Viewpoint
We owe our freedom and where we are today to the likes and legacies of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, Rosa Parks, Fannie Lou Hamer, Barbara Jordan, Michelle Obama and Vice President Kamala Harris, just to name a few. Our ancestors have been fighting since February is the month of celebrations from Black History Month to Valentine’s Day. Although we celebrate Black History every day, in February we share with our children and grandchildren the stories of our ancestors and the people who fought for our right to be treated equally. Their sacrifice and hard work got us here. Now we have to continue to fight for equality and justice.
slavery to ensure future generations did not have to endure the pain and suffering they had to go through.
In this issue, we are celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the Central Texas African-American
Family Support Conference. You will learn about the origin of this conference, and the people behind- the- scenes that built what it is today.
Celebrate Your Black History!!
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How To Help Altadena
By Damita Miller-Shanklin | Source: CNN
Residents of Altadena are inspecting the devastation caused by the Eaton Fire, with some losing their homes all together. The Black community in Altadena is reeling from the loss of generational wealth and community.
To donate and assist with recovery for people in Altadena, here are several reputable organizations you can consider donating to in order to support relief and recovery efforts:
Pasadena Community Foundation Pasadena, CA
Established the Eaton Canyon Fire Relief and Recovery Fund to aid
those affected by the fires in Altadena and surrounding areas. Pasadena Community Foundation
Five Acres – The Boys & Girls Aid Society of Los Angeles County Altadena, CA
Provides comprehensive support services for children and families in crisis, including foster care and mental health programs.
Love Your City
My TRIBE Rise Altadena, CA
A grassroots organization focusing on public safety, food and housing
Feature continues on p8
By Damita Miller-Shanklin
Black History Month stands as a vibrant tapestry woven with stories of resilience, achievements, and cultural richness. This annual observance, held every February, is a powerful reminder of the profound impact that Black individuals have had on history and society.
The roots of Black History Month trace back to the pioneering work of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, often hailed as the "Father of Black History." Woodson, a historian, and scholar dedicated his life to ensuring that the contributions of Black people were recognized and celebrated. In 1926, he initiated the establishment of Negro History Week, choosing February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.
Over the decades, this week-long celebration evolved into Black History Month, providing an extended opportunity to dive into the rich tapestry of Black experiences. It serves as a time for reflection, education, and appreciation of the struggles and triumphs that have shaped the African American community.
One cannot discuss Black history without acknowledging the profound impact of the Civil Rights Movement. Led by icons such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Malcolm X, this
movement brought about groundbreaking shifts in societal attitudes and legislation. Their courage and determination paved the way for significant advancements in civil rights and equality.
Black history is not confined to struggles alone; it is equally marked by extraordinary achievements in various fields. From the literary prowess of Maya Angelou and Toni Morrison to the musical genius of Duke Ellington and the groundbreaking scientific contributions of George Washington Carver, Black individuals have left an indelible mark on culture, arts, science, and beyond.
The celebration of Black History Month extends beyond borders. It is a global recognition of the indomitable spirit and immense contributions of the Black community. As we commemorate this month, let us embrace the opportunity to learn, appreciate, and celebrate the diverse narratives that collectively form the mosaic of Black history. In doing so, we not only honor the past but also inspire a future where inclusivity and equality are woven into the fabric of our shared humanity.
Contributing Writer, Jacqueline “ooh” Johnson, a proud Texan, currently resides in Denton, TX, alongside her spouse and two daughters. With two grown sons residing in California and two grandsons. Jacqueline is the visionary behind Jacquie ooh, an online resource hub committed to equipping women with the tools they need to think well and live well. Additionally, Jacqueline has spearheaded the development of the Glow Collection by Jacquie ooh, an exceptional line of all-natural skincare products. Designed to provide your skin with a nourishing gourmet experience, this collection embodies her passion for holistic well-being. Jacqueline is also very involved in her community where she volunteers and is the precinct chair in her county. She is the author of: “Glow Through It” 21-Day Devotional Journal for Women, and “Dare to Sparkle” Entrepreneur Guide plus Dream Big 4Day Devotional. And, most recently her remarkable show, “Motivational Monday with Jacquie ooh” received the 2023 Bronze Telly Award for being an exceptional online talk show. For more information on Jacquie ooh please visit www.jacquieooh.com
She Speaks Wellness: Weariness and Resilience: Women's Mental
Health in the Modern World
By Minister Sonya Hosey, Contributing Writer
Heyladies, it’s okay to talk about your mental health in today’s society. Thank you to everyone who continues to highlight the importance of mental health. We are resilient women who overcome obstacles.
Michelle Obama has openly discussed her struggles with weariness and “low-grade depression,” emphasizing the need for conversations around mental health, especially for women. She noted that the stress from the COVID-19 pandemic, racial tensions, protests, and the political climate contributed to her emotional exhaustion.
Currently, I am experiencing menopause, which significantly impacts my mental well-being. I’ve noticed mood swings and hot flashes, and I believe that open discussions about these changes could encourage women to seek support. It’s interesting to consider whether my mother experienced similar challenges, as she never warned me about the emotional ups and downs!
Obama emphasizes that mental health deserves the same attention as physical health and that seeking support is a sign of strength. Coping strategies for fatigue include nature walks, power naps, laughter, and reflective reading.
Ladies, let’s continue to discuss mental health to break the stigma and address our unique challenges. We can promote access to resources and create safe spaces for conversation, setting a positive example for future generations.
To learn more about her discussion, listen to Michelle Obama’s podcast, “The Light Podcast,” available on several popular platforms.
For more information about She Speaks Wellness, visit ironsharpensiron4mysisters.com.
POSITIVE THINKING
By Aubrie Edmond, Contributing Writer
For the past few weeks, I have had a singular focus: studying for the LSAT. This was the one of the most stressful experiences of my life, especially since so much of my future depends on my performance. During the last few days leading up to the test, I really needed to find some way to release my stress. I wasn’t sleeping, I wasn’t eating, and I felt like I was falling apart. I decided to make a playlist with some of my favorite songs that I could dance to. As I was dancing, to Reptilia by The Strokes of all songs, my knee made a noise that I have never heard it make before. It didn’t really hurt that badly, so I kept going about my days as usual. That was Monday night. By the Friday of the test, my knee hurt so badly that I was convinced I would need surgery. I have a phobia of knee injuries in general, so this was a very emotional experience for me. I went to the doctor the day after the test, which somehow accomplished nothing but making my original injury hurt worse and hurt my other knee, but he at least ruled out the possibility that this was a surgical issue. On Sunday, I had to travel back to California for school. At this point, I could barely walk. I had no idea how I was going to get through the airport, and I ended up having to get wheelchair assistance.
I’ve learned a lot from this experience. As someone who has been running for most of their life, this sudden loss of mobility was startling. I’ve been wracking my brain trying to find the lesson in this, because at first it seemed as if the universe was telling me not to be happy, but I think the lesson is strength. I have always been the type of person who feels the need to do everything myself, and I have never wanted to ask for help. I have learned that I need other people, and that people are fundamentally kind. Strength is learning to accept help when you need it, which is a lesson that I will carry into my future.
The 25th Anniversary of the Central Texas African American Family Support Conference
By Damita Miller-Shanklin
The Central Texas African American Support Conference provides opportunities to learn more about mental health, intellectual and developmental disabilities, substance use disorder and physical health challenges and solutions. It’s a place to discover health services and how to help yourself and others get the care that’s needed. (CTAAFSC.com).
The theme for this year's 25th Anniversary of the Central Texas African American Support Conference (CTAAFSC) is Empowering Resilience: Celebrating 25 Years of Hope and Healing. The first conference of the CTAAFSC was held in November of 2000. I was
working as a Service Coordinator with the Developmental Disabilities unit. It was an exciting time to see the conference come together. It has been happening once a year since that time. I was given the opportunity to speak to some of the Legacy Leaders and the New Leaders of the conference. In celebrating, I was excited to get a look into how it came together and how it is continuing to provide support to our community. The leaders featured are not all the voices and change makers but they educate all of us of how they became involved and their experience with the ongoing achievements and challenges of the conference. This is what I learned from each person.
LEGACY LEADER AND COORDINATOR:
Willie Williams
Willie Williams reflects on his journey of organizing this impactful conference that addressed mental health, disabilities, and community support. Williams was introduced to the conference by his involvement in the South Texas Family Support Conference, which had shaped his career path. Williams recounted the “humble beginnings” of the Central Texas Conference. It was initially planned as a one-day event for 25 people, but grew into a two-day event that welcomed 150 attendees. The conference became a platform for open discussions and challenging traditional perspectives on mental illness. One memorable moment of Williams included attendees openly questioning religious interpretations of mental health issues, setting a tone of openness and authenticity.
Funding was and still is the critical element in bringing the conference to life. Williams remembered securing support from Eli Lilly and collaborating with individuals like Joe Powell and King Davis. These efforts ensured the conference's sustainability and growth. Longterm funding is always something that is needed. Funding
sustainability is the key. But the donations from churches and community organizations are also important and appreciated.
Another favorite memory Williams shared was centered on the personal connections made through the conference. Sessions like "Ask a Doctor" empowered attendees to seek answers to pressing questions about mental health and wellness. Personal stories from attendees with lived experience, resonated deeply with participants, leaving a lasting impact. They also delved into systemic issues like misdiagnosis in schools, discussing how to better support children through understanding and advocacy.
When COVID-19 hit it brought challenges, but it also pushed the conference to adapt by
transitioning to online streaming. This shift allowed for greater accessibility and introduced a significant number of first-time attendees. The success of this new format inspired them to consider how they could continue to expand their reach while preserving the conference's core mission.
Williams reflected on his time as one of the legacy leaders of the conference, which had a big influence on his life. He shared his gratitude for the opportunity to serve the community and provide a platform for individuals to share their stories. Williams hopes the commitment to the CTAAFSC mission, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and authenticity, continues as the new leaders take the helm.
As our conversation came to a close, Williams shared a sense of pride in the conference's accomplishments and a determination to face its future challenges. They envisioned a future where their work would continue to educate, inspire, and bring people together, ensuring the conference remained a cornerstone for community support and understanding.
LEGACY LEADER:
Vicky Coffee
ANEW LEADER:
Elliott Phillip Niblack
s a legacy leader, Vicky Coffee reflects on the moment she knew a conference like the Central Texas African American Family Support Conference (CTAAFSC) was needed. Working as a therapist in the community, she saw firsthand the stigma surrounding mental health in Black and Brown families. People needed a space where they felt seen, understood, and supported by trusted messengers who looked like them.
While Coffee didn’t initially envision a conference, leaders like Papa Willie Williams, Dr. King Davis, Brenda ColemanBeatty, Rev. Oscar Howard, Larita Pryor, David Evans, and Rick Ybarra turned the vision into reality. Coffee worked behind the scenes, ensuring families knew their voices mattered and helping plan sessions, even presenting at the first conference.
What makes the event unique, she says, is that it feels less like a conference and more like a family reunion—a space where people with lived experience and professionals come together to connect, heal, and break down barriers. Over 25 years, the event has grown beyond Central Texas, drawing attendees from across the country.
To ensure its future impact, Coffee believes the conference should expand its outreach—bringing in more individuals with lived experience, increasing workplace support, and securing corporate sponsorships. She also stresses that mental health support shouldn’t be a once-a-year event but a continuous effort in the community.
Reflecting on memorable moments, Coffee recalls the first conference, which featured U.S. Surgeon General David Satcher, validating the event’s importance. Another milestone was training nearly 40 faith leaders in Mental Health First Aid, recognizing the vital role they play in supporting their congregations.
For Coffee, the mission has always been clear: listen, uplift, and create spaces where Black communities can heal and thrive. As the torch is passed to a new generation of leaders, she hopes they will continue to build on this legacy, keep mental health at the forefront, and ensure no one suffers in silence.
Finding Community, Purpose, and Advocacy Through CTAAFSC
In 2019, I attended a young adult mental health event at Houston-Tillotson University, where Ms. Deborah Duncan spoke about the Central Texas African American Family Support Conference (CTAAFSC). Her words felt like a calling, and when I learned the call for papers was still open, I immediately submitted a proposal on The Parent Bill of Rights for Special Education. Presenting at the conference and experiencing its focus on communitydriven, actionable mental health resources solidified my connection. When I heard the planning committee was looking for new members, I knew I had found my place.
Mental health isn’t a new topic in Black spaces, but the conference deepens the conversation, making it more open, nuanced, and actionable for the Central Texas Black community. Over the years, I’ve witnessed people share resources, ask important questions, and build on lessons learned. It’s a space where professionals, advocates, and community members come together to support one another.
The impact of CTAAFSC grows every year. Integral Care now sponsors monthly #YouAreNotAlone webinars, bringing together diverse Black professionals to discuss mental health. The conference consistently attracts educators, government employees, and community leaders from across the region, expanding its reach and influence.
Moving to Austin from Philadelphia, I felt the absence of Black representation—until I attended CTAAFSC in 2020. Seeing a flood of Black faces and allies changed everything. It empowered me to become a Certified Mental Health and Recovery Peer Specialist, leading me to roles such as Director of Peer Services for The D. Wood Foundation, where I created the Near Age Peer Support Program for HBCU students. Today, I serve on the board of Via Hope, Texas' largest peer workforce development organization, and lead peer support groups, public speaking engagements, and continuing education courses through my organization, Reality by Design Peer Consulting.
CTAAFSC is more than a conference—it’s a community of healing, advocacy, and transformation that continues to shape my personal and professional journey.
NEW LEADER:
Kimberly Holiday
A Journey of Healing, Advocacy, and Community at CTAAFSC
My name is Kimberly Holiday, and my journey with the Central Texas African American Family Support Conference (CTAAFSC) began seven years ago with an invitation from Eillen Sugar Williams. At first, I stood at the back, unsure of what to expect, feeling the weight of my lived experience in mental health like a scarlet letter. But as I looked around the room, I saw people who looked like me, felt the warmth of community, and realized this was a space of healing.
I started as a participant, but the following year, I joined the planning and marketing team. Over the years, I have served in many roles—greeter, facilitator, moderator, MC, and stage manager—committed to helping create a space where mental health conversations are open and empowering. Growing up, I was taught that "what happens in the house stays in the house," a common phrase in Black families that kept cycles of trauma hidden. However, the COVID-19 pandemic shattered long-standing stigmas, forcing many in our community to confront mental health issues. Now, there is a growing openness to honest conversations, with people seeking real resources, genuine connections, and safe spaces—all of which CTAAFSC provides.
The conference has played a vital role in bridging faith and mental health. Black churches have long been pillars of strength, but stigma often kept mental health struggles silent. By bringing faith leaders, mental health professionals, and community advocates together, CTAAFSC has helped break down these barriers, encouraging churches to integrate spiritual care with mental health support.
This two-day conference is more than an event—it’s a family reunion, a safe haven, and a reminder that our mental health is our wealth. It welcomes everyone—from individuals with lived experience to those who love, support, and serve them. It is a place to heal, learn, and be empowered. When you’re here, you’re home.
Mary Linnen, Editor
MARY’S TIPS AND IDEAS
BECOME A FOODIE FOLLOWER
COLD AND FLU SEASON
Just a reminder to check with your physician about any immunizations you may need. Covid, flu and pneumonia should be discussed just as a precaution.
Stock up on your vitamins and healthy teas. Wash your hands often and disinfect surfaces.
Stay Healthy
Social media has really introduced a new way to select where and what you may want to eat. It’s actually helpful and it can be very beneficial when you plan to eat out.
There are people who are called Foodies. They are people who love food and are very interested in different types of food. The ones that actually go to different restaurants are interesting to me. I read the reviews and they share photos of several items on the menu.
There is a foodie for everyone and all types of foods are covered by foodies. On your social media of choice just search foodies and there are lots of choices. Follow them for updates of many different places.
You will be surprised at how much fun and how helpful this could be!!!
Bon Appetit
PROTECTIVE HAIR STYLES
Winter weather and your hair sometimes require a different approach. Sometimes to give your natural hair a rest or a boost to grow a protective style is a great idea. Try the tips below to help you wear a protective style.
Tips for protective hairstyles
• Choose a style that's safe for your hair.
• Avoid tight styles that can cause scalp tension and hair loss.
• Take breaks between styles to promote healthy hair and scalp.
• Clip-in hair extensions are a scalp-friendly option.
insecurities, and violence prevention in the Altadena and Pasadena communities.
MY TRIBE RISE
Sacred Heart Church
Altadena, CA
Actively involved in fire relief efforts, accepting donations to support affected community members.
Sacred Heart
Altadena Community Church
Altadena, CA
Engages in various community support activities, including operating a food pantry for those in need.
Altadena Community Church
How To Make Easy Banana Bread
INGREDIENTS
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup melted butter
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
Combine bananas, sugar, egg, and butter together in a bowl. Mix flour and baking soda together in a separate bowl; stir into banana mixture until batter is just mixed. Stir in salt; pour batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted in the center of the bread comes out clean, about 1 hour.
Courtesy Allrecipes
Meadows FireSafe Council
Altadena, CA
A local volunteer organization dedicated to making The Meadows and Chaney Trail areas safer from catastrophic wildfires through community resources and education.
Meadows Fire Safe Council
World Central Kitchen
Los Angeles, CA
Provides meals to those affected by the Southern California wildfires, including evacuees and first responders in the Altadena area.
EatingWell
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts both food and financial donations to support local needs, including those affected by the wildfires in Altadena.
Vanity Fair
Donating to any of these organizations will directly support the Altadena community during this challenging time.
Feature continued from p5
Before We Go ...
How was your first month of the year? My month was full of organizing and setting up my systems so I can be successful. It was stressful at times as well. But that is a part of the journey.
I hope our January issue provided you with suggestions you could use to set yourself up with a foundation for being productive and creative in a way you will have success.
Next month we will celebrate Women’s History Month Women's History Month is an annual observance to highlight the contributions of women to events in history and contemporary society. (Wikipedia) You don’t want to miss the stories and celebrations we have in store!
I will see you next month. �� �� ��
