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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, New Jersey www.peasintheirpods.com hfmbc@hotmail.com 2
In This Edition DO Foundation Take Wings Foundation Are you safe while texting and walking? Take Action To Get Ahead Parenting Corner Homeless to Heading for the Stars Woodbine Wellness Center LLC
Peas In Their Pods Staff Janice Lowery Chief Executive Officer Gaetane Borders President Training Specialist Mildred Nixon Vice President Linda Glover Treasurer Denise Bethune Editor in Chief P.E.A.S. Magazine Grant Procurement
WrightVision Foundation
Pattie Fitzgerald Safety and Prevention Advisor
The Thoughts Of Black Men
Paula Whitebear Administrative Assistant
Southern Hospitality
Delilah Jones Publicity Manager
We Need To Talk Grands As Parents Monthly Treats Souls of Black Girls National Black Women’s Town Hall Meeting * 3 All individuals, organizations featured in this edition are at the approval of its authorized agent.
Nancy Fairbanks Webmaster Annette Chesson Researcher Amy Matthews Researcher Pamela Hester-Jones Researcher Teri Kendle Researcher
Timothy Antonio
Washington was last seen at his aunt’s home at a housing project, Lafayette High 1000 block of Orleans Street in Baltimore, Maryland on September 11, 1992. He third floor of the building at the time he was last seen. Washington walked down turned. Washington’s mother’s former boyfriend, Keith M. Garrett, was charged October 1992. He was twenty-two years old at the time. He is not Washington’s younger half-sister. Garrett called Washington’s mother on October 1 and said he boy would be returned to her if she handed over custody of the couple’s daughter
Garrett was arrested near the intersection of Aisquith Street and Orleans Street in dition, a witness saw him with Washington after the child’s abduction. Garrett di had nothing to do with the boy’s disappearance. He pleaded guilty to extortion a were later dropped for lack of evidence, but in December 2003, Garrett was char had been incarcerated with him stated Garrett confessed to the child’s murder. G mouth shut, and hid him in a shed, and that he returned later to find the child dec in connection with Washington’s case. An Alford plea means Garrett does not ad He was sentenced to twenty years in prison. He did not reveal the location of Wa Contact Person: Baltimore Police Department Phone: 410-396-2335
Last Seen Location: 1000 block of Orleans Street Baltimore Maryland Date Missing: September 11, 1992 Date of Birth: January 22, 1985 Hair: Black Eye Color: Brown Height: 4’5 / Now Unknown Weig Race: African – American Complexion: Medium Brown Police Ca
Distinguishing Characteristics: Washington has a speech impedimen Jewelry Description: Light blue sweatpants or sweat shorts with yellow an pink and red prints, and black Nike sneakers. 4
o Washington Jr.
h Rise Apartment Complex, in the e was playing with friends on the nstairs for a frozen cup and never rewith kidnapping and extortion in s father, but he fathered Washington’s e had Washington. He told her the r.
n Baltimore, which was the alleged location of the exchange of siblings. In adid not have Washington with him at the time of his arrest, however, and said he and received an eighteen-month suspended sentence. The kidnapping charges rged with kidnapping Washington and causing his death. An individual who Garrett allegedly told the witness that he had kidnapped Washington, taped his ceased. In May 2006, Garrett entered an Alford plea to second-degree murder dmit guilt, but acknowledges there is enough evidence to convict him at trial. ashington’s body after the plea agreement. Washington has never been located.
d United States Age: 7 years old / Now 24 ght: 55 pounds / Now Unknown Sex: Male ase Number: NCMC772638 / M-401182500
nt. His nickname is Timmy. Clothing/ nd white stripes, a black sweat jacket with 5
DO Foundation began in early 2009 a founder Brian O'Neal and Kelly Adolp needs of those living in the homeless p evening out to various Brian O'Neal co in transitional housing units and/or s of a homeless person off of their curre
Today the organization provides supp mediate on the spot relief through the quested hygiene items.
DO Foundation's assistance is designe the immediate essentials needed to su streets of Michigan documenting and menting programs and services to aid Founder Brian O'Neal again spent 3 d stand the struggle of those living on th
Hopes for the future:
DO Foundation is working diligently to implement programs to better assi coming months to purchase a building that will house what we call a "Day will be a safe haven for those to come for laundry, telephone/computer use for those seeking to enter shelters, treatment centers or transitional housin warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Eventually we would like to open up facilities such as this across the count tioned above, we'd like to provide intake and assessment, to better assist a financial planning, and larger referral service. Sort of the one stop shop th you enter into the doors of a DO Foundation facility, no matter where you facility to spend another night on the streets and you'll be well on your wa lifestyle.
Links to website: http://www.dofoundation.net http://www.facebook.com/dofoundation 6 http://www.youtube.com/thedofoundation
as a volunteer group of 2 people, founder and coph by hitting the streets to provide for the immediate population. As well as providing an all expense paid oncerts in cities across the country for those residing shelters. This was done in and effort to take the mind ent state and enjoy a night out on DOF.
port to hundreds of people across the country with ime distribution of our DO Bags, which consist of re-
Founder, Brian O’Neil spent 3 ed to support those living on the streets with days on the streets. urvive. DO Foundation spent 2 weeks on the gathering information to aid us in impled in transitioning these individuals back into a life of self-sufficiency. days living on the streets of Detroit in the dead of winter to better underhe streets so that we can better assist them.
ist homeless individuals. Our hope is in the Center" in the city of Detroit. This center e in locating a job or family, referral center ng, transportation, or just a place to keep
try, and in addition to what has been menan individual’s personal needs, prevention, hat connects all the dots. Our hope is when are in the country, you will not leave our ay to transitioning back into a self sufficient
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Tiffany Susan Westford Age Progression (right) Case Type: Family Abduction DOB: Mar 16, 1991 Age Now: 19 Sex: Female Eye Color: Brown Hair Color: Black Missing Date: Nov 13, 1993 Race: Black Height: 3'0" (91 cm) Weight: 35 lbs (16 kg) Missing City: AMITYVILLE Missing State : NY Missing Country: United States Case Number: NCMC796293 Circumstances: Tiffany's photo is shown age-progressed to 18 years. She may be in the company of her mother. Tiffany has a 2"3" scar just below her navel. Her eyes are dark brown. ANYONE HAVING INFORMATION SHOULD CONTACT National Center for Missing & Exploited Children 1-800-843-5678 (1-800-THE-LOST) Suffolk County Police Department (New York) 1-631-852-6040 8
Madison Rauscher DOB: Aug 20, 2003 Missing: Jul 14, 2010 Age Now: 7 Sex: Female Race: White Hair: Brown Eyes: Brown Height: 4'0" (122 cm) Weight: 50 lbs (23 kg) Missing From: MALDEN, MO United States She was last seen on July 14, 2010. Madison may be in the company of her father, Christopher Rauscher, and her mother, Ashli Rauscher. They may be traveling in a gray 2010 Hyundai Sonata with Missouri dealer license plates, D428FU. ANYONE HAVING INFORMATION SHOULD CONTACT: National Center for Missing & Exploited Children 1-800-843-5678 (1-800-THE-LOST) Dexter Police Department (Missouri) 1-573-624-5512
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Take Wings Foundatio
TWF was founded in 1997 by award winning who is a product of one of the Bay Area’s mos has first hand knowledge of the challenges an with on a daily basis. As a result of this first h cess and a desire to give back to her commun born.
Ms. Vaughn was driven to develop an organiz needs of the young women living in Hunters San Francisco Bay Area. TWF provides opportunities for girls to interact jects, encourages personal growth and development, and provides a series
TWF provides a variety of activities for young women that give them the o arships and awards, and participate in community service projects. Young variety of issues that are of concern to teens which include dating violence cial responsibility, academic success, career development, successful eman youth also complete 40 hours of community service as well as an essay on tivities, health, wellness, self sufficiency, personal responsibility and acade utilize communication skills, critical thinking skills and problem solving. sues that affect most underserved youth.
TWF is operated by a half time Executive Director and a “working� board raising events, and tend to all of the other day-to-day matters. They serve materials for workshops, recruit speakers, and devote hundreds of hours t gram provides quality services. 10
on
g actress Terri J. Vaughn. Ms. Vaughn, st notorious inner city neighborhoods, nd choices that teenaged girls are faced hand knowledge, her own personal sucnity, Take Wings Foundation was Take Wings Foundation - 762 Fulton Street, San Francisco, Ca. 94102
zation that would specifically address the http://www.takewings.org Point and similar communities in the t with positive role models, get them involved in community service pros of workshops geared towards developing positive self esteem.
opportunity to interact with positive role models, receive academic scholg women participate in three all day workshops each year that address a e, HIV/Aids, teen pregnancy, peer pressure, weight and body image, soncipation from foster care, spirituality and various other topics. The a topic of our choosing. Through their participation in these various acemic success are emphasized and supported. TWF encourages youth to TWF offers a safe and supportive place for youth to discuss personal is-
d where members recruit participants, design workshops, organize fundas staff, provide transportation for participants, develop workbooks and to ensure that the proTricia Conley, Tricia Conley Public Relations, LLC Office: 800.319.0908 Fax: 888.227.0814 Cell: 707.330.1534 11 www.tcpublicrelations.com
Are you safe while texting and walking? April Weeden Washington Stuntwoman to the stars!!!! Young girls are oblivious to the fact that they can be abducted and taken away. Young girls are taken it for granted while walking done the street and texting that some one can kidnap, rape, torture or steal them and they will never be seen again. Is is really necessary to walk down the street and text? Is it? Is it worth your life? Texting and walking is something that is not talked about too often. I see young girls alone often and they are texting. They are not aware of their surroundings and if something were to happen, they would have no clue of their abductors clothing, race, creed, color or who even did anything to them. You must be aware of your surroundings at all times. I want young women and teens to be aware of what is going on around them at all times.
Do not text and walk. Be aware of your surroundings while walking. Never take for granted that a stranger talking to you is okay. Never let a stranger use your cell phone. Know how to dial 911 on your cell phone. If you must be on the street alone, always know where you are and where you are going. Always let someone know where you are at all times. I pray that some of what I have said reaches the masses and we begin to make our daughters, aunts, cousins, teens, and women in general more aware of the dangers of texting and walking. Teens in Oakland are being exploited and placed into prostitution. Don't be a victim. Be a victor!!!! * April Weeden Washington Professional Stuntwoman/Actress. Taking the stunt world by storm, April Weeden-Washington has built a resume of unparalleled accomplishments. As one of Hollywood's leading stuntwomen, she has 12 doubled for numerous high-profile celebrities.
Tiahease Tiawanna Jackson Missing since August 14, 1983 from Staten Island, New York. Classification: NonFamily Abduction . Date Of Birth: October 5, 1972 . Age at Time of Disappearance: 11 years old. Height and Weight at Time of Disappearance: 4'8; 90 pounds Distinguishing Characteristics: Black female. Black hair; brown eyes. Medical Conditions: Jackson is diabetic and has high blood pressure. She also has Bright's Disease, a kidney disorder which requires medication and treatment. Marks, Scars: Burn scar on left arm Clothing: Dark blue ski jacket with white trim, a white sweater, blue jeans, blue plastic mesh shoes and two purple combs in her hair. She had a yellow metal necklace with butterfly and a silver bangle bracelet on her left wrist. Other: DNA available. Circumstances of Disappearance: Jackson was last seen leaving the "Mariner's Harbor Motel" on Staten Island, New York on August 14, 1983. Her mother sent her to purchase chicken on Forest Avenue. She never returned. Three days after her disappearance investigators questioned Andre Rand. But they were unable to bring charges due to lack of witnesses and evidence. At the time of Tiahease's disappearance, Rand was known to have a campsite in Baron Hirsch Cemetery, Graniteville, which is less than half a mile from the Conca D'Oro. Tiahease's mother also told investigators a man fitting Rand's description often hung out in a van in a parking lot near the motel. If you have any information concerning Jackson's case, please contact: New York City Police Department Missing Persons Squad 1-212-694-7781 OR Crimestoppers 1-800-577-TIPS 13
Lauryn Dickens Little Lauryn was reported missing by her 19-year-old mother, Shakara Dickens. Dickens reported her daughter missing on Sept. 15, telling police that she gave the child on Sept. 7 to an unknown woman who arrived at her Raleigh apartment unannounced at the request of the child's father who is in jail. Reports indicates that Shakara has not spoken to the child's father since late August. Furthermore, calls from the jail to her phone had been permanently blocked. Shakara has since been arrested facing a charge that could earn 15 to 60 years in prison without parole on the aggravated child abuse charge alone.
The question remains where is this precious baby Lauryn? CONTACT National Center for Missing & Exploited Children 1-800-843-5678 (1-800-THE-LOST) or MPD Missing Persons Bureau at 1-901-636-4479 or Memphis Police Department at 1-901-545-2677 14
Gad Acosta-Jimenez DOB: Jan 11, 2005 Missing: Aug 21, 2008 Age Now: 5 Sex: Male Race: Hispanic Hair: Black Eyes: Black Height: 3'0" (91 cm) Weight: 40 lbs (18 kg) Missing From: HENDERSONVILLE NC United States He is missing from Hendersonville, North Carolina. Gad may be in the company of his mother. They are believed to be in Mexico. Gad may wear glasses. His father has applied for the return of the child to the United States under the international civil treaty: The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. Do not pick up based on this information. CONTACT National Center for Missing & Exploited Children 1-800-843-5678 (1-800-THELOST) NCMEC, 699 Prince Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
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Take Action To Get Ahead By Shyra Smith
It's time to make a difference. Life is too short and you can't continue to h complish your own dreams. Excuses get you no where and it's time to be t brought up around a family who has done nothing but just settle, be the o change. It's nothing wrong with shaking things up a bit.
Who knows, you might inspire other family members to do the same. It's n
Show the kids of the future that life can in fact be better and that they can hard for it. Things don't always come easy and you can't just sit around an ng action for yourself. If you've been that one who was the "procrastinato If you've been that one who was always insecure with yourself, put the ins achieve for so long. It's time for no more excuses and to unveil the real "Y
Begin paying close attention to those you keep around you. Sometimes in mentor or someone to coach you so that you are able to stay on track with learning from someone who has ALREADY "been there, done that" and w
When someone has already "been there, done that", they'll be able to relat they can tell you how they handled it. It's also important to increase your
When I first became an entrepreneur, I was online sometimes until the we are on a mission to achieve your goal and doing of coarse something that y the results you are wanting. So when it came time to do my research, I jo I always kept a journal with me as well, because when an idea came, I wan
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hold on to reasons of why you can't get ahead to acthe one to step out and step up. If you've been one who steps out of that comfort zone to make a
not too late to break the cycle.
have the finer things in life if they strive and work nd wait for it to fall into your lap. Start today in tak or", demonstrate your leader qualities and become the "decision maker". securities aside so that you can pursue those dreams you've wanted to You".
n order to get ahead, we have to reach ahead. It's ok to find yourself a h your goals if you have to. When selecting this person, be sure you are who really cares about your success!
te and share their own experience that you might be able to relate to and knowledge.
ee hours of the morning. I didn't care about the time because when you you enjoy doing, you don't mind putting in the time and effort to achieve otted down so many notes and bookmarked many pages on my computer. nted to be sure to record it.
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My husband and I spent many hours in Borders or Barnes and Noble boo vorite sections, grab a load of books and go to a sitting area to begin to ta too much information to write down, that was a book that we definitely n and start making the necessary moves now to achieve your goals! Parent the drive we have, it's setting an example. What example have you been d
Shyra Smith believes in living life to the fullest and that you must remove from accomplishing your dreams. Shyra is the CEO of HS3 Enterprises, the corporations they own or work for. Shyra is also the Founder of The sources) Business Connection and Build My Enterprise which are all com ministries.
Shyra’s a Marketing Guru, Mentor, Entrepreneur, Author and Visionary. background make her highly sought after. She has a deep passion for insp She has inspired others to pursue their visions and has assisted them in r Shyra. Overcoming obstacles in her own life, she teaches others that they as she did. These obstacles were learning experiences that she used to en much negativity around her. She knew that she did not want to become a and finance industries has served her well and has aided her in being abl she was growing up.
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ok stores as well. Our regular routine would be to stop in, go to our faake notes from what we read. When we came across a book that had just need to purchase. So take a look at what and where you are aiming to be ts, it's important that we set examples as well. When our children see displaying for your child? It’s not to late for change!
e or limit the negative influences in your life that’s holding you back LLC, a parent company dedicated to improving the lives of people and Black Scroll, T.O.W.E.R. (Touching Others With Empowering Rempanies that help with the growth of small businesses, non-profits and
. Shyra’s multifaceted skill-set and varied creativeness and business piring others to self-discover and achieve their greatest potential in life. realizing they “CAN DO IT!” Life was not always as good as it is now for y can attain the accomplishment of bringing their dreams to reality just nhance her arsenal. Shyra grew up in a single parent home and dealt with another statistic. Her corporate experience in the insurance, marketing le to overcome and now live the life she’s always dreamed of living when
Learn more by visiting Shyra's websites, http://www.shyrasmith.com and http://www.buildmyenterprise.com
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Tan
Sex: Female Race: Other , Age at Disappearance: 2, Current Age: 4 Height Facial Hair): Black Eyes: Brown. Other Phys. Characteristics: Tangena ha Last Seen: Detroit , MI
On the evening of Thursday, Oct. 2, 2008, cops say 2-year-old Tangena Hu stances. The child was reported missing by her mother's boyfriend, Jamru are not related. Jamrul alleges that he stopped at a gas station shortly afte child. When he went into the store at 9:02 p.m., that's when, he says, the g
Surveillance video verifies Jamrul's story about what he was doing at the t there is no video evidence of what happened to little Tangena. Mere mome claiming that Tangena was no longer in the car.
Police say Jamrul then left the store and went to pick up Tangena's mother up Nilufa, the two returned to the gas station, asking employees multiple t been parked, only to be sorely let down. At approximately 9:30 p.m., the p they didn't know what could have possibly happened to her.
Tangena Hussain was last seen wearing a brown, long-sleeved T-shirt with sandals.
ANYONE HAVING INFORMATION SHOULD CONTACT National Cente 1-800-843-5678 (1-800-THE-LOST) Detroit Police Department (Michigan) 1-313-596-1800 20
ngena Hussain
t: 3'2" , Weight: 34 Lbs. , Hair (Color, Description, as a scar on her upper lip/chin area from a burn.
ussain disappeared under mysterious circumul Hussain. Though they share the same last name, the girl and Jamrul er 9 p.m. to fuel up, buy some gum and pick up some juice for the small girl vanished into thin air, the purported victim of an abduction.
time of the girl's disappearance, but much to the dismay of investigators, ents later, after leaving the store at 9:06 p.m., Jamrul hurried back in,
r, Nilufa Begum, who was at work at a nearby mall. Once Jamrul picked times if there were cameras on the side of the building where the car had pair filed an official police report, stating that Tangena was gone and
h an unknown cartoon character on it, white nylon cargo pants and gold
er for Missing & Exploited Children
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PARENTING CORNER How Many Shaniya's Are There?
Almost a year has passed since Shaniya Davis was take ports…but do you remember the outrage you felt? Do vowed not to forget how filled with emotion you were w by a pedophile? The anniversary of her death is fast ap ther, Brad Lockhart, started an organization in her nam ficking and child slavery. His organization, shaniyaspe how prevalent this issue is. More importantly, it provi
A walk in Shaniya’s honor is scheduled on November 13, 2010. This event ganization that vows to STOP child exploitation and sexual crimes against October 16th. Children 15 years old & under walk for free. Please register children who are sold into prostitution each and everyday…like Shaniya!
Here is a reprint of an article that was posted around this time last year on Originally Posted on Essence.com November 24, 2009:
A rose colored casket adorned with hundreds of flowers sat at the front of side laid the body of a small defenseless child. Her name was Shaniya Dav peered through the windows to catch a glimpse of the homegoing ceremon got up and encouraged the community to not get angry about the situation turely. He then turned to his daughter's rose-colored casket and said lovin when I get there." Mr. Lockhart's strength in the midst of such a horrific t anger and rage had something like this happened to our child. In fact, mos was paralyzing. 22
en from us. I’m sure you remember the news re you remember the emotions you had as you when you first heard that she had been murdered pproaching, and we need your support. Her fa me to spread awareness about the issue of sex traf eaks.org, helps to inform the community about ides a voice for those who do not have one.
t is for the entire community: family, friends, co-workers and every ort children. The cost to walk is $25 early bird registration, and $30 after TODAY at shaniyaspeaks.org! Every step you take is for the millions of
n Essence.com. Please read it, and be inspired to help make a change!
the church. A casket so small that it served as a vivid reminder that invis. More than two thousand people packed the church, and hundreds ny. Shaniya's father, Bradley Lockhart who was not scheduled to speak, n because he believed that God had a reason for taking Shaniya so premangly "I know you're going to be waiting for me [in heaven]. I'll see you tragedy is commendable because most of us would have succumbed to st of us didn't know Shaniya, but the emotion that her tragic story evoked 23
She was able to give a face to something so sadistic and perverted that mo of children are sold into the sex trade. It's a phenomenon known as sex tra
There is no consistent face of a trafficking victim. They are both male and However, although anyone can fall prey to trafficking, victims tend to com dicts, the poor, and oppressed and marginalized groups. Traffickers often est to recruit and control. These criminals are driven by two primary facto children that had been sold into prostitution. Consequently, over 500 traf iceberg because reports suggest that well over 100,000 children and youn more disturbing is that it is her very own mother that stands accused of se infuriating...but a reality of the world in which we live.
What I'd like for people to understand is that no one is safe when it comes philes wake up to plan and strategize just how they can lure and molest ch tistics show that a child is abducted every 40 seconds in our nation. Moreo curity that many of us tend to have because we feel that our circle of elite f cruelty of the world. However, the statistics do not lie.
Sadly, there are millions of Shaniya's across the world. They have no voice public refused to even acknowledge that their stories were legitimate. Sha plan, and was ready to bring an angel home because her job had been acco GaĂŠtane F. Borders, MA., A.B.D. President, Peas In Their Pods
GaÊtane Borders is President of Peas In Their Pods, and also a certified School Psy is an advocate of children’s rights and strives to help parent achieve healthy, harm after media consultant, and is often featured in print, radio, and television. 24
ost choose not to acknowledge...that everyday, hundreds and thousands afficking.
female. They are of all ages, races, and socio-economic backgrounds. me from vulnerable populations such as runaways, at-risk youth, drug adtarget individuals in these populations because they are reportedly easiors: high profits and low risk. The FBI was recently able to recover 52 ffickers were successfully convicted. However, this is only the tip of the ng women are sex trafficked every day. What makes Shaniya's story all the elling her precious baby girl into sexual slavery. Despicable, nauseating,
s to this issue. Just as you get up routinely each day to go to work, pedohildren. They are extremely adept at doing just that. That is why the staover, nearly 50 percent are African American. There is a false sense of sefriends and family, and large brick homes buffer us from the inherent
e. They have no power. They have no face, and until recently, the wider aniya's story helped to change this. So, I agree with her father. God had a omplished. May you rest in peace baby girl.
ychologist who works closely with the inner-city youth and their parents. She monious, and emotionally stable environments for their children. She is a sought 25
A Teens Story: (Cedric Boswell) From Homeless to Hea
“I’m a people person and Gabriela is such a good person, feels good wh
If you were to ask me about the world that I come from tell stories of me having to walk down certain streets t er or a father in the same household, being homeless, story, that’s just life.
So now you must wonder, what makes me so different same but the outcome is what sets me apart from the a and adversities as my strength not my weakness, I ros had some of those “special” classes and even flunked i
Growing up I never had my own room and most of my clothes were hand year after I graduated from fifth grade. Out in the streets and in and out o always lived with family never having a place of our own my little cousins
Due to a seizure brought on by alcohol my mother was hospitalized the wo could contact at the time. I never knew how vital that question was but alw now deceased and was also the pillar of the family came and picked up my in our life and he wanted to make a change.
Two days later my mom left, no letter no goodbye. After that it all went do just stayed out of gangs because I had to set an example for my little sister system and even an asylum due to the fact that I was a little traumatized b stepped in went to court and took me under his wing I went willingly beca because I didn’t see him much, my mother wasn’t fond of him. He showed 26 I was doubted throughout the family.
ading for the Stars! Tia D. Rudd
hen I talk to good people. She helps me feel reassured about my future.”
m, I would respond like any other kid that grew up in the “hood” I would to avoid getting jumped, how it may feel to get shot at, not having a moth and even an “F” student. But this isn’t a soap opera, everyone has a sad
t, different from all the other kids in the “hood”. The story may be the average kid in the “hood”. Unlike most kids my age I used my hardships se in spite of, not fell because of. I’ll admit I was never your smartest kid I in elementary.
me downs, my mother, and younger sister, and I went homeless for a of shelters those memories will never go away, only here to stay. We had s reminding me that this place isn’t my home.
oman in charge of the shelter asked me if I had any family members I ways living with family members of course it was yes. My uncle who is y sister and I who gave us to our older brother because he wasn’t always
ownhill. Being the mamma’s boy that I was I gave up, tapped out, quit. I r. Everyone started to doubt me I was threatened with being put in the by events in my life. After a year of staying with my brother my dad ause I hated being a burden. I didn’t know my father on the personal level d me the grades my older brother and sister were making, he told me how 27
My sister gave me a reason to live; my father gave me something to live fo then I ever dreamed I could do I even made the national honor roll that ye school. I play football, I run track, I am an artist, I am a poet, and I write q faithfully every week. From ninth grade till now I have done volunteer wo the NAACP ACT-SO Contest winning a silver medal. I have received Peop trained as a Peer Mediator.
I have been in leadership for three years as sophomore class president, ju president. I was awarded magnet student of the year I have been a studen accreditation team at school, but the biggest award of them all was the We out of all the juniors in the L.A.U.S.D. not because I had the best grades b
But the fight is far from over, many more battles and adversities lie ahead with him or his ways is currently ill, he is a diabetic, on dialysis, with kidn and athlete but I play a little doctor at home as well as often waking up th
I plan on becoming a doctor specializing in emergency medicine. My goal house so I can try my best to be there for my family. People tell me why I versity in the nation and that they have programs and help for things like only father better yet my only parent and grandparent I have, and I have r them even if it means me going to a Junior College. I learned that it’s not nues similar to the roads we take in real life, success has many roads as w there. From all this I have gained a will to fight no matter how hard the ba many times you may drop it, or how many times it may crack it remains u go around, or even go through, but never give up. In the end I know that I
*The Teen L.U.V.E Program is a not for profit program, 501(c) (3), creat teens with L.U.V.E, which includes Listening (L), Understanding (U), a V 28
or. That year in eighth grade I was making more A’s ear. And the success only continues throughout high quotes and send them to all my contacts and call them ork, entered poetry contests including but not limited to ple to People Leadership Program letters. I have been
unior class president, and now associated student body nt pollworker, I am on the school site council and wasc est Point Leadership award which I received last year but because I had the most leadership skills and activities.
d. Even now my father whom I love dearly although I don’t always agree ney failure, back problems, and insomnia. Not only am I a student, leader, hroughout the night to tend to him and sometimes even my grandmother.
l is to go to the best college I can within a one hour radius or less from my would turn down an opportunity to go to West Point the number one unithat. But look through my eyes for I have seen through yours this is my relized who better to take care of family, then family. I won’t abandon t how you begin but how you end, and just as a street has different avewell, and just like the roads in life there’s always more than one way to get attle, a will that cannot be broken by man alone, a will that no matter how unbreakable. After all this my life is plain and simple; go over, go under, I will succeed, simply because I refuse to fail.
ted by Beauties on the Go to empower at-risk teens. We provide our Vision (V), and Encouragement (E) http://teenluveprogram.blogspot.com/ 29
Woodbine Wellness Center, LLC Julia L Hankerson, Ph.Dc., LCSW Psychotherapy, Massage, Reflexology, Nutrition
Helping you “Feel Good� Mind, B
I was born and raised in Woodbine, NJ at the time whe and community activities for enjoyment of people of all time was superior and produced high level professional
I myself, attended Woodbine Elementary School, Millvi Psychology and Rutgers University in New Jersey wher as having my own private practice, I own a Wellness Ce
Prior to the above referenced occupation, I was the Tea provement Specialist for Magellan Behavioral Health and I performed sev Services including, Special Projects for the Governor, Strategic Planning a
I think we need to support early education programs which focus on positi riences, careers and community role models who have positive experience riences at a young age, then they have more options as they grow into adol
I too firmly believe that we should integrate parents and families into thes When we realize that, in most cases, children emulate their parents regard cumbent upon the parents to accept the responsibility and endeavor to be is caused by what is done or not done during the raising of that child. In ou ties that reward hard work. That encourages community participation, sel 30
Body and Soul
en it was a thriving community with a plethora of civic l ages. Additionally, the educational system at that ls who have proven to be successful in many fields.
ille Senior High School, Lincoln University in Pa, where I received a BA in re I received a MSW. I have a Clinical License in Social Work and as well enter which provides several “Wellness� services under one roof.
am Leader/Project Director for the Partnership for Children, a Quality Imveral roles for the Commissioner for the New Jersey Department of Human and Budget Analysis.
ive self image and exposure to wholesome family activities, cultural expees. It is my firm belief that when children are exposed to a variety of expelescence and adulthood.
se programs along with their children so that children are more accepting. dless of whether they are raised with or without them, then it becomes ingood role models. A child with a behavioral issue is not coincidental but ur communities, I believe people lack hope. I would like to see communilf pride and community pride. 31
Adults that are positive, goal oriented and hard working; both at their place of employment and in the community are a good example and encourage our children to do the same. Our children need goals; they should have some idea what they plan to do with their life, in elementary school. Having a goal at an early age helps a child maintain their educational focus during formative years, in preparation for later years. Our children are our future and our most precious commodity, let’s act responsibility toward them. Campaigning for Mayor of Woodbine, New Jersey, Julia wants to use her EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE to make the CHANGES that Woodbine needs, to provide better services to our Seniors, our Children, our Town clean-up, and more...at no additional cost to the taxpayer! Committed to our children and families, Julia’s participation in community and public service are highlighted below. Lifetime Resident of Woodbine • Owner Woodbine Wellness Center, LLC • Licensed Clinical Social Worker • Board Chair Volunteers in Medicine • Certified American Red Cross Disaster Mental Health Counselor • Former President Woodbin...e Chapter AARP 5292 • Former President Greater Woodbine Chamber of Commerce • Former Vice President Boys and Girls Club of Cape May County • Former President Woodbine Board of Education • 32
Former Basketball Coach Woodbine Recreation Girls 6, 7, 8th Grades • Former Licensed Nursing Home Administrator Veterans Home • Former Vice President Cape Counseling Board of Directors • Former Member Hamilton Township Planning Board • Former Project Specialist to Commissioner NJ Dept Human Svcs • Former Budget Analyst, Commissioners NJ Dept Human Svcs • Former Strategic Planning Specialist, NJ Dept Human Svcs • Former Regional Director NJ Partnership for Children • Graduate Woodbine Elementary School, Millville Sr High School • Hall of Fame for Basketball Millville Thunderbolt Club • BA Lincoln University, Lincoln, Pa • MSW Rutgers University, Camden, NJ • Member Horne’s Temple Lighthouse Deliverance Ministries Church (Founded by my Great Grandmother, Julia Horne in the 1940’s) • Member First Baptist Church Woodbine • Contact Information Woodbine Wellness Center 534 Washington Avenue Woodbine, NJ 08270 Phone 609/861-2400 Fax 609/861-2440 Email Woodbinewellness@cs.com
33
"ONE
LIFE CHANGED, ONE FAMILY SAVED"
I started the WrightVision Foun homeless many times. I had no ter on my own. Initially, I wante vide residential services for teen provide mentoring services for b increased the mission again and for parents and that's how I crea
Just a Praise Report About My D senior at St. Augustine's College the Dean's List since her Junior she learned the Manadrin langu
Each year she went to China, sh is fluent in Spanish and she tuto Kenice was just offered a teachin tary school age students. Finally, Kenice is the Vice-President of the Wrig allowed to come from my life as a teen mom.
The WrightVisionFoundation was founded in February 2010 by Darnice L Community Leader, Youth Advocate. The WrightFoundation is committed ness, developing life skills for problem solving and effective communicatio
Their Motto “One Life Changed, One Family Saved� speaks person support, consequently forcing her to raise her daughter on her own. 34
ndation because I was a teen mom. I was family support and I had to raise my daughed the WrightVision Foundation just to pronage girls but God expandedthe mission to boys and girls in the community. Then God d said adding parenting enhancement tools ated the WrightVision Foundation.
Daughter: She is now 21 years old. She is a in Raleigh, North Carolina. She has been on year. She has traveled to China twice, where uage and the Chinese culture.
Darnice L. Wright
he scored 1# in her class. In addition, she ors other students in Spanish. Just recently ng position in China teaching English to elemenghtVision Foundation. She is the fruit that God Kenice Griffin
L. Wright, who is a dedicated and enthusiastic d to helping individuals in the community by promoting family togetheron to encourage individuals to grow to their fullest potential.
nally to its Founder who was once a homeless teen mom without family
35
Minister Wright speaks on the founding months of the WrightVision Foun dential services for teenage girls but God expanded the mission to also pr to change one "life and save a family" tools are needed.
Thus, the WrightVision has three Signature Programs which are designed
The Life Changes Parenting Program: The Life Changes Program is tive self-image for parent(s), and build healthy relationships between par
The Ment4U Mentoring Program: The Ment4U Mentoring Program agement and resources that nurture positive thinking and healthy decisio
The Blake House Residential Services: The Blake House provides a
Our mission is to provide an environmentthat includes health and wellne tional enrollment to teenage girls between the ages of 12 -17. The Blake H teenage girls.
Also, the WrightVision Foundation has a Teen Talk Radio Show hosted by Show focuses on the teen community. It is a place where teens can voice t ers and organizations that continue to improve our community.
"TEEN TALK" provides effective tips to build self-esteem in order for teen live a positive lifestyle. Tune into the Teen Talk Radio Show each Saturda teentalkradioshow or dial (347) 838-9334 to listen or for questions.
For more information regarding the WrightVision Foundation please con http://www.wrightvisionfoundation.org/default.html. 36
ndation “Initially, I wanted the WrightVision Foundation to provide resirovide mentoring services for boys and girls in the community. In order
d to promote family unity:
s a two part program designed to improve parenting skills, promote posirents and their children.
provides male and female youth between the ages of 5 -17 with encouron making.
a safe and stable living environmentfor under-served teenage girls.
ess services, community resources, life and financial coaching and educaHouse provides a safe and stable living environment for under-served
y Mike Jacobs, Jr., Kenice Griffin and DaJuan Pitts. Teen Talk Radio their opinions and help one another. "TEEN TALK" spotlights teenag-
ns to make healthier decisions and have a positive mindset in order to ay at 12:00 p.m. by logging on to www.blogtalkradio.com/
ntact them at 202.651.0038 or visit their website at 37
Jordan Dwayne Thompson DOB: Dec 3, 2006 Missing: Feb 15, 2010 Age Now: 3 Sex: Male Race: Black Hair: Black Eyes: Brown Height: 3'2" (97 cm) Weight: 38 lbs (17 kg) Missing From: FORT SMITH AR United States Jordan was allegedly abducted by his mother, Sahara Beasley. A felony warrant is on file for Sahara. They may travel to the cities of Hope, Texarkana, Hot Springs, or Stamps, Arkansas. Jordan and Sahara may also travel to Hinesville, Georgia. He has birthmarks on the back of his neck and on his lower back. Sahara's nose is pierced. CONTACT National Center for Missing & Exploited Children 1-800-843-5678 (1-800-THE-LOST) Fort Smith Police Department (Arkansas) 1-479-709-5100
38
Morgan Nick Missing: 06/09/95 Missing From: Alma, AR Age Now: 21 years old Age at Disappearnce: 6 years old Birth: 09/12/88 Race: White Weight: 55lbs Height: 4'0" Eyes: Blue Sex: Female Hair: Blonde At 10:45 p.m. on June 9, 1995 in Alma, Arkansas, 6-year-old Morgan Nick was abducted from a little league ball game by an unidentified man. She was attending the game with her mother and had joined some friends to catch lightning bugs. Morgan was last seen standing near her mother's car where she had stopped to empty sand from her shoes.
Morgan Age 18
Alma Police Dept. Fayetteville St. Alma, Arkansas 72921 479-632-3333 Morgan Nick Foundation PO Box 1033 Alma, Arkansas 72921 479-632-6382 1-877-543-4673 National Center for Missing Children 800-THE-LOST 39
Thoughts of Black Me group that began with th express their inner thoug
It is the desire of the foun part positive thoughts int minds of men, we are in pattern of what men are s to maintain the standard “REPRODUCTION” cy the inner ability to recove
For it is Tee’s belief that mind set- men can be bet
Through the efforts and t created avenues where m sonal thoughts “FREEL re-cycling thought patter
Men sharing their values men can come and be tra brothers. When men are
Through the success of our online group which targeted men first in 200 Men, responded to constant requests from women to begin a similar grou the year 2006 thus the birth of “The Thoughts of Black Men & Family”. Be reaches approximately 2000 members. Approximately 2000 people gathe and the lives of their families. 40
en (TBM) started in April of 2002 as an online he vision to create a haven for men “FIRST” to ghts.
nder, Kevin T. Coston, known as “TEE”, to imto the lives of men. Bro-Tee believes that in the n bondage according to the traditional thought suppose to be due to what society has dictated ds of what manhood is, which has causes a ycle of negativity, division, and not the truth of er.
t with the right advantage to renew the right tter men of tomorrow and leaders that they were originally created to be.
the determination of “Tee”-TBM (The Thoughts Of Black Men)-has men can have the ability to evaluate the inner man by sharing their perLY”, as a means of understanding the outlets to wisdom for the ending of rn, so that the lives men can be transformed into proper alignment.
s, morals, weaknesses, and their experiences. TBM is an avenue where ansparent not only for their own healing, but also for the healing of their healed, families can then begin to heal.
02, The Thoughts of Black up for the whole family. In etween the two groups TBM ering to transform their lives
P.O Box 310908 Jamaica N.Y. 11432 info@thetbm.org thoughtsofblkman@yahoo.com http://thetbm.org/
41
Southern Hospitality - Sharon Fox
We are rapidly coming towards the end of another year. Another year that God ha through some type of storm. Just know that the winds of the storms will always b storm! You must realize that each wind is only blowing you in the direction that G faith and confidence. We may not understand why things happen the way they do trol...if we allow Him to be. As we go throughout this journey of life, no matter h hand in His. Here are some very comforting Fall dishes that I just know you'll enj your head high. May the love of God be with you always!
Stuffed
1 1 Zucchini Half 2 1 small ca 1 1/2 2 cloves Ga Pa
Fres
In a medium size casserole heat the olive oil. When the oil is fairly hot sautĂŠ the m carrot. After 2 minutes add the diced fresh tomatoes, both green and red peppers ( medium or medium-low (according to your stove) and let cook for 15 minutes or u
When done set apart. In the meanwhile cut in half the Acorn Squash, remove the s ter and lay the two half. Cook in the oven at 375 °F for 45 minutes (or until they b Squash from the oven, fill them with the sauce, sprinkle with a generous amount o Serve almost immediately but be aware42 that they are still very hot inside!
as been with us, even though we have all gone blow you into your destiny. NEVER curse your God is placing in your path. Follow that road with o. But we must always remember that God is in conhow dark it may get, please remember to keep your joy. Until next time, keep the faith and walk with
d Acorn Squash
1 Acorn Squash f red pepper Half green pepper Fresh Tomatoes arrot Celery (just a little) 1/4 Red Onion 2 Jalapeno pepper arlic Extra Virgin olive oil armesan Cheese Salt sh Ground Pepper
minced garlic, chopped onion, chopped celery, the 1/2 Jalapeno and the chopped (diced), diced zucchini, chopped parsley, salt and pepper to taste. Turn the heat to until the sauce has a firm texture.
seeds, cut just a little bit both ends to make it flat. In a large pan pour some wabecome semi-soft). Use a long wood-stick to check if they are ready. Pull the of fresh grated Parmesan Cheese and Broil in the oven for about 10 minutes. 43
Rustic Vegetable-Beet Soup
is unusually easy. It simmers to perfection in under 30 minutes, and needs only cr
2 tablespoons olive oil 2 medium onions, coarsely chopp 2 medium carrots, coarsely chop 1 medium sweet potato, peeled a 2 large garlic cloves, minced 2 zucchini (about 5 ounces each) 2 cans (14 ounces each) vegetabl 1 teaspoon seasoned salt 1 can (15-1/2 ounces) chickpeas, Salt and pepper 2 tablespoons finely chopped fre 2 tablespoons finely chopped fre 1 jar (16 ounces) whole pickled b
Gremolata
1 tablespoon minced fresh parsle 1 tablespoon minced fresh dill 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 teaspoon grated lemon peel
Heat oil in large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions; sautĂŠ about 5 minutes til vegetables begin to soften; stir occasionally. Add zucchini, broth and seasoned minutes or until vegetables are tender. Add chickpeas; heat through. Season to tas topped with gremolata, if desired. .
Gremolata - Combine all ingredients in small bowl. Sprinkle over your portion o
For more comforting recipes check out44 my website at www.goodcookin4u2.webs
rusty bread to make a meal for the family or casual entertaining..
ped pped and chopped
), coarsely chopped le broth
, drained and rinsed
esh parsley esh dill beets, well drained, coarsely chopped
ey
or until softened. Add carrots, sweet potato and garlic. sautĂŠ 3 to 5 minutes und salt. Bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer, partially covered, about 15 ste with salt and pepper. Stir in parsley and dill. Stir in beets. Serve immediately
of soup.
s.com
45
Eduardo Canales DOB: Jul 29, 1996 Missing: Aug 13, 1998 Age Now: 14 Sex: Male Race: Hispanic Hair: Brown Eyes: Black Height: 3'0" (91 cm) Weight: 45 lbs (20 kg) Last seen in Huntington Station, New York on August 13, 1998 Circumstances: He was abducted by his non-custodial grandmother, Modesto Canales. A photo and vital statistics are posted below. His mother was killed in an automobile accident and both Eduardo's father and Modesta wanted custody. Custody was eventually given to the father. He was seen in Hoboken, New Jersey, with her. They may have traveled to Guatemala. No information on a warrant is available. If you have any information as to Eduardo's whereabouts, please contact the Suffolk County Police Department at 631-852-6000. Any information received can be kept confidential.
46
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. *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.
http://www.peasintheirpods.com (516) 338-6873 47 hfmbc@hotmail.com
WALK LIKE Y
Written by Southern Hospi
I know He is the beginning, so w I know He is the creator, so why I know He has forgiven me, s I know He is a healer, so w I know He can do all thing I know He will protect I know He will supply all my I know He is my strength and my I know that everything and everyone has a season, so why wh I know He is the right way, so I know He is the light, so why d I know that whatever I ask of GOD, GOD I know tomorrow is not promised, so why do I know that the truth shall make m I know He gives us revelation, knowledge and unders I know I should live in the spirit as well as walk in the spirit, I know that when praises go up, blessings co I know I am saved, so why do I re I know He has a plan for me, so why am I rushing it because The shortest distance between a problem and a soluti The one who kneels to the Lo
Sometimes all we have is God...but that's all we need!!! We always "say" that we You Know? Print these words out, or write them down where you can easily ge 48 er as to who we are, and who we put our trust in!! I pray that you all have a bles
YOU KNOW
itality Owner - Sharon Fox
why do I worry about the end? y do I wonder who will destroy? so why can’t I forgive myself? why do I speak of sickness? gs, so why do I say I can’t? t me, so why do I fear? y needs, so why can’t I wait? salvation, so why do I feel weak? hen someone’s season is over, do I weep instead of rejoicing? o why do I go the wrong way? do I choose to walk in darkness? D will give me, so why am I scared to ask? o I put off for tomorrow what I can do today? me free, so why do I continue to lie? standing, so why do I lean on my own understanding? so why do I choose to live in the spirit, but walk in the flesh? ome down, so why do I refuse to praise Him? efuse the word He has given me? e I am eager to do His will, when it is His time not my time? ion is the distance between your knees and the floor. ord can stand up to anything!
e trust in Him, that we have faith, that God is our guide...so why not Walk Like et to them when you feel discouraged. Sometimes all we need is a quick remind49 ssed and wonderful month of October!!
If you could share one intimate lifetime experience with a young w
With heartfelt and intimate mo go, a riveting and untold story
We Need To Talk, will provide for all women to begin to give b way that has never been captur women’s lives has permanently healing to begin. Janks Morton sitting on a wealth of knowledg life; and this knowledge should
Janks Morton is an award-win known for poignant, tough-lov Think and Men to Boys. Now into a beautiful, but possibly vu his latest offering. So, this go-r female survivors of the battle-o tive years and also with their b
Janks Morton is the founder of ence to reflect both the conscio entertainment industry for ove sponses and capturing Africantions in his trademark fashion.
For more information about the “We Need To Talk: A Message to our Daugh 50
woman, that could potentially save her life...WOULD YOU?
oments shared by ten phenomenal women from the south side of Chicawill be shared..
the cornerstone and bedrock back to younger women in a red on film. The truth of these y opened the doorway to let the n believes that all women are ge that can save a young girl’s d be shared.
nning documentary filmmaker ve documentaries about African-American males like What Black Men w, as the father of an 11 year-old girl poised on the brink of blossoming ulnerable young woman, he was inspired to make sisters the subject of round, he traveled to the Southside of Chicago where he interviewed ten of-the-sexes about their relationships with their dads during their formaboyfriends when they first started dating.
f iYago Entertainment Group, LLC. “The company came into existousness and the unconsciousness of Black America.” He has been in the er 20 years. Exhibiting an uncanny knack for both eliciting emotional re-American pulchritude on camera, Janks posed a series of probing ques.
hters” or Janks Morton, please visit www.whatblackmenthink.com 51
Hallowe
By *Pattie Fitzger
Trick or treating is one of the grea night out celebrating the Great Pu our kids some important safety guidelines before heading out. Maybe you’l year, or perhaps you have teenagers venturing out on their own, trick or tre some savvy safety precautions, there is no trick to enjoying a safe and fun H Halloween Safety for Kids & Grownups
Plan your route ahead of time and check your state’s Megan’s Law Sex Offe to skip that house or tell your child and their friends not to ring that doorbe “safe grownup.” In California, the website is www.meganslaw.ca.gov. To c follow the prompts. *(United States Department of Justice, National Sex O Children under 12 should be accompanied by a responsible adult. Teens should trick or treat in a group – never alone.
Plan your route ahead of time and stick to it. Stay in familiar neighborhood
If a child gets lost, or feels scared or threatened for any reason, ask a MOM No child or teenager should ever enter anyone’s home. Accept all treats at
Be very wary of any stranger who tries to accompany you as you trick or tre person quickly. 52
een Safety Tips
rald, founder Safely Ever After, Inc.
at American traditions, and we can still enjoy a safe umpkin, provided we use some common sense and give ll be accompanying your hobgoblins door to door this eating with friends. With a little common sense and Halloween.
ender register. If there is an offender living in your neighborhood, be sure ell. If they ask why, let them know the person who lives there is not a check the sex offender register in your area go to: *www.nsopw.gov and Offender Public Website). Or check www.familywatchdog.us
ds.
M WITH KIDS for help. the doorway only.
eat. If kids are on their own, they should say NO and get away from that 53
Stay in the open, don’t take shortcuts through alleys or unlit backyards. Kids on their own should never get into a car with anyone…unless they Visit only houses that are well lit.
Carry a flashlight, a watch, and a fully charged cell phone. (Make sure k
All kids should have some form of identification with them, even if it’s j inside their costume.
If older kids want to change their plans, they must CHECK IN with a p Set a firm time limit on how long kids can be out on their own.
All treats must be inspected by a parent first. Do not eat any unwrappe
Wear brightly colored clothes or use some reflective tape on your costum
Openly discuss appropriate and inappropriate behavior at Halloween be
*Pattie Fitzgerald has been successfully teaching child predator safety keynote speeches and parent education seminars. For more informati
54
. have already gotten permission from their parents ahead of time.
kids on their own do so as well.)
just a slip of paper with their name, address and phone number pinned
parent first. (That cell phone sure comes in handy!)
ed or partially wrapped treats.
me or bag.
efore your kids go out.
y and awareness since 2001 with her child-friendly school curriculum, ion, visit www.safelyeverafter.com
55
Patrick Alford Case Type: Endangered Missing , Missing Date: Friday 22nd January 2010 Missing From: Brooklyn New York New York State, Sex: Male DOB: 28/Nov/2002 Age Now: 7 Hair: Black Eye Color: Brown, Height: 4' 8" (142cm) Weight: Thin at 65 lbs (29kg) Race: Biracial language: n/a Special Facts: He was last seen wearing a red T-shirt and blue jeans with blue and black Jordan sneakers. He's described as being in good health. He has a scar on his left eyelid. Police in the 75 Precinct are looking for information about Patrick Alford who was last seen leaving his home on Vandalia Avenue on evening of January 22, 2010 at 9pm. CONTACT: National Center for Missing & Exploited Children 1-800-843-5678 (1-800-THE-LOST), New York City Police Department - 75th Precinct (New York) , 1-718-827-3551 NYPD or 1-800577-TIPS (8477), log on to WWW.NYPDCRIMESTOPPERS.COM, or text 274637 (CRIMES) and enter TIP577.
56
Shanythia Greene (Age Progression/Right) Case Type: Endangered Missing DOB: Sep 30, 1975 Sex: Female Race: Black Age Now: 35 Eye Color: Brown Height: 6'2" (188 cm) Weight: 200 lbs (91 kg) Missing Date: Aug 26, 1993 Missing City: POMPANO BEACH Missing State : FL Hair Color: Black Missing Country: United States Case Number: NCMC783011 Circumstances: Shanythia's photo is shown age-progressed to 34 years. Her car was found abandoned at a hotel and her purse was locked inside. She has not been seen or heard from since. She has a gold front tooth with the letter "N" on it. ANYONE HAVING INFORMATION SHOULD CONTACT National Center for Missing & Exploited Children 1-800-843-5678 (1-800-THE-LOST) Broward County Sheriff's Office (Florida) 1-954-765-4321 57
Grands As Parents was forme operates out of the historic Chur
Grands As Parents (G.A.P's) a children grow fruitfully into adu ents replace the gaps of parentho
Grand As Parents recognizes the the Grands As Parents initiative, cacy group for the rights of the fa
Grandparents are already under usually that of a father, mother, a reflect reality. Many American a caring for and raising their grand The rise in grandparents caring for grandchildren
Grandparents stepping in to raise their grandchildren is not a new develop parent-headed families - with or without parents. An estimated 62,000 ch There are many reasons why grandparents step in to care for their grandc
These reasons include the death of parents, incarceration of parents, subs Grandparents are motivated by the love they feel for their grandchildren a so do this to keep their grandchildren out of the system. 58
ed in 1996 to assist, support, and advocate for the rights of grandparents, rch of the Advocate, located at 18th and Diamond Street in Philadelphia.
advocates making the necessary changes in our society to ensure that ulthood. The name G.A.P.'s was chosen to signify the way we as grandparood in our grandchildren's lives.
e needs of relative caregivers. North Central Philadelphia is the focus of , which is unique in that it takes the form of a support group and an advoamily.
stress, with many needs of their own. Our perfect picture of a family is and a child or children. But in today's world that picture doesn't always adults who have already raised their families suddenly find themselves dchildren.
pment. In Philadelphia, in 1998, there were more than 2.5 million grandhildren are living with a grandparent, and the numbers are growing. children.
stance abuse of parents, teen pregnancy, family violence, and HIV/AIDS. and step in to fill a gap created by the problem they face. Grandparents al-
59
When grandparents assume the role of a parent they face a myriad of chall and emotional strain, as well as feelings of helplessness. They are more lik the biggest and most challenging tasks facing families today involves grand grandchildren.
Grands As Parents is a support/advocate group for these grandparents risk. The children face many issues within the turbulence of today's society
Grands As Parents is here to support these teenagers and their grandpa se teens. These teenagers need a place where they feel that they have a voi
One of our programs Very Important People (VIP) offer these teens in anger management, life skills, and sexual and drug abuse prevention. We a mances, we have a collaboration with Temple/Tyler University to the teen where the teens choreograph their own dance steps. They are allowed to ex
What Grands As Parents expect to accomplish is fo Leadersh Behavioral Im Readiness for Problem Health Aw Self-es Anger man Entrepren
For more information on Grands As Parents: Write: 2121 N. Gratz A http://www.gapsnow.org/ 60
lenges in nearly all aspects of their lives. They are prone to psychological kely to live in poverty than a grandparent not raising a grandchild. One of dparents parenting their grandchildren and sometimes their great-
s. These grandparents realize that they are raising teenagers that are at y, and they need the support of those who care.
arents by offering these teens at risk a program geared especially for theice.
ndividual counseling, group counseling, mentorship conflict resolution/ also feel that cultural activities is a must through Art Sanctuary perforns modern design and set design. We sponsor a modem dance troupe, xpress themselves through Hip Hop, poetry, rap and drawing.
or our teenage to have a more structural edge with: hip skills mprovement r employment m solving wareness steem nagement neurship
Ave Philadelphia PA 19121 Telephone: 877.236.5848 or 267.299.8189 info@gapsnow.org 61
Monthly Tasty Treat - by Pat Holmes CHOCOLATE GOOEY BUTTER CAKE 2 sticks of melted butter 1 (18.25 oz.) chocolate cake mix 3 eggs 1 (8oz.) package cream cheese, softened 3 Tablespoons cocoa powder 1 (16 oz.) box powdered sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 Cup of nuts (optional) Preheat over to 350 Lightly grease 13x9-inch backing pan. In a large mixing bow combine cake mix, 1 egg, and 1 stick melted butter, blend well. Pat mixture into prepared pan and set aside. In mixer bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the remaining 2 eggs, and the cocoa powder. Lower the speed of the mixer, and add the powdered sugar. Continue beating until ingredients are well mixed. Slowly add the remaining 1 stick of melted butter, and the vanilla, continuing to beat the mixture until smooth. Stir in nuts and spread filling over cake mixture in pan. Bake 40-50 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the cake; the center should still be a little gooey when finished backing. Let cake partially cool on a wire rack before cutting into pieces. 62
63
The Souls of Black Girls is a provocative n
critical look at media images--how they are trolled.
The documentary also examines the relation existing media images of women of color an they may be suffering from a self-image diso the standards of beauty that are celebrated i Daphne S. Valerius Producer/Filmmaker/Actress tary features candid interviews with young w and social commentary from Actresses Regi PBS Washington Week Moderator Gwen Ifill, Rapper/Political Activist Ch Michaela Angela Davis, among others. The Souls of Black Girls is a piece that attempts to provoke hones among women of color about media images and our present condition—in
Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Valerius had dreams of becoming Color or a back-up dancer for singer Janet Jackson. But the relocation of h Island unknowingly placed her on a path towards embarking on a journey daughter of Haitian immigrants and the eldest of three children, graduate East knowing that pursuing an education at any cost was the only way to r herself and future generations of her family.
The recipient of several academic scholarships, Valerius went onto St. Joh marking the beginning of her production career, as the Director and Co-P Call for Changing Minds during her sophomore year. Graduating Magna C torship of Dr. Lez Edmond, Valerius studied media images in a research p Media on Women of Color.Forgotten. This research marked the beginning how they had been influenced by society, specifically media images. Upon 64 Graduate Program at Emerson College.
news documentary that takes a e instituted, established and con-
nship between the historical and nd raises the question of whether order as a result of trying to attain in media images. The documenwomen discussing their self-image ina King and Jada Pinkett Smith, huck D, and Cultural Critic
st dialogue and critical thinking nternally and externally.
g a Flyy Girl on FOX's In Living her family to the state of Rhode y to define her own destiny. The ed from Cranston High School redefine life as she knew it for
http://www.soulsofblackgirls.com/
hn's University in New York majoring in Mass Communications and Producer of a play entitled, The Revolution Continues: Changing Times Cum Laude and a Ronald McNair Scholar, under the guidance and menproject entitled, Self-Esteem and Self-Confidence: The Effects of Mass g of Valerius' critical examination of her personal self-image issues and n graduation she immediately enrolled into the Broadcast Journalism 65
Marti Lee
Last seen on October 7, 1 (Age Progres
Vital statistics: Black female. Born on October 23, 1993. Bla Was eleven months at the time.
Circumstances: She was abducted by her non-custodial mother, T idence in the 1100 block of Cross Lane i They may still be in Cinncinati, or may be in Silv
Vital statistics: Temika Bell (pictured left) Blac usually wears her hair long and pulled ba
If you have any information as to Marti's whereab Cincinnati Police Department at 513-352-3542. can be kept confidential.
66
e Bell
1994 in Cincinatti, Ohio ssion, Right)
ack hair, brown eyes. She has a birthmark on her left ankle. . NCIC number: M-842728588
Temik Bell. She was last seen at her custodial grandparents' resin Cincinnati, Ohio on October 7, 1994. verton, Ohio, Pleasant Ridge, Ohio, or Maryland.
ck female. Born on July 12, 1970. Brown hair, brown eyes. She ack and has long fingernails. Was twenty-four at the time.
bouts, please contact the Any information received
67
The National Black think-tank partnership stitutions around the c cy club network, and co
Student Focus Our Second Annual NBWTH Meeting at Howard University marked our d they live and learn; college campuses and middle/high schools. This initia for mentorship and leadership development. We will identify, groom, dev and community leadership while instilling a sense of identity, sisterhood a
Mission The mission of the NBWTH is to address black women's issues and concer torship. The strategy of the NBWTH is to engage in year-round conversati life, culminating in an annual national town hall meeting held at various l sations that build pride, leadership, and sisterhood by leveraging the expe
Blanche Williams is the Founder and Moderator of the Annual National B proven her talents as a gifted communicator and facilitator. Her efforts we from The President and Mrs. Obama, to attend a Holiday Reception at the Talk Show Host and Producer, since 2003, Williams has earned a reputati claimed talk show, Greatness By Design with Blanche Williams, she has la guests including Dr. Maya Angelou, Deepak Chopra, Nancy Wilson, Laila to name a few, along with exploring topics that inspired, provoked and tra
She has covered a myriad of events and political campaigns in her career, Barack Obama leading up to her live front row coverage at the Inauguratio mentary landed on the front page of Reach Media’s, BlackAmericaWeb.co 68
Women’s Town Hall, Inc. is a non-profit organization created as a p between dedicated women, students, organizations, and educational incountry, designed to convene meaningful meetings, create a national polioordinate our efforts.
dedicated effort to engage future female leaders by meeting them where ative will serve as the starting point in our efforts to create opportunities velop, and support African-American women for future political, social, and self-esteem.
rns through dialogue, awareness, advocacy, solution building, and menions with women of color; from of all ages, backgrounds, and stages in locations throughout the nation. The NBWTH strives to facilitate convererience, expertise, and influence of all generations of black women.
Black Women’s Town Hall Meetings. She has ere recently rewarded with a special invitation e White House. As National Sirius/XM Radio ion as a stellar communicator. As host of her acanded one-on-one conversations with legendary Ali, Cicely Tyson, Berry Gordy, and Quincy Jones, ansformed listener’s lives.
including the historic 2008 DNC Nomination of on of President Barack Obama. Her comNational Black Women's Town Hall, Inc. om. http://www.blackwomenstownhall.com “We gain from each other when we work with one another “ 69
POINSETT ARKANSAS
Found: Aug 12, 2001 Eyes: Unknown Race: Black Age Now: Sex: Male Weight: Unknown Height: 5'8" (173 cm) Hair: Unknown Found: POINSETT COUNTY AR United States On August 12, 2001, the partial skull of an unidentified decedent was located in Poinsett County, Arkansas. DNA testing has determined that the skull was from a male. It is believed that the decedent was a black male who was approximately 15 to 18 years of age at the time of his death. The image is a composite created by an artist at the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. Some items, such as the ears and hairstyle, are the artist's estimations to complete the image and should not be used as significant markers for identification. ANYONE HAVING INFORMATION SHOULD CONTACT National Center for Missing & Exploited Children 1-800-843-5678 (1-800-THE-LOST) 70
Peas In Their Pods
Thank You..! 71