareness and education through the work she does to help others find their purpose.

Regina is motivated by seeking and finding purpose, while also identifying a mission, in everything she does. “I love being involved with young minds and helping to steer those young minds.” Regina recognizes the love she receives back from those she encounter along her journey. She is a formal educator that teaches in universities across the country, and she also works with students in after school programs. Her endeavors reach far beyond the walls and halls of educational institutions; Regina promotes growth and education everywhere she goes through candid discussions, mentorship, and she leaves lasting impressions to everyone under the sound of her voice, including those beautiful day to day conversations where she gives advice through her open door policy.

Regina is in touch and in tune with those that need her, and her availability and access allows people to contact her with ease.

It is not always easy to navigate through life, especially during tumultuous times as many of us have seen lately. The number one topic that Regina Taylor speaks on is how to tie the pieces of life together. She is a subject matter expert on how to bridge together ideas, wishes, and dreams to create a calculated journey towards success that is based on practicality. Regina reminds us , “Young

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2022

31

that sparked reality across the board, not just in poor, drugaddicted women, but all women. Many people identified the role of Mrs. Carter as the greatest moment in Regina’s early career. “A milestone for me was playing the character in Lean on Me and in itself that was iconic. People come up to me sometimes and start quoting my lines from that role. At that moment and time channeling that woman through me was iconic. I was very young at that point, not old enough to have a 17 year old child in real life…. and that was also the point, that she (Mrs. Carter) was very young in those circumstances. So, to be able to channel this woman, whose story we may not have seen from that perspective before, or from that angle, and to be able to embody her and give her a voice, was really great.

adults, and some seasoned professionals, need to know how to navigate from dreams to something that is concrete. A lot of times young people don’t have the experience, so they are looking for a map. They don’t always know there is a map or know what to ask for. My experience allows me to offer them different pathways and once you know what these pathways are, you can then embellish them and make them your own”.

With such a remarkable career, filled with unforgettable moments, such as her role as Mrs. Carter in the 1989 film, ‘Lean on Me’, we are intrigued with Regina Taylor’s passion and commitment to character. She tugged on our hearts in that monumental role where she showed us what a daily struggle laced with poverty really looks like. As the poor, single mother that struggled immensely to keep food on the table, clothes on her daughter’s back and adequate housing, Regina’s character depicted a volume of unspoken words for many young single mothers. Regina played the character of ‘mother’ to actress Karen Malina White who took on the role of young Kaneesha Carter. These two roles stuck in the heads of many women and girls that were either in the same or similar predicament or knew someone that was. Due to stereotypes, many of those women were voiceless and went unheard. Alongside the great actors Morgan Freeman and Beverly Todd, this was a mark in Regina Taylor’s career

32

I don’t know the greatest moment but there are these “moments” that keep you moving forward. Certainly, playing Juliet on Broadway was a milestone. Working with Sidney Poitier was a dream come true as well as working with Denzel Washington and Samuel L. Jackson. Most recently I have had the pleasure of working on screen with Viola Davis.

There is a host of people that I have worked with that I have truly enjoyed. These individual projects and people sustain a lifetime”.

Regina took on a ‘grandmother’ role that is heartwarming. She portrays the grandmother of the beautiful family on the ABC TV series, ‘The Wonder Years’. In Season one (1), episode 14, the show reflects on mother-daughter relationships. Regina’s role as grandmother was candid and she had great love for her daughter – some things she got right and some she got wrong, but the heart of it all is that it was all based on love.

Regina says, “To see the layers of that family, embrace a grandmother/grandfather: that was really great”.

Regina portrays Hattie on HBO’s ‘Lovecraft Country’, a drama horror television series that premiered in 2020 and is based on the novel ‘Lovecraft Country’ written by Matt Ruff. Regina says, “This was a groundbreaking TV series.

I played a woman involved in the wall street massacre and that was very moving to me; to go back and give voice to the voiceless who were involved with that insane, brutal massacre was inspirational. Some people did not know that part of American history, but through this role we are able to see it and feel it, and that was remarkable”.

Often we lean to books, passages, and wisdom from others to further inspire our day to day mood, attitude, and mindset.

I asked Regina to share with me a favorite quote and here is what she had to say: “In this moment it is Audre Lorde’s ‘Your Silence Will Not Protect You’. Your silence will NOT protect you. Especially in this moment in time, politically, socially, personally, I think that’s very true. With everything that is happening right now: the shifts, the roll backs, the back lash, the incredible adapting we are having to do, and figuring out how we keep navigating forward. There are pressures from different places to silence people, to have people give up on their voices, and having some impact on what’s about to come and what’s here and now. We cannot give up, we cannot be silent and even in the moments that we find that we cannot speak it out loud, we have to find a way to be heard”.

When I grew up, a common saying around my village of mostly adults and a few children was, ‘A child should be seen and not heard’. I asked Regina to share her thoughts on the old adage from my 1970’s childhood. “That was from the perspective that as a child you need to listen. There is an importance in terms of listening to, and experiencing, the wisdom of your elders and have that seep through your ears. In that, there is some wisdom but still conversations are needed and necessary. Conversations that help us understand what actions we should take next”.

need to organize and make sure that we get out and vote.

Figure out what you can do in your community, your neighborhoods, schools and churches. Figure out what your contribution can be. It’s not the time to be silent, pessimistic, cynical. We have so much power if we use it”.

Regina Taylor echoes remarkable sentiments of strength.

Along with her approach to human rights and social engagement across the generations, we see positivity in every aspect of her agenda. We wanted to look closer at this amazing woman’s life and share some of her favorites with you!

Regina’s favorite color is Violet. “I love the spectrum of violet because it includes so many colors. It denotes beauty, royalty, strength, and encompasses a lot of colors. I have daily reminders throughout my home of what the color violet means to me. I have a picture that is violet, objects, and clothes that are representing the color violet in my life”.

Regina is an avid reader. “I read everything, I do love sciencefiction, but I read absolutely everything. I try to stay current”.

And who doesn’t like a good and healthy meal? Regina tempted my appetite while she shared a recipe for one of her favorite dishes: Sea Bass. “These days I am loving fish, seafood. My fave at this moment is Sea Bass. I am having a hard time finding it, I wonder why that is? It has gotten expensive too. I keep it really simple. You don’t have to do a lot to Sea Bass, just grill it with lemon butter garlic and Himalayan pink sea salt and you are done”.

Regina is a breath of fresh air and instantly leaves an impression upon you to get up and make a difference. She has a call to action for everyone to continue to have hope and to be activated to spark and ignite hope in others- not only hope, but show someone the way to go, how to move. “It is about individual voices connected to others”, Regina says.

Regina Taylor is a superior spirit and is a smart, wise, and warm hearted person. She is imparting her wisdom, knowledge, and experience along her journey and there is something for everyone to learn. Please follow her on all social media platforms.

“We need to vote. In this moment we need to vote, and we

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2022

33

34

ReginaTaylor

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2022

35

36

DEBRA GERMANY

A Story of Resilience and Divine Assignment

by Kathy J. Bynum for urban sentinel How do you handle the untimely death of a child? Minister Debra Germany is a perfect example of how one can turn

In 2002, she began Divine Intervention Ministries (co-

tragedy into triumph.

founded along with Valerie Dixon, who also lost a son to violence). Divine Intervention Ministries originally started

Debra dealt with her own personal struggles in her early

with a goal to bring greater awareness to crime and unsolved

years. Her parents divorced when she was just three years

murders through the placement of billboards. It has since

old, which sent her life into an upheaval as she moved to live

grown into a ministry providing life-transforming support

with her grandparents for a few years. By the time she turned

to incarcerated individuals –

16, she was a single parent, working two jobs. Raising a child

transition back into their communities. Divine Intervention

as a single mother was a challenge. Add to that challenge the

Ministries (DIM) – a faith-based agency in Pittsburgh,

fact that she had to care for a sick father, she found herself

Pennsylvania – has become a model for other cities such

turning to drug use to ease the pressure.

as New York, Cincinnati, and Los Angeles. It provides

helping them successfully

employment services and wraparound supportive services Things weren’t going so well for her son, Raymond, either.

necessary for successful re-entry. As DIM works to help

Despite Debra’s admonishments, he began to follow a life

clients move beyond their criminal records, appropriate

of crime, dealing drugs. He started dealing at age 15; and at

assessments are conducted to determine barriers to potential

age 23 his life ended tragically when he was shot in the back

success and make appropriate referrals to partner agencies

of the head. He died alone, on a staircase inside a housing

that can address the identified issues.

project.

“I don’t think the young men out here realize how precious Raymond’s death was the impetus that drove Debra to start

and priceless a life is,” says Debra. “In a flick of an eye your

her ministry as she struggled to turn her pain into emotional

life can be literally over, and it affects your whole family,” she

and spiritual healing.

adds. With a passion to save lives, and restore lives, Minister

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2022

37

down for community events, and other services. This is all a part of a concerted effort to help individuals re-build dignity and self-worth as they re-enter their communities.

Just as Debra learned how to break through her loss and devastation, the men participating in this program are learning how to have hope as they are ministered to through the program. DIM has received support from the funding community, including a grant from the Opportunity Fund for $10,000. This type of support gives DIM the opportunity to make a strong positive impact on the people it serves. For example, on October 13, 2022, 64 men attended the DIM IMPACT Program Orientation/Graduation Class from the Renewal Men’s Work Release Unit. In addition, fifteen men have joined the upcoming IMPACT Program; 31 men applied for the Intro to Construction Trade Program; 52 DIM Registration Forms were collected; 4 residents requested a mentor; and the list of DIM accomplishments goes on.

Debra with her son, Raymond Germany

Germany has traveled from Pittsburgh to various parts of the country sharing her experiences and providing guidance on how to address the problems of violence, incarceration, and restoration. DIM serves as a One-Stop Shop for the reentry of incarcerated individuals that provide a wide variety of support services to empower and restore the individual, their families, and the community – ultimately leading to a diminished recidivism rate.

In September, 2011, Dim began a partnership with Renewal, Inc. and implemented the IMPACT Program, an 8-week faith-based program that provides a forum for intensive self-reflection and redirection, practical resources, after care/reentry services and mentoring support to the individuals incarcerated at Renewal, Inc. The organization also works with several partner organization and churches who allow its clients to provide janitorial services, painting, landscaping, moving furniture, prep work, set up/break

38

Divine Intervention Ministries came to being because of one woman’s determination not to be defeated by her circumstances. As a result of her work, Debra Germany was named “Volunteer of the Year” in 2012 by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and Governor Tom Corbett. “I consider this work that we are doing to be a divine assignment,” says Minister Debra Germany. “I started on this journey because I believe it is worth it if I could save one person by talking about what happened to my son.”

Now, after twenty years of operation, Debra and her team of committed volunteers and staff have done more than save just one. They have now positively impacted thousands of individuals, working to helping them rise above their circumstances and be restored.

You can find out more information about DIM at divineinterventionministries.org

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2022

39

COPENHAGEN 40

MEET

JOSHUA PROBY THE AUTHOR, PUBLIC SPEAKER, AND COMMUNITY ACTIVIST Joshua E. Proby is what achievement beyond measure looks like. His global success is a proven story of NEVER GIVING UP. His book tells you about his life and it doesn’t stop there.

Hear him speak and his presentation will leave you wanting to know more and more about the ability to exceed goals, no matter what obstacles are in front of you.

“FOR YEARS I HAD NO VOICE. IT WASN'T UNTIL I WAS SENTENCED TO 12 YEARS IN PRISON THAT I DEVELOPED A VOICE.” - Joshua E. Proby Let’s add the word International to everything he does. In a recent trip to Copenhagen, Denmark, Mr. Proby left an imprint of success, hope, and inspiration everywhere he went. In the next issue of Urban Sentinel Magazine, we will share an in-depth look into Mr. Proby’s recent journey to Copenhagen, Denmark.

Music is

Art

Rashida Moore is a North Carolina based artist that delivers music with heartfelt sentiments, memorable lyrics, and rhythmic tunes! There is a beautiful mix of songs in her music catalog that will grab your attention and become favorites in your play list!

The latest music from Rashida is featured on her EP titled ‘Truth & Love Semi Unplugged’. Released in Spring of this year, this EP consists of four songs, each with an interlude describing the feelings behind the lyrics. It is about love in its many forms and life lessons. There is a song titled ‘It Isn’t Fair’. That song is about child abuse and neglect.

Rashida shares, “The song, ‘Oh My, What A Nice Surprise’, is one I am the proudest of. I’ve been trying to show my diversity as a multi-genre songwriter. Thinking about how the world was opening back up and families were gathering more from the isolation of the Pandemic was the inspiration for this song”.

Check it out here: Oh My, What A Nice Surprise https://open.spotify.com/ album/3hDd5GycsEx37QtBvwXNpd Rashida has been singing most of her life. She tells us that her earliest memory of singing for an audience was when she was nine years old. “I would perform dancing and singing, imitating Michael Jackson’s Billie Jean for family and friends at summer cook outs. I had so much enthusiasm. I was eager

and unafraid, and the elders would pay me to perform. They were very supportive and encouraging to my artist self. I used to walk away with some good money too, to buy goodies at the corner store (laugh). Also, I would perform hits like Stephanie Mills’ “Home” and Whitney Houston’s “Greatest Love of All” at my Elementary School in DC (Wheatley) in the assemblies”.

Rashida released her first project titled, ‘Ask Me Again’, in March 2020. She decided that she wanted to start giving her energy to her authentic self and share her gifts. “I’ve had so much fear in my life, feeling like my true self wouldn’t work for me. I was discouraged a lot and with time I realized that it was nothing more than fear. I was no longer willing to let fear hold me back anymore. I now feel that every one of us that is born into the world has a contribution in our lifetime and we have an obligation to share our gifts. We have so much to offer each other. Someone out there is counting on us and needs our contributions. Music is the truest expression of feelings. Music doesn’t hold back. It is the most effective way of relaying messages. It’s complete, complex and has

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2022

41

the unique ability to alter mood instantaneously. Music has power. From one measure to the next it can make you cry, laugh, reflect, release tension, make you feel tense, excited, bring people together, tear them apart...that’s power.” Music is used in therapy and rehabilitation programs around the globe. It is a universal passion that heals.

One of Rashida’s greatest projects is a video from her song “Colorblind”. Colorblind is a song about people being shades of brown, not black and white. It tells about human beings being creations of God and God as an artist that has no limitations and uses all color in everything. “I think it’s absurd to classify people according to skin color the way we do, and to limit it to black and white is really baffling. We are humans. All of the human race and when we can see everyone else as we see ourselves there isn’t much room for hate. I wrote Colorblind so that people could start to see the beauty in one another”.

Rashida not only sings, but she plays the piano, guitar and ukulele too! Her favorite instrument is the guitar! She says, “I play mostly chord progressions to get the bones of my songs in place and get the point across that I’m trying to make.

After that, for professional recordings I usually let a band or producer take it from there. I play well enough to relay to them musically what I want to say”.

With so much talent, we were curious to know about Rashida’s roots. “I do come from a background of music. Music was a part of every single day in my family. My mother sings and her mother, my grandmother, had a beautiful sultry voice.

My grandfather told me that my grandmother had the most beautiful voice he had ever heard and that she used to sing Ella Fitzgerald songs in Clubs back in their day. My father is a musician. He plays the trumpet. He has played for the church as long as I can remember. My favorite songs to hear him play are Shadow of Your Smile and Feels so Good by Chuck Mangione”.

Rashida proudly announces that her favorite artist is Stevie Wonder. “He has so much to give. His lyrics are out of this world and he grooves. When you really listen to every word that his lyrics are saying it gives you so many visuals and I think that’s incredible for someone who is blind. Also, you can feel his love for music in his performance. I saw him

42

in concert a few years back and even when the show was supposed to be over he kept going, performing many more songs. He didn’t want to stop. He gave the feeling that he wanted to be there with us all night. He’s extraordinary”.

Let’s talk about goals! “The next big thing for me in the music industry is to win a Grammy. But more importantly I want to be consistent while remaining authentic with my content.

Balance. It’s so important to me that I don’t water my art down just trying to come up with anything to put out. But I’d like to win a Grammy. Being recognized is special. I know it sounds a bit superficial, but I think it’s nice when people appreciate your work and contributions”.

Rashida shows up and shows out! She is the voice that rings in your head long after the song has ended. We love everything about the music and artistry of this amazing performer! Readers can contact Rashida on Instagram @ borntowritesongs, on Facebook at Rashida Z @borntowritesongs and her website is: www.borntowritesongs.com

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2022

43

PHOTOGRAPHER: MAURICE THOMPSON | WWW.MAURICETHOMPSONPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

BRIAN DAVID

44

PHOTOGRAPHER: MAURICE THOMPSON | WWW.MAURICETHOMPSONPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

BRIAN DAVID

Stand Up Comedian

Darrell Banks

A Stroke Survivor

by Corretta L. Doctor for urban sentinel What

is

comedy?

Several

variations

of

the definition all culminate into this basic understanding

of

the

word:

professional

entertainment consisting of jokes and satirical sketches, intended to make an audience laugh.

What is a comedian? Wait let me rephrase that, who is a really GOOD comedian, one that you would line up to see, waiting for hours in the snow or rain, just to make sure you had a seat in the room? That would be Darrell Banks.

Darrell Banks is a comedian with a story. There is a part of his story that is no laughing matter.

Darrell is a massive stroke survivor. He suffered a massive stroke on stage, during a performance, that left the audience thinking that the confusion and sudden illness was a part of the comedy act. Sadly, it was not. Darrell was sick and the stroke left him with some serious, life changing challenges, mainly it impacted his ability to verbally communicate.

Darrell is not only a comedian at heart, but he is also a man with a big heart, and that is why the comedy industry loves him dearly. An outpour of support came his way from fellow comedians near and far. Several of the comedians got together and held a comedy show fundraiser in support of Darrell. Anyone can make you laugh, but few can stir your soul giving you a lasting

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2022

45

smile like Darrell Banks can. Darrell is well loved by those

his health. Married to wife Charlene, he is in a happy place

he shared stages with and by those he met from behind

of peace, faith, and gratitude; one that is embellished with a

the mic. Darrell Banks could fill a room on any given day!

loving family and a strong brother and sisterhood of fellow

Though he is doing well these days, he no longer performs

comedians from near and far.

comedy.

Hailing from Toledo, Ohio, Darrell first appeared on stage as a professional, paid comedian in New York on Black Entertainment Television’s (BET) Comic View, where he received a very memorable standing ovation. Listening to the hands clapping, seeing the faces smiling, and feeling the energy from the audience was the exact response he wanted and surely it was the response he deserved. Darrell knew at that moment that he was on his way to the top of the industry as a successful comedian….a job that he loved and

Visit www.stroke.org to learn more about strokes, life after

one that came so naturally to him.

strokes, help, support, and healthy living. Information is key. Knowing the signs and symptoms can save a life.

Starting out in his early days as a comedian, and long before he broke fully into the industry, Darrell studied and looked up to many comedians that came before him. He particularly calls out Richard Pryor as the one comedian that he most likely emulates the most in his style. Darrell is widely known in the industry for his raw, ‘straight with no chaser’ type of comedy. Darrell enjoyed his comedic lifestyle traveling the world, working with other great talent, and of course the pay was pretty good!

Every comedian has a natural tendency to make you laugh hysterically. They are gifted with the talent to help you see the lighter side of things. When we wanted to know who makes Darrell laugh, he clearly indicated two very funny comedians: Eddie Murphy and Dave Chappelle.

Darrell reminds us to use laughter as a stress reliever. He says that comedy changed his life. It [comedy] takes him out of stressful situations; laughter is the best medicine.

We continue to wish Darrell well as he strives to improve

46

Christmas Cherry Corn Bread

by Sheryl Simmons

There is the running debate in our home, on whether cornbread should be sweet or savory. I prefer savory like my mom made. My girls prefer sweet. My husband will eat either.

◊

Total time 1 hour, includes 15 min cooling time

◊

Ingredients: 2 sticks unsalted butter plus 1 tablespoon to grease pan, or use tale

◊

Or use ¼ cup of grapeseed oil if preferred for nondairy

◊

3/4 cup of all-purpose flour

◊

½ cup of sugar

◊

1 cup of stone ground corn meal

◊

1 teaspoon of baking powder1/4 tsp of salt

◊

1 cup of buttermilk (soy or almond milk if nondairy)

◊

1 tsp vanilla extract

◊

1 tablespoon lemon juice

◊

3 large eggs, 2 tablespoons of honey

◊

1/2teaspoon of salt

◊

2-4 mint sprigs, one can of cherry pie filling

Preheat oven to 350 Whisk together Dry ingredients in a large bowl Whisk together butter and wet ingredients in a small bowl until smooth Pour wet ingredients into bowl of dry ingredients and mix well.

Pour batter into prepared pan (coated with butter or oil) Bake for 30 min or until tester comes out smooth (toothpick or cacke tester) Remove from oven, turn oven off, pour cherry pie filling over top of cornbread Evenly and return to warm oven for 10 min. remove and let stand for 10min Decorate with mint sprigs and serve

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2022

47

The Urban Sentinel is able to get your message out locally in the DMV, Nationally, and Worldwide through our website and digital magazine.

For advertising rates, please contact Reginald Kearney at

reginald.kearney@marylanddailyexaminer.com

WWW.URBANSENTINELMAGAZINE.COM 48

Pages 7-12 Photography by Jerry A. Barnes Models: Reily Blu, Roxy Knightly Designer: BatuCollection HMUA: Kim Harley Pages 15-19 Photos Submitted by Bynum’s Marketing

Photo Credits

Cover Image, and all images Pages 30-35 of Regina Taylor were submitted by BNM Publicity Group & Management on behalf of Regina Taylor.

Pages 20-24 Photography by Jerry A. Barnes Model: Reily Blu Designer: BatuCollection HMUA: Kim Harley Pages 25-27 Photo Credit: All images Submitted by BNM Publicity Group & Management on behalf of Shonda Scott Pages 28-29 Photo Credit: All images Submitted by BNM Publicity Group & Management on behalf of Kimberly and Keyondra Lockett Pages 37-38 Photo Credit: Debra Germany Page 40 Photo Submitted by Joshua Proby Photography Team on location in Copenhagen, Denmark

JOSHUA

PROBY

Pages 41-42 Photography by Tahj M. Jones

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2022

49

Arlette

Thomas-Fletcher

W W W. A R L ET T ET H O M A S F L ET C H E R . C O M

44