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I say to you today, my friends, so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream. I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal." I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood. I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi, a state sweltering with the heat of injustice, sweltering with the heat of oppression, will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice. I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.
I have a dream today. I have a dream that one day, down in Alabama, with its vicious racists, with its governor having his lips dripping with the words of interposition and nullification; one day right there in Alabama, little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers.
I have a dream today. I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight, and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together. This is our hope. This is the faith that I go back to the South with. With this faith we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope. With this faith we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. With this faith we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day. This will be the day when all of God's children will be able to sing with a new meaning, "My country, 'tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing. Land where my fathers died, land of the pilgrim's pride, from every mountainside, let freedom ring." And if America is to be a great nation this must become true. So let freedom ring from the prodigious hilltops of New Hampshire. Let freedom ring from the mighty mountains of New York. Let freedom ring from the heightening Alleghenies of Pennsylvania! Let freedom ring from the snowcapped Rockies of Colorado! Let freedom ring from the curvaceous slopes of California! But not only that; let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia! Let freedom ring from Lookout Mountain of Tennessee! Let freedom ring from every hill and molehill of Mississippi. From every mountainside, let freedom ring. And when this happens, when we allow freedom to ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God's children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual, "Free at last! free at last! thank God Almighty, we are free at last!"
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Editor’s Message: Were you aware that a child is abducted every 40 seconds in this country? Moreover, did you know that over 40% of these children are African American? If not, you are not alone because few people are aware of this epidemic. The truth is that African American children receive limited media coverage when they go missing. Sadly, without this exposure it is less likely that they will be safely found. The staff at Peas In Their Pods works diligently to spread awareness about this issue by alerting media outlets as needed when African American children are missing or abducted. Our mission is to bring awareness to our communities the plight of these children, and to make them a national priority. Peas In Their Pods are concerned about all our children, the organization strives to bring awareness to any child missing, no matter, race color. The commitment is to keep the public on alert and aware. There are many organizations across this country whose missions are to provide resources to families in helping to build stronger and healthier communities. Community based organizations are key factors in developing opportunities that will help our children advance to higher levels of achievement, without these additional support systems our children and families would lack the most. It still takes a village‌!!! Denise Bethune Editor-In-Chief Whitesboro, ew Jersey http://www.peasintheirpods.com hfmbc@hotmai.com
I THIS EDITIO
PEAS I THEIR PODS STAFF
JUST A MAN Clayton Palmer
Janice Lowery CEO
Foreclosure Prevention
Gaetane Borders President Training Specialist
Secretary Shaun Donovan Urban Awareness Tracy J. Brown
Narcissistic Users Dominating Facebook Shyra Smith TwentyTwenty-First Century Foundation (21CF) Founded By Economist Robert S. Browne Parenting Corner Gaetane Borders Hospitality Corner With Sharon Fox Safely Ever After, Inc. Patti Fitzgerald Monthly Treats Pat Holmes A New Journey Paula Whitebear - Burton Fabulous Black Woman Eddie Simpson * All individuals, organizations featured in this edition are at the approval of its authorized agent.
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Mildred Nixon Vice President Linda Glover Treasurer Denise Bethune Editor in Chief P.E.A.S. Magazine Grant Procurement Pattie Fitzgerald Safety & Prevention Advisor Paula Whitebear Administrative Assistant Delilah Jones Publicity Manager Nancy Fairbanks Webmaster Amy Matthews Researcher Teri Kendle Researcher
JUST A MA I am just a man not trying to be anything but a man Loving you like I do with my eyes closed and heart open
Clayton Palmer
Maimoona Ulin Maria Carroll
I don’t try to be the so called baller that’s not me
Missing from: Oakland, CA Missing since: 1/9/2004 Age now 16 Circa 2004 Age Progressed to 14 Circa 2008 Maimoona was visiting her Non -Custodial mother Arifa Abdullah and was scheduled to be returned to her father Courtney Carroll on the 16th of January. Abdullah never showed up with Maimoona and a felony warrant was issued on March 8, 2004, and Abdullah's visitation rights were revoked. She may be in Saudi Arabia, Washington D.C. or she may still be in California.
I just show you the soul of a man I look at you and see what a man needs, a woman who is not vain Yet who has a spirit which runs equally wild and free A woman willing to share her pains while helping me understand mine and why If it happens then so be it ; I am a man who cries Love me for the man whom you see not for that knight who rescues you by scaling walls of a tower so high
Arifa Abdullah Circa 2004 Age 56 Possible aliases: "Eleanor Morris," "Arifa Morris," "Leah Hendrix," "Eleanor Elaine Morris," and "Arifa Adesanya." Abdullah usually dresses in traditional Muslim attire such as long dresses and wears her hair wrapped. She may use the aliases "Eleanor Morris," "Arifa Morris," "Leah Hendrix," "Eleanor Elaine Morris," and/or "Arifa Adesanya." She usually wears long dresses with her hair wrapped. She may frequent mosques and Islamic schools. She is reportedly mentally unstable.
I like to keep myself grounded because at the end of my days I don’t want to have to ask you to “...Tell me that I was a good man.”
If you have any information on the case contact: Alameda County Sheriff's Office (California)(510) 667-7721 OR Alameda County District Attorney's Office (California) (510) 667-3200
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Shaun Donovan Secretary A message from Secretary Shaun Donovan: HUD needs your assistance to raise awareness in your community about help from foreclosure prevention programs and the dangers of scams. The Obama Administration is fighting mortgage fraud and predatory practices vigorously – providing millions of dollars in federal resources and working to get the word out about those who prey on vulnerable homeowners. As important as that commitment is, it is no substitute for the valuable relationships faith-based and community organizations have with families in the community. They know you. They trust you. They respect you -- and so does HUD. Like few others, you can speak one-on-one to homeowners at risk of foreclosure or of becoming victims in a foreclosure rescue scam. That’s why we are providing this important information. The Toolkit on Foreclosure Prevention and Scam Awareness for Faith-Based and Community Organizations is intended as a guide to provide your church or nonprofit with ideas to help you raise community awareness. One of the best ways to do this is to publicize the information in newsletters, brochures, pamphlets or even by hosting community-wide informational workshops. Additionally, a CD is included which highlights government internet web pages and allows you to click the links for easy access to these valuable and informative resources in multiple languages. Whether as faith leaders or community partners, you are the ones we turn to in times of need. You are the ones with longstanding reputations in our communities for ensuring that the concerns of our most vulnerable citizens do not fall on deaf ears. And so I hope you will take advantage of this Toolkit to help us reach as many families as possible. With your help, I have no doubt we can make a difference. Urban Awareness USA is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that bridges the gap between communities, government and faith-based organizations. Established in 2004, Urban Awareness USA’s mission is to strengthen, empower and equip faith-based & community organizations with the necessary tools and resources they need to better serve their communities. Our mission is to strengthen, empower and equip faith-based and community organization with the tools and resources necessary for them to complete their missions with excellence. We do this by providing practical educational experiences and, if necessary, customized consulting services in most every area pertaining to the operation of your organization. Urban Awareness USA is owned by author, speaker and consultant, Tracy J. Brown. Its staff of Christian professionals will educate, train and empower your organization to obtain all resources necessary to fund your vision, grow your organization and manage your administrative operations to better serve God’s kingdom. Recently, Urban Awareness USA was awarded a private grant for the purpose of educating churches in the top 20 African-American populated metropolitan areas about the multiple grant funding opportunities from federal, state, local and private organizations and exactly how urban churches can obtain funding and impact their surrounding communities. http://urbanministryblog.org/
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● Envy of others or believes others are envious of him or her
arcissistic Users Dominating Facebook
● Arrogant behavior and/or attitude
By Shyra Smith
● Seeks constant attention and admiration from others ● Belief that he or she is special or unique and can only be understood by other special or unique people
Do you know anyone who is constantly on Facebook updating their status? Every few hours, you see a new post that might be an inspirational statement or a post to let you know of the good they are doing or maybe even a post to influence your perceived image of them that is opposite of who they really are? A recent study was done by a Canadian University that discovered the Narcissistic users are the most popular user on Facebook today. According to WebMd, Narcissism is a term used to describe a focus on the self and self-admiration that is taken to an extreme. Narcissistic personality disorder has been classified as one of a group of conditions called dramatic personality disorders. The attitudes and behaviors really do not reflect ones true self-confidence. It actually conceals a deep sense of insecurity and a very weak selfesteem.
● Expectation that others will automatically go along with what he or she wants
It has been found that there are many individuals utilizing Facebook today in an effort to help control other’s views of them. Those in relationships with ones with Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) can sometimes find difficulty in their relationship. It can become isolating and very painful at times for both. It is also proven that every person with NPD is not the same. Research shows that some become overly narcissistic when they commonly feel rejected, humiliated and threatened or when they have been criticized. It’s known that a person with NPD has a “perceived” image that is typically not commensurate with his or her real accomplishments. The individual might be ambitious and capable, but at the same time doesn't handle setbacks and criticism well and it makes it difficult for them to maintain long term professional achievements. Interpersonal relationships can become affected due to a constant need for attention inherent in NPD.
The exact causes really aren’t known, but it has been believed by many health professionals that it results from childhood. Here’s an example. NPD could develop as a result of excessive pampering, or even when a parent has a need for their child to be talented or special in order to maintain their very own self esteem. Take a look at some of the known symptoms and possible causes of Narcissistic Personality Disorder:
If you are a parent who has a child utilizing Facebook, are you paying attention to the content being posted by your child? Do any of the above symptoms or causes sound familiar? It is important that we really pay attention to how we parent our children. Unfortunately, there is not a manual to know the best decisions to always make, but some things we do will greatly benefit our children, while other decisions that we make will hinder their proper development. Rest assured though, every decision will have an impact one way or the other. There are many adults experiencing this personality about the complications and treatment.
● Exaggerating their talents and achievements and needs to be praised for the “perceived” exceptional talents ● May take advantage of others to achieve their goals ● Excessive admiration that’s never balanced with “realistic” feedback ● Excessive praise for good behavior or excessive criticism for poor behavior during childhood life
There are many adults experiencing this personality disorder today and never knew there was an identified name for what they have. To learn more about NPD, you can perform an online search and find out more about the complications and treatment. Visit Shyra's websites, http://www.shyrasmith.com http://www.buildmyenterprise.com
● Overindulgence and/or overvaluation by parents ● Valued by the parents as a means to regulate the parents’ own self-esteem ● Unreliable care-giving from the parents ● Can be self-centered and boastful 7
PARENTING CORNER Personal Time Is The Best Gift
Kelly Juanita Staples
Happy New Year everyone! Like so many around the world, you probably made a list of resolutions that that you hope to achieve during this year. Weight loss, professional endeavors, spiritual journeys&the sky is the limit in 2011! Although this may seem odd coming from me, but maybe this is the year that you will vow to spend more time personal time away from the kids.
Missing from: CHICAGO, IL Missing Since: 1/8/80 Age Now: 37 Circa 1980 Kelly's photo is shown age-progressed to 31 years. She was last seen on her way to school but never made it to class and has not been seen since. She has a birthmark on the left middle chest. She was last seen wearing a brown and white striped cap, a brown scarf, a red plaidcoat, blue jeans and blue rubber boots.
I will not soon forget the young mother who had come to me for counseling. She stated that her husband encouraged her to come in because he had concerns about her emotional stability. In listening to her describe her weekly routine, it became clear that this young woman spent all of her waking hours taking care of her two young children and husband. She typically did not go to bed at night until three in the morning because she would do housework after her children had gone to bed. I asked her if she ever spent time with friends, or by herself out of the house. She reflected momentarily, but eventually responded in a soft voice, “no.” In fact, she was unable to share what her favorite pastime is.
If you have any information on the case contact: Chi cago Police De partment (Illinois) - Youth Headquarters - 1312-745- 6052
Byron Eric Page Missing from: LOS ANGELES,CA Missing Since: 1/29/92 Age Now: 36. Circa 1992 Byron's photo is shown ageprogressed to 35 years. On January 29th 1992 Byron's mother Jettie Page arrived home and found Byron was gone. She called one of Byron's Friends who told Her that he saw him at a bus stop that day. Byron had told a friend that he was going to a music and video store about 20 miles away in West Hollywood. Byron made the trip regularly but according to employees did not recall him being there that day.
Remembering who you are is something that all parents have to remember. I have found, both personally and professionally, that women seem to have more difficulty with this concept. Our personal goals, interests, and passions are frequently halted once we have children. We immerse ourselves in being mommy, and taking care of all of those around us. It is critically important that we nurture our children by being present emotionally, spiritually, and physically. However, we simply have to remember to nurture ourselves as well. Sometimes we feel guilty or selfish if we say that we need time apart from our children or spouse. But guess what? That individual time may very well help you maintain your sanity. Whether its fifteen minutes a day, or two hours a week&make sure to take your “me” time. Do the things you once enjoyed like painting, socializing, playing an instrument, and going to the movies or plays. This will help you to feel more fulfilled, and will ultimately help you to be an even better parent!
According to authorities Byron was considered to be a run away, and he left behind his clothes, money that he saved from a ski trip he had recently went on, and is prized comic books. Byron was excited about gett ing his driver’s license and had applied to and was accepted to several Colleges. He was an excellent stu dent and had a perfect attendance record. Somewhere between the bus stop at Overhill and Slauson Streets in Los Angeles California, and the Music Store 20 miles away in West Hollywood, California Byron dis appeared. Foul play is suspected.
Gaétane is President of Peas In Their Pods, and also a certified School Psychologist who works closely with the inner-city youth and their parents. She is an advocate of children’s rights and strives to help parent achieve healthy, harmonious, and emotionally stable environments for their children. She is a sought after media consultant, and is often featured in print, radio, and television.
If you have any information on the case contact: Los Ange les County Sheriff's Department 323-890-5500
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Since its founding by economist Robert S. Browne in 1971 as a small public foundation, Twenty-First Century Foundation (21CF) has worked with donors to invest in institutions and leaders committed to addressing the persistence of poverty and inequality in America’s Black community. Black people confront injustice in every major area, including education, health, workforce/employment, and criminal justice. The theory of change 21CF has developed to guide its programming rests on the premise that correcting these socioeconomic disparities requires a long-term commitment to building the organized power of people, money, and media to address the root causes of current problems. We work in partnership with other funders to develop the capacity of the nonprofit sector to have more than a short-term or individualized impact and to build a larger strategic force for change. We provide community based organizations with grants and technical assistance to build capacity, power and resilience. We seed local, regional, and national coalitions that link efforts across issues and connect place-based initiatives with larger campaigns. Finally, we identify and invest in new tools for communication and cooperation that enable diverse activists and supporters to combine their strengths to create a movement that can be sustained for the many years that may be required for true change to take hold. Twenty-First Century Foundation (21CF) is the nation’s preeminent Black-led and Black-governed foundation for Black community change. For four decades, 21CF has worked inside communities, bringing stakeholders to the table to define the issues and provide programmatic and capacity-building solutions to addressing these issues. Twenty-First Century Foundation identifies Black communities and populations where the needs are particularly acute and encourages focused, strategic giving to address these needs. Our programs aim for national scope and local impact. We are currently focusing on building Black leadership and nonprofit capacity in Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Oakland, and the Louisiana/ Mississippi Gulf Coast through two strategic initiatives: the Black Men and Boys Initiative, which identifies, highlights, and supports strategies that build leadership, educational opportunity, health, and economic stability for America’s Black men and boys; and the Gulf Coast Organizing, Advocacy, and Leadership Initiative, which supports work that helps the Gulf Coast’s Black and other low income communities of color recover from the devastation of the storms, particularly the hurricanes of 2005, and make their voices heard in equitably plans for rebuilding the region. Twenty-First Century Foundation’s mission is to lead, innovate, and influence giving for Black community change. Its strong history and solid fiscal management make 21CF a trusted source for donors who want to maximize the effectiveness of their giving during these difficult economic times. www.21cf.org Daphne Mack Director of Marketing and Communication Twenty-First Century Foundation (21CF) 132 W. 112th Street/Lower Level #1 New York, NY 10026 212-662-3700 ext. 206 646-214-1239 (direct) 212-662-6690 (fax)
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Michael Mayfield Pamela Mayfield
Missing from: HOUSTON, TX Missing Since: 1/10/85. Circa 1985 Michael’s photo is age progressed to 27 years Age Now: 32 Circa 1985 Pamela’s Photo is age progressed to 26 Years. They were walking home from school and later seen getting into a green car with an unknown man. They have not been seen since. The case is classified as a NonFamily abdution. If you have any information on the case contact: Houston Police Depart ment at 713-222-3131
Cherie Nicole Barnes Missing from: SAINT LOUIS, MO Missing Since: 1/7/87 Age Now: 26 Circa 1987 Cherie's photo is age-progressed to 20 years. She was last known to be with her mother, who was eventually found deceased. She was last seen with her step father on January 7 1987 and has not been seen or heard from since. The po lice were able to locate her stepfather in Prison in the mid 1990’s incarcerated on unrelated charges. He claimed to know where she is how ever he did disclosed where to find her. She is listed as a Non-Family Abduction due to par ticulars in the case. If you have any information on the case con tact: Saint Louis Police Department (Missouri) - Detective Tom Carroll 1-314-444-5371 10
Greetings! Well we have been blessed to see another year...and the start of a new decade! I am so thankful for ALL that God has done for me in 2010 and for all that I am expecting Him to do this year. Let's go into the year with expectancy in our hearts. I believe that our faith should create great expectations from God. And with that being said, let's start the year off with a great new recipe!! God bless you and I pray that you all have a prosperous new year!!
Easy Breezy Scallops 1 1/2 lbs scallops, pat dry with paper towel salt and pepper to taste 1 Tbsp. butter 1 Tbsp. olive oil 2 tbsp fresh thyme juice of 1 lemon Put butter and oil in a pan over medium high heat. Just as they start to sizzle, add thyme. Saute the herb until it just starts to get crunchy. Be careful not to burn the thyme or over brown the butter/oil. You may need to lower the heat. Season scallops with salt and pepper and carefully place them in the pan. Do not over crowd, work in batches if you need to. Saute until nicely browned on one side, about 2-3 minutes. Flip them over. After about 1-2 minutes, just as the second side starts to brown, add half of the lemon juice. Cook another 1-2 minutes, until the scallops are nicely browned all around. Add remaining lemon juice and cook 1 more minute or so, until you have a nice sauce. For more exciting recipes, and updates on what Sharon is up to next visit www.goodcookin4u2.webs.com
Monthly Tasty Treat - by Pat Holmes LEMON RASPBERRY MUFFINS 2 Cups of flour 1 Cup sugar 3 teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 2 eggs 1 Cup half and half (cream) ½ Cups vegetable oil 1 teaspoon lemon extract 1 Cup fresh/frozen unsweetened raspberries or blue berries Combine flour, sugar, baking powder and salt in a bowl. In another bowl combine eggs cream, oil and extract. Stir into dry ingredients just until moist. Fold in the raspberries. Put in muffin tins and bake 375 for 10 minus. Cool before removing from pan. If using frozen fruit do not thaw before adding to batter.
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Melissa Ann Collins (Age 17) Missing from: Akron Ohio Missing Since: August 8, 1991 Age Now: 37
Red Signs & Warning Signs Predators often “groom” their victims with manipulation and deceptive tricks. Parents and children should be aware that certain behavior in others can indicate a red flag or warning sign. Possible Red Flags include:
Circa 1991 Melissa’s photo is shown age-progressed to 36 yrs.
Jasmine Collins (7 MO’s) Missing from: Akron Ohio Missing Since: August 8, 1991 Age Now: 20
Circa 1991 Jasmine’s photo is shown age-progressed to 20 years They were last seen leaving to go to the gro cery store. Melissa did not take any extra clothing for herself or Jasmine or any of Jasmine's baby items with her when they left. Jasmine requires medication for asthma and Melissa has a scar on her upper left arm. If you have any information on the case contact: Akron Police Department (Ohio) -- Missing Per sons Unit Phone (330) 375-2530 E-mail JCur rie@ci.akron.oh.us
• Someone who repeatedly ignores social, emotional or physical boundaries or limits. • Someone who refuses to let a child set any of his or her own limits. • Someone who insists on hugging, touching, kissing, tickling, wrestling with or holding a child even when the child does not want this physical contact or attention. • Someone who shares inappropriate personal or private information with a child, that should normally by shared with adults only. • Someone who frequently points out sexual images or tells inappropriate, suggestive stories or jokes with children present. • Someone who seems overly interested in the sexuality of a particular child or teen, and talks repeatedly about the child's developing body. • Someone who insists upon or manages to spend uninterrupted time alone with a child. • Someone who appears to be “too good to be true”, frequently offering to baby sit different children for free; taking children on special outings alone; often buying children gifts or giving them money for no apparent reason. • Someone who frequently walks in on children/teens in the bathroom. • Someone who continually invites children to spend time alone at their home, enticing them with the latest games, toys or gadgets — especially an adult who does not have children of their own. • Someone who seems especially preoccupied with your child, and lavishes them with inappropriate attention. Pattie Fitzgerald has been successfully teaching Child Predator Safety Awareness since 2001. She is the founder and creator of Safely Ever After, Inc. and provides effective, non-fearful safety workshops, seminars, and keynote speeches at schools, community organizations, churches, and corporations throughout the United States. She has trained many crime prevention educators and children’s advocacy groups with her specialized programs, curriculum, and educational materials. http://safelyeverafter.com
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January is ational Mentoring Month Each year, thousands of organizations across the country lead or participate in MLK Day of Service projects. For nonprofit and community groups, participating in MLK Day is an opportunity to bring in new volunteers, partners, and funders that can provide resources to support your organization's work throughout the year. Businesses see MLK Day as an important way to give back to the community, connect with customers, increase employee morale, and demonstrate corporate social responsibility. However you participate, you are honoring Dr. King’s life and legacy and helping further his dream by making a difference in your community.
About Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service January 17, 2011 will mark the 25th anniversary of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. federal holiday. This milestone is a perfect opportunity for Americans to honor Dr. King’s legacy through service. The MLK Day of Service empowers individuals, strengthens communities, bridges barriers, creates solutions to social problems, and moves us closer to Dr. King’s vision of a beloved community. Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a vital figure of the modern era and a pivotal figure in the Civil Rights Movement. His lectures and dialogues stirred the concern and sparked the conscience of a generation. His charismatic leadership inspired men and women, young and old, in this nation and around the world. Following in the footsteps of his father, in February 1948, at the age of 19, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. entered the Christian ministry and was ordained at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta. In 1954, upon completion of graduate studies at Boston University, he accepted a call to serve at the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama. While there, he was an instrumental leader in the Montgomery Bus Boycott, made famous by the nonviolent resistance and arrest of Rosa Parks. He resigned this position in 1959 to move back to Atlanta to direct the activities of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. From 1960 until his death in 1968, he also served as co-pastor with his father at Ebenezer Baptist Church. Dr. King was arrested 30 times for his participation in civil rights activities. While Dr. King preached about justice, empowerment, love and peace, in the final months of his life, his attention was turned to fighting poverty. Sadly, more Americans live in poverty today than during Dr. King's lifetime. Forty-seven million Americans currently fall below the poverty line. Dr. King was shot while standing on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee and died on April 4, 1968. He had gone to Memphis to help lead sanitation workers in a protest against low wages and intolerable working conditions. Learn more about Dr. King’s life from The King Center website at www.thekingcenter.org
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A New Journey
Rilya Alert Criteria •
The abduction is of a child age 17 years or younger
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The parent must have contacted law enforcement to report child missing.
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A RILYA Alert may also be issued if the child is classified as a runaway by the police. If the parent has reported missing child and has convincing evidence that child does not have a history of running away, an alert will be initiated within the 1st hour. We recognize that at times, not all information is readily available (ie. license plate numbers, name of abductor, or witness to abduction. In such cases, the available information will be reviewed and verified prior to RILYA Alert.
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The law-enforcement agency believes the child is in imminent danger of serious bodily injury or death.
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All children of color meeting the criteria for the Amber Alert will also receive the RILYA Alert If these criteria are met, alert information is assembled for public distribution. This information may include descriptions and pictures of the missing child, the suspected abductor, and a suspected vehicle along with any other information available and valuable to identifying the child and suspect.
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The staff at Peas In Their Pods respectfully requests that once a child is found that any organization posting information remove their pictures from their sites.
A new year has begun as well as a new journey for all of those who have been blessed enough to see the New Year of 2011. I must say "Praise God, I am blessed enough to walk into this new journey!" I'm sure that like myself, 2010 brought many joyous occasions as well as some sorrow filled ones, but we can all stand and say that we made it. Walking into this new year is walking into a new season. Things are changing, however, this is the time that many of us are growing, coming into our own in maturity and spiritual growth. All of the hardships that we went through in the previous years are no more, and although we may be experiencing new hardships do not be discouraged and give up, for we will reap a harvest of blessing at the appropriate time. As it is said in I Peter 5:7, "Cast your cares upon Him for He cares for you"...do not be moved in the things that you may have seen for if the enemy can cause you to doubt God than he will hinder your ability to receive from God. I can speak these words, as in the final days of 2010 the enemy begin to push me into the mode of doubt, but it took one of my faithful sister's in Christ to pass the same encouragement on to me that I am now passing on to you. In her words that she spoke she stated to me, "Usually the first dart the enemy attacks you with is deception (causing you to doubt), then he tries to get you to compromise in some area of your life...one of the preferred targets is our Faith, if he can weaken and destroy your faith, he knows you will not be able to please God." Therefore, my brothers and sisters, keep the faith as it is said for if you have faith even the size of a mustard seed we can move mountains. This is a new year, a new course that we are on and God has not left any of us...the journey didn't end with 2010, its just beginning with 2011...A New Journey.
http://www.peasintheirpods.com (516) 338-6873 hfmbc@hotmail.com
Much Love and Many Blessings, Paula Whitebear-Burton Warriors for Christ (W.F.C) Founder, Coordinator, and Organization Manager
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Being a woman can be extremely difficult at times, especially being a single-mother. Women have to play many roles, and play them differently at times, so it’s easy to lose or never even know who you really are. Juggling everyday life sometimes makes it difficult to take the time needed to get to know yourself. In order to genuinely love yourself, you have to first know who you are. Can you really love someone if you don’t know them? Getting to know yourself doesn’t mean knowing what your favorite song is or what you like doing in your spare time. Getting to know yourself means knowing what you are passionate about, understanding your personal strengths and weaknesses, knowing and living by standards and values you’ve set for yourself, having a clear knowledge of who you are and what your purpose is. After you know who you are, you can than start to accept who you are. This is the stage of appreciation for your individuality! During self acceptance, you no longer compare yourself to anyone, because you understand that there is no better person to fill your shoes, your role, or your purpose than you! You are no longer threatened by any outside influence, or fearful of failure, because you know your capabilities, and you know how to use your resources to reach your full potential. Accepting who you are creates a healthy environment to love yourself!
Many people proclaim to love themselves, yet they allow themselves to endure dangerous situations like abusive relationships, drug use and criminal activity; they treat others better than they treat themselves; and they tolerate things that cause them pain. Generosity and caring for others are wonderful acts, but if you are doing this without first giving to yourself, and caring for yourself, you are creating an environment that may cause resentment, stress and strained relationships. This is why it is important to be selfish; to put yourself first. Concentrate on what makes you happy and not what makes others happy. Let everyone be responsible for their own happiness and their own lives. It took me a while to realize that living life selfishly, actually builds stronger and closer relationships with those around you! When you are happy, you are more positive, which literally rubs off on those around you. Before you know it you are surrounded with positive people that create a healthy environment for your mind, body and soul! ~ Eddie Simpson http://www.fabulousblackwoman.com
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Did you know that the majority of hair care products on the shelf are filled with toxic ingredients that not only cause drying, breaking, and damage, but can stunt your hair growth and may cause a health risk? Mineral oil, Petroleum, and/or Parrafin Gel is the base for most African American hair moisturizers and Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulphate (SLES) are toxic ingredients in our shampoos. *Mineral Oil/Paraffin: Derivative or petroleum, used industrially as a cutting fluid and lubricant. It forms an oily film on the skin and traps moisture under the skin, preventing skin from breathing and stopping toxins and waste from escaping. *SLES/SLS: Sulfate Detergent used as a moisturizer in floor cleaning products, found in engines and profoundly harmful to humans and animals. These are used in laboratories as skin irritants in order to test soothing products. Several studies have underlined the harmful effects of their use: urinary, kidney, and bladder infections, fertility problems, irritation to the scalp, skin and eyes, lesions of the scalp, hair loss and more! If you want to LEARN what you need to do to have longer, stronger, healthier hair, Contact Eddie at 616-821-1190! January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month! More than 3 million women receive news that their pap test shows cell changes each year. The good news is that, almost always, women with cell changes do not have cervical cancer, but it is important that you protect your health by getting the follow-up tests and care that your health care provider suggests. Having cell changes does not mean that you will get cancer of the cervix. In fact, when cell changes are found and treated early, almost all women can avoid getting cervical cancer Cell Changes Caused by HPV Are a Special Concern Some cervical cell changes are caused by infection with a virus called HPV (human papillomavirus). Most HPV infections eventually go away, or clear, on their own, but sometimes they do not. In infections that do not clear, the HPV-infected cells may become precancerous. If these precancerous cells are not detected and treated early, they can develop into invasive cancer of the cervix. An HPV test can detect the virus in cervical cells. Schedule your Pap test TODAY!
Don’t Just Resolve…Achieve in 2011! The New Year, better yet, the New Decade is upon us. This is the time of year when people resolve to lose weight, quit smoking, stop procrastinating, change careers, etc. The average person sticks to these resolutions for about a month, and then they slowly fall back into their old routine. I’ve found some secrets to not only sticking to your resolution, but making it easier and more fulfilling while doing it. The first thing is, when you make a resolution, you should write down why you’ve chosen this resolution; why it’s important to you. Don’t just say I want to stop smoking, say I want to stop smoking because my grandchild has asthma and I want them to have a healthy environment when they come to my home. Don’t put pressure on yourself to be completely finished on New Year’s Day, be realistic. Let New Year’s be the day you begin your journey to quit smoking and not the day you must quit forever! Cut yourself some slack, forgive yourself, and move on. If your resolution is to lose weight, but you find yourself snacking on the wrong thing, don’t dwell on it and just toss the diet out of the window. Forgive yourself and start fresh the following day. If your resolution is something big like writing a book or starting your own business. Write down a plan of action and break your New Year’s resolution into 52 New Week’s resolutions. At the beginning of each week, give yourself small goals to accomplish that will eventually lead to that large goal. Whatever you resolve to do for the New Year, make sure it is something that YOU want to do and not something someone else thinks you should be doing. This is a sure way to fail. Give yourself a fair fight by being prepared and understand what your true desires and passions are! ~ Eddie Simpson If you are interested in a FREE goal setting session contact Eddie Simpson at The Product…616-245-1045
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January Missing Children
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P
rotect Your Child
ο Don't let your child wear clothing with his or her name on it. ο Children are less likely to fear someone who knows their name. ο Never leave your child alone in a public place, even in a locked car. ο Accompany a young child to the bathroom in a public place. Instruct them to never play in or around public ο restrooms. It can only take a moment for an abduction to occur. ο Accompany your child on door-to-door activities like Halloween and school fundraising campaigns. ο Keep track of your children's Internet activity. Share email accounts and passwords. ο Make sure you know what sites they visit and if they meet anyone suspicious while online. ο Avoid having service people come to the home if your children are there alone. ο Establish safe houses where your child can go if in trouble. ο A safe house can be the home of a trusted friend or some other trusted individual in the neighborhood who ο agrees to let children make emergency calls. ο Teach them that the police are their friends and that they can rely on them if they are in trouble. ο Make sure they know to dial 911 or 0 if they need assistance.
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Peas In Their Pods
Thank You..!
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