EDITORIAL
Since our last edition, we’ve witnessed an election cycle and a world that feels upside down. But amid the challenges, there is good news—we’re here to share it!
In this edition, we proudly feature beloved gospel radio personality Melissa Wade (In The Water) on our cover. Her love for the community is undeniable, and we celebrate her impact. We are also excited to partner with Melissa as the 5th Sunday Spontaneous Worship co-host.
Outstanding young achievers are also spotlighted: a golf phenom, a gifted harpist, a Food Network winner, talented UNC Charlotte students as well as some other stories we needed to catch up on.
Last summer, I had the joy of a train ride to Charlotte with TCP’s Women of Triumph Writer’s Group to celebrate Jacquelin Thomas’ 100th book release! Check out her journey to 100 on page 19.
Congratulations to my husband, Ted Tatum, who was among the recipients of the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Awards. We are also pleased to announce the ad-
CONTENTS
P4 Lifetime Achievement Awards
P5 Editorial
P7 Shia Edwards, Harpist
P9 Golf Phenom, Olivia Heggie
P12 Young Entrepreneur, Camryn Williams
P13 Young Achievers
P15 Meet Judge Vince Rozier
P15 Jeremy Herring, Vocalist, Musician, Teacher
P16-17Cover Story, Melissa Wade-Cutler
P19 Jacquelin Thomas
P21 Hometown Heroes
P22-23 The A.R.T.S.
P27 From Humble Beginnings
dition of Minister Laura Clemons to the Bea Rose Music Record Label. Part 3 of TCP’s Anniversary will be her music release.
Our Anniversary Celebration is all about the youth. We are excited to have Judge Vince Rozier and Jeremy Herring speaking and training our youth along with some amazing youth talent.
Thank you to all our advertisers. Without you, we couldn’t move forward. Please stay connected with us by joining our mailing list (see back cover).
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RISING STAR: SHIA EDWARDS A Young Talent with a Bright Future
At just 15 years old, Shia Edwards is already making waves as a multi-talented artist, scholar, and performer. A student at Enloe Magnet High School, Shia excels academically with aspirations of attending Harvard University. Her passion for learning is evident, particularly in her favorite subjects: Genetics and Spanish.
Beyond the classroom, Shia has a deep love for the arts. She has dedicated 11 years to dance, mastering styles such as Modern, Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Hip-Hop, and Pointe. Her commitment to dance has taken her across the globe, participating in prestigious summer dance programs, including Debbie Allen’s Summer Dance Academy in Los Angeles, Joffrey Summer Dance Intensive in Italy, ADF Summer Dance Intensive, and UNCSA Summer Dance Intensive. This year, she will take her talent to the renowned Alvin Ailey Summer Dance Intensive in New York.
Her mother shares a touching moment that encapsulates her heart: “The other night while practicing her future Oscar speech, her first line was, ‘I thank God because without Him, none of this is possible.’”
Shia’s journey is a testament to passion, dedication, and faith. As she continues to grow and shine, there is no doubt that she is on a path to greatness.
Community Music School in downtown Raleigh is a nonprofit committed to enriching & inspiring all children through music education, for $1 per lesson. To learn more about the Community Music School, visit https://cmsraleigh.org/.
Shia’s artistic journey extends beyond dance. She has a passion for modeling and is a signed talent with KU Talent Agency. Her love for the stage was ignited after watching her father direct Madagascar Jr. in San Diego. Since moving to Raleigh, she has been cast in multiple theater productions, including A Snow White Christmas, Bud Not Buddy, The Lion King Jr., Into the Woods, Finding Patience, Little Women, SpongeBob Jr., and Radium Girls.
Among her many artistic pursuits, Shia discovered a newfound love for the harp. Enchanted by the beauty of the instrument, she eagerly began lessons at the Community Music School (CMS) in Raleigh. Under the guidance of esteemed harpist Ms. Winifred Garrett, Shia has blossomed into a dedicated harpist. Their student-teacher bond has provided her with confidence and encouragement as she hones this remarkable skill.
Looking to the future, Shia aspires to continue her studies in the arts to ensure she is fully prepared for a professional career in the industry. Yet, amidst all her achievements and ambitions, Shia remains deeply grounded in her faith.
OLIVIA HEGGIE
TRAINING TO BE THE BEST
Olivia Heggie is making waves in the world of junior golf. A dedicated 10th grader at Southeast Raleigh Magnet High School, she excels both on and off the course, maintaining straight A’s as a Biomedical Academy student. With numerous victories already under her belt, Olivia’s passion for the game continues to fuel her success.
She started playing golf at just 11 years old, thanks to her uncle, who has been playing for over 18 years. “He taught me everything I know, and I’ve come to love the game, especially the connections I make along the way,” says Olivia. “Meeting new people on the course is always exciting.”
Her hard work quickly paid off. At 14, she won the Under Armour six-week tournament, earning her a spot at the prestigious Winter Nationals at Sandestin Beach and Golf Resort. Last year, she competed in the 2024 Junior Under Armour Golf Championship in Tampa, Florida, showcasing her growing talent. One of her greatest personal achievements so far has been breaking 80 for the first time.
and mentorship. Learn more at trianglewomeningolf.com.
I learned about Olivia through Darryel Washington, founder of Front & Back 9 Junior Golf Academy, a nonprofit that serves youth in the Triangle area (www.frontback9.com). Darryel speaks highly of her: “Olivia is confident, and her confidence comes from hard work and dedication. She is the next talented lady golfer coming out of North Carolina. I’m looking forward to seeing her talents displayed on the collegiate level and the LPGA Tour.”
When Olivia isn’t on the golf course, she enjoys weight training and expressing her creativity through drawing and art. She dreams of a future career in Sports Medicine. Her favorite quote, “To succeed, you have to experience failure,” by Steve Harvey, reflects her resilience and determination.
Olivia’s biggest cheerleaders, her parents, LaVinya and Julian, are both non-golfers but are incredibly supportive of her journey. They invite you to follow Olivia’s golf adventures on Instagram at @liv_underpar.
This year, Olivia has received an incredible opportunity—an invitation to represent the USA at the prestigious Coast2Coast Golf Tournament, held from July 11th-13th at the stunning Club at Parkwood Village in Queensland, Australia! This event will bring together elite golfers from the U.S., Australia, and beyond. Her journey begins on July 5th, with 11 days of competition, networking, and exploration across Australia.
Beyond competition, Olivia is actively involved in programs that support young golfers. She is a member of the First Tee, Triangle Women in Golf (TWIG) and particpates in the Under Armour League. The TWIG Kidz program introduces girls ages 8 to 18 to golf through coaching
With her skill, determination, and support from her community, Olivia Heggie is undoubtedly a name to watch in the world of golf.
witten by Peggy Tatum
At just 9 years old, Camryn Williams of Charlotte, NC, turned her passion into a thriving business. In August 2020, during the height of the pandemic, Camryn launched “Camryn’s Slime Shoppe”, a creative venture inspired by her love of slime. Encouraged by her brothers and supported by her family, she started with online sales and virtual events. Today, she has sold and shipped her products to over 30 states and expanded her business to include slime bars at popup events, teaching classes, hosting birthday parties, partnering with nonprofits, and even speaking engagements.
But Camryn’s talents don’t stop at slime. She is also an avid baker who puts her skills to the test on the national stage. Camryn was one of 12 kids selected to compete on Season 12 of the Food Network’s “Kids Baking Championship: Bake to School”. Her talents earned her another invitation to compete in the 2024 holiday baking special, “Frosting the Snowman”, where she and her baking friends created a winning carrot cake. While she doesn’t have an official baking business, she enjoys baking as a hobby and often whips up treats for family and friends.
YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR CAMRYN WILLIAMS
THE SLIMEOLOGIST & RISING STAR
ness, she uses her platform to give back—partnering with organizations like Levine Children’s Hospital, where she helped bake gluten-free treats for kids with celiac disease, and participating in Women That Care’s Annual Back-toSchool event in Raleigh.
Through her journey, Camryn hopes to inspire other young entrepreneurs with her motto: “BE S.L.I.M.E. –Savvy, Loving, Innovative, Mindful, and Empowered.” She is passionate about encouraging kids of all ages to pursue their dreams and start their own businesses.
In addition to her entrepreneurial and baking pursuits, Camryn is a dedicated student and athlete. Now in the 8th grade, she was inducted into the National Junior Honor Society last school year. When she’s not in school, making slime, or baking, she can be found training at the gym. As a Level 7 USA gymnast, she has aspirations of competing at the collegiate level. Outside of her busy schedule, she enjoys spending time with family, hanging out with friends, and, of course, shopping.
Camryn’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. She has been featured in several publications, including “The Charlotte Observer, TCP Magazine, South Charlotte Neighbors, Ballantyne Magazine, The Startup Squad,” and “Scholastic Magazine”. She was also one of the first recipients of the Guppy Tank Mentorship Grant and a finalist in the 2021 Kids Idea Tank competition. Camryn has made television appearances on “Spectrum News, WCNC,” and “WBTV”. Beyond busi-
Camryn Williams is a shining example of determination, creativity, and passion, proving that age is no limit to success. The future is bright for this young entrepreneur, and the world can’t wait to see what she does next!
JADA WILEY
EXCELLENCE IN EVERYTHING
Jada Wiley pursues excellence in everything she does. This outstanding vocal performer also excels academically. She has been singing and earning top grades since middle school. Jada is continuing her ‘A’ student record as a freshman at UNC Charlotte, where she also earned a position in the university’s choir. ‘She is a focused and determined go-getter,’ says Mom, Connie Wiley, ‘I am so very proud of her.’ Jada is a rule-follower who respects tradition, rules, and standards. But she also has a talent for creative problem-solving and often sees solutions that others don’t. This combination of analytical and creative aptitude is a rare and powerful combination. Jada plans to continue singing and performing as she majors in Accounting and Finance. However her talents combine or present themselves in her eventual career, Jada sees excellence as her consistent standard of performance.
THE SON EVERYONE WANTS TO ADOPT
No one would imagine that charismatic 22-year-old UNC Charlotte Junior Dallas Street was late to talk and once had a stutter. One might expect him to be an introvert. But Dallas overcame his stutter and bloomed into a young man who can be a role model for others. His ability to connect with people and his leadership and communication skills consistently puts him at the front of the room. Dallas looks for opportunities to grow and to help others succeed. He takes pride in his appearance as a representation of his brand and his ability to impact people as part of his calling.
For two years, Dallas was an outstanding President of the New Providence Baptist Church Youth Choir while also attending Wake Technical Community College and working at the Men’s Warehouse. He also participated in other church auxiliaries where everyone wanted to adopt him. To continue his education, Dallas transferred to UNC Charlotte where he is majoring in Health Communication while also working at the Men’s Warehouse in Charlotte. Wherever his ultimate career takes him, he wants to make a difference in the lives of others. Dallas is the son everyone wants to adopt.
JUDGE VINCE ROZIER
Judge Vince Rozier has embraced the role of public servant. A native of Tar Heel, North Carolina, Judge Rozier is the son of Rev. Vinston Rozier, Sr. and Lynne Rozier, a retired schoolteacher. His parents instilled in him the importance of faith, family, community, and education. Growing up, he spent time farming with his grandparents and working in tobac co fields from the age of 12 until his senior year in high school.
After graduating as valedictorian of his high school class, he received a full academic schol arship to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. At UNC, Judge Rozier became a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and was even voted upon by his peers as Mr. UNC for homecoming. He later earned his law degree from NC Central University School of Law.
In 2006 at the age of 29, following his work as a prosecutor, he became the youngest Dis trict Court judge in Wake County history. He now serves as a Superior Court judge, where he has presided over important cases such as those involving Voter ID in NC, inmates in prison during COVID, and countless other issues impacting the people of the state.
Judge Rozier has served on various boards that serve abused wom en, vulnerable youth, and other groups throughout the community. He and his wife have created a program to house women living in shelters or in the woods. He is the cofounder of Wake County’s Youth Law Day. He was even present to speak during a truce that was called by Bloods and Crips gang members. For his service and time dedicated to his community, Judge Rozier has several awards and recognitions.
Judge Rozier is married to Attorney Dekhasta Becton Rozier of Raleigh, NC, an attorney with The Becton Law Group in Raleigh, NC. He is the published author of seven books and serves as an elder, presenter, and pre-K teacher at his church. You can find his books on Amazon or search for other vendors.
JEREMY HERRING
Jeremy Herring, a North Carolina native, is a gifted vocalist, musician, and educator with a lifelong dedication to gospel music. He began singing publicly at age four alongside his brother, Kristian, and by nine, he was playing piano. His Rhythm and Blues-infused contemporary gospel style has earned recognition in both gospel and secular music.
A Choral Music Teacher in the North Carolina Public Charter School System, Jeremy studied at St. Paul Bible Institute in NY, Edgecombe Community College, and most recently, NC Wesleyan University. He is also a certified music instructor with the NC Fall Gospel Classic Institute, led by Pastor Luther Barnes.
As Minister of Music at Salvation and Deliverance Church in Tar boro, NC, Jeremy has helped lead his church choir to nation al success, winning over $100,000 in competitions and being named America’s Best Church Choir at How Sweet the Sound. They have released two albums and performed at the Super Bowl Gospel Celebration in Indiana.
Jeremy has performed with the NC Master Chorale and de livered a celebrated rendition of Robert Ray’s “Sanctus”. He has shared the stage with Shirley Caesar, Dolly Parton, Queen Latifah, Cissy Houston, Kim Burrell, and The Clark Sisters. He credits his musical foundation to his mentor, Mr. William Pollard.
His guiding scripture is: “…But the saints of the most high shall take the kingdom, and possess the kingdom forever, even for ever and ever.” - Daniel 7:18
Melissa Wade-Cutler
A Beacon of Faith, Family, and Community
For over 30 years, Melissa Wade-Cutler has faithfully served the broadcasting industry over the airwaves and through her unwavering commitment to community service. Her infectious laughter and boundless energy have made her a beloved presence in the region, shining brightly in both the gospel music industry and ministry.
Through her platform at the Light 103.9 as an on-air personality known as Melissa Wade (In The Water), she has elevated the careers of numerous artists, but at her core, Melissa remains deeply rooted in ministry and family. Growing up in the church, she was immersed in gospel music early. Melissa started singing at a young age with her sisters, The Wade Sisters, as they sang background with her father, Matthew Wade, who also sang with a number of quartets in the area. Despite often joking on stage about her inability to sing, she surprised many, including myself, when she and her two sisters gathered around the microphone at one of my events for an impromptu performance. That was my personal introduction to The Wade Sisters (Dianne Green, Shirley Anthony and Melissa) - a delightful and unexpected revelation.
Melissa’s talent extends beyond the airwaves. Over 15 years ago, I first witnessed her directing skills with James House and later saw her passion in the production of her own plays. Recognizing her storytelling gift, I invited her to contribute stories about the theatrical productions she was involved in, providing her with a platform to share her work. Over the years, TCP Magazine honored Melissa as a Woman of Triumph, highlighting her journey as a caregiver for her mother Dorothy Wade, her biggest fan, who battled with dementia. In 2023, she was awarded our Prestigious Hometown Hero Award for Durham during our inaugural Spontaneous Worship event at The Fountain of Raleigh.
In 2024, Melissa further supported the vision of Spontaneous Worship when Lincoln Park Church generously provided a venue, allowing us to bring awareness to the underserved communities in downtown Raleigh and support the Lincoln Park Food Pantry. Our collaboration continues through the quarterly 5th Sunday Spontaneous Worship at Lincoln Park, where we invite talented groups to join us in praise and worship, fostering unity among various communities. TCP Magazine is grateful for this partnership as we collectively uplift and empower our community.
Melissa is fortunate to share her journey with her husband of 27
years, Darryl Cutler, who wholeheartedly supports her career along with two adult children, Darius & Matthew Cutler. Although he is often mistaken as “Mr. Wade,” he graciously leaves it uncorrected, allowing his wife’s brilliance to shine. She also finds strength in her sister, Apostle Shirley Anthony, who serves as her spiritual covering at Kingdom Community International in Bahama where Melissa serves as Senior Elder. Excitedly, she will soon be stepping into the role of “Ouma” (African for grandmother of wisdom). Despite her public presence, Melissa remains a country girl at heart, equally comfortable cheering on her nieces and nephews at sporting events.
Throughout her tenure in Raleigh, Melissa has met and interviewed nearly every major gospel artist in the industry. Radio One has spearheaded impactful events such as Women’s Empowerment, Unity in the Community, and The Lamplighter Awards, fostering growth for the station, businesses, ministries, and the music industry. In 2024, The Light 103.9 WNNL-FM received the esteemed National Association of Broadcasters’ Marconi Award—the highest honor in radio—recognizing excellence in broadcasting. While this was a collective achievement for the station, Melissa holds an individual Stellar Award for Gospel Announcer of the Year, a testament to her exceptional contributions to gospel radio.
Melissa Wade-Cutler’s journey is a testament to faith, resilience, and dedication. Her voice extends beyond the airwaves, touching lives through ministry, service, and community engagement. As she continues to uplift and inspire, we celebrate her legacy and the impact she has made in gospel music and beyond.
More Facts:
Melissa Wade earned her B.A. in Communications from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her radio career began in 1991 during her senior year of college at WFXC in Durham. Since then, she has made a lasting impact in radio, working with WQOK in Raleigh and WAMO in Pittsburgh as a morning show co-host.
Currently, Melissa serves as the Assistant Program Director and midday personality for the 2024 Marconi Award-winning station, The Light 103.9, where she can be heard Monday–Fri-
day from 10 AM – 3 PM. She also hosts Radio One’s syndicated show, Sunday Morning Inspiration, airing 6 AM – 10 AM ET Additionally, she connects with audiences through her podcast, Faithfully Speaking, available on The Light 103.9’s website and YouTube channel, where she explores uplifting and thought-provoking topics.
Melissa is the Owner/CEO of Wade in the Water Productions, where she channels her love for writing and directing. She has performed in various plays, musicals, and films and has both written and directed stage productions under her entertainment company, Wade in the Water, LLC.
Her exceptional contributions to media and community service have earned her numerous accolades, including:
2022 Stellar Award for Gospel Announcer of the Year
NC Gospel Industry Network Distinguished On-Air Personality
Proclamation of Melissa Wade Day by former Durham Mayor Elaine O’Neal
Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from President Joe Biden
Are you a Light Listener? If not visit https://thelightnc. com/. Listen Live, nominate your Pastor for Pastor of the Month, upload your upcoming event and more. Follow Melissa Wade on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and X.
witten by Peggy Tatum
A CAREER BUILT ON FAITH AND WORDS
Award Winning Author Jacquelin Thomas has Published Over 100 Books
Jacquelin Thomas’ storytelling gift was recognized early in life by her third-grade teacher. But it was not until her twenties that she realized that writing was her calling and chose to make it her career. One of her joys was having that third-grade teacher at her very first book signing. She has gone on to build a full life, raising a family, earning additional academic credentials, and counseling others with life challenges, all while becoming a bestselling, award-winning author.
Although Jacquelin has published across various genres, including women’s fiction, inspirational, nonfiction, and young adult literature, most of her books are in the romance genre. Guided by her Christian faith and connection to her indigenous roots, Jacquie decided not to include explicit sex scenes and unnecessary profanity in her stories. Even when her publisher suggested that spicing up her books would make them sell better, she stayed committed to her values.
Eugenia Price, an award-winning Southern author, was an early mentor. Among the advice she received from her was to ‘never shy away from her faith.’ Eugenia passed away in 1996, the year Jacquelin sold her first book, Hidden Blessings. That clean romance story was released in 1998 and eventually became a movie. Her line of clean, intricate stories about relationships and adventures of the heart have anchored her literary success and have won her legions of loyal fans.
The publishing industry has recognized Jacquelin with two EMMA Awards, a Romance In Color Reviewers Award, the Readers’ Choice Award, and the Atlanta Choice Award in the Religious & Spiritual category. Her young adult novel, Divine Confidential, was nominated for a 2008 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Fiction. Jacquelin is a 2024 recipient of a Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award.
In 2024, Jacquelin celebrated the publication of her 100th book at a gala in Charlotte, NC. Many family members shared this moment with her, including children, grandchildren, and her best friend, husband Bernard. The audience also included loyal fans who have followed her writing for years, authors she has mentored who are now published authors, and others in the publishing industry who talked about the joy of working with Jacquie on this journey.
Jacquelin’s impressive literary showing matches her thirst for knowledge and commitment to helping people. Her academic achievements include degrees in Interior Design, Business Management, and Legal Studies (M.L.S.), and her current pursuit of a Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree
reflects her commitment to blending creativity with therapeutic practice. As she advances toward licensure, Jacquelin is committed to helping individuals navigate mental health and addiction challenges, offering a unique perspective shaped by her literary and psychological background.
In 2020, Jacquelin lost a beloved daughter. She graces the cover of her book, Unexpected Serenity, which is also dedicated to her. Her memory is a constant reminder that we all get only one life. So, Jacquelin lives every day on purpose.
In all its messiness, pain, and joy, life continues to inspire her work. Her most recent novel, King David, is a modern retelling of King David’s story. It follows a rising star torn between ambition, love, and betrayal in the high-stakes world of the R&B music industry.
You can keep up with Jacquelin on social media or visit www. harlequin.com/ and type in her name to see an assortment of her books.
witten by Katie Gailes
TCP HOMETOWN HEROS
Jeannie Gamble’s Journey with Released Women’s Ministry
Jeannie’s journey began at Urban Ministry in 2005 with a Women’s Bible Study. Though new to this, she felt drawn to the ladies at the shelter. She started with the 23rd Psalm, which became her foundational scripture for a year and remains so today.
Through Monday night meetings, Jeannie became deeply involved—encouraging, bringing clothing, and meeting needs. At first, it was just her, no team. The shelter allowed her to visit the living area, where she brought dinner and provided support.
Jeannie worked to help women find housing, jobs, and medical care. Many gave their lives to Christ, joined churches, and became active in their communities. Seeing them grow and value themselves was rewarding.
William
“Billy” Eli Ratcliff: A Legacy of Faith and Community
William “Billy” Eli Ratcliff, a third-generation pastor, continues the spiritual legacy of his grandfather, Bishop Eli Ratcliff, Sr., founder of Lincoln Park Holiness Church in Raleigh, NC. Now leading the church and serving as Presiding Elder of Truevine Assembly of Pentecostal Churches, Inc., Overseer Ratcliff has devoted over 30 years to ministry while balancing corporate roles as a bi-vocational pastor. His wife, First Lady Chandullal, has been a faithful partner throughout his life.
After two years, Jeannie wanted to deepen her faith, so she completed an intensive Bible class with Jair Jarmin Ministries. Upon graduating, Released Women’s Ministry was birthed.
She then began street ministry—serving under bridges, in the woods, and on the streets. This was the most heartfelt part of her journey, which included housing elderly women, providing clothing, and meeting urgent needs.
After becoming a 501(c)(3), she formed a team and expanded. They provided housing, paid bills, helped students, partnered in disaster relief, and fed hundreds during COVID-19. They also delivered meals to seniors during the holidays.
For over 20 years, this has been her passion. In September 2024, Jeannie retired the street ministry portion, shifting RWM’s focus to Senior Outreach and Single Mothers.
She is grateful for an amazing team and the unwavering support of churches, including Launch Ministries, Living Waters Community Church, Soul Harvest Fellowship Ministry, and Calvary Christian Center, who helped her along the way. Tearfully, Jeannie said that the Hometown Hero Award was the first time she had been honored for her work over the past twenty years.
Born and raised in Raleigh, he graduated from J.W. Ligon High School in 1970 and attended North Carolina Central University (NCCU), majoring in Business Administration. After college, he took over his father’s neighborhood store, renaming it Hargett Street Disco Grocery, a business now recognized as a historic landmark in Raleigh.
His commitment to ministry led him to graduate summa cum laude from Shaw Divinity School in 1997. He later earned a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management from St. Augustine University in 1999. Alongside his pastoral work, he built a corporate career with Progress Energy, Primerica Financial Services, and the U.S. Postal Service.
At Lincoln Park Holiness Church, Ratcliff prioritizes community service, distributing over 2,500 food boxes monthly and working to revitalize low-income areas. He actively promotes minority real estate ownership, continuing his family’s tradition of uplifting the Raleigh community.
In February 2023, for Black History Month, Ratcliff released From the Sin of Slavery to Winning Souls for Christ, a documentary highlighting his family’s spiritual heritage and the church’s deep historical roots. Through this project, he seeks to inspire others with his family’s journey of faith.
For more detailed information on this ministry, visit lincolnparkholinesschurch.com.
We did more in 2024, and now The A.R.T.S. (Always Reaching For The Stars) is forging a modus operandi for thriving in 2025! I became inundated with shows to attend but could not be present for all of them. I tried to be productive in covering theatrical performances locally and in non-local areas. The shows were in Chapel Hill, Charlotte, Durham, Raleigh, and Wake Forest, all from North Carolina, and virtual for a performance in Memphis, Tennessee.
My season started with Yolanda Rabun performing in Howard Craft’s thought-provoking “No Fear and Blues Long Gone: Nina Simone”. Rabun is a national recording artist and Actors’ Equity Association (AEA) member. It was a mesmerizing and enthralling capture of Rabun depicting the non-fiction life of Nina Simone, a native of Tryon, NC. Simone’s song, which resonates with me, is To Be Young, Gifted, and Black! Rabun was a great raconteur in song, dance, and acting. She revived the legacy of Nina Simone. Howard Craft is a North Carolina poet and playwright.
A new sheriff in town, Rory D. Sheriff of Brand New Sheriff Productions, directed “Boys to Baghdad”, also written by Sheriff. He re-enacted the life of soldiers joining the army. As I traveled to Charlotte, NC, I stopped by the PC Carr Theatre on the campus of Central Piedmont Community College during the Veterans Day holiday weekend. This production captured the embodiment of the Afghanistan war. Some of the cast who majored in theatre portrayed basic training in the army barracks. The drill sergeant appeared very authentic, and after interviewing him, I discovered he was a retired Marine. His voice kept the entire audience on the edge of our seats with an exceptional cadence that only a drill sergeant could do. The effects of war, love relationships, and family ties connected to a stronger understanding and appreciation for
veterans of life then and even now.
The Justice Theatre Project produced “A Few Good Men” by Aaron Sorkin. 2024 was the year of armed forces performances. I attended a pre-discussion about the social and mental well-being of military veterans and then proceeded to the performance. Two Guantanamo Bay marines were accused of murder. Three attorneys are on course to reveal a conspiracy. As the story unfolded, I learned about military life and the chain of command of military politics. They had a phenomenal cast in military attire and posture, and the drill cadence was forceful. The actors’ responsibility to have the military life persona was surreal. Amelia Lumpkin, Lieutenant Commander Joanne Galloway was fierce! Jerry Sipp played Colonel Nathan Jessep, which made you dislike his character but love his performance. Gerald Louis Campbell played Lieutenant Colonel Matthew A. Markinson, who committed suicide. Jordan Warren, who played Corporal Dunn, was attacked and murdered! How could this be possible? Your comrades are supposed to protect your country, but who protects you from them? All is not fair in love and war!
“Native” presented at North Raleigh Arts and Creative Theatre by Ian L. Finley by Reclaiming Our Time Productions and produced by EbzB Productions. This is a true story between Pulitzer Prize winner Paul Green, who was performed by David Zum Brunnen, and Richard Wright, who was performed by J. Mardrice Henderson. These performers discussed race, religion, politics, and humanity but could not agree on a page in Wright’s script, and their friendship ended. Green and Wright, continued a bickering discourse in their differences. Both actors long monologues demonstrated an ability to recall lengthy lines, flawlessly. They never spoke to
each other again. It is challenging in relationships to disagree with each other. The story of Native Wright is still extant.
“The Christmas Case of Hezekiah Jones”, written by Howard L. Craft and Mike Wiley, was presented at Playmakers Repertory Theatre in Chapel Hill, NC. Jones was a Chapel Hill toymaker who recently lost his wife and struggled to keep his shop open and maintain the Christmas spirit. Hezekiah and his daughter’s faith in the trajectory of the shop diminished, and he was ready to give up. However, the elves from The Walltown Children’s Theatre lent a helping hand in making the toys. When faith seems like you might not make it, keep hope alive.
“The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe”, written by C.S. Lewis and produced by artistic director Cora Hemphill at the Firebox Theatre in Wake Forest, NC, showcased children as dancing fairies, elves, and dwarfs/ They had great blocking, moved stage props, stayed in character, and the children had strong voice projections along with a great stage presence. Even though this storyline exhibited Christian versus non-Christian views, it captured the lesson that good can win over evil.
The Triangle Performance Ensemble (TPE) presented “Black Nativity Durham 2024” on the Wendell Tabb Stage, which was memorable and placed the patrons in the holiday spirit. The show was exhilarating, powerful, and very engaging. Wendell Tabb is a phenomenal artistic director with an outstanding cast from the community to portray the best story ever told about the birth of Jesus Christ written by Langston Hughes and retelling the Nativity story from the gospels. Tabb’s special guests from the Durham community were Dr. Anthony S. Lewis of the Durham Public
School System, Sheriff Clarence Birkhead of Durham County, and Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams. The Music Band director and producer, Dr. Xavier Cason, had the accompaniment of students who were very professional in the orchestra pit. This production exhibited the reason for the season as Hillside High School closed out 18 years of performing Black Nativity in Durham, NC.
Lynnette Barber and Will Ellis Blues Duo emerged victorious in the local Triangle Blues Society challenge on October 6, 2024, earning the right to represent the area in the 40th International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN. The blues originated from African American work songs, spirituals, and field hollers. The Duo competed for four days, winning the quarterfinals and semifinals before advancing to the finals alongside 10 other acts from across the globe on January 11, 2025. The Blues Foundation sponsored Barber and Ellis, who delivered a live riveting performance at the historic Orpheum Theatre on Beale Street, showcasing five of their original compositions. Barber and Ellis were featured in the National Women in Blues event at Alfred’s on Beale Street. Their EP, That’s the Blues, was released on New Year’s Day.
To the theatre and entertainment community, I commend you for your talents and gifts in the art industry. Through your rehearsals, practices, and travels with fellow artists and technical crew, you kept the theater community engaged with your performances.
Practice makes perfect, and for perfection, you must continue practicing your craft. Always Reaching for The Stars (A.R.T.S.)
FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS TO
Stanley and Sammone Jones are not just business partners; they are a dynamic duo dedicated to helping others achieve the dream of homeownership through their company, Millennial Realty and Investments. Their journey began with passion, hard work, and a desire to make a difference.
The Spark of Inspiration
Stanley’s journey into real estate ignited in early 2006 when he stumbled upon an infomercial that lit a fire within him. He realized that real estate was more than a career; it was his calling. With determination, he earned his real estate license and joined Coldwell Banker HPW, later working with Coldwell Banker Advantage from 2009 to 2012. During this time, he juggled long hours in real estate while ensuring his children were taken care of, especially while Sammone managed a Wendy’s restaurant.
A Transformational Decision
As the pandemic loomed, the couple took a significant step: they purchased their first home with guidance from their mentors, Bishop Al Morgan and Pastor Yolanda Morgan. This experience was transformative, not just for Stanley, but for Sammone too. Inspired by the process and the support they received, Sammone decided to leave her job at Wendy’s and join Stanley in building their own real estate business.
Overcoming Doubts
Initially, Sammone felt uncertain about her ability to succeed in real estate, believing that her background as a store manager didn’t fully prepare her for the complexities of running a business. She thought that the skills required—strategy, sales, marketing, legal knowledge, finance, and accounting—were daunting. Yet, her experience managing a team and understanding customer needs became invaluable assets.
Turning Hobbies into Business
Sammone had a flair for creativity, evident in her hobby of selling personalized gift baskets. With the mentorship and support of Stanley, she discovered a way to merge her passion with her new career. She began incorporating her creative touch into the home-buying process, offering customized gift baskets to clients as part of their closing experience. This personal touch resonated deeply with clients, eliciting emotional responses that fueled both Sammone and Stanley’s drive to enhance the overall client experience.
A Mission to Serve
Together, Stanley and Sammone dedicated themselves to ensuring that everyone they worked with had the opportunity to become homeowners. They believed that homeownership was not just a financial transaction but an emotional journey that should be celebrated. Their commitment to understand-
ing and meeting their clients’ needs set them apart in a competitive market.
As Millennial Realty and Investments grew, so did their reputation for going above and beyond for clients. They became known for their heartfelt approach, making the dream of homeownership accessible and achievable for many who had once thought it out of reach.
The Impact
Through their hard work and dedication, Stanley and Sammone have changed lives, helping families find homes and creating lasting memories. They stand as a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and partnership, inspiring others to pursue their dreams in the world of real estate.
Their story continues to unfold as they strive to make homeownership a reality for everyone, one family at a time.
