Parenting ● Education ● Assistance ● Support January 2012 Edition
Featured Missing Children Qua’Mere Rogers Janteyl Danielle Johnson Francillon Pierre Shemika Keyanta Cosey Andre Terrence Bryant Tammy Hollins Yahdea Brown Patrick Alford Reuben Bennett Blackwell II
Organizations/Individuals: MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Phylicia Barnes
“One Year Later: Family, Community Still Searching For Answers“
Editor’s Note 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. The media play a critical role in getting news and information out to the public, maybe in the future the role of reporting will include the safety of our children by alerting the public when one of our children are in danger, especially our African American Children, the response time ; immediate. 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. Peas In Their Pods is a not-for-profit organization that provides a specific service to those who have missing loved ones. The organization is self-funded, and is comprised of a team of volunteers who work diligently to assist families during their time of greatest need. We are here to help parents find their missing children. We do not take the place of the Amber Alert System. We simply pick up where they leave off or never engage due to program criteria. Peas In Their Pods Organizational goal takes pride in helping to find missing children of color, fight against child abuse, and provide information to the public.
Denise Bethune Editor-In-Chief www.peasintheirpods.com hfmbc@hotmail.com
“Character is made by many acts; it may be lost by a single one�
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Peas In Their Pods ●
In This Edition
Janice Lowery Chief Executive Officer
Parenting Corner - Gaetane Borders…………………………..4 Tacking Back Our Community - Connie Johnson………….8 Sisters On A Mission - Cynthia Church………………………10 Father’s Incorporated - Kenneth Braswell………………….14 COMFORT FOOD for the Mind, Body, and Soul - Author Sharon Fox……….18 “New Beginning” - Paula Whitebear-Burton……………...21 Monthly Tasty Treat - Pat Holmes…………………………….23 WeDoBigThings-Philadelphia - John P. Turner………….24 E M M A, Association - Dionnedra Reid……………………...28 Beautiful U Yes U - Tre’ona Kelty……………………………...31 Diamonds On The Rise, Inc. - Elisa Tyler…………………..33 C.U.S.P. - Rashunda Rene (Committed to Uplifting Single Parents)……………………..34
Gaétane Borders President Training Specialist Denise Bethune Editor - P.E.A.S. Magazine Publicity Manager Pattie Fitzgerald Safety & Prevention Advisor Paula Whitebear Administrative Assistant Sherry Sophia Researcher Missing Children Mildred Nixon Researcher Missing Children Nancy Fairbanks Webmaster Teri Kendle Researcher ● Contact Information Peas in Their Pods P.O. Box 390296 Snellville, Ga 30039
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Secondly, the list lacks the diversity reflective of the true face of missing people in our great nation. Yes, Jhessye Shockley was included (though they misspelled her name), but what about cases like Phylicia Barnes, Mitrice Richardson, Tyler Thomas or Bianca Jones? Their storylines run parallel to many of the ones included in “the list.” Yet none of these cases were found to be intriguing? The truth is that most African American children and adults do not receive national coverage when they go missing.
Parenting Corner Gaetane Borders Peas In Their Pods President
The Un-Intriguing Missing Of 2011 Recently, ABC news published an article online that upset me so much that I needed to walk away from the computer for several hours in order to collect my thoughts. During my 6-hour hiatus I was able to regain my calm, and even began to feel more positive about the post. Don’t get me wrong, I am very much disappointed by the journalists’ article, but it helped to fuel my inner passion. Let me explain…..
However, these are cases in the Black community that received the most media attention in this past year. So, it is implied that if these cases were not “intriguing” enough to make the “list,” then none of the other children of color have a chance! Sigh…. However, I don’t solely blame the writers or the network for this article. This is a far bigger issue. In fact, it’s a societal and systemic issue. Former CNN News Anchor, TJ Holmes, asked me during an interview “Is the media to blame?” My answer was and is still “no.” We as individuals are also to blame for being complacent and accepting of the status quo.
The article was titled “Eleven Most Intriguing Missing Persons Cases of 2011.” In it, the writers listed various missing people, and provided a short blurb on each of them. Here is the list: Lisa Irwin, Ayla Reynolds, Robyn Gardner, Lauren Spierer, Holly Bobo, Michelle Parker, Sky Metalwala, Aaliyah Lunsford, Jhessye Shockley, Dawna Natzke, Amy Ahonen
More specifically, people of color are at fault for not collectively doing everything in our power to make certain that the media is equally intrigued by our adorable brown babies as much as they are by the adorable Caucasian babies. After all, news stations will only report what they believe the public wants to see.
First and foremost, I must say that I feel it to be entirely insensitive for a reputable news source to publish something like this. How is it possible to rate or discern between which missing person case is most intriguing.
So, while the article rubbed me the wrong way….I ultimately thank the writers for my New Year’s reminder that it is unfair how the missing are reported. The bias is obvious. That is why there is a need for an organization like Peas In Their Pods, which helps to spread awareness about missing children of color. Most people do not realize that they are reported missing at such an epidemic rate.
Then, how is it humanly possible to whittle the list down to eleven. What an odd number! There are currently hundreds of thousands of cases of missing people. Ask any of their family members and they will tell you that their loved one’s story is equally as compelling as Lisa Irwin’s or Holly Bobo’s. Aside from the obvious insensitivity, I have several other concerns with the list. For example, there are noticeably no males mentioned. I find it hard to believe that this was a casual oversight. Instead, perhaps this means that the media as a whole tends to find males less intriguing when they go missing? Perhaps this is why we don’t often see the round-theclock coverage for them as we do for girls and women.
However, we remain steadfast that our collective efforts will ultimately help to make a significant social impact. Gaetane Borders, Ed.S President, Peas In Their Pods It’s Everyone’s Job To Save Our Children!
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Qua’Mere Rogers
Janteyl Danielle Johnson
DOB: Jun 6, 2005, Missing Date: Dec 1, 2008, Missing City: SYRACUSE, NY
Alias: Puff or Jay Date of Birth: 09/08/1994 Date Missing: 02/03/2010 Age at time of disappearance: 15. City Missing From: Newark, Delaware. Gender: Female, Race: Black, Height: 5 ft 2 in, Weight: 120 lbs, Hair Color: Brown, Eye Color: Brown, Complexion: Dark
The Syracuse Police Department is asking for the public's help in tracking down a missing child. Police say that they are unsure if four-year-old Qua'mere Rogers is even alive. The last person to see Qua'mere was his father, Damion Davis. Davis has told police that three years ago he handed Qua'mer over to someone he had just met in Brooklyn. Davis has now been arrested and charged with abandoning a child.
Identifying Characteristics: Scar on her chin under her lip. Clothing: She was last seen wearing a black ski jacket with fur trim. Circumstances of Disappearance: Janteyl was last seen leaving her home for school early in the morning on February 3, 2010. She may be in the company of an adult male. They may still be in the local area or they may travel to Wilmington, Delaware or Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She may be in need of medical attention. Medical Conditions: She was 5 months pregnant at the time she disappeared. Investigative Agency: New Castle (DE) County Police Department Agency Phone: (302) 395-8110
The 39-year-old told police he was having trouble taking care of the child, and that he left Qua'mere with a man from a group called "The United Nation of Moors". Davis thinks the group may have taken Qua'mere to Georgia. Investigators have opened a missing persons investigation, and are now working with the FBI in Georgia. They are still trying to figure out whether Damion Davis, who has several aliases, is telling the truth about this son. Qua'mere's mother was a minor when he was born.
Francillon Pierre Missing Since: August 2, 1986 from North Las Vegas, Nevada Classification: Non-Family Abduction Date Of Birth: October 1, 1982, Age: 3 years old at the time, AfricanAmerican male
She claims that Davis was abusive, and she left him and the child about a year after the baby was born. She says she has not seen Davis or the child since. Syracuse Police are asking anyone who may have any information about the case to give them a call at 4425222.
Pierre was last seen at the Broad Acres Swap Meet in North Las Vegas, Nevada on August 2, 1986. He has never been heard from again. Few details are available in Pierre's case. If you have any information concerning this case, please contact: North Las Vegas Police Department 702-649-9111 6
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88.7FM, 2008 Honoree Al Aziz of Bridgeport for Hard work and Dedication to it’s community, Diamonds In The Rough 2010 Honoree, 2009 Honoree Black Pride of Bridgeport, Ct., Honorarium Chair for the 2011 Sickle Cell Of Disease Association of America Walk-A-Thon raising thousands of dollars, 2011 the founder received Women of Year Juneteenth of Fairfield County and Featured on News 12 CT as a Special Story on how the Ministry transformed a neighborhood from on of the worst to now one of the best in Stratford, CT.
Provide advocacy, mentoring, skills building technique, conflict resolution, character building skills, life skills, coping skills. Connie Johnson is a shining example of the resilience and awesome power of the human spirit.
Our Mission is to provide awareness, empowerment, advocacy, focus skills, conflict resolution, character building techniques, life, social skills and community events.
Born in Bridgeport and graduated from Harding High School, Connie furthered her education and successfully navigated the business world for several years while at the same time raising a family.
As a result, countless youth had changed their way of thinking and had gone on to be effective leaders in their schools, teams and in the community. Most had gone unto higher education with the focal skills that was enhanced by Taking Back Our Community and transforming their lives in Jesus Name.
By a cruel twist of fate, Connie and her young family experienced the devastation of homelessness in 2001. Through faith, determination, and the single minded pursuit of an inspired mission to rescue individuals and families in economic and personal distress in the greater Bridgeport community, particularly disadvantaged and at risk youth and their families.
Vision is to open a safe Haven youth facility providing community services, education, and extra-curriculum activities so youth can grow and become productive citizens in the future.
takingbackourcommunity@facebook.com takingbackourcommunity@gmail.com
Connie has managed to regain all her own family’s lost prosperity while at the same time founding the well recognized activist advocacy ministry Taking Back Our Community that network with other area agencies and ministries having similar youth service and community advocacy missions. Founded in 2007, TBOC is a radio station Ministry on WVOF 88.5 FM which Broadcast live every Saturday evening 8PM -10PM and has sponsored many events in the community & throughout the state. Sponsors as followed: City of Bridgeport City Wide Health Fair, City of Bridgeport’s Senior City Wide Health Fair, Sickle Cell of Association Disease of America Walk-A-Thon, Annual Prayer Tabernacle Health Fair, on it’s 5th annual season sponsoring the Back to School 3 on 3 Ball’N Tournament and Talent Showcase. All free to the community with over 500 in attendance annually. As a result, TBOC received honors from the following organizations: 2005 received recognition for outstanding support to the Liberian Community by LCAC (Liberian Community Association of Connecticut), 2008 Holla Back Community Service Award for WNHU
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On Aug. 4, 2010 President Obama presented Cynthia Church with the Presidential Citizens Medal for her “exemplary” efforts to create breast cancer awareness. The two-time breast cancer survivor founded Sisters on a Mission, a support group designed to educate African American women about breast cancer.
Sisters On A Mission An African American Breast Cancer Support Organization
Sisters On A Mission, a 501 © 3 organization, Founded by Cynthia Church, Chevala Oliver Berry and Geraldine McIntosh in 1995.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/citizensmedal/2010.
We provide information to hundreds of women, their families and friends about the risk factors of breast cancer while promoting healthy lifestyles and the procedures required for early detection, such as mammography, regular doctors visits and breast self exams. If there is a family history of breast cancer, this should be discussed with your doctor and/or family health care provider.
Diagnosed in 1991 and 1999, a two-time breast cancer survivor, is Founder and CEO of the organization. “My lumps were found through breast selfexaminations." After realizing that vital information was not readily available in our communities, at that time, I began a personal mission to enlighten, inform and empower African American women and their families, caretakers and supporters about breast cancer, the risk factors and the processes and benefits of early detection… Thus the beginning of Sisters on a Mission... “I stress the importance of asking questions and finding out as much as you can about the disease that has disrupted your life.”
Participants are primarily African Americans, since this racial group has the highest mortality from breast cancer, despite having a lower incident than Caucasian women. The reasons for this racial health disparity are several, but a lack of support and culturally relevant education are definitely two factors. Two other vital factors common in the African American population are health literacy and a higher incidence of obesity. During our meetings, guest speakers address these factors and provide educational information.
Chevala was a caretaker for her Mother, who passed away from breast cancer and Geraldine is a breast cancer survivor of 24 years. The organization was formed to provide a safe place for women to give and receive support as they faced the challenge of a breast cancer diagnosis and live a quality life. One of our goals is to reach as many women and families as possible through our community outreach with educational awareness workshops, presentations, and support group meetings.
In order to close the gaps in breast cancer and cancer disparities in the underserved and African American communities, both access to care and knowledge is critical. A goal of SOAM is to increase education and awareness about breast cancer and other cancers, thereby reducing the incidence and cancer mortality as participants become proactive in their approach to health issues that affect their lives, their families and the communities in which they live. Although breast cancer continues to disproportionally impact African American women, inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) and triple negative incidence and mortality is more prevalent compared to other races.
The only African American breast cancer organization in the State of Delaware with chapters in New Castle, Kent and Sussex Counties. Sisters On A Mission is a voice in the community, with a goal to remove the fear of cancer and its treatment from the minds of African American Women, their families and friends, being a resource, providing support and vital information. 10
One effective strategy in reducing the disparity of IBC between African Americans and their counterparts is culturally relative education about the risk factors and warning signs. For example, obesity is a major risk factor for IBC and African American women have the highest incidence of obesity, nation-wide. SOAM is striving to improve the health and health literacy of African-American women, men and families by teaching them how to prevent diseases/illnesses and live a healthier life. We focus primarily on weight management, diet and nutrition, food preparation and exercise.
Shemika Keyanta Cosey
Sisters On A Mission collaborates with biomedical experts at the Center for Translational Cancer Research (i.e., a research center “without walls” collaboration between the University of Delaware, Helen F. Graham Cancer Center, A.I. DuPont Children’s Hospital of Delaware Biotechnology Institute). We obtain and share information from recognized cancer researchers Kenneth L. van Golen, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Dept. of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware and Carlton R. Cooper, Ph.D. Health Disparity and Community Outreach Coordinator for the CTCR, Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences & Black American Studies, University of Delaware.
Age Progression Case Type: Endangered Runaway DOB: Oct 1, 1992 Sex: Female Missing Date: Dec 30, 2008 Race: Black Age Now: 19 Height: 5'5" (165 cm) Weight: 160 lbs (73 kg) Hair Color: Black Eye Color: Brown Missing City: BERKELEY Missing State : MO Missing Country: United States Case Number: NCMC1113314 Circumstances: Shemika's photo is shown ageprogressed to 19 years. She is believed to be in the local area. Shamika's ears are pierced. She may go by the nickname Mika.
We target African American women, their families and the medically underserved, that includes, but not limited to, financially disadvantaged, uninsured, underinsured, alternative lifestyles, and young adult women throughout Delaware. We encourage the participants to share the knowledge they gain and resource materials with others in their family and community. All participants will benefit from biomedical education, learning about and enrolling in clinical trials, losing weight and/ or learning how to maintain a healthy weight and changing to a healthier lifestyle in their current environment and economy. Donations are encouraged and kindly accepted.
National Center for Missing & Exploited Children 1-800-843-5678 (1-800-THE-LOST), Berkeley Police Department (Missouri) 1-314-524-3311
www.sistersonamission.org cmc4147@sistersonamission.org soaminfo@sistersonamission.org telephone: 302.475.0687 fax: 302.475.9889 11
Phylicia Barnes “ Family Still Searching For Answers “ December 28, 2010 marked one year that Phylicia Barnes was found murdered. Her family, friends, community are still trying to understand why anyone would take her life. Originally from Monroe, North Carolina, Phylicia a star student who’s body was found in a Maryland river was visiting relatives in the Baltimore Maryland area. At the time of her disappearance and murder Phylicia was just 16..
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The stories are compelling; the outcomes are heart wrenching, the statistics are unconscionable, the impact is absolutely devastating and the emotions are painfully unbearable. It is a silent killer and destroyer of children, families and community. We stop short of calling it an epidemic, yet its presence can be found prevailing in any African American community in the United States. It is absent from community dialogue, rarely heard in sermons, missing in academia, non-existence in community solutions and thought to be irrelevant in comprehensive family planning paradigms. It is the source of almost every negative social ill our children face today; yet the very mention of the term repels the brightest of minds and the most liberal and conservative of hearts. Fatherlessness! For the past few years Fathers Incorporated has served an area of our community most often ignored by social programs, governmental attention and corporate support. Fathers and men in lowincome communities are often the forgotten when it comes to assisting a social need. For whatever one may think of fathers, their absence is creating a burden on the healthy development of our children and causing more and more families to exist in poverty. In African American communities 73% of their babies are born in to out-of-wedlock households. This is a critical and urgent reality because research reveals two things about these particular children and families; 1) the children are more likely to spend a significant portion of their lives absent the consistent interaction with the biological father and 2) the family is increasing more likely to exist in poverty for long periods of time. Fathers Incorporated is the nation’s premier organization in promoting and marketing Responsible Fatherhood and Mentoring. Its 5-year mission is to change the societal and cultural paradigm of families. These designed and intentional messages will strengthen families by encouraging the responsible, active and positive involvement of both parents to include mothers and fathers. This year Fathers Incorporated has engaged to major cause marketing campaigns; Ties Never Broken and weMentor.
Bow Tie will serve as a visible icon to bring like minds and sprits to the work of supporting Responsible Fatherhood and Mentoring. To this end; Fathers Incorporated with lead the effort to provide motivation and inspiration to strengthening of families through stronger fathers and men. weMentor Mission Statement weMentor!’s mission statement is to address the low number of African American men serving as mentors. The campaign seeks to raise public awareness, increase recruitment capacity and build national mentoring networks. Fathers Incorporated is committed to improving outcomes for children. We believe that fatherlessness is a driving force in the need to identify, recruit and refer responsible and willing men to volunteer as mentors. weMentor! will serve as a cause marketing clearinghouse to strengthen mentoring organizations and indentify associated resources for deeper service delivery. Mr. Kenneth Braswell is the Executive Director of Fathers Incorporated and the author of " When The Tear Won't Fall" One Man's Journey through the Intimate Struggle of Manhood and Fatherhood. He is also a national expert in the field of Responsible Fatherhood and Community Development. www.fathersincoprorated.com. He and Fathers Incorporated can be found on Facebook, Twitter (fathersincorp) and LinkedIn. Fathers Incorporated at fathersincorporated@gmail.com 518-250-6601.
TIES 0EVER BROKE0 Mission Statement The Ties Never Broken Campaign seeks to use cause marketing strategies to increase public awareness about the critical importance of children having their biological fathers actively and responsibility engaged in their lives. TIES NEVER BROKEN will also combine methods and strategies to bring closer the fields of responsible fatherhood and mentoring. The symbol of the Blue 14
Andre Terrence Bryant Missing since March 29, 1989 from Brooklyn, New York City, Kings County, New York. Date Of Birth: February 17, 1989 . Age at Time of Disappearance: 1 month old. Circumstances of Disappearance: Bryant and his mother left their Brooklyn, New York residence at approximately 14:00 on March 29, 1989 to go shopping. They were accompanied by two female friends of his mother. They were traveling in a burgundy Pontiac Grand Am, which possibly had Maryland license tags. Bryant's mother was later found deceased; there has been no sign of her son, their friends or their vehicle since that day. If you have any information concerning this case, please contact: New York City Police Department, 83rd Precinct 1-212-694-7781
Tammy Hollins Missing June 11, 1979 Missing from: Daytona Beach, Florida, Age at Time of Disappearance: 14 years old. Tammy and her mother, Diane Hollins, were last seen in Daytona Beach, Florida on June 11, 1979. A neighbor saw them walking down the street away from their home at 6:00 am. Diane never showed up for work that day, and Tammy never arrived at school. They have never been heard from again. Few details are available in their case. If you have any information concerning this case, please contact: Daytona Beach Police Department 386-671-5100 15
Our Annual Girlfriends & Divas Holiday Party was so nice! We had 30 of our little divas in attendance and about 18 adults. Our little divas opened and closed us up in prayer, did original poems, sang acapella, won a lot of prizes and reconnected and bonded in their friendships. I am so grateful for all that we have been blessed with and I am even more grateful that I have been put in a place where I can pass on the blessings!
My Girlfriend's House is a non profit organization where women have fun, build lasting relationships, and help the community through charity and other outreach. We help middle and high school young ladies through mentorship, scholarship, and friendship. Come join us today! www.mygirlfriendshouse.org/ 16
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Sharon Fox is the author of COMFORT FOOD for the Mind, Body, and Soul (April 2011) and is now focusing on bringing her talent to television. "I love bringing people together through food and good conversation." She wants to have her own Talk/Cooking Show, and with her faith and determination 2012 will be the year for it to happen.
COMFORT FOOD for the Mind, Body, and Soul Author Sharon Fox There Is No Lacking in the Hands of God Happy New Year to you all!! What a blessing it is to see the beginning of another wonderful year. To start it off with a bang, let's set our lives on the right track by first realizing that now is the time to focus on our plans for the next 12 months. Think big! Do something that you never had the courage to do before. I don't like making resolutions because very few people keep them. I like to "set goals" instead. When you set goals this gives you an opportunity to do just a little bit each day to get a little closer to the finish line you've set for yourself.
In my lifetime, I've endured many painful events. I can relate to the pain of domestic violence, drug and alcohol abuse by family members, child molestation and rape, emotional abuse, death of the only people I ever trusted, divorce, being stripped of my dreams and goals, living as a single parent, living on disability, having nothing and no one to turn to...
Prepare yourself for big things and always remember to keep God first in all you do. Use that special gift or talent that you have to create something much bigger than yourself. Once you tap into a greater relationship with The Almighty, you'll find that nothing is impossible for you. Stay in His hands and in His will...there is no lacking in this space.
But through it all, I had... (and still have) my faith in God. I had to inspire MYSELF and never gave up on the dreams I have. I have worked diligently everyday to write this cookbook which also contains many testimonies and inspirational words to help others find their inner strength. We all have something inside to help us get over the pain and obstacles in our lives. Sometimes we just need a little push or inspiration to get us to recognize it...and use it. That's my reason for living.
ALL your needs will be met because you are using your gift to fulfill the purpose that was given to you by Him. As your purpose unfolds, God will soon show you that He will supply all your needs to make this world a happier place.
My purpose in this life is to encourage and inspire God's precious people to keep their faith. If I never had to cry, I'd never appreciate the joy of laughter. If I was never hurt, I could never open myself to comfort others. I know there are so many people who have gone through worse events in their lives than I have. I just feel that MY purpose is to use my story to touch as many people as I can, and to let them know that their faith can bring them out of any situation.
In Mark 6, the people had no food, but one boy had five loaves and two small fish. Jesus took these and gave thanks to God. Then he broke them, and the disciples distributed the food to the crowd. By a miracle there was enough food for everybody. There was plenty for 5000 people to eat well. There was even some food that the people did not eat. In fact,
How does a cookbook fit into my purpose? Well, everyone has to eat. Everyone has to eventually COOK! God has blessed me with this passion for food and cooking. Food is something that can destroy all barriers...race, creed, sex, age, etc. It is the one thing we all have in common, so my gift for cooking is an International gift! It's a way to break the ice and get into the hearts of people. It's my way of inviting you all to the table for dinner and conversation!
enough food remained to fill 12 baskets. This miracle was a sign with an important meaning. Faith moves God. He can take your "little" and make it "more than enough". Let's take our "little" to God and watch Him make it more than enough for us this
www.goodcookin4u2.webs.com 18
CRISPY CURRY FRIED FISH (1 1/2 lbs. of your favorite fish. Cod works great for this recipe) 3/4 cup plain flour 1/4 cup cornstarch 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 tablespoon curry powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 egg 1/2 cup water, maybe a bit more 1/2 teaspoon prepared mustard In a bowl mix all the dry ingredients. Whisk together the water, egg and mustard. Add to the dry ingredients, whisk until you have a smooth batter, if needed add a bit more water but do not make it too thin. If you have the time let it rest for an hour in the fridge. Deep fry until golden and crispy. This will batter about 1 1/2 pounds of fish.
PLAIN BATTER FRIED FISH (1 1/2 lbs. fish) 3/4 cup flour 2 tablespoons cornstarch 1/4 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup water Sift dry ingredients. Add water and mix well. Use to coat fish or chicken fillets. Cover the fish completely. Deep fry until a nice golden brown.
SEASONED BATTER FRIES 2 1/2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon garlic salt 1 teaspoon onion salt 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon paprika 1/2 cup water, or as needed 1 cup vegetable oil for frying Slice potatoes into French fries, and place into cold water so they won't turn brown while you prepare the oil. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil is heating, sift the flour, garlic salt, onion salt, (regular) salt, and paprika into a large bowl. Gradually stir in enough water so that the mixture can be drizzled from a spoon. Dip potato slices into the batter one at a time, and place in the hot oil so they are not touching at first. The fries must be placed into the skillet one at a time, or they will clump together. Fry until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. 19
TARTAR SAUCE 1 cup mayonnaise 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish 1 tablespoon minced onion 2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional) salt and pepper to taste In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, and minced onion. Stir in lemon juice. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
BROCCOLI SLAW SALAD 1/2 cupsliced almonds 2 teaspoons sesame seeds 1/2 cup sunflower seeds 1 (3 ounce) package ramen noodles (chicken or beef flavor) 1/3 cup olive oil 2 tablespoons sugar 2 tablespoons vinegar 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1 (10 ounce) bag broccoli coleslaw mix 4 green onions, chopped Spread almonds on a cookie sheet & top with sesame and sunflower seed. Toast in oven at 350 for 10 minutes. Put aside to cool. Mix Ramen noodle seasoning packet with the oil, sugar, vinegar & pepper. Mix the broccoli and green onions together. Add the seeds and toss. If you are going to serve within several hours, add the Ramen noodles at this point and add the dressing. Toss and chill several hours before serving. If you are making the day before, don’t add the noodles until several hours before serving. Enjoy!
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“New Beginning” Striving to be the best that we can be is what we all strive for, yet let’s stop and think for a minute that it is not all about the making of resolutions to start the new year off…especially when we are not being realistic in the resolutions that we create for ourselves.
Yahdea Brown
Stop and think about this…how many years have you made the resolution to become healthier in the New Year and that you were going to get into the gym and lose weight? How many years have you said that your resolution was to become a better person whether it is a better mother or father, a better wife or husband, or just an all around better person?...be honest with yourself in asking yourself these questions and even answering them as this is something beneficial for yourself as I’m sharing mine with the world.. Well I can say for myself that almost every year I have made resolutions only to stick to them maybe the first month of the year only to slip back into old habits, I guess that is why I have always heard the saying “old habits die hard”. Well, for me this year I did not make any resolutions of that caliber, I made a realistic one…my resolution was for me to ultimately get to know me this year which is my journey in trying to become a better me. I bet everyone is probably surprised that this is something that I would have made as my resolution, but when you think clearly about making a resolution why would this not be something that you make? New beginnings are things that you have to let go of and things that you have to change. There are all things that I am sure we could all withstand to change, and I’m not talking about just physical appearances I am speaking in terms of things internally. I have to learn things about me and what sometimes makes me so worried when I know deep within that even in the midst of my struggles God’s got me and always has, that even when I felt that I couldn’t go any further God said if “Stand still and hear my voice to know the way.” I don’t know what any of you may be going through out there, but I can tell you that if you only believed that things do get better they indeed will get better. Give your problems an expiration date, and stand firm on it, claim it and it will happen according to God’s will. The new beginning comes from allowing yourself to believe that it’s already done. Though the way may be hard, and the storm may toss your ship about in the waves, know that things will and do change and when you go about them in the manner that God would have for you to they will work out, but you have to believe that they will. I know for me I want change, I desire more of the greatness that God has for me. The year of 2011 is over and those issues that were dealt with in that year are gone so you have to let them go. We are now beginning the year of 2012, and we are making a fresh start…I know that a fresh start is vital for me… this is a New Beginning. Paula Whitebear-Burton 21
Fredericksburg, Va., Missing Oct/11/2011. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children is asking for the public's help in finding a missing Virginia teen who may be in Cincinnati. Yahdea Brown, 16, of Fredericksburg, Va., went missing Oct. 11. Brown may be in the company of an adult male. She is a black female, 5'1" and 210 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes. She has multiple tattoos and goes by the nickname 'DeDe.' Anyone who sees Brown should call the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800843-5678 (1-800-THE-LOST).
Patrick Alford DOB: Nov 28, 2002 Missing: Jan 22, 2010 Eyes: Brown, Race: Biracial Age Now: 7, Sex: Male Weight: 65 lbs (29 kg) Height: 4'8" (142 cm) Hair: Black, Missing From: BROOKLYN NY Patrick was last seen on January 22, 2010. He may be in or near Brooklyn, New York. Patrick was last seen wearing a red t-shirt, blue jeans, and blue and black Michael Jordan sneakers. He is biracial. Patrick is Black and Hispanic. He has a scar on his left eyelid. Anyone with information please contact: National Center for Missing & Exploited Children 1-800-843-5678 (1-800-THE-LOST) or New York City Police Department (New York) 1-718-827-3551
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Monthly Tasty Treat Pat Holmes SOFT MAPLE SUGAR SA0DWICH COOKIES
1 Cup butter, softened 1 ½ Cups sugar ¼ Cup of packed brown sugar ¼ Cup pure maple syrup 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon cream of tartar 1/8 teaspoon salt 3 egg yolks ½ teaspoon vanilla 1 ¾ Cups flour Filling: ¼ Cups whipping cream or milk ¼ Cup butter melted 3 tablespoons pure maple ½ teaspoon maple flavoring Mix all the ingredience together and then whisk in 3-4 cups powdered sugar to the consistency you need. Put cookies together with filling in between cookies. Over 300 Bake 12 minutes or until edges are light brown
Where are you Baby Rilya!! A trial date has finally been set in the murder case of little Rilya Wilson. The 4-year-old foster child disappeared in South Florida in 2000, sparking a shakeup at the state's child welfare agency. Miami (Miami-Dade, Florida) Wilson's foster mother Geralyn Graham will go on trial March 26. Graham maintains her innocence in Rilya's death. Rilya's body was never found, and authorities have little physical evidence. They aren't even sure whether Geralyn Graham is the defendant's name or one of her 47 aliases.
Rilya Alert Criteria • The abduction is of a child age 17 years or younger • The parent must have contacted law enforcement to report child missing. • 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. • The law-enforcement agency believes the child is in imminent danger of serious bodily injury or death. • 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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WeDoBigThings-Philadelphia
people exacerbate social ills by offering more complaints than interventions for the high incarcerations rates and low academic performance within inner city neighborhoods..
Philadelphia is often referred to as the "City of Brotherly Love." Conversely, Philadelphia is also characterized as being a violent city due to high crime rates. However, Philadelphia remains to be the birthplace of people who have been supported for their talent and hardwork. WeDoBigThingsPhiladelphia represents the positive aspects of urban neighborhoods that receive a shortage of attention.
Our philosophy stems from the mindset that "If you have no will to change it, you have no right to criticize it." Appropriately, our missions intends to combat the seemingly constant struggle for survival within urban populaces. Perseverance conquers, John P. Turner is an alumnus of Temple University. As an undergraduate scholar, John's primary field of study was psychology. John’s current research interests are urban youth as they relate to drug addiction, disaffiliation, and perceived criminal typicality.
WeDoBigThings-Philadelphia is a movement to deter youth people from a future as crime offenders and/or victims towards one of being scholars and/or social change agents around the country. We serve urban areas across the country.
He is currently pursuing certification as an Addictions Counselor with the Pennsylvania Certification Board. In addition, John is currently pursuing a Masters of Social Work (MSW) degree towards later licensure as a Clinical Social Worker.
A gold star: represents our highest standards for academic achievement and community service. The Black "thumbs up" represents our concern about humanity, as this color is a blend of all racial phenotypes, along with our positive outlook as change agents.
Then he plans to pursue a joint Ph.D. in Social Work and Psychology.
Everyone is born with multiple life trajectories. We feel obligated to give back because it is through others' sacrifices that people are deterred from living unfavorable lives. It is more comfortable to recognize a problem than to come up with a solution. Consequently,
wedobigthings-philadelphia.org
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All you can eat pancakes Breakfast for entire families. Tickets are $6 and we also will have prizes and speaker for your time with us. This is Our first annual event. Support us Emiy Inc. is a 501c3 corporation in the state of michigan we currently have mentoring at Finney High where we have over 200 young males, our Men's group Good Fathers Only Group and our Emiy All Stars program. We also will take orders for your pick up. Our efforts are very strong in saving families. We are also setting up to have our monthly conference for the Family titled "Return to Legacy" Join us as we move forward. Surprise we are releasing our Emiy Tem Song on Dr King's Birthday. Listen 25
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Our most recent mentoring program that we are adding is our “Over comers” we would like to commit to meeting with students that are considered “at risk” an hour a week 1-1 in the school setting. Our goal is to establish a positive, personal relationship with the students in hopes to inspire them to reach their full potential.
Purpose & Goals Build Self-esteem & Confidence: In teenagers between the ages of 12 - 18, by developing and implementing programs that will meet the needs of participants of our program. E M M A, Association is a non-profit organization providing leadership training to youth between the ages of 11-18. E M M A, Association was founded June 2008, by Dionnedra Reid in honor of her grand-mother the late Emma Blair who always believed in giving back to her community. Emma was considered a mother to her community. After she passed away Dionnedra wanted to find a way for her legacy to continue, through E M M A, Association she still lives. Our Mission is to encourage, empower and motivate at risk youth ages 11-18 and their families, by developing leadership skills, encourage positive behavior and life skills to prepare for a successful future. Our vision is to significantly change the lives of at risk youth, for youth to feel empowered to make healthy life choices and, become a productive part of society. By providing them with a positive sense of self we hope to build family relationships, decrease the amount of youth that end up in the court system, however increase the graduation rate. E M M A, Association holds seminars for at risk youth ages 1118, to provide information to encourage them to be the best they can be. We have started and implemented a great mentoring program called “Girls on the Move” for young ladies ages 11-18. We hold monthly meetings, and keep in contact with the girls on a weekly basis. This program is to continue to encourage young ladies to be the best that they can be, it gives them an opportunity to express themselves. We discuss issues that affect today’s youth and solutions to handle these issues. We recently added a “Reach for the stars” awards program; with this program we will contact local schools and ask that they recommend young men they considered most improved with school grades and/or behavior. These are students that have not done well in the past and have made improvements. We believe by acknowledging them it will encourage them to do even better, and become the best they can be.
Improve relationships: provide activities, seminars and workshops on building healthy relationships to help youth become more aware of how to build relationships and recognize when they are in when they are in unhealthy relationships, and how to get out of them. Provide educational and professional development: Providing services to enhance and or improve the teen’s ability and willingness to learn. Also to collaborate with professionals in a variety of professions to support workshops and seminars to encourage the importance of education and career development. Provide criminal justice awareness: Providing activities, seminars and workshops to offer alternative behaviors to cut back on the amount of youth ending up in detention centers And jails. Also collaborate with those that work in the criminal justice field to come in and speak with youth. Provide Social and Cultural Awareness: by providing youth with the opportunity to interact and socialize with youth from different cultures, races, and socio-economic backgrounds. In doing so, we hope to minimize stereotypes and negative behaviors in efforts to build bridges and resolve conflicts for better understanding and community relationships. We will discuss various issues that impact their lives and well-being. Promote and encourage Healthy awareness: encourage youth to live a healthy lifestyle, providing seminars and workshops designed to get youth active in nutrition, weight management and self-image development, additional issues such as teen pregnancy and STD issues. Promote Volunteerism: Create opportunities for the youth to be able to participate in giving back to the community, we will partner with other organizations such as homeless shelters & nursing homes to promote community. www.empowerminorityyouth.com
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Are you aware? That annually, Approximately 1.5 million children are abused. God has heard your cry. NO MORE LIES & SECRETS The Fabulous Magical Kingdom LLC. Owner/Founder / Mrs.Kimberly Rhem
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Reuben Bennett Blackwell II Missing since May 6, 1996 from Clinton, Prince George's County, Maryland Vital Statistics •Date Of Birth: December 29, 1992 •Age at Time of Disappearance: 3 years old •Height and Weight at Time of Disappearance: 3'0"; 36 lbs. •Distinguishing Characteristics: Black male. Black hair; brown eyes. Circumstances of Disappearance: Blackwell was last seen in Clinton, Maryland on May 6, 1996. He was abducted by his noncustodial father, Reuben Bennett Blackwell. A felony warrant for Kidnapping was issued for the abductor on March 29, 2000. The child may be going by the first name "Bennett." The abductor has threatened to harm his son and himself. The abductor's hair is graying at his temples. Investigators: If you have any information concerning this case, please contact: 30
Organizational Herstory Beautiful U Yes U It was in 2007 that the vision of Beautiful U Yes U first came to the spiritual consciousness of Ms. Tre’ona Kelty. The calling was true – but the timing was not marked for its launching at that time. Three (3) years later, in late May 2011, the vision came to fruition. She began to create plans that would ‘give birth’ to the seed of her vision that was for so long planted - and held in her heart. Ms. Kelty is a survivor of suicide, bullying and sexual abuse. At the age of three (3) she was sexually abused and her early years of life were that of despair and pain.
demographic populations and several geographic areas. The Regular Beautiful U Yes U “Determined to Be” Series will continue on January 7, 2012. And, also beginning in January 2012 a Women’s Program entitled: “W.E.L.L” (Women Embracing and Loving Life) – “Gaining Financial Freedom and Self-Worth”, will be initiated and in January 2012.
Her mother and biological father were both drug addicts; consequently, she and her mother were homeless. Misguidedly, she learned at an early age that “abuse equaled love” and this destructive way of thinking followed her through her adult years; Ms. Kelty began this organization to assist the girls, women and lgbtqi youth in similar situations.
On February our first annual LGBTQI Youth Summit: “Watch the Throne” Preparing and Protecting our Future LGBTQI Leader will be held at Bethel Christian Church in Washington, DC.
Beautiful U Yes U came into its organizational legality by initiating a pilot project, entitled the ‘Determined to Be’ Series, for girls ages 7-17. Ms. Kelty’s attentiveness to the sensitivity of the participants and program objectives was evident in the selection of the presenters and curriculum topics. Geared to build, first, the self-esteem of the participants and character, topics included: Live Your True Life, Healthy Relationships, Self-Love, Yes U and How “U” To Say 3o – and Like It!
Beautiful U Yes U was created to equip, protect and prepare all underserved girls, women and lgbtqi and is evolving organization dedicated to assisting, through its programs and activities. www.beautifuluyesu.com Facebook/beautifuluyesu twitter: @beautifuluyesu
The programs emphasis has expanded to include components that address broader concerns, additional 31
Do you know her!!! 11 years ago Shanara Mobley spends part of every birthday of her firstborn cutting a piece of sheet cake, putting it on a paper plate, wrapping it in aluminum foil and sticking it in the freezer of her Jacksonville home. Kamiyah Mobley has never been around to take a bite. Velma Aiken helps clean a local laundry, where come and go belong to her granddaughter. She
she often wonders if the faces of the girls who never even had the chance to hold Kamiyah.
Rodney McKean arrives at work each day ready ville Sheriff's Office detective's desk is a sketch waits for that one phone call that will solve the a nurse snatched 8-hour-old Kamiyah from her disappeared forever. Ten years of police chasing the deep sobs of a mother and grandmother con-
to solve another cold case. Above the Jacksonof the woman who stole Kamiyah. McKean still case. Ten years ago today, a woman posing as mother's hospital room, brushed by Aiken and leads nationwide. Ten years of a family's pain, tinuing Monday as they relived their agony.
"It's stressful to wake up every day knowing that reach her or talk to her," said Mobley, 26. "The don't know nothing." Aiken, the baby's paternal how much she would have enjoyed watching pray to God that one day I will see her before I
your child is out there and you have no way to main thing that beats you up the most is ... you grandmother, said she constantly thinks about Kamiyah grow and what she's like now. "I just die," said Aiken, 57.
Since 1983, 123 babies have been stolen from health-care facilities nationwide. Six remain missing. McKean, who has worked Kamiyah's case for nine years, said he still can't believe a massive search and nationwide publicity never led to the baby. "I was amazed ... that she could have slipped through that kind of force they had without being detected," Mc-Kean said. "How far are you going to get without somebody either calling or having them leave some kind of trail?" But the woman was possibly not a typical baby kidnapper, who, desperate and mentally ill, wants her own child and often slips up when questioned about the child. A child-abduction expert involved in the case said Kamiyah's abductor likely had other plans. The abduction It was just about 3 p.m. on a hot, partly cloudy Friday. A woman had been roaming for 14 hours in University Medical Center, now known as Shands Jacksonville, asking about Mobley's baby. She then spent five hours with the mother and child before saying Kamiyah had a fever and needed to be checked. Wearing a blue floral smock and green scrub pants, the woman took the 8-pound child in a white blanket and left, a pocketbook slung over her shoulder. Mobley thought all along she was a nurse. Nurses thought all along she was family. Aiken clearly remembers passing the woman and child while walking into Mobley's room. She immediately grew suspicious that the woman carried a pocketbook. But by the time staff was called, the woman and child were gone. Aiken said she has never recovered from feeling guilty. "I just feel like if I would have reacted on my feelings ... I could have done something," Aiken said. "I could have taken that lady out with my bare hands." A swarm of officers searched each floor and room, as well as cars. Authorities notified the bus and train stations and the airport. The FBI and Florida Department of Law Enforcement were called in. Composite sketches were published, fliers were posted and the kidnapper was profiled. Hospital surveillance film was grainy. A camera in the nursery area was broken. There was no picture of Kamiyah, so best guesses were used for a composite of the child. People were told to watch for a baby with an umbilical hernia, like a raised belly button, and bruising on her buttocks known as Mongolian Spots. A team of detectives led by Sgt. Don Schoenfeld took on the case as more than two dozen other Sheriff's Office investigators joined in. "We pulled in everybody we could," Schoenfeld said. "There weren't enough hours in the day to shag all the leads." But the leads weren't helping and time began to pass. Quickly. The investigation: During the first year, police chased down more than 2,000 leads from as far away as Nova Scotia, though most were local. They hoped a $250,000 reward would offer some incentive. The case was featured on CNN and America's Most Wanted. http://jacksonville.com/tu-online/stories/071008/met_302043283.shtml
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iamonds On The Rise, Inc (noted DOTR) is a 501c3 non profit located in Baltimore, MD. “Through dedication and nurture we promote positive behaviors in at risk youth through mentoring, educating, and service, we achieve victory over violence”, our mission.
Our organization began servicing the community in 2009 with enrichment workshops. Our workshops consist of self-esteem, positive conflict resolution skills, leadership skills, hygiene, and a host of others. We also provide healthy hot meals to our participants, which we believe is a key part in bettering the community. Our youth empowering program is geared to giving back to the community through our listed programs. Not only do we have services for the youth but we also have services for their parents such as GED classes, Drug Education Workshops, and Mental Health linkage. DOTR is a wrap around program that believes it takes a village to raise a child. We are about uplifting and shedding light on the positivity our youth are demonstrating. We currently have 4 partnerships; 2 with Baltimore City Public School implementing our enrichment workshops and after school program. 1 with a Mental Health Agency (we refer our participants and families) and Boys and Girls Club where we implement our enrichment workshop. We plan to open our own recreation center in Baltimore in the near future. Hard working, empathetic, and determined, are just a few adjectives that describe the qualities of Ms. Elisa Tyler, MSW. Elisa, being the oldest of four siblings, in a single parent household, strived to be a role model and a leader. After graduating from Western High School, in Baltimore, MD, Elisa enrolled at Coppin State University. She earned her Bachelor’s of Social Work and pledged to become a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. Knowing her passion for providing services to the community and youth, Elisa continued her graduate education at the University of Maryland of Baltimore where she earned her Masters of Social Work. Ms. Tyler has extensive work experience in the mental health field, specializing in Psychiatric Rehabilitation. She truly understands how one's community can have an impact on their everyday life and believes she can help to make a difference in a child’s growth and prosperity when provided the proper resources. Following the advice and guidance given by her mother, her #1 cheerleader, and applying her well known leadership role, Ms. Tyler founded Diamonds On The Rise, Inc. in 2009. This was just the start in fulfilling her vision to providing for youth. As CEO and Founder of the non-profit organization, Ms. Tyler upholds the mission that “through dedication and nurture, Diamonds On The Rise seeks to promote positive behaviors in youth. Our organization achieves victory over violence through mentoring, educating, and service.” Website: www.diamondsontherise.org
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Rashunda Rene of Los Angeles, CA founded C.U.S.P. (Committed to Uplifting Single Parents), a nonprofit organization in August 2011. The inspiration of the organization comes from her life. She was raised in a single parent family and understands firsthand the services her mother could have benefited from. Having been able to speak with her mother and other single parents within her own family she was able to get a good view of the struggles single parents face. As working parents many of them did not qualify for income based and government programs but still faced many challenges. She then took her research of the needs of single parents outside of her family and began to speak with single parents in the community to discover that many of the stories were the same. Upon researching the available programs and services she found there was a gap, and an entire population was being overlooked because they were viewed as having “steady jobs” or “viable income”. Because these single parents have “steady jobs” and “viable income” does not mean they do not face the same challenges and could benefit from social services. It is because of her personal experience and the findings of her research that C.U.S.P. was born and is now ready to serve the community. Mission Statement: It is our mission to empower and assist single parents with the difficult challenges of parenthood through a range of financial and social services which will allow them to provide safe and loving homes for their children. C.U.S.P. serves single parent families in the Greater Los Angeles area and its surrounding communities. C.U.S.P. prides itself on providing a range of social and financial programs for both the parent and children including but not limited to life skills programs, seminars, financial literacy, personal enrichment opportunities and financial help with the necessities of life. C.U.S.P. is an organization that is in direct response to the growing number of single parent families who need assistance because of the current economic conditions and find themselves in distress. C.U.S.P.'s Goals: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Strengthen family bonds. Provide tools to be self sufficient. Increase communication and decrease stress. Provide information on additional resources available in the community. Assist the parents in raising healthy, productive, successful and well-adjusted children.
Vision Statement: It is our vision that single parents will be strengthened emotionally, spiritually, physically, and financially from our services. We want to ensure that single parents are not forgotten among the population of people who need assistance. We hope the volunteers & community will see the importance of strengthening the single parent family because it will have a positive effect on society for generations to come. To learn more about C.U.S.P. Inc., visit our website at: www.cusporg.org, “LIKE”us on FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/cusporg
Mailing Address : 815 N. La Brea Ave #485 Inglewood, CA 90302 Phone: 323-682-8085 34
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Thank You The Community In Helping To Bring Awareness For Our Missing Children
Peas in Their Pods P.O. Box 390296 Snellville, Ga 30039 Business: 770-686-4612 Missing Kids: 516-338-6873 or 301-501-7595 http://www.peasintheirpods.com hfmbc@hotmail.com
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