JULY/AUGUST 2021 ISSUE 09
FAMILY, BUSINESS, AND COMMUNITY
EMERICK PEACE Page 24
VILLAGE TALK Meet Cortland Jones and Shauna Felton King
Page 8
Brick by Brick Lendana Construction Company LLC Page 12
Let's Talk Politics
Dr. Maya Rockeymoore Cummings Page 20 Page 16
VANDPMAGAZINE.COM
VISION & PURPOSE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
CONTENTS 12 Brick by Brick
16 Let's Talk Politics
22 2NC Feature
47 Arts Administrators
6 Inspirational Moments Be Extraordinary I Love You 8 Education Is Key Meet Cortland Jones and Shauna Felton King 22 2NC Feature Linda Chaney Corey McPherson 30 Community Outreach July/August Awareness Metropolitan Kappa Golf League Community Is Priority Group 37 Health & Wellness Brush Me Please! Summer BBQ 39 Authors Speak Hold On and Die Or Let Go and Live Women Who Lead Anthology 43 All Things Fashion Summer Time Self-Care Summer Time Hair Tips
24
50 Sports Report Back In the Game
Emerick Peace Family, Business, and Community
MAY/JUNE 2021 V&P MAGAZINE | 1
July/August 2021 Founders Karen McConnell-Jones & Dr. Sharon H. Porter Editor-In-Chief Dr. Sharon H. Porter
Contributing Writers: Inspirational Moments Education Is Key
Marjorie M. Middleton
Dr. Sharon H. Porter
Business & Entrepreneurship Karen McConnell-Jones
Health & Wellness
Political Awareness
Community Outreach 2NC Feature
Authors Speak
All Things Fashion
Performing Arts
Jason Greene Kyonna F. Brown
Dr. Sharon H. Porter
Dr. Sharon H. Porter Karen McConnell-Jones Dr. Sharon H. Porter Karen McConnell-Jones Dr. Essie McKoy Dr. Sharon H. Porter
Deputy Editors Karen McConnell-Jones Seth Washington Marjorie Middleton Layout & Grphic Design Dr. Sharon H. Porter Director of Graphics & Design Krystal Glenn Director of Sales Karen McConnell-Jones Sales Team Michelle B. Hauser Deven Richmond Photographer Dominique Massaquoi Michael Atcherson
Antonio "Tony" Turner Martina Turner Laila Cunningham
Seth Washington
Sports Report
Karen McConnell-Jones Deven Richmond
Cover Story
Karen McConnell-Jones Dr. Sharon H. Porter
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Contact www.vandpmagazine.com info@vandpmagazine.com sales@vandpmagazine.com
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V&P Service Page Special dedication to Donna Harris and Krystal Glenn
The V&P Team is here to be a positive voice for our community through the stories that are shared in our magazine. In addition, we would like to provide services for our community to continue to help build our community one VISION and one PURPOSE at a time! For services and pricing, please contact us at info@vandpmagazine.com. Karen McConnell-Jones Dr. Sharon H. Porter Krystal Glenn Karen Clay Stevie Gaymon Domminique Massaquoi Jason Greene Kyonna F. Brown Dr. Essie McKoy James Adéll Antonio Turner Martina Turner Seth Washington Candice Camille Donna Harris Michelle B. Hauser Laila Cunningham Deven Richmond
Inspirational Speaker and Business Development Consultant (Marketing & Branding Specialist) Educational Consultant, Panel Facilitator & Book Publisher Graphic Designer Website Designer Photographer Photographer Chef & Catering Service Inspirational Speaker & Social Media Specialist Inspirational Speaker & Educational Consultant Custom Men's Clothing Designer Hair Stylist & Hair Care Products Hair Stylists & Hair Care Products Writer, Vocal Artist & Master of Ceremony Personal Trainer Tax Accountant Virtual Assistant Model Sports Consultant, Business Manager
Vision & Purpose LifeStyle Magazine "Inspiring Our Community" www.vandpmagazine.com
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Contributors
Marjorie Middleton Deputy Editor Inspirational Moments
Marjorie Middleton is a teacher, active in the community, striving to serve the underserved. Marjie’s journey began on an Apache Indian reservation.
Marjie led her team to a successful , police awarded de-escalation of a marginalized neighborhood’s open air drug market, also reaching many children and their parent’s spiritually. Marjie writes, and leads Zoom discussion/prayer groups addressing present time facing COVID--19, emphasizing the vitality of understanding Black Lives Matter.
Dr. Sharon H. Porter (Dr. Sharon), educator, best-selling author, publisher. Dr. Sharon is the Executive Director of the Next In Line to Lead Aspiring Principal Leadership Academy (APLA). and President of SHP Enterprise, the umbrella entity for Perfect Time SHP LLC, Coaching, Consulting, and Book Publishing Firm, The GRIND Entrepreneur Network, and SHP Media and Broadcasting. She is the host of The I Am Dr. Sharon Show.
Dr. Sharon is a Founding Partner and VicePresident, Media & Communications for WNM Ventures, LLC (The What Now Movement).
Chef Jason Greene Health & Wellness
Chef Jason R Greene is a certified chef who studied at the Art Institute of Washington. He is a very skilled, technically savvy, determined chef who specializes in Cajun Cuisine and innovating new types of menus as time progresses.
Chef Jason is constantly expanding his culinary knowledge and has strong aspirations in making Chef J Greene a household name. In January of 2013 Chef J Greene branched out and started TJay’s Catering Company, a company he quoted to provide high quality cuisine to nourish the mind, body and soul.
JULY/AUGUST
2021
Karen McConnell Jones Business & Entrepreneurship The Sports Report Community Outreach Politcal Awareness
Dr. Sharon H. Porter Education Is Key
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Karen McConnell-Jones is an Entrepreneur and Philanthropist, being the first African-American full-service upscale Salon/Day Spa, located in the prestigious downtown Washington, D.C., two blocks from the White House.
Ms. McConnell-Jones is the CEO & President of Class Act Productions and Class Act Speakers Bureau, lending her expertise in the area of Business Development, Business & Purpose Coach, and Inspirational Speaker. Best known for her work she does in the community, earning over 30 proclamations for her work in the community. She is also Deputy Editor, Director of Sales, Co-Founder and Owner of V&P Magazine & Media.
Deven Richmond Sports Report
Deven Richmond is a student at Howard University, majoring in Business Management. Deven is a member of the Howard University Men's Basketball team.
Deven is a Vision & Purpose LifeStyle Magazine contributing writer for the Sports Report Column and a member of the Sales Team.
Contributors Antonio Turner All Things Fashion
Tony Turner is co-owner of Tony Turner Hair Products & Salon located in Richmond VA. He is a licensed cosmetologist/ salon owner with over 30 years experience. He has worked for many hair care brands before creating his own line of hair care products. Tony is an award-winning hair stylist and was named Hair Styling Icon by Beauty & Barber Magazine.
Martina Turner All Things Fashion
Martina Turner is working on building the Tony Turner Unleashed Brand with her Husband/Business Partner, Antonio Turner, located in Richmond, Virgina.
Martina has 26 years of experience in the Cosmetology field. She's had the opportunity to do Platform work at the International Beauty Show in New York City, work with Wahl Clipper Company He has owned multiple hair salons. Beginning with at the Bronner's International Beauty Show in his first salon The Untouchables at the age of 19. Atlanta Georgia. He is looking forward to sharing his insight with V&P readers. Martina is working on photography, filming, designing, creating new looks for advertisement, commercials and Trade shows for Tony Turner Unleashed Hair Care Products.
Candice Camille Health & Wellness
Candice Camille is CEO of Candice Camille Enterprises, Founder of Sexy Fit & Well, and Plank Talk Nation. She is a planking world record contender, an award winning sort after International Speaker and Media Personality.
Along with being a High Performance Personal Trainer, Certified Emotional Mastery Coach and Amazon bestselling Author. She has also been featured on The Dr. Oz Show, WUSA 9, and ION TV. As a committed community leader, Candice is CoFounder of Girls Run, Inc. where she serves as a running and mentoring coach for young girls.
Seth Washington Performance Arts Deputy Editor
Seth Washington writes about Performing Arts for V&P Magazine. Also, he performs spoken word poems, at DC-area venues, including Busboys and Poets. These days, Zoom is the venue, wherein, this writer has hosted, moderated, spoken, as well as, simply watched and listened. IG: seth.voice
Dr. Essie McKoy Authors Speak
Dr. Essie McKoy, CEO of Dr. Essie Speaks, an award-winning educator, a four times Amazon bestselling author, a coach, an inspirational speaker, and a radio host.
She received her Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) and an Educational Specialist Degree (Ed. S.) from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, a Master’s Degree from Appalachian State University, and a Bachelor of Science Degree from Winston-Salem State University.
Michelle Hauser Sales Team
Dominique Massaquoi Photographer
Dominique Massaquoi was born and raised in Washington DC. She is an up-and-coming photographer. She has a marketing degree from The Pennsylvania State University and is the owner of a photography business, HawaDigital.
She enjoys capturing special moments with her lens. She feels like photography is an art and it allows her to tell a story that can be captured in a second. She specializes in street photography, especially graffiti murals.
Krystal Glenn Graphic Design
Krystal Glenn is the Lead Cinematographer at OG Media Productions. She graduated from Hampton University in 2002 with a degree in Business Administration and started a career in Accounting with a non-profit organization.
She went on to attend Full Sail University and earned a Bachelor of Science in Digital Cinematography. She is a cinematographer, writer, speaker, and producer. As a cinematographer, she has worked on a variety of genres of projects including commercials, PSA, music videos and minidocumentaries, video streaming, short films, commercials and more.
Michelle B. Hauser is from Winston-Salem, North Carolina. She has worked in the medical field for over 17 years.
She is currently a Compliance Educator with a HealthCare Organization in North Carolina. Michelle earned a Master‘s degree in Medical Health Administration from Strayer University and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication from Salem College.
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Inspirational Moments by Marjorie M. Middleton
BE EXTRAORDINARY This is not the time to be ordinary! Subdue your own self-criticism and with speed and passion chase after your dreams! Value your moments and with each step forward learn all that is distinct about you. Value yourself! The journey has been long and hard, but worthwhile. You are within striking distance of having the life that you always dreamed about. Stay the course, trust in God, trust in you. Stop living a life where you merely exist and start living. Throw those fears out of the window, out of the door, out of your mind! You have the power, through you and Christ, to choose your destiny. When you were a child you lived with no fear. Christ ruled because you trusted without even knowing that’s what you were doing. As you grew, others encouraged you to fear as they did. And, fear… disbelief… and limitations multiplied. Wow! Let’s focus on that. Trust in Christ. Trust in you. Live your life seeking the next big adventure. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6. Be courageous. Believe in you. God does! Be extraordinary.
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Inspirational Moments by Marjorie M. Middleton
I LOVE YOU
I am a forgiver and a fixer. Mostly because the Lord forgives me daily and works on my mix-matched self every day! Because I’m human, I make mistakes. Because God is God, He makes no mistakes. It’s nice to know that just because you make mistakes doesn’t make you a mistake. Keep working on AND loving you. God models that for you each day. He loves and works on imperfect me and you. Keep fixing you, keep fixing the wrongs around you, keep forgiving…even when it’s difficult. We live in a world where good things and bad things happen at the same rate. That is very unfortunate, but with God, we should always try to outweigh the bad, the unjust, and the unfair. And, in developing self into an exceptional human being, deploy courage to live in the world the way it is. Refine yourself in order to make a dent in changing the world around you. Love yourself, love your neighbor. Nobody was created to be given up on. I love you. 2 Corinthians 4:7 says, “But we have treasures in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.” Believe you are the prize. Share your gifts. We are His treasure but exist in these expendable human forms. So, let’s not waste our time hurting, hating, scolding, belittling. After all, our days are not promised. I love you. Those of us who want to work on making the world, or at least our neighborhoods, better realize that economically, racially, health-wise/justice-wise and in many other ways, things are not equitable. Again, deploy courage. Injustice cannot continue to be an accepted way of life. Equip yourselves spiritually and morally so that you can do your part to change things. I love you. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Proverbs 3:5. He will walk alongside you. One important thing I’ve learned, we must continue to press forward, despite distractions. Distractions are conditions and acts that can cause discouragement and complacency. Keep your eyes on the prize, not on the situation. Enjoy the life you’ve been given and treat others as you’d want to be treated. The world is a beautiful place and the people who inhabit it are all created equally, in the image of God. I recently read a piece entitled "If This Breaks Your Heart." Although dedicated to the late Mr. George Floyd it applies to every aspect of life we strive to improve upon, change, or better.
IF THIS BREAKS YOUR HEART (With Honor and Respect to George Floyd) Tracy Brown If this breaks your heart Break the pattern of race-based hatred Break the system that allows it to be Break the silence that you have hid behind for so long
Speak up for those who have been ignored Speak up for systems that are fair Speak up as a person who cares about all people Speak up for the kind of world you want to see
If this breaks your heart Break the pattern of race-based hatred Break the system that allows it to be Break the silence you have hid behind for so long
Grieve. For the loss of another Black man Grieve. For the loss of respect and justice Grieve. For the loss of your own innocence Grieve. Then get to work.
If this breaks your heart Break the pattern of race-based hatred Break the system that allows it to be Break the silence you have hid behind for so long
Commit to becoming a voice for change In your own city In your own neighborhood In your own family
If this breaks your heart Break the pattern of race-based hatred Break the system that allows it to be Break the silence you have hid behind for so long
Demand justice Demand accountability Demand respect Demand self-involvement
If this breaks your heart Break the pattern of race-based hatred Break the system that allows it to be Break the silence you have hid behind for so long”
Some takeaways: 1. Forgive yourself, forgive others 2. Love yourself and love others 3. BE exactly what you want to SEE! And, remember In order to grow we must get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Trying to make changes anywhere in our lives comes with growing pains. Go farther than last time, keep moving forward. It promises to be an amazing journey for sure. I love you! MAY/JUNE 2021 V&P MAGAZINE | 7
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Education Is Key By Sharon H. Porter. Ed.D.
Village Talk Cortland Jones & Shauna Felton King
EDUCATION IS
Meet Cortland Jones and Shauna Felton King. Two amazing educators in their own right. Place them together and you have a team worthy of the many accomplishments and accolades they have received. Cortland and Shauna are former co-workers, who are now also friends and business partners. Together they are the hosts of Village Talk Podcast with Vision & Purpose (V&P) LifeStyle Magazine and Media. Village Talk highlights the views and voices of the community. They often refer to the podcast as "The Village Talk Couch". You can always expect a spirited dialogue when these two get together. The show oftentimes features guests, but you will not be disappointed if no guests are scheduled. The hosts will also share what is on their hearts and/or on their minds. Educators are skilled in critical thinking, organization, time management, and so many other skills that are needed to be successful in the marketplace. I applaud this dynamic duo for the work they do through their business.
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Education Is Key
Cortland began his career in education as a full-time substitute from 1991-1992. He even spent time substituting at the elementary and middle schools he attended. He stated, "It was kind of like life coming full circle." Encouraged by two different administrators, who felt like he was good at working with youth, he applied for a full-time teaching position and was eventually hired to teach art at James Madison Middle School in Upper Marlboro, Maryland in the Fall of 1992. He was surprisingly nominated for a first-year teacher’s award by his principal, Paul Lewis, validating and affirming him in his role as a classroom teacher. Cortland and Shauna met at James Madison Middle School. By 1997, he joined her in co-facilitating classroom management workshops for their school district. Shauna decided to pursue a position working at the Board of Education. Cortland took over her position as Peer Mediation Coordinator, in the 2001-2002 school year, at James Madison Middle School until 2003. Cortland is the owner and founder of CJones ENTERPRISES, which includes an empowerment coaching service targeting youth and adults offering services for aspiring authors, teacher mentoring, co-parenting tips, business startup support, and personal growth and development. He is a speaker and published author as well. The vision of his business is to empower others by His grace. He has helped four former clients publish with two publishing two more books since. Three former clients have launched their own businesses. He has successfully published five books including one children’s book co-written and co-illustrated by his after-school book club students, which he released in March 2021. The name of the book is Adventures in Outer Space with Captain Yolk. He also has another children’s book in the process of being published as an illustrator. He is working on the illustrations to support the story he wrote. The book is scheduled to be released in 2022. His workshops for educators have been presented in Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, and North Carolina at the Confratute Conference on the campus of the University of Connecticut, the Black Educators Rock Conference, and the MSEA Conference. Additionally, he offers grant writing services as he has currently acquired $32, 500.00 in grant funding for schools, businesses, and his nonprofit JULY/AUGUST 2021 V&P MAGAZINE | 9
Education Is Key Ironically, both Cortland and Shauna started their careers in education as substitute teachers. For Shauna, this was over 20 years ago. She then served as a middle school teacher, peer mediation specialist, PBIS coordinator, student services specialist, K-8 school principal, and now an educational consultant. She has also served as adjunct faculty for LaSalle University since 2001. Before she went into business full time, she and her husband were both school principals with demanding schedules. They also had two young children ages two and four. Shauna says when she and her husband married, they made a commitment to keep God and family first. Although they both love their work, they did not want to allow the busyness of work to negatively influence her family. Shauna contends that launching King PDS allowed her to put her life back in order. She affirms that maintaining a fulltime educational consulting business, is a lot of work, but the autonomy is priceless, and it has allowed her to be there for her family. I asked her about the motivation behind starting her own business. It started with her sharing strategies for promoting positive behavior and classroom management. She stepped out on faith when she went through a job transition in 2012. No success comes without struggles and challenges. When I asked Mrs. King about obstacles she had faced. Simply put... "finding clients! She soon learned that when you delivering quality training was her best marketing strategy. She began to spend more time improving her skills as a trainer. In addition to being an educational consultant and podcaster, Mrs. King is also a published author. I look forward to the Village Talk Podcast airing live in-studio beginning August 2021.
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Business & Entrepreneurship
Brick by Brick By Karen McConnell-Jones Lendana Construction Company, LLC., is a Blackowned family business established in January 2006 in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. The company was founded by Linwood P. Williams, specializing in masonry work. Linwood P. Williams completed his apprenticeship bricklayers program in 1979, with 33 years tenure as a member of the International Union of Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Local 1 (MD/VA /DC). As a Union Skilled Craftsman Brick mason for years, Linwood worked on some of the most wellknown, high profile buildings in Washington, D.C. (just to name a few: Indian Museum District of Columbia Courthouse, Air & Space Museum, James E. Reeves Municipal Center, Renovations to 20-story Apartment Building, National Press Building, Washington Convention Center, Howard University Residence Apartment Complex, Mobile Oil Company, AT&T Telephone Company).
He also built his family home from the ground up. After working so many years he thought "well why not start my own business" The family was inspired; stepped out on faith and were blessed to have family and friends who supported them along the way. “Lendana” Construction Company, LLC., got its unique name from the combined name of the husband and wife. Linwood and Ardania (childhood nickname was Dana), taking the beginning of the husband’s name and the end of the wife’s name to create Lendana Construction Company, LLC., which stands for "Family." Lendana Construction Company, LLC joined the Accelerator Program (CMBD) in October 2010. Prior to joining the program most of their work was residential, specializing in brick, block, sand, and mortar. Donohoe Construction Companies, LLC., awarded Lendana their first large commercial project, the parking garage at Kaiser Permanente in Prince George's County, Largo, Maryland. They have gone on to work on projects from Bowie State University Field house, Taco Bell in Upper Marlboro, MGM Training School, Prince George's Police Academy, Westphalia Town Center, Ft. Meade, to Gaylord National Harbor Event Terrance and so many wonderful residential customers in Prince George's County. As one of the top Black-owned construction companies in the state of Maryland, it requires the focus of hard work, putting in the long hours, working through some of the challenges and knowing that you are an overcomer. “Just making payroll is real at times. It's challenging when you employ others and are responsible for providing a weekly paycheck for work performed when at times the general contractors don't always pay their subcontractors on time. We had a crew of 36 African American men working for us on the Tanger Outlet project with our Joint Venture Partner - CF Masonry. They have families. Sometimes our invoices were not paid in 30 days. Again, we are blessed that we were always able to make payroll even if our family didn't receive a paycheck.”
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“We all know that in business hitting your mark and reaching a milestone is truly an honor and the Lendana Construction was pleased to be celebrating their 10th Anniversary at Camelot by Martins before COVID, having a packed house with over 200 family, friends, community leaders and business associates, yet Lendana Construction took the moment in their celebration to pay it forward by presenting to Prince George's Community College a $2500 Scholarship. Inspiring Words from the President and Vice President President – “I graduated from High School in South Boston, VA in 1970, on the same day I was on the greyhound bus to Washington, D.C.”THERE IS AN OPPORTUNITY IN EVERY SITUATION!” Not everyone is limited to being a business owner, they should always try to identify the opportunity and take advantage of it. Successful people can tell you of a time when they took advantage of an opportunity, while failures can tell you of a time when something happened to them. Always live your "dream" I always dreamed of building my own house and it was accomplished in 1986.” Vice President – “That it is okay to say “no.” Time is a person’s most valuable and precious gift and it is absolutely fine to be stingy with it. You must keep control of your own time. Learning to say no is a critically important factor of success and happiness. You simply must not let other people set your agenda in life. My favorite Scripture is Philippians 4:13 “I Can Do All Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me." “We volunteer our time and talent; we are very active in our community of Little Washington Civic Association where we have lived since 1986, where we have participated in "Pride of Prince George's County Clean-up", Community Day and are members of the board of directors. We helped weekly Food Distribution during COVID at many church locations and currently help with weekly hot meals food distributions at our church Maple Springs Baptist Church in Capitol Heights, Maryland. Volunteering is a high priority on the Williams' list. They partnered with Crossland High School to mentor their Bricklayers classes, and donated items and services to Shepherd's Cove Homeless Shelter Revitalization Project. United Communities Against Poverty Program Facility (UCAPP) for brick signage. “Giving back to the community is important to us, we enjoy participating in Christmas in April and many other activities to help out our community. We will never forget where we come from! Being kind to one another has always been our practice, be hospitable and serve others with a smile.” After a hard work week and at the end of the day, the most important thing for the Williams is spending quality time with their beautiful great-granddaughter Anastasia, who is simply the "JOY" of their lives and their purpose for living. Seeing her wakes up every morning with a "smile on her face,” along with their children Ramona and Linwood Jr., two granddaughters, Asia and Monet, they have lived the American Dream. The Williams also enjoy travelling the world, vacation is very important, entertaining at their home and spending time with their families and great friends are their true blessings. “Thank you Vision & Purpose Lifestyle Magazine for this opportunity and allowing us a chance to share our story with your readers who now know about the Lendana Construction Company and our family.”
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POLITICAL AWARENESS
Dr. Maya Rockeymoore Cummings
Let's Talk Politics By Dr. Sharon H. Porter
Committed. Strong.Visionary. Dr. Maya Rockeymoore Cummings, former chair of the Maryland Democratic Party and former candidate for Governor of Maryland has always been politically aware and community-oriented. While a political science undergraduate student at Prairie View A&M (PVAMU), a Historically Black University northeast of Houston, Texas served as the president of the Political Science Club, she was chair of the Social Action Committee of Delta Sigma Theta Inc. and served as a political campaign manager for a candidate for county commissioner who was also her political science professor. Cummings mentioned that PVAMU played a pivotal role in the history of voting rights in the United States, serving as the subject of the 1979 Supreme Court case (Symms vs. United States) establishing students’ right to vote where they attend college. Prairie View is located in a predominantly white and politically conservative county. She further stated that what many don’t know is that with this court ruling and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, Prairie View students have experienced continuous voter suppression from before that time until today. While she was a student at PVAMU in 1992, she was leading an effort to register students to vote. After the election was over, the Waller County police arrested 13 students they claimed voted illegally. Cummings also helped organize a march to the Waller County courthouse demanding expungement of the student’s records and insisting on our right to vote. The students were able to get their records expunged and the county officials were put on notice. ”In 2004, when Cummings was living and working in Washington, DC (first on Capitol Hill, then for civil rights organizations and think tanks) she received notice that Waller County, Texas officials were once again targeting PVAMU students, this time a local district attorney claimed Prairie View students didn’t meet the legal definition of “resident." JULY/ AUGUST 2021
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She approached Congressman Elijah Cummings, who was a friend and Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus at the time. Congressman Cummings was able to get President George W. Bush's Justice Department to intervene on behalf of the students. Maya Rockeymoore ended up marrying Congressman Cummings in 2008 and moving to Baltimore where she continued the civil rights, equity advocacy, and board service work she’d been engaged in since her arrival to the Washington, DC area (DMV). In 2017, Cummings became the first African American woman to run for governor in the state of Maryland. In 2018, she ran for and won the position of Maryland Democratic Party Chair. When her husband died in October of 2019, she resigned from the Maryland Democratic Party and ran for his congressional seat, coming in second in a field of 32 candidates.
Photo Courtesy of DaKara Spence
I asked Dr. Cummings, what was most significant for her in the role of Chair of the Maryland Democratic Party. She stated that she ran for chair of the Maryland Democratic Party because, like many Democrats, she was disappointed that Democrats could not unseat a Republican governor in a supposedly Democratic state. “I was interested in kicking the tires and popping the hood of the Maryland Democratic Party to figure out why the election of 2018 happened the way that it did and how I could lend my talents and expertise to strengthen the party. Along the way, I met interesting and wonderful people from all walks of life across the state while also building a forward-looking action framework for the party. I’m proud of the progress my team and I made during my tenure
as MDP Chair.” Dr. Cummings’ team designed and implemented the Go DEEP capacity-building strategy for the Party; raised more than $1.1 million in an off-cycle election year;, maintained healthy reserves; built a year-round voter engagement and campaign operation, enhanced communications, training and data capacity, engaged every county in the state; reconstituted a defunct county central committee, set up working committees to develop a state party platform and focus on election protection, made solid inroads into diverse communities, increased their small-dollar donor program fivefold; and had solid Democratic wins in municipal elections in conservative areas of the state. Indeed progress for the Maryland Democratic Party.
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When asked, would she consider running for Governor of Maryland again, she replied “Of course!” She has stated publicly that she believes women are so underrepresented in political office that most women should consider running for elected and/or appointed office at some point in their lives. She further stated, “the only way we guarantee that a diversity of voices and leadership perspectives are represented at the table is by making sure we see ourselves as legitimate and qualified candidates for public office. It's important that we keep our options open.” I am always interested in knowing who influenced and/or inspired individuals in doing the work they do. Dr. Cummings stated she has had many political influences. Her mother was trained as a school teacher but maintained a passion for current events and was extremely well informed. Her dad was executive director of the Democratic Party as well as the president of the NAACP in the town where he lives. Her parents always encouraged her and her siblings to give back and be engaged civic participants. She further states, “It's not an accident that I am politically engaged or that my brother served as a local elected official in the town where he lives. While at Prairie View I was mentored by the late Dr. Jewel Limar Prestage, the first woman to earn her Ph.D. in political science in the United States.” In her bachelor, master's, and Ph.D. programs in political science, she was also taught or mentored by brilliant professors like Dr. Mack Jones, Dr. Berenice Carroll, and Dr. Lyn Kathlene who helped her build the critical lens through which she views and interprets the political and policy world. Her tenure on Capitol Hill allowed her to get to know great elected officials like President Barack Obama, Speaker Nancy Pelosi, former Congressman Charlie Rangel, Congresswoman Barbara Lee, and a host of other members who inspired her and gave her a platform to share her knowledge and perspectives. Cummings continues by saying “and, last but certainly not least, I uplift the spirit of my late husband Congressman Elijah Cummings who always affirmed my brilliance, gave me strategic political advice and encouraged my leadership by repeatedly telling me I would be a good elected official.” Dr. Cummings runs two corporations with compatible missions. Global Policy Solutions LLC (GPS) is a consulting firm, which she founded in 2005. GPS produces innovative research, programs, and communications strategies for nonprofit, philanthropic, government, and socially responsible corporate clients in the areas of health, education, economic security, and civic engagement. From developing and implementing advocacy campaigns and educational curricula to building and evaluating programs and conducting training. GPS worked with a number of social impact clients who are committed to diversity, inclusion, and equity. Dr. Cummings added, “although it's winding down, I also run the Center for Global Policy Solutions (CGPS), a social change nonprofit dedicated to making policy work for people and their environments by advancing innovative and effective solutions to our world’s most critical challenges. We have had major grants from foundations such as the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Ford Foundation and we have designed, implemented, and evaluated projects important for vulnerable communities such as childhood obesity prevention, tech inclusion, closing the racial wealth gap, and social security initiatives. CGPS has been one of my primary vehicles for giving back to society.” I ended my questions by asking her what message she has for our readers as it relates to politics. “I'm continuously fascinated by people who tell me they "don't do politics." Not a single person in this country has the luxury of sitting back and thinking that politics is something to be engaged by other people. If you "don't do" politics, politics will "do you." Meaning, that everything you complain about in society won't get addressed and may also get worse. We need to prioritize political engagement at the federal, state, and local levels and we need to teach our children to be engaged as well. The quality and even the longevity of our lives often depend on the policy decisions made by politicians. Our voices need to be heard constantly and our votes need to be consistently cast or we risk increased marginalization and a future that may very well look like our nation's discriminatory past.” I look forward to seeing the continued work of Dr. Maya Rockeymoore Cummings in Maryland and beyond.
2 NC Feature Raleigh, NC
By Dr. Sharon H. Porter and Karen McConnell-Jones
Linda Chaney Linda Chaney is an entrepreneur and an advocator of helping people live fulfilling lives. She is the founder of Evolution Dance Studio. Linda was born in Raleigh, North Carolina. Her parents moved their family to Washington, DC when she was four years old.
Linda has been in the Metropolitan area and lives in Prince George's County today. She has a degree in Business. In addition, Linda is one of the authors of The MLM Book Business of the 21st Century. She previously worked at the United States Capitol, where she met her husband, Thomas Chaney. Linda has three amazing children: Wayne, Io, and Daniel. Throughout her life, Linda has always used dance as an outlet and she eventually decided to turn her passion into a reality, which is how Evolution Dance Studio was founded. "I still love to return to my hometown of Raleigh, NC for family reunions. I remember going to the Capitol building, Laogai Museum, Planet Word, and DC History Center. If you ever in Raleigh these are some good places to check out. Raleigh is like city living in the country. It is a great place to raise a family." - Linda Chaney
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2 NC Feature Fayetteville, NC
By Dr. Sharon H. Porter and Karen McConnell-Jones
Corey McPherson Talented”, “Creative”, and Multi-Dimensional” are just some of the few accolades that have been used to describe Corey McPherson. A native of Fayetteville, North Carolina, Corey has been around music since the age of four and hails from a lineage rich in musical heritage and tradition, most notably B.B. King. Corey is a graduate of Winston-Salem State University, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and has been an Instrumental Music Educator in the Prince Georges County Public School system for the last 22 years. He now teaches Computer Science at The International High School at Langley Park. Corey is also an accomplished trumpet player and keyboardist. Corey’s favorite pastimes are spending time with family, making music, and playing basketball.
"North Carolina has always had the greatest mixture of kindness, good food, and hospitality that I could not find anywhere! I am a PROUD North Carolinian, and will always remember what my hometown of Fayetteville instilled in me; hospitality and my Alma Mater Winston-Salem State University prepared me to do; “Enter to Learn, Depart to Serve.” - Corey McPherson
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A Day in the Life with Emerick Peace Family, Business, and Community By Karen McConnell-Jones and Dr. Sharon H. Porter Photography - Michael Atcherson JULY/AUGUST 2021
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If the world had a chance to have a front row seat at a look into the day of your life, what would that day tell us and what is the story that you would like your life to say about you? It has been stated that the actions you carry out in your daily routine tells the true character of who you really are. V&P Lifestyle Magazine had the distinct honor of spending a day in the life with Emerick Peace. His day took us on a journey of family man, the businessman, and the caregiver of his community. The start of Emerick’s day began with him being grateful for his life. Giving expressions of admiration to his Lord and Savior for the purpose that is set ahead for the journey of his day. It was clear to see that spirituality and family are everything to him. “I operate in the mindset that there is no balance, only counterbalance. If you work hard, you have to play harder to make the work worth your while. Being spiritually grounded and family is the most important aspect of my life and my family desires to have a great life and as a provider that is my responsibility to work hard. The reward is seeing my family enjoy and have a great life. That is the counterbalance.” “My family inspires me and challenges me to be better because I know they are watching me and expecting the best of me and from me. Having a Black-owned family business is important as I know that so many people are watching and we are a symbol of Black excellence. My family legacy looks like my son and daughter having a great foundation to build on and will be able to provide for my grandchildren and break the cycle of lack of resources in our community. I see a bright future if collaboration and community engagement is to be the best example of what community economics is and can be.” Emerick is a six-time decorated 21-year retiree from the United States Air Force, who started his real estate career, 11 years before he retired. While in the military, Emerick became one of the top-producing real estate agents, serving both successfully. He had been given free advice and helping people buy homes well before becoming licensed, as he went on to obtain his license, he is now earning revenue doing what he loves to do best by still giving advice and helping people.
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Now, we take a look at the businessman he is today. Emerick is the Operating Partner and owner of Keller Williams Preferred Properties (KWPP). KWPP is a multi-billion dollar residential, luxury, and commercial real estate sales brokerage with more than 570 associates located in Upper Marlboro, Maryland (Prince George's County). KWPP is the undisputed #1 real estate brokerage (market share, transaction, and sales volume) in Prince George’s County Maryland, and one of the largest single office brokerages on the eastern coast. Additionally, KWPP is ranked #443 of 84,000 residential brokerages in the United States, according to the 2019 Swanepoel Real Trends Report and #34 in Keller Williams worldwide. “As the Operating Partner and owner, I am responsible for vision, capital, and leadership. I set the tone for the culture and accountability of our team to run and operate a fiscally sound business and to properly address issues with our clients and more importantly our stakeholders.” “Having partnerships that work is a plus and my partnership with Patricia is a dream. When you know your partner has your back and they are always going to operate with integrity that is huge. It works because we don’t count one another's time or money. The only thing that matters is the success of the business, not who did the work. Whether it’s her or myself, just get it done. This is why our firm is different because it is built and designed for the love of the community and we thrive on the community spirit with genuine respect and love for the people. We serve and at the end of the day, we will earn an honest living. We believe we are in business to make a profit, however, we truly put people first. Customer service is a big part of who I am. I am extremely personable and I thrive off of giving and sharing with the community.”
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Business partner Patricia Long, has over thirty years in the real estate industry. Her expertise was residential sales and now she is the expert broker of the company. Her full-time focus is on ensuring that the 600+ agents who are the stakeholders receive uncompromising support in business building, business leverage, technology, and personal growth. Patricia shares with us her day with her business partner, Emerick, and how it all got started. “Emerick and I began working together in 1997. I was representing a builder as their exclusive agent. It was a pretty good size project that included the marketing and sales of more than 50 homes. I was in search of someone to partner with to work the subdivision. Emerick was new to my office. I noticed how he interacted with his clients, and the excellent service he provided. I asked him if he was interested in new home sales, he said "yes", and that was the start of our phenomenal partnership journey. We partnered on a number of other projects and learned that we work amazingly well together. Our partnership works because we share the same values, God, Family, Relationships, Business, and in that order, a positive mindset, strong work ethic, and a heart for people. We have very similar backgrounds even down to the fact that we both married our high school sweetheart, and remain happily married today. I guess you could say, the partnership works because we are truly equally yoked.”
“Relationships will take you places that money cannot.” Emerick A. Peace “We never have money issues, we only have relationship issues.” Emerick A. Peace “If you focus on building strong and powerful relationships, life will reward you with all of the riches you desire, because the relationships will deliver it to you.” It is very obvious to see the heart that Emerick has on family, business, relationships, yet more importantly the love he shares for his community. “If we don’t help and give back to our community then who will? We earn our living from the community so it is incumbent on us to give back to the community. Our primary focus is on the youth; however, we support many other community causes and community concerns.” We ended our day in the life with Emerick by asking him what business and entrepreneurship mean to him and what is one of his proudest moments that he would like to share? “Business and entrepreneurship are about community excellence, Black excellence, and leaving a legacy of excellence as a model for our community and all who aspire to follow in our footsteps. Life is for the living. Live the life God and the Universe designed for you and always step into your GREATNESS and be PHENOMENAL.” His proudest moments are redesigning five libraries for the Title 1 schools in Prince George’s County, Maryland, and personally, marrying the love of his life from high school and raising two beautiful children together who are fine upstanding citizens.
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COMMUNITY OUTREACH
V&P COMMEMORATIONS FOR THE MONTH OF JULY/AUGUST August-National Black Business Month-Historian John William Templeton and engineer Frederick E. Jordan Sr., founded National Black Business Month in August 2004 to “drive the policy agenda affecting the 2.6 million African-American businesses.” August-National Golf Month- National Golf Month was founded in 1993 by the Professional Golfers’ Association of America (PGA). It was created to promote golf as an inclusive sport that is accessible to all genders and ages no matter their skill level. It stemmed from the charity event the PGA does each year, National Golf Day. August-National Radio Day-recognizes the invention of the radio. Celebrate the news, information, music, and stories carried across the airwaves. August-National Dog Lover Day -celebrated August 26th annually and was founded in 2004 by Pet & Family Lifestyle Expert and Animal Advocate, Colleen Paige, also the founder of National Puppy Day, National Mutt Day and National Cat Day, and many more philanthropic days to bring attention to the plight of animals and encourage JULY/AUGUST 2021
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July 2021
August 2021
Days: 3rd Recognized Independence Day (United States) 4th Independence Day 4th International Day of Cooperatives 11th World Population Day 12th Malala Day 15th World Youth Skills Day 18th Nelson Mandela International Day 21st National Ice Cream Day 28th World Hepatitis Day 29th Global Tiger Day 30th World Day Against Trafficking in Persons 30th International Day of Friendship July is Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month
Month-Long Awareness: Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month National Therapeutic Recreation Week is the 7th through the 13th in the United States.
Days: 1st National Minority Donor Awareness Day (United States) 8th International Cat Day 9th Book Lovers Day 9th International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples 10th World Lion Day 12th International Youth Day 12th World Elephant Day 17th National Nonprofit Day 17th International Homeless Animal Day 19th World Humanitarian Day 20th National Radio Day 26th National Dog Day 29th International Day Against Nuclear Tests
Month-Long Awareness: Black Business Month American Indian Heritage Month Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month National Breastfeeding Month (United States) National Immunization Awareness Month (United States) National Golf Month World Breastfeeding Week is from the 1st to the 7th.
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National Golf Month
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
METROPOLITAN KAPPA GOLF LEAGUE By Dr. Sharon H. Porter Photography-Michael Atcherson
August is National Golf Month. The Professional Golfer’s Association of America (PGA) founded National Golf Month in 1993 to promote the sport as accessible and open to all ages, genders, and skill levels. National Golf Month grew out of the PGA’s charity event, National Golf Day, which takes place on a different day every year. I had an opportunity to spend time with the men of the Metropolitan (DC) Kappa Golf League (MKGL) at the Bowie Golf Club located in Bowie, Maryland in Prince George’s County. Bobby J. Coates formed MKGL in 2017. He was originally a part of another local golf club then decided to form his own golf league for Brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi in the Washington, DC area (DMV). Coates was initiated into Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Beta Kappa Chapter in 1993 at the University of the District of Columbia (UDC) where he participated in various sports including basketball and tennis, and was a threeyear letterman. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Education (1995) from UDC. With over 100 members in MKGL, I asked Coates to share a little about the league’s membership. Coates responded “The members of MKGL span from every field of human endeavor. From doctors, lawyers, teachers, school administrators, accountants, government contractors, military, clergy, business owners, and beyond.” Coates added, “Most are experienced golfers, but we welcome novice golfers as well.”
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Bobby J. Coates, MKGL Founder MKGL recently competed in the annual "Kappa Cup" competition with the Brothers of the Richmond, Virginia region and the Hampton/Tidewater Region. The MKGL/DMV won the "Cup" for the second year in a row! The league allows non-members of Kappa to participate as a guest with the invitation of a member of MKGL. As someone interested in learning more about golf, I asked Coates what he would say to novice golfers or those interested in playing golf for the first time. He stated, "enjoy the walk," even though there will be obstacles and challenges (as in life). Still, there are also some beautiful courses, vistas, and terrains to enjoy while you are playing. It is a time to enjoy nature, fellowship/network, and healthy competition! Golf is a game of a lifetime that all can enjoy.” I can honestly say, I experienced all of that and more while visiting with the MKGL during their time at Bowie Golf Club. Hopefully one day soon, I will move from Top Golf to a Golf Club!
About Bobby J. Coates Bobby J. Coates is originally from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He is a 1995 graduate of the University of the District of Columbia. Upon graduation, he began his career in K-12 education at Prince George's County Public Schools. Bobby's career has spanned from Maryland, Virginia, and Georgia as a teacher and athletic coach. Bobby is currently a school administrator in Fort Washington, Maryland and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) at Drexel University. Bobby began playing golf in the late 1990s, around the time Tiger Woods started his professional career. Bobby founded the Metropolitan (DC) Kappa Golf League (MKGL) in 2017, which has over 100 members. MKGL participates in golf outings all over the Washington DC (DMV) region and participates in an annual golf event with members of Kappa Alpha Psi in Richmond, Virginia, and Hampton Roads Regions. Bobby is married to his wife Joya and has four children (three young adults and one teenager).
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COMMUNITY OUTREACH By Karen McConnell-Jones
Photography - Dominique Massaquoi
We all know that community outreach is KEY, it allows us the opportunity to get involved with the different subject manners that are concerning to our community as we provide our community with the solutions that support their needs. There are three main goals for the need for community outreach which are to educate the public on different awareness, provide public services, and create relationships/partnerships between communities and educational institutions. Meet The Community Is Priority Group The Community is Priority Group is a group of business owners, non-profit organizations, churches, and community leaders, coming together for the good of our community. We provide the different services that are needed to raise awareness and bring solutions to address the concerns of our communities that otherwise tend to go unnoticed. Karen McConnell-Jones, CEO and President of Class Act Productions, LLC., is the founder and the organizer of the group. “We are here to create the events/activities, to be more up close and personal with our community. Letting the people of our community know we see you and we hear you, your voices are being heard and we put you FIRST” said Karen. “I truly believe in order to receive a blessing you must first be a blessing and I can honestly say by serving my community has been the biggest blessings and the most rewarding for me”
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The Community is Priority Group core team is made up of two caterers, Zig’s Kitchen and TJay’s Catering, one non-profit organization the Arch of Knowledge, Inc., graphics and designs by Only Greatness Media Production, and two churches, Shammah Ministries Church and First Baptist Church of Camp Springs. The group collaborative partners are Mischelle Designs, The Bins Men, Prestige Healthcare, and Men Aiming Higher, just to name a few. We all pull our resources together depending on the event and what is needed. Our main events are monthly food drives to feed the Washington, DC metropolitan area (DMV). A Message from the Group George Zigler of Zig’s Kitchen shares that “we are one, working together to build, grow, and support the community as a whole to ensure no one falls short of their needs, goals, or dreams. Zig’s Kitchen has been doing outreach for years and will continue to do so”. Jason Green of TJay’s Caterer shares “this means a lot to me personally as well as professionally. I am a firm believer in the saying/motto “It takes a village" and totally live by it within family and business. God has blessed me with the ability to cook at an exceptional level, and this group provides me with the audience to do my part.” Krystal Glenn of Only Greatness Media Production shares “serving the community is important to me because I understand that we all have ups and downs in life and I feel it is our human responsibility to help each other through those ups and downs and service to one another is how we do that!” John Bailey of the Arch of Knowledge, Inc., shares “a collaboration of black-owned businesses giving back to the community is a part of my personal mission. Giving back to God’s people is a must for me.” Karen McConnell-Jones of Class Act Productions, LLC., shares “I am blessed to be able to work in God’s PURPOSE for my life and being one of His servants for the betterment of our community is the greatest thing ever and I am blessed to work with the best team ever. Let us all continue to do God’s work and be a blessing to others." JULY/AUGUST 2021
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Health & Wellness
Brush Me Please! By Kyonna F. Brown
"Coco Cotton and Carson Joyful Noise"
Is brushing and combing your pet a part of your daily regimen? I searched the World Wide Web and assumed there was a study for this. There was not! But as a professional pet groomer with 25 years of experience, I think I can give a rough estimate. Brushing and combing seem like it is just the thing the groomer does, but this will actually help with your pet's overall health. There is an assortment of dog and cat breeds. There are coat textures that are short, medium, and long. Many shapes and sizes. The one thing that they all have in common is that they need to have healthy skin. The skin is the largest organism on their body. It is protected by a natural oil their bodies produce and that is called sebum. There are many ways to help your pet have healthy skin such as food, vitamins, and conditioners, but did you know that combing and brushing techniques can aid with healthy skin?. While brushing and combing your pet you help move the sebum (natural oil) throughout your pet's skin. Sometimes some pores on your pet may become clogged and that can produce some areas of your pet that may be dry, or the gland can overact causing a smell that may lead you to think your pet needs a bath. As a professional I would recommend brushing your pet daily, however, we know that in the real world it may only happen once a week. Now don’t get me wrong there are some pet parents that I know who are always on top of their at-home grooming gig. But there is a greater portion that would just love to pack me up and take me home. My suggestion is to make brushing and combing a part of your weekly routine. I use Skout’s Honor products for great athome grooming tools. Their combing and detangler spray works wonders. Lightly mist the spray all over your pet. Choose a place to start. Section it out and happy brushing. Groomers may make it sound like a walk in the park, but for some pet parents, it can be a full task. I would recommend visiting your local groomer for quick walk-in service. Many groomers offer that as a walk-in service and it will save you time, effort, and maybe even a human and fur argument with your pet. Brushing and combing are more than a to-do list item, it can help your pet stay healthy, protected, and free of matting and pests. Brushes: zoom groom, slicker, hand glove brush Comb: metal wired comb JULY/AUGUST 2021 V&P MAGAZINE | 37
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Health & Wellness
Summer BBQs By Jason Greene
As summertime has begun and the Graduation Cookout season is in full effect, the tendency to overeat and overindulge can become rampant. It is a known fact that barbecued food paves a way for lots of fun get-togethers, but sometimes nutritional values and healthy eating can become obsolete. So, I have a few tips and tidbits to help you have a healthy and joyful season. While attending these summertime cookouts I like to have a set of do’s and don’ts already memorized before arrival. First and foremost, I like to balance my plate portions. I know that we all can tend to make a plate full of protein and limit the sides which are mostly full of carbs like pasta or potato salad. But there are alternative ways to remain healthy while still enjoying yourself. My suggestion is to find a way to have fresh salad or fresh fruit with your food. Most, or all these events will have some sort of fresh salad or fresh fruit, and if not it’s extremely inexpensive to pick up a small bag of mixed salad and dressing to provide yourself with this healthy and nutritional outlet. Next, I always remember not to eat burnt meat. As a chef, I know tons of people that love burnt hotdogs but that is a very unhealthy pleasure. Studies have shown that eating burnt meat such as burnt hotdogs, releases carcinogens into your lungs while digesting. So those of you that must have this just know that while you are enjoying the burnt crispy flavor, harmful fragments are damaging your lungs. Another tip is to remain active, such as in dancing or participating in any physical activities that are being played. This will ensure the healthy digestion of whatever you eat. Lastly, is to make sure to drink large amounts of spring or alkaline water. Drinking large amounts of water can do numerous wonders for the body during this time of year. As the weather is hot and humid, the body is constantly working overtime to remain cool, a fuel for that is water, so you must hydrate constantly. Water consumption can also curb your appetite, so that means you’re more likely to eat a portion of what you normally would if this is practiced. Most people love this season since almost everything is done outside due to the weather being amazingly pleasant, depending on where you reside. This is the time of year that people want to show off that beach body due to working out and hitting the gym all winter. It would not be prudent for those individuals (possibly yourself) to throw away all that hard work and dedication by simply adopting unhealthy habits at these cookouts. Enjoy the summer and the barbecues!
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Authors Speak By Dr. Essie McKoy
Hold On And Die Or Let Go And Live Pastors are excellent at sharing the word. Most pastors know the bible from front cover to back cover and can easily share with their parishioners. They know how to connect and convey a strong message or story through sharing “the word.” They know how to touch the hearts, minds, and souls of those listening. They can capture people’s imaginations, help one to become motivated, and inspire one to devote their life to serving a higher power. Pastors are there to help when you need them the most and they can assist during some of the most challenging times in one’s life. Pastors can provide advice that will help one to live a better life and they can give guidance in how to seek whatever you need from a spiritual perspective. Many pastors have a wealth of knowledge and an abundance of connections. They can provide a multitude of resources and assistance. Pastor Arnold McLaurin is that kind of pastor! He knows just what to provide to his parishioners. He has traveled the journey and had the life experiences to be able to render comprehensive services in his ministry and it is obvious in his first book. His book is a compilation of the impact he has made and the difference-maker he has been known for in his many years of pastoring. This soon-to-be author is putting the final touches on his first-ever book and is extremely excited about where this journey of writing his story has led him and what it will help him to accomplish in helping others! He knows that it is a wonderful way to give back and make a difference! The title of the book is “Hold On and Die or Let Go and Live.” He believes in life we tend to hold on to things, people, and philosophies that are not working or contributing to our pursuit, happiness, or peace in life. His book is simply intended to allow him to share his life experiences and the many challenges that he faced for fifty years. He encountered many crossroads where he had to decide when to hold on and when to let go. Prayerfully, Pastor McLaurin hopes that it will give context to holding on to things and people that are depleting, deteriorating, and diminishing the quality of life God ordained for each one of us. Also, he shares when and how to let go of those things that are not good for us and how to avoid permanent damage to our lives by letting go. His analogy is that the premise in part is predicated on holding on to hot coal that is causing us severe pain and permanent scars or letting go and starting the healing process, which he knows is an opportunity and pathway to a better life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness. Pastor Arnold McLaurin knew that he was special from the time that he was born in Manhattan New York in 1955. He was told by his mother at the tender age of twelve that he displays compassion for people. The things he did and the impact he made were evident early in his life. As you read his book, you will see the lesson learned and the knowledge gained. Through his journey, Pastor McLaurin moved to Washington, DC, in 1964 and experienced the plight of God’s people in Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia. He was inspired to respond to what he shares as, “heaven’s need to feed his sheep.”
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Authors Speak Pastor McLaurin came from a large family, but that did not keep him from finding his way and reaching his greatness! As he shared, he is the third oldest of eight siblings and at the age of four returned to his family’s birthplace in Snow Hill, North Carolina. It is a part of his rich history that he is the great, great grandson of a slave from the plantation of an Irish slave master in Wilmington, North Carolina, named McLaurin. Pastor McLaurin migrated to Washington, DC, just prior to the devastation of the Martin Luther King riots. He attended Cardozo High School in Washington, DC, just prior to joining the USAF (United States Air Force) in 1971 at the age of seventeen where he received his GED. His professional journey has led him to be an entrepreneur and he remained self-employed most of his adult life. Developed in the philosophy of, “learning by experience,” or more eloquently referred to as, “on the job training,” he took pride in being the manager at the People’s Drug Store from 1976-1980. He was mandated by choice to live on the principle, “If I do not produce then I do not eat!” He also founded and incorporated three businesses, one as a thirty-eight-year-old, “Cabbie” in the District of Columbia. He has been married three times and now divorced but gained a lot of insight from his experiences as a husband. He was a devoted member of three churches, serving the first church for twenty years and the second church as an associate minister for four years. The third he founded and pastored for fifteen years. He is sold out on the life and doctrine of Jesus Christ! Pastor McLaurin’s favorite scriptures are Matthews 18; 19-20. It reads as follows, “Again, I say unto you, that if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” A pastor, a teacher, and a person who has lived life, experience highs and lows, seen the best of times and the worst of times, shares authentically in his book that will uplift, inspire, motivate, and encourage any man, woman, or child!
Pastor Arnold McLaurin was born in Manhattan, New York in 1955. He was told by his mother that his compassionate care for people was revealed at the tender age of twelve. Pastor McLaurin moved to Washington, D.C. in 1964 and having experienced the plight of God’s people in D.C., MD, and VA., he was inspired to respond to Heaven’s need to “Feed My Sheep.” He is the third oldest of eight siblings and at the age of four returned to his family's birth place in Snow Hill, North Carolina. The Great, Great Grandson of a slave from the plantation of an Irish Slave Master in Wilmington, North Carolina named McLaurin, migrated to Washington, D. C. in 1964 just prior to the devastation of the King Riots. Pastor McLaurin attended Cardozo High School in Washington, D.C. just prior to joining the USAF (United States Air Force) in 1971 at the age of seventeen where he received his GED. He has been an entrepreneur and self-employed most of his adult life. Developed in the philosophy of “learning by experience” or more eloquently referred to as “on the job training” which he took pride in being the manager at the Peoples Drug Store from 19761980. He was mandated by choice to live on the principle that “If I don’t produce then I don’t eat!” He also Founded and Incorporated three businesses, one as a thirty eight year “Cabbie” in the District of Columbia. He has been married three times and now divorced, a devoted member of three churches, serving the first church for twenty years and the second church as an Associate Minister for four years. The third he founded and Pastored for fifteen years. Sold out on the life and doctrine of Jesus Christ and Him crucified since the winter of 1980. Favorite Scripture Matthews 18:19-20: “Again, I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” JULY/AUGUST 2021 V&P MAGAZINE | 40
COMING SOON!
HOLD ON AND DIE OR LET GO AND LIVE
The Autobiography of
Pastor Arnold McLaurin
Authors Speak By Dr. Sharon H. Porter
WOMEN WHO LEAD ANTHOLOGY
Four years ago, I created the Women Who Lead Anthology through my publishing company, Perfect Time SHP LLC. This book series was developed to advocate for women in leadership. As an educator, it was extremely important that I prepare a space where elementary and middle school young ladies could bear witness to women leading in all industries. Volume 1 consisted of 20 of these women leading in various industries. Featured were medical doctors, educators, engineers, realtors, stylists, media professionals, entrepreneurs, human resource professionals, and more. The contributing authors shared their journeys in leadership which included successes, accomplishments, as well as barriers, challenges, and obstacles. Since the inception of Volume 1, several editions have been written and/or published... Women Who Lead In Education, Women Who Lead In Technology, Women Who Lead In Medicine, Women Who Lead In Law, Latina Leaders, Women Who Lead In Real Estate, and Women Who Lead In Finance, and Women Who Lead in Media. We hold a special memory for Devay Campbell, a contributing author in Volume 1, who was indeed a Woman Who Leads. #womenwholead Stay tuned for more in the Women Who Lead franchise. Find additional information at www.womenwholeadanthology.com and follow us on social media @wwlanthology.
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All Things Fashion
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Summer Time By Laila Cunningham
It's that time of the year… Summertime! The Sun is out, the weather is warm, and there’s plenty of time to get in all the fun activities you may have planned. Summer is just now starting and man is it going to be a hot one!. So I'm here to help give some of the latest fashion and some helpful fashion tips to help you look fashionable but also stay cool in this hot summer weather. To start off, the pools have officially been opened! The beaches are up and ready! So grab yourself a cute 1, 2, or 3 piece swimsuit and pair it with your favorite sandals or slides to create a cute beach or poolside look. Don’t forget your cover ups! Yes, the summer weather may take a toll but you don’t want to walk around in a swimsuit all day. Grab a cute sheer or opaque, cover loose cover up so you can walk around the boardwalk or poolside looking cute and covered. Don’t forget your accessories! This is the season where you can show some skin and create cute looks. Anklets are in high fashion this season and they can add texture and some spice to any look you create this summer. Necklaces and bracelets are also a great addition to your summer fits. Let’s get into your summer streetwear fashion. During this season, any color works. This is really your time to get creative and change things up a little. Let’s talk about shirts. Cropped shirts and tube tops are perfect for this summer and are what almost all the teens are wearing nowadays. Regular t-shirts are still a great option if you don’t want to show too much skin.
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Now let’s talk about pants. Pack those sweatpants and thermals up and bring on the shorts! Shorts are perfect to keep you cool and to let you show off those legs this summer. Another great option are your favorite pair of jeans or even leggings if you aren’t trying to show too much skin, too. There are so many different looks you can create when you match up your favorite shirt of any kind with the pants of your choice. Let’s also talk about one piece and two piece sets. These sets have been in high fashion throughout the year. Rompers and jumpsuits would be cute to wear this summer. Let’s not forget about bodysuits! They are also another way to spice up your look this summer. Summer is now open for business. So grab your favorite mask, and some SPF and go have some fun!
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All Things Fashion
Self Care By Tony Turner Learning to love yourself. It's amazing how many beautiful people think they are not beautiful. I see it everywhere. So many people feel that they are not enough. Their hair is not long enough. Their eyelashes aren't big enough. Their waistline is not snatched enough. They aren't dark enough. They aren't light enough. They aren't rich enough. They don't care enough about themselves to realize that they are enough. They are willing to risk it all for bigger breasts and voluptuous derriere. Even to the point of risking their lives for dangerous procedures. My nose is not sharp enough. My lips aren't thick enough. I'm not feeling myself. I'm not getting enough likes on the IG. I need more followers! When do we start feeling that we aren't enough? When did we not get the affirmation that we are good enough? When did we learn to damage ourselves in order to gain others' approval? I see a lot of self-hate. I get it, you’ve got to work what you have. You’ve got to shake what your mamma gave you. But most of all you’ve got to learn to love what The Most High gave you. You are the one and only you! This may be one of the hardest lessons to teach. But it is one of the most valuable lessons to learn. It will affect everything in your life. It will help you teach others how to treat you and it will teach you how to treat yourself. It will change your total thinking. Suddenly, you will know your worth. You will see your God-given beauty! You will learn that The Most High doesn't make mistakes, meaning all things have a purpose, even if we don't like it. We should make it work. Today's All Things Fashion (Hair) section is all about what your hair protects and adorns. It protects your mind, your body, and your soul. The most beautiful hairstyle starts with your mental health. You could be drop-dead gorgeous and the world can make you feel like the ugly duckling. Wake Up, People! The world is getting rich off you believing you are not enough. We are robbing ourselves. By feeling inadequate the world keeps us spending and not investing. We continue to stay consuming instead of producing. Know thyself, Beautiful! You are more than enough! You are fierce and wonderfully made. From birth, until now, you are AMAZINGLY BEAUTIFUL! Most times we don't know who or what we are. We don't know our history. Some of us don't know we created cosmetology. The art and science of beauty were invented by the Egyptians. Yes, people of color. Our minds have been traumatized into self-loathing. It's amazing to me how the world is in awe of our beauty and we can't stand it. Then The Most High smacks us in the face with it. I'm looking at the world is ruled by a brown woman’s bottom. Everybody wants those curves in their lives. Some may see it as vulgar, but Meg (Megan Thee Stallion) makes a good point. People will have you thinking "those nasty people of color have been running the world's commerce since the beginning of time." When you know who you are, you can monetize it and charge tax. But first, you must know who you are so the profit won't own you. This didn't happen by mistake. The Most High has taught us a lesson. We are made in The Most High's image and don't let any snake teach you any differently. If it can make you feel inadequate, it can cost you your position and your productivity and prosperity! So, now, Beautiful, will you study your greatness? Will you keep your maker first? Will you lead by example? Sometimes we have to lead from behind. That's another article. It’s our time Beautiful Ones! It's our time. JULY/AUGUST V&P MAGAZINE | 45
All Things Fashion
Summer Time Hair Tips By Martina Turner Summertime brings hot and humid temperatures, which means your hair is going to need some extra TLC. You're probably thinking how can I maintain healthy hair in this warm weather and still look fabulous? Well, it's definitely going to take a consistent hair regimen and quality hair care products. Your hair may become more dry, oily and sweaty which causes dandruff and dirt buildup. You may need to shampoo your hair at least once or twice a week. Shampooing helps to prevent and cleanse buildup on the hair and scalp which continues healthy hair growth. A good clarifying and moisturizing shampoo is recommended. Sulfate free and paraben free are best. Follow with a conditioning treatment, which helps to soften, moisturize, and make the hair more manageable. After conditioning, rinse your hair with cool water, it seals your hair cuticle which adds shine, reduces frizz and dandruff. A good shine therapy and heat protectant will help fight against dryness, frizz and heat damage. When shopping for a quality hair oil, look for certified organic ingredients which benefits your hair type. Due to different hair textures, you may need to apply less or more of an amount of hair oil to the hair strands. Just make sure it doesn't weigh your hair down and clog your pores which can cause blemishes to your scalp. Your hair produces its own natural oils. Heat protectants help to protect the hair strands when using heating tools, such as your flat irons, blow dryer, and other styling tools. Overuse of heating tools can cause heat damage, split ends, and dry and brittle hair. Check the temperature gauge to make sure you're not applying too much heat to your hair. Everyone's hair texture is different. Limit your use of heat styling to no more than twice a week (once a week is highly recommended). A heat protectant spray and hair oil help to tame frizz due to humidity. Find a product that helps protect and condition the hair. Don't forget to keep up with your hair trims. Stay cool and enjoy your summer!
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PERFORMING ARTS
Taneshia Nash Laird
Arts Administrators & Guardians of Culture Part One: Taneshia Nash Laird By Seth Washington Newark Symphony Hall, located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Newark NJ, was opened in 1925 as a Masonic temple. After the Great Depression it became a performing arts space, later frequented by African Americans. CEO and President of the venue, Tanisha Nash Laird shares valuable insights about restoring this treasured landmark. SW: What will visitors experience in the future renovated Newark Symphony Hall (NSH) space? Taneshia Nash Laird (TNL): Visitors and attendees will experience the restored Sarah Vaughn Main Concert Hall on the main level and the legendary Terrace Ballroom on the lower level. The second floor where the television studio used to be (where Billie Holiday recorded a performance), now features a black box theatre. On the fourth floor is our dance studio, where we're going to restart dance classes with the New Jersey Ballet. Before you even walk through the front doors you will see a translucent dome marquee with LED lighting that says Newark Symphony Hall. SW: Between now and the NSH 100th anniversary in 2025, what are the keys to completing the renovation? TNL: Without a doubt, financing and funding it, $50 million dollars is a lot of money. A group of African American gentlemen, finance executives, used our ballroom for their event and they also asked me to come and to speak a bit about the history of the venue. I talked about the people who had performed and appeared in the room they were sitting in, the Terrace Ballroom, the names included Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the Miles Davis Sextet, Billie Holiday, Count Basie and Duke Ellington. Afterwards, the head of the organization spoke about assisting my efforts. SW: Will the spirit of Sarah Vaughn be pleased with the restoration of the main concert hall, named in her honor? TNL: I think so. I think she would be really pleased to see it looking the way she remembered. SW: If you could travel back in time, what artist would you like to see perform in the Terrace Ballroom? TNL: It's so hard because so many people performed there. The Miles Davis Sextet, thinking about him, John Coltrane and Cannonball Adderly who were also in that line-up with Miles. . . yeah that's probably it, The Miles Davis Sextet. SW: What other role of prominence has distinguished NSH? TNL: It is not only a performing arts space but an important civic space. This is where poet Amiri Baraka campaigned for Ken Gibson who went on to become the first African American mayor of a major Northeastern city. Baraka had people like Nina Simone, Isaac Hayes, Harry Belafonte, Dustin Hoffman, all these folks, come to NSH and campaign for Ken Gibson, along with the many events that every subsequent mayor also has hosted here. SW: Why is NSH important to Taneshia Nash Laird? TNL: I remember being a little girl and my mother bringing me to visit friends in Newark. My late husband and I resided in New Jersey and Newark in the 90s was on the come-up. I recall going for the NSH job, literally walking through Lincoln Park to get to my interview and could hear the Staples Singers "I'll Take You There" blasting outdoors. Lincoln Park and NSH felt like a place where I needed to be. For more details about Newark Symphony Hall's illustrious legacy visit the website: Newarksymphonyhall.org JULY/AUGUST V&P MAGAZINE | 47
Arts Administrators & Guardians of Culture Part Two: Gilda Rogers By Seth Washington
Opened in 2019, the T. Thomas Fortune Cultural Center, in Red Bank, NJ is located in the historic home of the newspaper publisher and pioneering activist of the same name. The Cultural Center's Co-Founder Gilda Rogers talks about reestablishing Fortune's home and legacy. SW: Who is Timothy Thomas Fortune? Gilda Rogers (GR): He was the founding member of a Black political organization called the National Afro-American League, with 27 chapters across the country. This predated the Niagara Movement which is the predecessor to the NAACP. The New York Age was a paramount newspaper in the African American community that Fortune founded in 1887 and used as a bully pulpit to talk about race. He spoke truth to power, he did not fear white politicians or anyone really. So that was Timothy Thomas Fortune. SW: What initially drew your attention to the house in Red Bank, NJ where Fortune lived with his wife Carrie in the early 1900s? GR: I've been on a 21-year journey with T. Thomas Fortune. It was divinely orchestrated, I really believe. I was first introduced to his name when I was working as the managing editor for the City News, an African American weekly newspaper in Newark, and in the year 2000, we won The T. Thomas Fortune Award from the Garden State Association of Black Journalists. I had no idea who this person was. In 2006, the dwelling itself drew my attention. I would ride past the house which was abandoned at this time. It was boarded up and I would look at it and say, "Wow, what a lovely home". Even in its worst condition, you could tell that, during its time, it must have been pretty special. They had placed the house on the 10 Most Endangered Historic Sites of the state. A gentleman by the name of George Bowden, who was then the Red Bank Historic Preservation Commission Chairperson, approached me and said, "Gilda, do you know who used to live in this house? Then said the name, "T. Thomas Fortune." I'm thinking that this is pretty unbelievable. SW: So the house was scheduled for demolition even while it was on the historic registry? GR: When people hear the words historic and national registry, we think it comes with some kind of protection. It does not. Now that we've acquired the home, we put what is called a historic easement on the house so that it is protected from being demolished SW: Gilda Rogers and Roger Mumford: The Black Curator of Culture meets the White Real Estate Developer? GR: The state of New Jersey was willing to buy the property. The family that owned the house, rejected the state's offer. We were back at square zero. Two days later Roger Mumford sent me an email. He just said, "I would like to talk to you about the T. Thomas Fortune House." I'd never seen this man in my life. At our meeting, Roger said, "I know how African American people have been treated in this country." He also felt like he wanted to do something that would bring people together. So, he proposed, "What if I purchase the property, restore it, rehabilitate it and deed it back to your organization for one dollar?" I said, "OK", but I left his office feeling skeptical. Two days later he asked me to come back to his office again. He'd taken our rendering of what the restored house would look like and made it into Fortune Square, featuring the house along with condominiums in the rear, designed with a facade in the style of the T. Thomas Fortune house. I said to myself, "Wow this guy is really serious!" JULY/AUGUST V&P MAGAZINE | 48
SW: Were you concerned about getting approval at the city hearing? GR: There was a hearing at Borough Hall, people were in opposition. I think that I felt good because the hearing was on my mother's birthday. Roger had his strategy so tight that he could not be denied. He had urban planners and traffic control people there. He prepared research to let the town know how this would work. It was unanimous approval by the zoning board. SW: Talk about the concept for the interior space? GR: T. Thomas Fortune popularized the term Afro-American. He said Afro- American represents where we come from as a people. We wanted visitors to walk into this space and know that it belonged to a Black man, a Black family. We did it on our own. One of our board members who were on the team, a white woman, suggested that we use African fabric to reupholster the Victorian-era furniture that had been donated to us. I couldn't be more proud of us. SW: Is the Cultural Center having the impact that you thought it would? GR: Yes, I'm going to say it is. In the Carrie Fortune Research Library, named after Fortune's wife, we have some really rare books that you will not find in your average library. We have an archivist who maintains it and we would like to see this become a mini Schomberg. We've programmed Summer enrichment for teachers and for individuals, as well, to emphasize the significance of teaching social justice to create a more democratic society. When COVID happened, we had to shut down. I feel very strongly that this summer will be good for us. SW: Who is Gilda Rogers? GR: Before moving to Red Bank, New Jersey, I lived in Rahway but I grew up in Elizabeth. Hampton, Virginia is my birthplace. In the 4th grade, schools became integrated and I was bused to an all-white, Virginia school district. The students weren't mean, it was the teachers. I remember going on a trip to Colonial Williamsburg and had enough sense to know that Black people had been enslaved, but back then, the site didn’t portray slavery. It was this beautiful colonial environment and setting that was picture perfect. I remember asking my teacher, Mrs. Holland, "Where are the slaves?" and she shushed me like I had done something wrong. I'd like to say that's where it all started. My mother said, "I want you to know, this is an experiment. They want to see if you are as smart or smarter than the white kids. You have to go to that school, you have to show them." That year in Virginia was transformative for me, it all came together with education and history. The T. Thomas Fortune Cultural Center is currently open from 1:00 pm-5:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. and is located at 94 Drs James Parker Blvd, Red Bank, New Jersey. Visit the website: www.tthomasfortuneculturalcenter.org
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SPORTS REPORT WITH LADY K AND YOUNG MR. D By Karen McConnell-Jones & Deven Richmond
We Are Back In The Game Most sports fans would say it’s great to see that we are back in the game! Meaning, that after experiencing COVID at its best last year shutting the whole world down, and having most sports seasons suspended for a while. It is definitely great to see the sports world back to some normality. Having the NBA Championship Games played in October of last year due to COVID, was not what the sports world and fans were used to seeing. Not having fans at the games and having to be creative with special effects audiovisual, giving the illusion of fans in the arena cheering their team on or booing the opposing team was as real as it got to witnessing a NEW NORMAL in sports! So, to say we are back is a great feeling. NBA Playoffs Are Back With Real Fans In The Arena The NBA Playoffs are back! And this time with fans in the arenas. Last year’s playoffs were altered by COVID-19 and forced players and coaches to make their way to Orlando at Walt Disney World to play in a “bubble”. This was possibly the most unique situation that the NBA has ever experienced, but they managed to crown a champion. Congratulations to the Los Angeles Lakers for achieving such a difficult feat. Now, with a sense of normalcy, the NBA playoffs are being played in arenas across the country and the games have been nothing short of disappointing. The first round started off in shocking fashion with the defending champs, Los Angeles Lakers, losing a six-game series to the Phoenix Suns. The Suns are a team to watch out for in this year’s playoffs. They are young and hungry with a great balance of talented young guys such as Devin Booker and experienced vets such as Chris Paul who have been in high-pressure situations before. It would not come as a surprise if the Suns found their way into the NBA Finals this year. JULY/AUGUST V&P MAGAZINE | 50
Another exciting series was between the Brooklyn Nets and the Boston Celtics. Brooklyn came out on top in this series winning in just five games. The Nets might have one of the best offensive structures in the history of the game with all-time great scorers Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and James Harden. The Celtics put up a great fight, but Brooklyn’s offensive firepower proved to be too much. We are now in the second round of the playoffs and things are heating up. The NBA Finals will be played in mid-July and it should be interesting to see who comes out on top!
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