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Peas In Their Pods Staff
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. 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. There are many organizations across this country who’s 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.
Janice Lowery CEO Gaetane Borders President Training Specialist Mildred Nixon Vice President Linda Glover Treasurer Denise Bethune Editor in Chief P.E.A.S. Magazine Pattie Fitzgerald Safety & Prevention Advisor Paula Whitebear Administrative Assistant Delilah Jones Publicity Manager Nancy Fairbanks Webmaster Amy Matthews Researcher
It still takes a village‌!!! Denise Bethune, Editor-In-Chief Whitesboro, New Jersey http://www.peasintheirpods.com hfmbc@hotmai.com
Teri Kendle Researcher
*All individuals, organizations featured in this edition are at the approval of its authorized agent*
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In This Edition Pg. 4…….…Parenting Corner - Does My Child Have A Disability? Gaetane Borders 5……….Color Complex - Melisha Anderson-Ruiz 6………..A Young Mother's D.R.E.A.M. Inc. 8…….....Bully Prevention 101: Get Fresh! Beans-N-Frank Charles Washington /Mark Davis 10….….Executive Director & Founder, Girls Educational & Mentoring Services - Rachel Lloyd 12……..Valuable lessons taught and learned - Brian Kelly Wilson 13……..Your Depressed Child Needs You - Shyra Smith 14……..Hospitality Corner - Sharon Fox 15….....Author & Visionary - Marquise T. Watson 16……..The Center for American Women and Politics Sasha Patterson, Ph.D. 16….….Bowl for Kids' Sake - John Roy 18….....Hannah's Socks - Hannah Turner 19……..Monthly Tasty Treat - Pat Holmes 20….….Step N2 College - Koyah Rivera 22….. ..The Women’s Collective - Patricia Nalls 24….….Never Would Have Mde It - Paula Whitebear-Burton
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Gaétane is President of Peas In Their Pods, and also a certified School Psychologist who works closely with the inner-city youth and their parents. She is an advocate of children’s rights and strives to help parent achieve healthy, harmonious, and emotionally stable environments for their children. She is a sought after media consultant, and is often featured in print, radio, and television.
Does My Child Have A Disability? Happy Exceptional Children’s Month everyone! For the next few weeks, many school systems around the country are attempting to educate the public about children with disabilities, as well as trying to garner support for special education. Much of the work that I do involves identifying reasons for why children may not be performing as well as might be expected. I always feel privileged to help families unlock underlying issues. However, this is a double edged sword because for many parents, coming to terms with the fact that their child has a disability is very difficult. Upon learning that their child may have a disability, many often parents react in similar ways. One of the first reactions is that of denial -- This cannot be happening to me, to my child, to our family. Anger, is another emotion that I’ve witnessed. Sometimes it is directed at me…the one who first indicates that their child may have an underlying condition. I believe that much of this is fueled by fear. Fear of the unknown…Will my child be okay? Can they learn? Are they normal? What quality of life will my child have? Is there something wrong with me? One of the childhood diagnoses that has been widely talked about is autism. It is defined by the Autism Society Of America (ASA) as: "a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life, and is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain, impacting development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Both children and adults with autism typically show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities." There is a lot of debate regarding what causes autism. We have heard the debate played out in the news… Is autism genetic….or the result of medical intervention or the environment? Researchers continue to attempt to figure this out. However, reportedly the rate is 1 in 110 births, and is said to be the fastest growing developmental disability. In honor of Exceptional Children’s Month, I would like to remind parents that a disability does not have to be limiting. Did you know that many people…many who you might idolize…are very famous and successful? For example, Daryl Hannah, the actress best known for her roles in Splash, Blade Runner and Kill Bill was reportedly diagnosed as a child as being ”borderline autistic.” Also, Satoshi Tajiri, who created of PokeMon, is also reportedly autistic. Early intervention is key! So please seek the guidance of a professional if you if you suspect that your child’s development is not progressing as expected, or if you are seeing a regression in skills. Oftentimes you will be reassured that nothing is out of the norm. However, for a smaller percentage of parents, School Psychologists…Pediatricians…and Developmental Specialists may provide the needed recommendations that could make a considerable difference.
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Color Complex Melisha Anderson-Ruiz
Melisha Anderson –Ruiz, Community Justice Coordinator of the Prosecutor's Office for the County of Cape May, New Jersey heads the office's community outreach program along with Victim Witness Coordinator Claire McArdle.
Deconstruct this social construct of race In which we run to determine How successful we become By how light our skin is How human we are By the hue of an organ That’s main goal is to protect our hearts and lungs And guts Yet we get gut checked when party-hosted events are Themed light skin verses dark skin This complexity has me perplexed Shouldn’t I be? I am proud to be black And yet told I don’t know what it is to be black Cause I’m lighter than dark and darker than light So somewhere in the middle Or over the rainbow I stand In Oz where there is a horse of many colors
That they are black or white or mixed or none of the above Until it makes them sick They maybe black if they are darker than their father Or white if they are lighter than me Or Hispanic or somewhere in between Since their daddy has a Mexican last name Ruiz That in a time when wars still rage Children are born of rape Millions of people thirst and hunger The earth is growing tired and weary Shedding her tears on Haiti and Darfur And their brother down under Their sister in the Middle East The census is still worried about color Choose one Caucasian, Regular Asian Black slash African slash African dash American comma not Hispanic, White comma not Hispanic Hispanic comma not Black or White Bi-racial, Tri-racial, Multi-racial What are you? Other: fill in the blank_____________________
Never crossed my mind that I am better than her Or less than him And yet my mind grows dim It’s crazy to me when they argue Jesus was a blond haired blue-eyed messiah Unlikely for all kinds of reasons But some of them get upset and tell me I’m worshipping a white god Falling prey to a white devil And what’s left for me to say I roll my eyes and walk away and think Things can’t be this complex Oh if flowers could speak would a rose Say to an orchid you aren’t red So we can’t share the same flowering bed Or drink from the same watering can Not unless your lily white petals catch A serious ultraviolet sun tan
It’s a race for money, resources, livelihood, and equality That a child would be Left back because he’s a dark shade of black Or pushed forward because he has slanted eyes Or straight jet black hair On the cover of Vanity Fair Color coordinated women From someone’s imagination When the poverty population Is constantly chasing The sons of Abraham
If these walls could talk Would they choose to be a certain color The color of the mother who lives there Or the color of the dad who visits See we have more important things to discuss Like how come little girls and boys aren’t playing with toys But are playing with each other And birthing babies who will fall in love with babies Because daddy wasn’t there And mommy was so unaware that self esteem Is not a color or the texture of hair
Dealing with black separatists White supremacist And unstable terrorist who will kill you Even if you look like them Color is complex When we attach it to beauty, civility, loyalty, success When all it’s purposed to do is to Tell of our ancestors’ relationship with the sun
I’ve dated lots of guys most were black and some Hispanic Not one was white So when I brought one home I began to panic What would they say What if they knew That some way somehow I was falling in love With this white dude
We run This race Where maybe whites still get a head start And blacks and browns may play catch up Eventually we will all go mad Trying to be something we’re not This race, color, ethnic complex thing must stop Because most of these barriers have been broken I will leave you with this token Life would be much simpler, I bet If we would just shade in this color complex.
That in our future might lie mulatto babies with freckles Red hair and bright blue eyes Who would have to deal with the lies 5
A Young Mother's D.R.E.A.M. Inc Acronym (Determination, Resilience, Excellence, Achievement, Motivation) Our mission is to assist young/teen moms to complete their education through a one on one mentorship program. To motivate them to become more accomplished individuals. To instill determination, resilience and excellence as core characteristics for these mothers. To work together to decrease teen pregnancies by promoting abstinence. The organization pairs young mothers with a mentor who is a former young mother who has gone on to complete her education. We feel its necessary to pair these two because while in theory any mentor should be able to guide these young girls, they respect the mothers who have gone through the same struggle. The mentorship program is one year long and the graduates of the program still have access to the resources that we provide. During the year the young mother and her mentor are obligated to attend a series of workshops to help build them as individuals. The mentors will meet with the mentees at least once per month to help with guiding them in the right direction. (filling out applications for school etc) The mentees will also be obligated to commit to community service. They will speak to younger girls about their struggles to discourage them from having sex. Once the year is completed each mentee will be eligible for a scholarship to help with the costs of school or daycare. Our hope is that they come back as mentors once they've graduated. We are currently seeking mentors and mentees to enter the program. Please send an email to info@youngmothersdream.org to inquire about the application process. I hope that in the future our teens and young adults see them selves as valuable individuals.Its important that they have a higher level of self esteem than they currently do. With this improved sense of self worth they will make decisions that will promote a better future for themselves. I hope these choices include abstinence from sex to prevent teen pregnancies, abstinence from drugs and alcohol to prevent addicitions and focus on education and goal setting.
did you know?
www.youngmothersdream.org
3 in 10 teen girls in the US will get pregnant at least once • before age 20 Less than half of teen mothers ever graduate from • high-school Fewer than 2% earn a college degree by 30• Abstinence is the only 100% effective way to prevent • pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) Daughters of young teen mothers are three times more • likely to become teen mothers themselves 6
Chioma Gray Missing Date: Thursday 13th December 2007 Missing From: Ventura, California Missing Country: USA Sex: Female DOB: 26/Apr/1992 Age Now: 18 Specific Details:Hair Color: Black Eye Color: Brown Race: Black Height: 5'4" (163 cm) Weight: 115 lbs (52 kg) language: English Chioma Gray has turned 18 years old. However, chances are she won’t be celebrating with her family and friends in Ventura, CA, but, most likely, somewhere in Mexico. On December 13, 2007, school surveillance cameras show a young man, 20 year old, Andrew Tafoya, arriving at Buena High School soon after Chioma was dropped off by her father. Andrew Tafoya had been released from jail the day before on charges of unlawful sex with a minor. That minor was Chioma Gray, who was 14 at the time of the incident. It’s reported that Tafoya arrived in a stolen car and authorities believe that Chioma left with Tafoya willingly. FBI has charged Tafoya with child stealing, unlawful flight to avoid prosecution and auto theft. The family, especially her mother, Francine Black, do not feel that Chioma willingly left the country with Tafoya, who had mentioned to others that he had a desire to take her to Mexico. Cameras at the Mexican border show the license tag of the stolen car Tafoya and Gray were in crossing the border. Chioma Gray was an excellent student with a 4.0 grade average, getting ready to graduate high school when she went off with Tafoya. Her mother disagrees with the police, and feels that she did not go with Tafoya willingly, as they have expressed. Black has not been interviewed by police nor FBI, other than to be told that her daughter is dead. Even if that’s true, she would not stop looking for her, dead or alive, and deserves to have answers as to her daughter’s whereabouts. Franicine Black is now getting help from former assistant police chief of Oxnard Chuck Hookstra. They established an anonymous tip line. That number is (805) 844-5045. The number is not associated with law enforcement. It’s easy to speculate about what may have happened, and there could be any number of scenarios, but without a doubt there are tons of unanswered questions about the disappearance of Chioma Gray. Many online sites are uniting to bring information to the public about Chioma’s vanishing. Please gather with them, let’s all help bring attention to this case that may grow cold if we don’t. We must not let that happen. For more information on Chioma, join her Facebook page . Take part in an awareness campaign along with Peas In Their Pods . Please do what you can to spread the word that Chioma needs to come home. THE DETAILS Chioma Gray has not been seen since December 13, 2007. She is believed to have been taken from her high school in Ventura, California, and driven to Mexico by fugitive Andrew Tafoya. The two may be travelling in a stolen, white 2008 Acura TSX with California license plate 6AXX928. It is believed that Tafoya took Gray across the border into Mexico on December 13, 2007. An arrest warrant was issued for Tafoya by the Ventura County Superior Court on December 14, 2007, after he was charged with child stealing, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and car theft. On December 31, 2007, Tafoya was charged with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution and a federal arrest warrant was issued by the United States District Court in Los Angeles. Individuals with information concerning this case should take no action themselves, but instead immediately contact the nearest FBI Office or local law enforcement agency. For any possible sighting outside the United States, contact the nearest United States Embassy or Consulate.
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Bully Prevention 101: Get Fresh! We have never claimed to know it all, but we do know school environments. After all, that is where Beans-N-Frank lives. You live in a home with a family, so you should know the personalities and characteristics of your children. (If you are a child reading this, then you should know yourself...somewhat.) Knowing school and how children interact with each other, we understand that an individual's appearance speaks louder most times than what the person may ever say or do. If a student never says a word in school, he or she will be categorized be what they wear and how they pre sent themselves to others. In knowing the personalities of your children at home and being a student in school once yourself, you should begin preparing your child with tools that will help them be successful in school academically AND socially. This is particularly crucial for children who are passive and less likely to do well with confrontation (physical and verbal) because if they can't take the heat at home (crying easily, complying with everything you say without attempting to get their point across, maintaining an obese physique, etc.), they will almost certainly become targets of the relentless jokes, taunts, and threats of would-be bullies. t's almost inevitable. Trust me. You could tell them how to cope, but people don't learn by lectures and advice. They learn by practical application. Here are a list of tips that you can follow to help your child(ren) avoid becoming a target: Charles Washington & Mark Davis (Founders)
1. Keep your children's hair cut in a current style, and PLEASE DON'T CUT/ STYLE IT YOURSELF IF YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT YOU'RE DOING. A student just came to school recently with a new haircut his father gave him, and he took his hairline back almost parallel to his ears. He's going to be the target of many jokes for weeks...maybe the entire year! That certainly could have been avoided. 2. Help them develop a style with the way that they dress. In the 80s, I couldn't decide if I wanted to dress street (we called street guys "slickheads" in Baltimore) with Lee jeans, British Walkers, and a Kangol cap, or like a preppie school boy with two colorful Izod shirts on with the collars flipped up. One day, I tried to mix the two looks, and the neighborhood comedian "lit me up" on the bus ride home. If parents would help their children (or find a consultant who can) learn how to correctly put outfits together, they could avoid the embarrassment I felt on that day. You don't have to buy the most expensive clothes either, just avoid the corny stuff. 3. This one should go without saying, but surprisingly, it must be addressed: PROPER HYGIENE IS ESSENTIAL!!! I can not tell you how many students I know who first make themselves targets by their appearance, and make it even worse by how they smell. If your child is going out the door smelling like anything other than soap, cologne, lotion, and minty fresh breath, they are likely to be singled out for humiliation that could've been avoided at home. Of course, you can ignore all of these tips if your child is a natural jokester and allow them to do the humiliating towards others at school. Many of the best comedians usually tell stories of how they got ridiculed so bad in school that they had to learn how to defend themselves. We don't suggest trying this route, as there are other, less uncomfortable ways to prepare professional laugh facilitators. There are many other factors that we will explore in forthcoming literature, but the point of bully prevention here is simple: Get Fresh! Beans-N-Frank.com 8
Timeka Pridgen Missing Since: 05/12/01 Missing from: La Grange, North Carolina Classification: Endangered Missing Date Of Birth: 09/08/84 Age at disappearance: 16 Her nickname is “Meka�. Details of Disappearance: Pridgin was last seen at 10:15 p.m. in her residence on South Street in La Grange, North Carolina on May 12, 2001. She has never been heard from again. Authorities initially considered her a runaway and believed she may have traveled to Goldsboro, North Carolina. However, they now think she may have been forced out of her home by someone after she let the person inside. She was barefoot at the time of her disappearance and left all her belongings behind. Investigating Agency If you have any information concerning this case, please contact: La Grange Police Department (252) 527-5117
Shemaeah Nicole Gunnel Missing since February 10, 1989 from Yuma, Arizona. Date Of Birth: November 6, 1983 Age at Time of Disappearance: 5 years old Height and Weight at Time of Disappearance: 4'0" (122 cm); 50 lbs (23 kg) Distinguishing Characteristics: Black female. Black hair; black eyes. AKA: Gunnell Circumstances of Disappearance: She was last seen at her home on February 10, 1989 and has not been seen since. Her 26-year-old mother, Valerie Gunnel, was found beaten to death with a tire iron in the family's apartment. Shemaeah and her 9-monthold sister, LeCresha Gunnel (sometimes called "LeCresha Kirklin"), were missing. LaCresha's body was found floating in an irrigation canal in Mexico six days later. The baby had also been beaten to death. Alvie Copeland Kiles, Valerie's live-in boyfriend, was convicted of murdering all three members of the Gunnel family and was sentenced to death. Prosecutors believe he killed Valerie because she would not give him money to buy cocaine, then killed the children because they began screaming. His conviction was later overturned on the grounds that he had an inadequate defense, but he was convicted again of three counts of murder and two counts of child abuse in 2000. Kiles is awaiting execution. Shemaeah has never been located.
Dontray Miquel Hunter Missing Since: August 20, 1975 Missing From: Milwaukee, Wisconsin Date of Birth: September 12, 1973. Age at Time of Disappearance: 1 year old Age now 37 Years. Race: African American Hair: Black Eyes: Brown Dontray was last seen playing outside of his home on August 20, 1975. He has not been heard from since. There are few details available in this case. If you have any information concerning this case, please contact: Milwaukee Police Department 414-933-4444 9
RACHEL LLOYD Executive Director & Founder, Girls Educational & Mentoring Services “One of 50 Women Who Change the World” – Ms. Magazine. In 1998, with only a computer and $30, Ashoka Fellow, Reebok Human Rights Award winner and leading child sex trafficking advocate Rachel Lloyd established GEMS: Girls Educational and Mentoring Services to support American girls and young women survivors of commercial sexual exploitation and domestic trafficking. Girls Educational & Mentoring Services (GEMS) is the only organization in New York State specifically designed to serve girls and young women who have experienced commercial sexual exploitation and domestic trafficking. GEMS was founded in 1999 by Rachel Lloyd, a young woman who had been sexually exploited as a teenager. GEMS has helped hundreds of young women and girls, ages 12-21, who have experienced commercial sexual exploitation and domestic trafficking to exit the commercial sex industry and to develop to their full potential. GEMS provides young women with empathetic, consistent support and viable opportunities for positive change. Mission Girls Educational and Mentoring Services’ (GEMS) mission is to empower girls and young women, ages 12-21, who have experienced commercial sexual exploitation and domestic trafficking to exit the commercial sex industry and develop to their full potential. GEMS is committed to ending commercial sexual exploitation and domestic trafficking of children by changing individual lives, transforming public perception, and revolutionizing the systems and policies that impact sexually exploited youth. Vision GEMS’ vision is to end the commercial exploitation and trafficking of children. Philosophy We believe that all young women have great beauty and worth, and the potential for future success. The voices and experiences of youth survivors are integral to the development and implementation of all GEMS’ programming. History GEMS, was founded in 1998 by Rachel Lloyd, a young woman who had been sexually exploited as a teenager. Ms. Lloyd came to the U.S in 1997 as a missionary to work with adult women exiting prostitution. While working with adult women in correctional facilities and on the streets, Ms. Lloyd observed the overwhelming need for services for young women at risk for sexual exploitation who were being ignored by traditional social service agencies. It became clear that specialized services were essential for this disenfranchised population. From a one-woman kitchen table project, GEMS has grown to a nationally recognized and acclaimed organization and now is one of the largest providers of services to commercially sexually exploited and domestically trafficked youth in the US. GEMS advocates at the local, state and national level to promote policies that support young women who have been commercially sexually exploited and domestically trafficked. For additional information please visit:: www.gems-girls.org 10
Block Party Turns Into Street Fight Tonya Burch says her son, 19-year-old Deontae Smith, wasn't the type to hang out on streets and wasn't part of Chicago's gang problem. Instead, she says he worked hard at his goal of becoming an entrepreneur and business owner. But on Aug. 1, 2009, Tonya says Deontae's friend persuaded him to venture out to an unlicensed block party nearby. According to police, word of the impromptu party spread quickly, drawing a crowd of between 75 and 100 people. But not everyone was there to simply have a good time. Cops say around 11:30 p.m., two girls in attendance who had a history of bad blood between them began fighting -- punching and kicking each other, and pulling one another's hair. "The girl had jumped on the back of one of the guys' cars. The guy repeatedly kept asking her to get off the car," says Tonya. "That's what I was told." Cops say several males at the party stepped in and before long, between 30 and 40 people were involved in a massive fight which escalated quickly into hardcore violence.Cops say one of the males pulled out a handgun and began firing. Deontae and his friend took off running from the scene, hoping to get away. But cops say the gunman had it out for Deontae, chasing him down and eventually shooting him once in the back. Deontae died before ambulances could arrive. Cops say the shooter may have fled the scene shortly after the murder in a red or maroon four-door vehicle -possibly an Oldsmobile Aurora -- but so far, cops have been unable to identify a suspect. Stop The Silence Part of the reason cops are stumped is because of an unofficial code of silence on the streets of Chicago -- a "stop snitching" mentality that keeps witnesses silent through intimidation and violence. As a result, although roughly 100 people witnessed the shooting, no one has come forward to police to reveal what they saw. But Tonya refuses to be intimidated by the silence. She's part of a group of mothers and fathers in Chicago who lost their children due to gun violence -- and she takes it upon herself to keep Deontae's murder in the spotlight. Every two weeks, Tonya goes back to the area where her son was murdered and passes out fliers, begging people in the area to speak out about anything they may know about the crime.
Allen Briscoe Jr. Vital Statistics at Time of Disappearance Missing Since: December 13, 1985 from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Classification: Non-Family Abduction Date Of Birth: December 5, 1969 Age: 16 years old Height and Weight: 5'8; 140 pounds Distinguishing Characteristics: Black hair; brown eyes. Briscoe has a lump on his left shoulder. He is bowlegged. One of Briscoe's front teeth was chipped at the time of his 1985 disappearance. NCIC Number: M-178726583 Details of Disappearance Briscoe was last seen exiting a bus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on December 13, 1985. Briscoe was a student at Bartram High School at the time; classes were dismissed early and he planned to visit a friend's home. Briscoe was last seen on Woodland Avenue in Philadelphia at the bus stop. He had $50 with him at the time. Briscoe never arrived at his friend's house and has not been seen again. Briscoe's case may be linked to the disappearance of Christine Green, who was also a student at Bartram High School and disappeared in 1985. Neither case has been solved. Investigating Agency If you have any information concerning this case, please contact: Philadelphia Police Department 215-685-1173
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At times she is met with threats and warnings to stop digging for information -- but Tonya says she can't give up looking for answers. "I say, 'you do not intimidate me at all,’" says Tonya. "I have lost a child. The last thing you can do is intimidate me right now."
Brian Kelly Wilson
Valuable lessons taught and learned No one ever really knows the true value of a life until its completion. The lessons taught and learned, the lives touched and the choices made by one you call father, brother, uncle, friend. In every stage of a person’s life, there are valuable lessons both taught and learned. Curtis “Pee Wee” Webb’s life was no different. The lessons taught in the minutes, hours or seconds spent with him can only be truly learned by those that he touched in the time that he spent with them. These are a few of loves valuable lessons both taught and learned in the minutes, hours and seconds that I spent with my father Curtis “Pee Wee” Webb. As I reflect in the moments, hours and seconds that I, a son, spent with and without him, a father, I think of the many different experiences that I was fortunate and unfortunate enough to live and learn. For years, I spent hours in excited childhood wonderment fantasizing of a man that I never knew trying to model myself after the made-up images in my head. Directionless, as a young adult to the makings of a real man, I followed my whims and the sometime misguided direction of my peers, which most-times never ended with victory. Anticipation in finally finding him after 30 years; the self-defining moments in establishing or re-establishing our relationship; the unbiased decision to respect the choices and decisions he made about his life and how he lived it without the interference of my own prejudices. The true responsibility to love him not for what I wanted him to be, but what he was to me came to light. And while looking into a life, choosing to see the good and valuable pieces of his existence through those emotional experiences, I learned who I was as a person and who I wished to become. My father also taught me about love and the joys and pains that come from the hard choices made to share or not to share a part of your life with someone else. The sometimes selfish and selfless acts of love made by, for or about those that we meet and connect with in this journey through life. The joys and pains that come with the many beginnings and endings of the various relationships that we become a part of now comes without the fear of regret as a determining factor. My father also taught me how to be a father by understanding what a father was not. Through the countless selfless, unspoken acts, in plain site for the world to see, but overlooked by the intended audience, I learned to be humble. By understanding that while the needs of others supersede my temporary moments of comfortable enjoyment, how that level of sharing can affect, for years, upon the life of another. That love is a verb which really means “to love” and that it is my own responsibility to enact it. By understanding that through the good, the bad, the ugly and the indifferent situations that life can bring, I can still love. All this while still staying true to myself, unharmed by the verbal daggers thrown by the scorned. My father taught me how to be an uncle, a brother and a friend without the burden of selfish expectation as the underlying motivator. Giving built on a sometimes, uncertain foundation of trust. Taking liberties when drawing the blurred lines we sometimes cross when defining family from friend and lover from enemy. Accepting what is given when what is given never seems to be enough. Sharing ourselves with what we deem as so great to us and perceived as so little to others. Helping others, when, for ourselves, help is what is needed. Caring for others with so little understanding of what we ourselves care for most. Trusting in others, when, in all, trust in ourselves is so dim; loving another, where love and understanding of ourselves is so lacking; dreaming for another, where no dream exists for ourselves. These and other lessons taught to me by the one I call Dad. And still I learn from my dad and not always the easy way, and not always the right way and not always the kind way. And what I am given and offered, may I hope to also give as well as offer. And as much as I take I hope to return sevenfold. And as many as I hurt, I pray for the inner strengthen to help. Whether they be known to me or unknown to me. Only counted, verified and told by those who stood closets to me in my journey through this life. Tallied carefully, so that when my daughter is forced by time to take pen to paper to surmise my moments here on this earth, its only done with loves valuable lessons taught and learned. I love you Pop We love you Curtis “Pee Wee” Web Sincerely, Your Son
“ Brian’s final thoughts continued on page 19” 12
ternal separation; violence in the family, inappropriate or unclear expectations and there may even be a genetic basis to some depression that could have been triggered by some traumatic or stressful event.
Your Depressed Child !eeds You By Shyra Smith Do you have a child who is opting out of social activities or who is giving up on their hopes and dreams? Maybe one who is not concerned about their health and well being or who just agrees and gives in to avoid any confrontation.
Not only should a parent seek professional medical assistance for their child, but it also helps to create a healthy and supportive environment for the healing process.
Believe it or not, these have been considered to be depression warning signs. There are many children and young adults experiencing these and other depression symptoms and their friends and family just aren’t paying attention or doing anything to help them. Studies indicate that one in five children have some sort of mental, behavioral or emotional problems.
Visit Shyra's websites, http://www.shyrasmith.com http://www.buildmyenterprise.com
Depression warning signs can be extremely obvious in some cases, but there are also times when the signs go without being noticeable. There are some parents who have noticed these signs and look at it as a sign of weakness of their child and sometimes even criticize them instead of giving their child the help that they need.
Kareem Goff (17) - Mattapan MA, 1997
Take a look below to see if you identify any of these symptoms in your child: Feeling sad for two or more weeks Feeling lethargic Eating too much or too little Unable to make decisions Feeling hopeless and/or helpless Crying Frequently Neglecting personal appearance and/or hygiene Losing interest in activities previously enjoyed Often feeling negative Sleeping too much or too little Unable to think clearly or concentrate Withdrawn from others
Missing Since: May 20, 1997 from Mattapan, Massachusetts Classification: Endangered Missing Date Of Birth: December 2, 1979 Age: 17 years old Height and Weight: 5'4, 120 pounds Distinguishing Characteristics: African-American male. Black hair, brown eyes. Goff has the phrase "Hill Boyz" tattooed on his right arm. Details of Disappearance: Goff was last seen in Mattapan, Massachusetts on May 20, 1997. He has never been heard from again.
If you are a parent noticing these symptoms in your child, it’s important to take it seriously and seek professional medical attention. When one is depressed, they also affect the people they are around and this could be very difficult for a child attending school. The behavior of peers can be devastating. Short-term depression can be caused by loss or extreme trauma.
Authorities initially believed Goff left of his own accord. In early 2006, nearly nine years after his disappearance, the National Center For Missing and Exploited Children reclassified his case to Lost/Injured Missing. His disappearance remains unsolved.
Chronic or life-long depression is caused by trauma in childhood which includes: emotional, physical or sexual abuse; yelling or threats of abuse; neglect; criticism; ma
Investigating Agency If you have any information concerning this case, please contact: Boston Police Department 617343-4687
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Greetings! As I look over my life and see all the grace and mercy that God has given me, all I can say is "Thank you Lord." I realized that when God blesses us, He intends for us to use that blessing to draw others closer to Him. It's not about how much prosperity we can gain for personal use, but how we use it to be a blessing to others. Sharing the love of God is what our purpose is made of. When we share from our hearts, God is very pleased. When We Share...
When we share laughter, there's twice the fun; When we share success, we surpass what we've done. When we share problems, there's half the pain; When we share tears, a rainbow follows rain. When we share dreams, they become more real; When we share secrets, it's our hearts we reveal. If we share a smile, then our love shows; If we share a hug, then our love grows. If we share with someone on whom we depend, That person becomes family or friend. And what draws us closer and makes us all care, Is not what we have, but the things that we share.
SAVORY ROASTED GLAZED SALMON 4 serving-sized pieces of salmon fillet (about 6 ounces each)
2 tablespoons light miso (paste found in Asian aisle of your grocery store) 1 1/2 tablespoons mirin (Asian rice vinegar) 1 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or cider vinegar 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds chopped scallions Preheat the oven to 450. Rinse the salmon and place it skin-side down on an oiled baking sheet. With a sharp knife, make about 4 slashes across each fillet, taking care not to cut all the way through. In a small bowl, combine the miso, mirin, brown sugar and vinegar. Roast the salmon for 5 minutes. Remove it from the oven, spoon the miso-mirin glaze onto the fillets and return to the oven until the fish flakes easily with a fork but is still moist, 3 to 5 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Serve sprinkled with toasted sesame seeds and scallions.
TROPICAL SALAD 1 kiwi, cut into bite-sized chunks 1 orange, cut into bite-sized chunks melon and pineapple chunks 1/2 banana, sliced 1/2 grapefruit, cut into bite-sized chunks 1/2 cup plain yogurt 2 tsp honey Combine fruit in a bowl. Spoon yogurt on top and drizzle with honey. For more exciting recipes, updates on what Sharon is up to visit www.goodcookin4u2.webs.com 14
Author & Visionary Twenty-one year old Marquise T. Watson was born in Newark, NJ and attends Union County College where he is earning a degree in Business. After becoming an Insurance Producer he realized his drive for creating art hadn’t gone away that he had as a child. It was time he created the book he had always set out to create. After growing up in the urban communities of East Orange and Newark, Marquise wanted to create a novel that entertained while uplifted his community. He knows what it’s like to live in what most consider the hood and to have that hope for a better life. So while he observed a lot of his people going the wrong route and falling into the vicious cycle he wanted to create a book that would encourage people to change their lives and do better for themselves and their families. The purpose of Break The Cycle? The book attempts to provoke a sense of urgency and open up the eyes of the youth in the urban community and the adults who take care of them. While the book has an entertaining approach it also examines the strengths and weaknesses of the urban community while giving plenty examples of what will happen and what could happen if you make certain decisions. Break The Cycle is a perfect example of the reality that the future is in our hands and nothing is standing in the way of our success but the decisions we make during the journey. http://www.marquisewatson.com
Who Killed Edwinta Hereford..? Edwinta Hereford, a 19-year-old black woman, was found dead Sunday May 16, on the 105 Freeway near Garfield Avenue in Paramount, according to authorities. Authorities said Hereford had been pushed from a speeding car moving east on the 105. Her body was found about 6 a.m. Sunday. Sheriff's homicide investigators, who could not immediately identify her, had asked for the public's help, describing a distinctive tattoo on her back that read "Kenaya Faith Morgan." Her body was discovered by a driver on the freeway, said Det. Phil Martinez, who is handling the homicide investigation. The passerby "saw small feet" and pulled over to see if it was a child. Several others drivers also pulled over and called the authorities, Martinez said. When asked how long Hereford's body had been on the freeway, Martinez said evidence suggested that her body was discovered within an hour of being thrown from the vehicle. Anyone with information about Hereford's death is asked to contact L.A. County sheriff's homicide detectives Martinez and Sylvia Brossoit at (323) 890-5500.
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The Center for American Women and Politics (CAWP), a unit of the Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is a nationally recognized source of research and data about American women’s political participation. Its mission is to promote greater knowledge and understanding about women's participation in politics and government and to enhance women's influence and leadership in public life. The NEW Leadership™ program was developed by CAWP to educate and inspire a new generation of women leaders. NEW Leadership™ New Jersey is a six day residential summer program that encourages college women to learn about politics and public service, develop leadership skills and expand their professional networks. NEW Leadership™ New Jersey is scheduled for June 9-14, 2011 at the Eagleton Institute of Politics in New Brunswick, NJ. Information about NEW Leadership™ and an application are available at: www.cawp.rutgers.edu/newleadership. For more information contact: Sasha Patterson, Ph.D. NEW Leadership™ Program Manager Center for American Women and Politics Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey 732-932-9384 ext 248 sashap@eagleton.rutgers.edu
-----Bowl for Kids' Sake (BFKS) is now in full swing and I would like to get you involved. At Big Brothers Big Sisters it is understood that raising money can be a daunting challenge, but if you're like me, you're up for it! I am encouraging all of your to maximize their fund-raising efforts so we, as a contributing group. can help more children change their lives for the better, forever! Each week provides some fund-raising inspiration. The program works! National research proves that children in the program are less likely to abuse drugs and alcohol, less likely to resort to violence, and more likely to do well in school. The program is so effective because the BBBS professional staff ensures that the relationships are safe and rewarding for everyone involved. It's good for the kids and it's good for our community! In 2010 BBBS served over 300 children, but there are many more children still waiting. The mission is to provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported, one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever. To succeed, BBBS need funds. Screening, training, and supervising each mentoring match costs an average of $1,000 per year. BBBS makes the most of every single donation. Ninety-two (92.2%) of every dollar given goes directly to programs for children in need AND all the money raised in the community stays in the community. I want to personally thank you for participating in Bowl For Kids' Sake 2011 and making a difference in our/my community. Please click on my website and view my video http://bowlac.kintera.org/diascrik so we can "Start Something for the kids in my community". John Roy
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Rilya Alert Criteria •
The abduction is of a child age 17 years or younger
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The parent must have contacted law enforcement to report child missing.
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Melissa Lee Brannen Age Progression Case Type: Non Family Abduction DOB: Apr 12, 1984 Sex: Female Missing Date: Dec 3, 1989 Race: White Age Now: 26 Height: 3'0" (91 cm)
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.
Missing City: FAIRFAX Weight: 38 lbs (17 kg) Missing State : VA Hair Color: Blonde Missing Country: United States Eye Color: Blue Case Number: NCMC732677 Circumstances: Melissa's photo is shown age-progressed to 21 years. She was last seen during a Christmas party held at her apartment complex. She has a burn scar on her right forearm
The law-enforcement agency believes the child is in imminent danger of serious bodily injury or death.
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All children of color meeting the criteria for the Amber Alert will also receive the RILYA Alert If these criteria are met, alert information is assembled for public distribution. This information may include descriptions and pictures of the missing child, the suspected abductor, and a suspected vehicle along with any other information available and valuable to identifying the child and suspect.
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The staff at Peas In Their Pods respectfully requests that once a child is found that any organization posting information remove their pictures from their sites.
Allyson Kathleen Dalton Age Progression Case Type: Endangered Missing DOB: May 17, 1998 Sex: Female Missing Date: Jul 27, 1998 Race: White Age Now: 12 Height: 1'8" (51 cm) Missing City: STRASBURG Weight: 8 lbs (4 kg) Missing State : VA Hair Color: Brown Missing Country: United States Eye Color: Blue Case Number: NCMC850707 Circumstances: The photo on the right is a composite image to show how Allyson Kathleen Dalton may look at 12 years old. She was last seen on July 27, 1998 at 7:50 a.m. She was abducted from the scene of a homicide at 175 South Charles Street, Apartment B-8, Strasburg, Virginia.
http://www.peasintheirpods.com (516) 338-6873 hfmbc@hotmail.com
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Hannah's Socks • warm feet, warm hearts On a chilly Thanksgiving Day in 2004, 4-year-old Hannah Turner was helping serve dinner to the needy at Toledo’s Cherry Street Mission In the middle of the hustle and bustle of doing her part to fill plates, she tugged on her mother Doris' sweater. "Mommy, won't his feet be cold?" Hannah had focused on a man in line wearing shoes that had split open to reveal he had no socks on, and her small face reflected concern. Doris tried to reassure her: "His shoes will keep his toes warm." She didn't know how they could help with all staff focused on the meal, and she didn't want her daughter carrying a burden. Hannah — too smart, too big of heart — was unconvinced. "Mommy, he can have my socks," she said. That next day, Doris took Hannah to purchase and distribute socks to local shelters. They were able to collect and donate over 100 pairs around Toledo. Over two more years, and with amazing support from friends and family, they distributed nearly 10,000 total pairs of socks to partner shelters. Doris and husband Vic quickly discovered that of all the materials donated to shelters, new socks and undergarments are given the least and needed the most. They created Hannah's Socks with the goal of addressing that problem, and they need your help. The Hannah's Socks mission is to engage schools, churches, businesses, families and their children to make a difference in their community by collecting and donating socks to those in need. To do this we will:
*Be a unique, vital and sought-after partner to homeless and domestic violence shelters by collecting and providing the clothing essentials those organizations need to help their clients *Strive to inspire volunteerism in youth and their families *Sustain our organization in an ethical, transparent manner that breeds confidence in our supporters and clearly demonstrates dedication to our mission *Respect the dignity of the clients we serve Hannah's Socks envisions that in communities across America, no man, woman or child will want for something as basic as a warm pair of socks. http://www.hannahssocks.org/ At Hannah's Socks, we specialize in serving homeless shelters and domestic-violence shelters by collecting and delivering clothing 'essentials': new socks as well as new men's, women's and children's undergarments (briefs, T-shirts, thermals, pajamas, etc.). We're working hard to expand the network of organizations we help and support. If you'd like us to help your group, please Contact Us.
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Brian Kelly Wilson
Valuable lessons taught and learned No one ever really knows the true value of a life until its completion. The lessons taught and learned by one you call father. In every stage of a person’s life, there are valuable lessons both taught and learned.
Pat Holmes
My father’s life was no different. Here are a few of my valuable lessons both taught and learned. As I reflect back, I think of the different emotional experiences that I was fortunate and unfortunate enough to have lived through. Excited childhood fantasizing of a man that I never knew only developed me into a directionless young adult still following those childhood fantasies. The anticipation at the moment that I finally met him after 30 years and the self-defining moment of deciding to establish or re-establish a relationship with him, loving him as my father, void of my own prejudices of how he lived his life. All while looking into his life, choosing to see the good and valuable pieces of his existence; it was through these emotional experiences, I learned who I was as a person and a man.
PI!A COLADA ZUCCHI!I BREAD 4 Cups flour 3 Cups sugar 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 ½ teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon baking soda 4 eggs 1 Cup canola oil 1 teaspoon each coconut, rum and vanilla extracts 3 Cups shredded zucchini 1 Cup canned pineapple, drained (I used the tidbits) ½ Cup chopped pecans
My father also taught me about love and the joys and pains that come from the hard choices made to share, or not to share, parts of your life with someone else. Searching and finding that inner love within myself in the face of adversity. When it’s easier to run and hide knowing that a real man will stand tall through the many levels of joy and pain of the different relationships that we find ourselves in without the fear of regret as a determining factor.
Optional: top with powdered sugar icing (drip) and toasted coconut flakes. Grease and flour 2 loaf pans. Set aside in a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and baking soda. In another bowl, combine the eggs, oil and extracts.
Even though he is gone, I still learn from my dad and not always the easy way, and not always the right way and not always the kinds way and with each experience, I hope to give as much as I take. Only truly known by those who stood closest to me in my journey through this life, tallied carefully, so that when my daughter is forced by time to take pen to paper to surmise my moments here on earth, its only done with loves valuable lessons taught and learned.
Stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. Fold in the zucchini, pineapple and walnuts or pecans. Batter will be pretty thick. Transfer to prepared pans. Bake at 350 for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Baking time will vary due to size of loaf pans. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire rack.
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Our mission is to help students transition from high school to postsecondary educational institutions by providing resources through educational media and outreach services. What Step N2 College Really Means... Step N2 College does not just mean going to a four-year school.Whether you Step “N2” a 2-year school, community college or technical institution, we want students and adults alike to Step “N2” SOME form of postsecondary education or even the armed services after developing a plan for a future career direction. Step N2 College is not just about preparing students to step in, as it is not enough to just GO to college, if students don’t stay and graduate and successfully reach their educational objectives. So, we are also about helping students realize key skills, attributes, behaviors to succeed once they Step “N” and prepare them to STEP out. Step N2 College Objectives... Encourage students to utilize school resources (school counselors & career development coordinators) and web-based resources for college and career planning. Emphasize the importance of academic preparedness and increase college readiness skills by linking students with pre-college programs. Encourage parental involvement in school (Teacher Conferences, PTSA, Parent Volunteers, Open Houses/ Parent Nights, College Nights) activities and increase parent’s knowledge of the necessary steps to prepare for college through use of community-based workshops, seminars and media outreach. Koyah Rivera is a motivational speaker, TV personality, educator, and actress with a passion for inspiring people to step it up and live their dreams-starting today! As the TV Show Host of Step N2 College TV Show/DVD Series and the CEO of Step N2 College, Inc., Koyah is motivating the next generation to turn their K-12 ambitions into a reality by developing a plan for their life and stepping into post-secondary education. Whether she's on the stage or screen - Koyah is surely lighting the fire of hope and passion in those that cross her path as her electrifying and contagious energy captivates audiences across the U.S. As a former NBC News Producer and former educator and college admissions officer, Koyah is a seasoned journalist who has interviewed countless celebrities including: Best-Selling Author/Actor, Hill Harper, Actress/Comedian, Kim Coles, Syndicated Radio Host, Russ Parr, Actor/Comedian, Rodney Perry, TV Personalities, Vanessa & Angela Simmons, and many others. Before launching SN2C, Koyah was a Pre-College Outreach Coordinator at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Koyah has a B.A. in Communication Studies and English from The University of North Carolina at Wilmington and is currently pursuing her M.S. in Adult Education in Adult Education with a concentration in higher education from North Carolina A&T State University. Megan Campbell PR Director Step N2 College 704 880 2998 megc214@gmail.com http://www.stepn2college.com/
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Chris Andrew Cunningham Missing since July 9, 1987 from Chino, San Bernardino County, California. Classification: Endangered Missing Date of Birth: December 21, 1980 Age at Time of Disappearance: 6 years old Height: 4'2" Weight : 90 pounds Sex: Male Race: African American Hair: Black Eyes: Brown Chris has a birthmark on the right wrist. Nickname: Booboo Dentals: Available Circumstances of Disappearance: Chris and his mother, Lesa Desiree Cunningham, disappeared from Chino, California under suspicious circumstances on July 9, 1987. If you have any information concerning Chris' whereabouts, please contact: Chino Police Department 909-628-1234. All information may be submitted anonymously. Agency Case Number: 8707311 NCMEC #: NCMC846304 NCIC Number: M-663873604 Please refer to this number when contacting any agency with information regarding this case.
Tanisha Lorraine Watkins Missing Since: January 5, 1984 Missing from: Austin, Texas Classification: Endangered Missing Date Of Birth: August 22, 1981 Age: 2 years old Height: 3'0 Weight: 42 pounds Race: African-American Sex: Female Hair: Black Eyes: Brown Clothing/Jewelry Description: A short-sleeved white pullover shirt, red sweatpants and white tennis shoes with Velcro fasteners. Details of Disappearance: Watkins was last seen by her mother while she was playing in a front yard swing at her home in the 2100 block of Thrasher Lane in east Austin, Texas on January 5, 1984. A witness reported seeing Watkins later that day, walking eastbound on Riverside Drive in the company of a slender, bearded man wearing an Army hat. An extensive search of the neighborhood turned up no sign of Watkins. She has never been seen again and her companion has not been identified. Foul play is suspected in her case. Investigating Agency If you have any information concerning this case, please contact: Texas Department of Public Safety 800-3463243
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Beans-N-Frank
The creators of are veteran educators and music professionals. We provide the following menu of services as we partner with local organizations that serve young people: • Curriculum Supplements • Song Personalization • Live Performances • Gang Prevention • Birthday Parties • Fundraisers • Skills Review and Mastery • Technology Training • And More!!! For Booking Information, please contact: Gift-Land Entertainment, Inc. info@beans-n-frank.com
The mission of The Women’s Collective (TWC) is to meet the self-defined needs of women and girls of color and their families living with, or at risk for, HIV/AIDS. We accomplish this by reducing barriers to care and strengthening their network of support and services. As a Washington, DC-based nonprofit organization led by women with HIV and their allies and advocates, TWC works to fulfill its mission by: Providing services that are peer-led, woman- and girl-focused, family-centered, and culturally appropriate Providing a safe, nonjudgmental environment for all women, girls, and families Providing a voice for women, girls, and their families who are living with, or at-risk for, HIV/AIDS through local, national, and international advocacy Creating partnerships among service providers, governmental, nongovernmental, and private entities The Women's Collective grew out of the life experience of the Founder and Executive Director, Patricia Nalls, a woman living with HIV/AIDS. Pat has been successful in using her personal story to create a unique organization and model of providing holistic services for women, girls, and their families. The work of TWC is made up of three main departments that include HIV care management, HIV prevention, and policy and advocacy. Together these departments provide medical case management services, prevention with positives programming, peer-based support groups, HIV counseling and testing services, HIV education and outreach, youth and intergenerational prevention skills building, policy and advocacy at local, regional and national levels, among others that combine to support women and girls in taking control of their health. More information on TWC can be found at www.womenscollective.org.
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Angelique James Missing Since: February 15, 1997 Missing from: Los Angeles, California Classification: Endangered Missing Date Of Birth: October 2, 1992 Age: 4 years old Height: 3'6 Weight: 40 pounds Race: African-American Sex: Female. Hair: Black Eyes: Brown Angelique has burn scars on the top of one foot. One of her legs and one of her arms are shorter than the other. Angelique has a previous fracture of her left arm that is only visible in an x-ray. Details of Disappearance: Angelique was reportedly last seen in her family's Los Angeles, California home on February 15, 1997. She has never been heard from again. Angelique's mother, Shirley Ann James, failed to comply when authorities inquired as to her daughter's whereabouts. Shirley was arrested in November 1997, nine months after Angelique disappeared, when authorities demanded she produce the child and she did not. She was charged with Angelique's presumed murder, as well as three counts of child abuse and two counts of corporal injury to a child. Authorities believed Angelique was killed sometime between December 15, 1996 and March 1, 1997. Shirley has seven other children in addition to Angelique. One of them, a nine-month-old daughter, died in 1992, apparently of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The baby's death was reviewed by homicide investigators after Angelique's disappearance, but no charges were filed. Shirley pleaded not guilty to all charges in January 1998. Investigators searched the family's yard in an attempt to locate Angelique's remains in late 1997. A cadaver dog initially traced her scent in the area, but the search did not yield evidence related to Angelique's case. Shirley later pleaded no contest to involuntary manslaughter in Angelique's case and sentenced to five years in prison, but the child's body has never been found. Some agencies may list September 4, 1997 or March 1997 as the date of Angelique's disappearance. Investigating Agency If you have any information concerning this case, please contact: Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department 323-890-5500 OR323-567-8121 Source: Charley Project ●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●
Christine Green
Missing Since: April 23, 1985 from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Classification: Endangered Missing Date Of Birth: March 28, 1969 Age: 16 years old Height and Weight: 5'0, 90 pounds Distinguishing Characteristics: African-American female. Black hair, brown eyes. Green's nicknames are Tina and Dinkie. Some agencies spell her last name "Greene." Clothing/Jewelry Description: A pink blouse, a blue vest, jeans and black shoes. Details of Disappearance: Green was last seen leaving her family's home in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on the morning of April 23, 1985. She was headed to Bartram High School for the day; she never arrived. Green has never been seen again. Green is still listed as an Endangered Runaway with some agencies, but police believe her case may be related to the disappearance of Allen Briscoe Jr. also a student from Bartram High School, who vanished later in 1985. The National Center For Missing and Exploited Children reclassified Green's case as Lost/Injured Missing in late 2001 due to the unclear circumstances regarding her disappearance. If you have any information concerning this case, please contact: Philadelphia Police Department 215-685-1173 23
ever Would Have Made It When you last heard from me I had to let the world know that "He Saw the Best in Me" ...well now I'm letting you know that He did because He saw more for me than even I could imagine. When I say "He", I am speaking of God our Father...I'm here by grace. Have you ever stopped and wondered how it is that you have gone through so many overwhelming trials and tribulations and still be here? Have you ever really stopped to take the time to think about it or do you just say "I" did what I had to do and that's how "I" made it through? Have you ever stopped to look beyond the natural mind, thinking that you had something to do with where you were and the storms that you had made it through? You have to be honest enough with yourself to answer those questions honestly...God knows even if I don't...but as for me, I was once at a point where I really thought that "I" had everything to do with the fact that I made it through another hard situation. I thought I had the world all figured out and could make it because "I" was a strong, independent, young woman. Boy do I look back at that and see how wrong I was. In my life, I have been told by several people that they did not expect me to make it to my 21st birthday. Not because I was a bad person, or because I was living a street life, and not because I was the type of person who thought that I was invincible. It was all because I worried about everything and everyone. I was the worry wart, and have to admit that I still get that way at times, even when I try not to show it and try not to do it. I guess that's where it all goes back to being in the flesh. Well, in the spiritual, something that I'm still learning, I have had to stop and take the time to really seek the answer and know what's real is that "I" had nothing to do with the fact that I surpassed my 21st birthday and have made it to see 32. I had to let go and let God! I had to realize that in my darkest hour, He's been right there with me holding my hand and wiping my tears. He loved me even when I didn't have to strength to love myself. When I thought that I didn't have anyone, He's been right there, keeping me. When I made choices that I knew were not the right ones, He still walked with me, helping me get back on the right path. "I" had the free will, and "I' made the wrong choice, but "I" kept saying "I" can do this, all while "I" was still blinded by the "I's". God never said that He wouldn't allow us to make our own choices, yet He did say "seek ye first the kingdom of God"....and "lean not unto thine own own understanding, in all thy ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path." Wow...that says it all right there. "I" could have led myself right into my own grave, but He did see the best in me and saw that "I" could not do it alone, but "I" had to be disciplined as His child to realize that "He" was the one who allowed me to make it this far. Through His grace I am here, and by His power I am still making it. The way has been hard, but I'm still here...and besides, He never said that I wouldn't have to go through some ups and downs. He has to take you through something in order to get to something. In my darkest hour..."He" paved the way and was the light that guided me out of darkness and if it had not been for "Him" I would still be in the dark...I Never Would Have Made It. Much Love and Many Blessing, Paula Whitebear-Burton
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Sir-Kristopher Clayton Marshall 1ST Missing From: Los Angeles, California Date Missing: July 20, 1977 Date of Birth: September 11, 1973 Age Now: 37 Sex: Male Height: 30” Weight: 37lbs. Eyes: Brown, Hair: Black, Race: Bi-Racial Complexion: Light
Circumstances: On July 20, 1977 Sir Kristopher spent the night at a family friend’s home where he spent the day playing with three children. Later that night the home where he was spending the night burned down. The mother of the three children was found deceased and all four children missing. Sir Kristopher’s mother saw a picture she believed to be a picture of Sir Kristopher in a newspaper modeling clothes for an Easter pageant in 1981. There is reason to believe that Sir Kristopher is still alive. If you have information regarding this case please contact: Los Angles County Sheriff’s Office (California) 1-323-890-5500
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Peas In Their Pods
Thank You..!
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