Chicago's Culinary Renaissance • TS March 2024

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SENIOR PRESIDENT

Mr. Edward Mead

AUTHENTIC ADVISOR

Just Call Me Tyra

SOCIAL MEDIA

Gabrielle Michelle

TRUTHSEEKER Haisan 2X

PUBLISHER

Women’s History Month is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the achievements and accomplishments of women throughout history, as well as to acknowledge the ongoing struggles and challenges that women face. It’s a time to reflect on the progress that has been made towards gender equality, while also recognizing the work that still needs to be done to ensure that women’s voices are heard and their rights are protected.

The Soultown Magazine commemorates Women’s History Month in every space and place, from the West Side of Chicago to the Peninsula in the Golden State. We hope you enjoy every story.

Photographer: Ron Moses • m.moses40@gmail.com

Juggling Relationships

- NOT FOR THE FAINT OF HEART -

Miguel, please tell me!

I overheard my man on the phone telling his cousin that “All men need is a woman with no drama and good sex”. Is this true? Strangely enough, I’m ok with this. Are you?

~ Wait. What???

Dear Wait. What???

Yes, this is true .… for many men, but not all of us. The good sex part is probably true for everyone, men and women. I know plenty of toxic people, men and women, who like drama, but most of us can live without it. I would say that it’s an oversimplification because some of us men want complex and ambitious women who want to be leaders, movers, and shakers of society. Personally, I am one of those men, but I have plenty of friends who are happy with a drama-free woman who satisfies them in bed and asks for

Miguel Gonzalez

Let Miguel Tell It!

Poet, musician, educator, entrepreneur, and visionary Miguel began writing poetry in the 4th grade. He was born in Los Angeles to first-generation Colombian parents. His path through adolescence reflected a story of busy parents chasing the American dream and personal battles with American society. Inspired by the music and culture of his parents’ native Colombia, he embarked upon a journey of cultural revival while pursuing his Bachelor’s degree. Today he uses his knowledge of arts and culture to empower youth facing troubles. freecolombia100@gmail.com

nothing more. So it just depends on the kind of man. More importantly, men say many things when talking to their friends on the phone. You shouldn’t put too much weight on what you overhear your man say to other men in private phone conversations. I don’t pay attention to women when they’re having phone conversations with other women, especially if she knows I’m listening. People will say something funny-ish. It might as well be a different person. You know how it is.

~ Miguel

Dear Miguel, please tell me! Around Valentine’s Day, I was listening to the radio. The onair announcers were taking about people who cheat on their significant others. A woman stated she’d stay with her guy if he cheated because there is no emotional attachment, just sex. She then stated that when women cheat, we put all of our emotions into it. I’m curious about whether or not that is true. Is this for real?

~ Any Thoughts?

Dear Any Thoughts?

It is a tough one because I think it’s different circumstances for different people. There are people who cheat with no emotions and others who cheat with emotions. To make it even more complicated, some people will cheat and claim that they have no feelings involved when, in reality, they do, and vice versa. Moral of the story: it’s better not to cheat at all. Karma is real.

~ Miguel ,

Let Miguel Tell It!

THE PERFECT SOUNDTRACK FOR YOUR DAY.

Feed your SOUL 24/7/365.

When I reflect on dating or even past relationships, I often wonder how my partner saw me -- not necessarily how I saw myself. I am an attractive woman, but as we age, our bodies start to fall apart. Some people are better at preventing this than others, but I am much thicker than I used to be. Since I am aware of this, I try to be mindful of what I eat and make sure I get some time in for some workout.

He compliments my body, but I noticed he eats out often. I see him about three days out of the week, and he likes us to eat at the restaurant of our choice during those days. He’s in great shape, and I am trying to get there, but I want to avoid gorging on street food frequently.

I am in my midthirties and enjoying it a little too much. I love to drink socially, I live for fine dining, and if I don’t feel like meal prepping, I eat out. The joys of being single! I am mindful of what I put into my body, so I jumped on the diet when I learned about Keto. I mainly eat Keto unless I am distracted. By distracted, I mean my girls called for a random weeknight happy hour, or the guy I am dating wants Italian food or something. My weekdays are protein and veggies, and on weekends, I’m like, “What diet?” It has been my routine, and I have seen results from it.

I recently started dating a man who works out frequently. He doesn’t force me to go with him, but our workout routines differ. He compliments my body, but I noticed he eats out often. I see him about three days out of the week, and he likes us to eat at the restaurant of our choice during those days. He’s in great shape, and I am trying to get there, but I want to avoid gorging on street food frequently. I want my back to be smaller than it already is. I have started cooking during the week, and when I ask him if he wants food, he declines. It bothers me because I am a good cook, but he hasn’t tried it. I have concluded that he likes street food, and I ... refuse to be Big Bertha!

I’ve tried to compromise by eating healthy at these restaurants but enjoy home-cooked meals more. I recently started to feel like I am gaining weight because of this guy, and I wouldn’t say I like it. I even started to think he secretly wanted me to get fat. Some men have their fetishes, you know. I chatted with him, and his solution was that he would

-Gypzy Gyrl over and out!

eat before he came over. That’s fine, but that means I eat alone when he arrives. I don’t eat after 8 pm; he accompanies me right after work, leaving me no time to eat before he arrives. We just recently went to my favorite restaurant, and he got sick. He blamed it on food poisoning, but we ate the same thing, and I was fine. He also drank an unlimited amount of Sake, along with the food and he continued with Jack Daniels shots when we returned to my house. He’s such an ambitious little guy!

I am unsure how we can get on the same page with food, but I want him to start eating better, even if he works out. My “1000-pound life is not where I want to be.”

In addition, I rarely see him drink water, and he loves cupcakes. He loves cupcakes so much I think he wants to be one. I don’t think he understands that just because you go to the gym doesn’t mean you are healthy. I am hanging in there, but he has to go if I gain one more pound. Please pray for me, please, because thick Gypzy isn’t it! ,

Black History Year

James Baldwin

Pulled A Fast One On These Racist Hollywood Producers

In 1968, James Baldwin was hired to adapt the book “The Autobiography of Malcolm X” into a screenplay. He was excited for this new opportunity, but when white Hollywood tried to alter his creative vision, he pulled their cards. Baldwin was Malcolm X’s friend, so he sought to depict the icon accurately in the movie about his life. However, Baldwin quickly learned that Hollywood wasn’t interested in accuracy. Baldwin intercepted a memo sent to his producer advising the writer to fabricate Malcolm’s life. Baldwin was supposed to write that Black and white people had both betrayed Malcolm and that his trip to Mecca had nothing to do with his politics. They wanted to strip away pieces of Malcolm to fit their Hollywood agenda. Baldwin had been given a technical expert to assist with the script. Baldwin knew this expert was nothing more than a literary overseer. So, as white Hollywood kept intruding on his creativity, Baldwin took away their power. “I simply walked out, taking my original script with me,” wrote Baldwin. The project would go through years of development before finally being realized by Spike Lee in 1992. But Baldwin’s decision to withhold his labor and talent from Hollywood’s racist machine paved the way for Malcolm X’s legacy to be honored. Baldwin refused to create a film that would serve white supremacy’s agenda. His community came first, even before his art, and denying his labor to racist producers illustrates the power we all have in taking our talents where they’re deserved. ,

The novel “No Woman No Cry,” initially published in 2004, experienced a resurgence in popularity, finding its way onto coffee tables following the movie’s release, Bob Marley, One Love. Bob Marley, revered as the undisputed king of reggae and a towering icon in music, remains a central figure in popular culture.

Rita Marley, not only Bob’s wife and mother to four of his children but also his backup singer, confidante, lifelong companion, and soul mate, played a pivotal role in his life and career. Her influence and presence were deeply intertwined with Bob’s journey, making her a significant figure in her own right within the legacy of the Marley name.

The title “No Woman, No Cry” might sound like a heartless dismissal to some, but it’s more of a comforting reassurance in Jamaican parlance. It’s like saying, “Hey, woman, don’t cry; everything will be alright!”

However, this song has been a victim of some severe misinterpretation. Some folks outside Jamaica thought it meant something like, “If there’s no woman around, why bother crying?” or even that Bob Marley had some deep, secret feelings about women. Nope, not true.

In the song, Marley mentions the Government Yards of Trench Town, where he grew up in Kingston, Jamaica. He also talks about cornmeal porridge, which is like the breakfast of champions in Jamaica.

According to Wailers bassist Aston’ Family Man’ Barrett, the song is about celebrating women’s strength. He said, “We love a woman with a backbone. Something like a wishbone! They have to be like a she lion! Woman strong, you know, not depending on the man. Of course, the man is there to help you, but for every successful man, there is a good woman.” So, there you have it, folks, a song about the power and resilience of women, not some secret code about crying when no women are around! ,

No Woman No Cry novel written by Rita Marley, originally published in 2004.

Making Black History

A $2 million investment from Senator Josh Becker will significantly contribute to preserving Black History in San Mateo County by funding a permanent home for the current pop-up Domini Hoskins Black History Museum. Senator Becker presented a symbolic check to Executive Director Carolyn Hoskins and partners at the Redwood City, CA, museum commemorating the beginning of Black History Month. These funds, negotiated by Senator Becker last year, will ensure the museum’s continued ability to educate the community’s youth about the history and contributions of African Americans.

Senator Becker emphasized the museum’s invaluable role in educating youth and preserving the rich story of Black Americans. He expressed his commitment to finding a permanent location for the museum to ensure its lasting impact on the community. Carolyn Hoskins expressed deep gratitude for Senator Becker’s compassion and dedication, noting how his support has inspired their journey to find a permanent home for the museum.

The museum, located within walking distance of the Mervin G. Morris Boys & Girls Clubs of the Peninsula (BGCP), provided an enriching and

educational experience for the club members. Senator Becker, Lisa Gauthier, and Carolyn Hoskins graciously engaged with the students, further enhancing their understanding and appreciation of Black history and culture. Keystone Club members witnessed history in the making.

“This event exemplifies the importance of community engagement and education, and we are grateful for the support of Senator Becker, Lisa Gauthier, and Carolyn Hoskins in making this experience possible for our club members,” says Cherie Kabba, Associate Clubhouse Director of the BGCP.

The museum, a revered pop-up exhibit, has been searching for a permanent location for more than ten years. These funds will allow the museum to establish a permanent location. “l have been doing this for thirty years believe it or not putting up taking it down, and so 890 Jefferson is going to be our permanent home,” says Hoskins.

Additionally, the museum’s Black History Month Extravaganza has now begun. For more information on the Domini Hoskins Black History Museum, please visit https:// hoskinsblackhistorymuseum.org/ ,

Senator Josh Becker

Soultown Photos

Senator Josh Becker, Lisa Gauthier, Carolyn Hoskins, and members of the Keystone Leadership Club from the Mervin G. Morris Boys & Girls Clubs of the Peninsula pose for a photo during the club’s visit to the Domini Hoskins Black History Museum & Learning Center, which marked the culmination of weeks of Black History Month celebrations.

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, or NAACP, was established in 1909 and is America’s oldest and largest civil rights organization. It was formed in New York City by white and black activists, partially in response to the ongoing violence against African Americans around the country. In the NAACP’s early decades, the anti-lynching campaign was central to its agenda. During the civil rights era in the 1950s and 1960s, the group won major legal victories, and today the NAACP has more than 2,200 branches.

In 1908, a deadly race riot rocked the city of Springfield, the capital of Illinois and the resting place of President Abraham Lincoln. Such eruptions of anti-black violence – particularly lynching – were horrifically commonplace, but the Springfield riot was the final tipping point that led to the creation of the NAACP. Appalled at this rampant violence, a group of white liberals that included Mary White Ovington and Oswald Garrison Villard (both the descendants of famous abolitionists), William English Walling and Dr. Henry Moscowitz issued a call for a meeting to discuss racial justice. Some 60 people, seven of whom were African American (including W. E. B. Du Bois, Ida B. Wells-Barnett, and Mary Church Terrell), signed the call, which was released on the centennial of Lincoln’s birth.

Echoing the focus of Du Bois’ Niagara Movement for civil rights, which began in 1905, the NAACP’s aimed to secure for all people the rights guaranteed in the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments to the United States Constitution, which promised an end to slavery, the equal protection of the law, and universal adult male suffrage, respectively. Accordingly, the NAACP’s mission was and is to ensure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of minority group citizens of the United States and eliminate racial prejudice. The NAACP seeks to remove all barriers of racial discrimination throughout democratic processes.

The NAACP established its national office in New York City in 1910 and named a board of directors as well as a president, Moorfield Storey, a white constitutional lawyer and former president of the American Bar Association. Despite a foundational commitment to multiracial membership, Du Bois was the only African American among the organization’s original executives. He was named Director of Publications and research and in 1910 established the official journal of the NAACP; The Crisis.

Learn more about the NAACP at https://naacp.org/nationspremier-civil-rights-organization/

2022-2024 Officers / Executive Committee

Officers:

President - LaTanya Graves

Vice President - Robert Tyson

Secretary - Valerie McDonald

Assist. Secretary - Carole Yates

Treasurer - Jeff Grell

Assist. Treasurer - Dave Kivett

LATANYA GRAVES

WATERLOO CHAPTER OF THE NAACP

Email:

waterloonaacp@gmail.com

Executive Committee:

Deborah Berry

Vikki Brown

Camarion Campbell

Wilfred Johnson

Chuck Lane

Willie Mae Wright

Carole Yates

The state of Mississippi was characterized as the most racist state in this country. The death of Emmett Till on August 28, 1955, in Money, MS, and his mother’s insistence on an open casket showing his brutal slaying is often cited as giving people the impetus to launch the Civil Rights Movement. Along with the struggles of Amzie Moore and Fannie Lou Hamer for voting rights and the legitimacy of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party (MFDP) were epic.

One person who often is lost in discussions of antiracism efforts in Mississippi is Unita Blackwell.

U. Z. Brown was born to sharecroppers in Lula, MS, on March 18, 1933. Her grandfather was murdered, and her father separated from the family when he challenged his boss for speaking to his wife. Eventually, Brown and her mother joined him in Memphis until the parents divorced, and mother and daughter moved to West Helena, Arkansas, in an aunt’s home.

In Arkansas, it was believed Brown could attain a good education. One of her teachers sat down with Brown and decided on Unita Zelma as a name for her initials. While in West Helena, Brown spent much time picking cotton on a former plantation. She also worked for cheap wages when visiting her father in Tennessee during the summers and with her grandparents in Florida. Despite her efforts to earn money for

Courtesy Photos Unita Blackwell, Former Mayor of Mayersville, MS.

Unita Blackwell

the family, she managed to finish the eighth grade at the age of 14. Subsequently, she did not go to high school to continue to work to supplement her family’s income.

At 23, Brown met Jeremiah Blackwell, and they fell in love. Early in 1957, Brown became very ill in West Helena and was pronounced dead. However, later, she was found alive in her hospital bed. A few months after that, in July, she gave birth to her first and only child, Jeremiah Blackwell, Jr. The newly formed family moved to Mayersville, MS, into the home of a recently deceased grandmother of Blackwell, Sr.

Unita Blackwell cited the beginning of her activism when she heard a presentation on voting rights by a local church’s Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) members. She began to organize groups to go to the courthouse to register to vote, and they were often accosted by white mobs seeking to obstruct their goals.

Blackwell joined SNCC and traveled across the state to educate citizens on voting. In doing so, she encountered opposition from whites. After meeting Hamer, she joined the MFDP and its efforts to be seated at the Democratic National Convention in Atlantic City, NJ. She had also sought to encourage Pres. Johnson moved along with the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. In addition, she met attorney Marian Wright, who helped represent arrested demonstrators and advocated for establishing Head Start programs for children.

Educational facilities in Mississippi were racially

segregated. When a school that Jeremiah attended disallowed the wearing of SNCC pins, the Blackwells sued. The end result was a denial of wearing the pins as disruptive; however, the court also decided that the schools had to be desegregated according to federal law!

Blackwell was also profoundly affected by the assassination of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. She became part of the National Council of Negro Women and dealt with issues of affordable, lowincome housing. She developed programs for children and participated in building positive diplomatic relations between the US and China. In these regards, she became an advisor to presidents from Johnson to Bill Clinton.

The death of King also urged her to further her political activism. In 1976, she was elected mayor of Mayersville -a position she held until 2001! She was the first Black woman mayor in Mississippi history. This position enabled her to become a national advocate for children and affordable housing. In the early 1990s, she became president of the National Conference of Black Mayors. Also, she ramped up her support for community development in urban areas and rural communities. Hence, in 1992, Blackwell was awarded a MacArthur Fellowship and a $350,000 grant for her genius in developing the infrastructures of rural areas in her state. The following year, she ran for Congress but was defeated.

In 2006, Blackwell published her autobiography Barefootin’: Life Lessons from the Road to Freedom. Blackwell was deemed

missing at the hotel during the celebration of King’s life and legacy in January 2008 in Atlanta. She was found at the airport and was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. In 2019, she died in Ocean Springs, MS, from complications of dementia. Even though she did not graduate high school, Blackwell was allowed to attend the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, where she earned a Master of Regional Planning. This woman, Unita Zelma Blackwell, driven by a passion for justice, left a poignant legacy of strength and resilience as she moved from poverty to power!

I am Dr. Michael Blackwell, the Social Ethicist for The Soultown Magazine. I want to thank Unita Blackwell for having SOUL! ,

Rev. Dr. Michael D. Blackwell Social Ethicist was born in Philadelphia and raised in CT during the classic Civil Rights era of the 1960s. He was profoundly affected by the life, thought, and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. He is published in African American religious thought, peacemaking, the nonviolent direct action of Dr. King, community building, and social change. He worked for twenty years as Director for Multicultural Education at the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) in Cedar Falls as the Director for the Center for Multicultural Education and served as an Adjunct Associate Professor of Philosophy and World Religions. Currently, he is retired and is the founding President and Executive Director of the nonprofit, Project for the Beloved Community, Inc. mdbwell@gmail.com

BLOG: mdbwell.com

Chef Bernita Outlaw is the founder, owner, and Executive Chef of Shakespear Rose Culinary Kitchen LLC., located on Chicago’s South Side in Woodlawn. She grew up on Chicago’s West Side in the ABLA community, graduating from Paul Laurence Dunbar Vocational High School in 1984.

For 20 years she dedicated her career as a retail manager, sales manager, operations manager, and store manager, and in 2017 she received her Bachelor of Science in Culinary Management from The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago. She is also a recipient of the Neighborhood Opportunity Fund Class of 2019.

After graduating culinary school, she has worked in the food industry and has thrived over the years working and learning under various chefs in Chicago. In that time, she has worked with Macys Culinary Studio, Macys One Eleven Events

as a caterer, Hard Rock Hotel-Michigan Avenue, Sur La Table, Tasteful Manners Culinary, and catering chef for Lurie Children’s Hospital, and most currently After School Matters and JP Morgan Chase Restaurant Associates. She has 20 years of retail management experience working for big box retailers including Old Navy, GAP, Eddie Bauer Flagship, Disney Store Flagship, and The Children’s Place. Bernita started Shakespear Rose Culinary Kitchen in 2019.

Her management training and development skills alongside her passion for cooking has been her focus over the last 12 years to introduce education and culinary excellence in our communities. She is committed to bringing the Farm to Table concept to our neighborhoods, the utilization of Urban Gardens and local Farmers Markets, as well as getting families back to the table.

Chef relaxing with wine.

Chef Bernita Outlaw is a Chicago native, proudly raised on the vibrant West Side of the city. A graduate of the Paul Lawrence Dunbar class of 1984, she pursued her passion for business at Harold Washington College, earning her Associate’s Degree.

Transitioning from several years in administrative roles to a successful 19-year career in retail, Chef Outlaw discovered her true calling in teaching and entertaining through cooking. This passion led her to pursue and obtain a degree in Culinary Management.

Chef Outlaw has a deep-seated love for entertaining and uniting people through the joy of food. Known for hosting memorable parties where she delights guests with her culinary creations, she finds immense joy in seeing people come together, share moments of happiness, and bond over a delicious meal.

One of Chef Bernita’s most significant challenges was establishing her brick-andmortar establishment. Upon receiving the grant, she faced the unexpected requirement of contributing 35% of the total build-out cost. With no personal funds or familial support, she navigated this obstacle by meticulously organizing her finances and securing loans she hadn’t previously considered. This endeavor demanded a high level of discipline and resourcefulness, which she applied diligently to achieve her goal.

“As a mother and grandmother of three, my mission is to preserve the life of our children through positive eating habits.”

~ Chef Bernita Outlaw bernitaoutlaw@yahoo.com

https://shakespearroseculinarykitchenllc.info

The Woodlawn Sandwich: jerk Chicken with herbed lime slaw.

Shrimp and clam chowder, appetizer with bacon salt and aleppo pepper.

Chef, Victor training appetizers for the opening.

rose

Chef Bernita is deeply aware that her culinary journey is guided by a divine vision. Throughout her path, there have been moments of intense struggle and doubt, leading to breakdowns and tears as she grappled with the uncertainty of making her dream a reality. However, the unwavering support and encouragement from those around her, reminding her that “you didn’t come this far to give up,” have been a constant source of strength.

Despite the challenges she has faced, Chef Bernita remains steadfast in her belief that God has orchestrated her journey and placed this dream within her for a purpose. While anxiety may accompany her during catering jobs, the heartfelt comments and compliments from clients at the end of the day serve as poignant reminders that her efforts are not in vain, and that every obstacle has been worth overcoming.

Chef Bernita is currently dedicated to establishing a nonprofit organization aimed at offering free cooking classes to both youth and seniors, a cause she has been passionate about since her days in culinary school. Her commitment to this initiative is underscored by her previous experience conducting afterschool cooking classes for another organization.

Reflecting on her work, Chef Bernita says, “You would be amazed that some children have never eaten fresh green beans or spinach.” This sentiment highlights her deep-seated belief in the importance of culinary education and access to nutritious foods for individuals of all ages.

As far as something new, Chef Bernita is actively pursuing knowledge in vegan and vegetarian cuisine to meet the increasing demand for these options. With a notable rise in requests, she is dedicated to expanding her menu to include a variety of plantbased dishes.

Contracting Covid-19 in 2021 and being hospitalized with clots in both lungs stands out as the most surprising and challenging experience in Chef Bernita’s life. Faced with uncertainty about her future after months of relying on oxygen, she found herself surprised yet again by God’s grace, making a full recovery. This experience has reinforced her resilience and determination, allowing her to move forward with her life and successfully open Shakespear Rose.

Shakespear

Chef Bernita and Chef Lathia Ealy.

Prepping.

If financial constraints were not a consideration, Chef Bernita’s aspiration would be to host her own cooking show.

Chef Bernita’s short-term goal is to sustain the operations of Shakespear Rose for the next four years, until she reaches the age of 62. Beyond that, her vision is to transition the establishment into an incubator kitchen, allowing her the freedom to have someone else manage its day-today operations.

At Shakespear Rose, having SOUL embodies a deep passion for something greater than oneself. It signifies embracing one’s Blackness and the enduring strength it represents. It means cherishing and honoring the past, present, and future self. Having SOUL is about radiating such a vibrant energy that others are drawn to you, inspired by you, and uplifted by your presence. It is a recognition of the beauty, brightness, and power within oneself that captivates and inspires others.

On behalf of The Soultown Magazine, we thank Chef Bernita of Shakespear Rose Culinary Kitchen for having SOUL! ,

Indoor window shelves.

Chef standing outside the shop.

Inside the kitchen.

Dear Queen Gabby, As a waiter/waitress, have you ever left the restaurant to chase down someone undertipped?

~ Anti-Cheapskate

Dear Anti-Cheapskate, Absolutely not! Tips are optional, as they used to be. I have been to places lately that add on automatic gratuity, which sucks! People working in the service industry should get tipped according to the service they provide. Only some people are great tippers, but leaving something is better than leaving nothing. If a customer didn’t leave a good tip, charge it to the game. There may be another customer that overtakes you, and that works in your favor. That’s the inconsistency of the career path. Imagine chasing down someone for a tip, only for them to tell you the service wasn’t up to par and the food was trash. It’s not worth the embarrassment. Also, that’s too much like begging for me.

Queen Gabby

Female Advice Expert

Queen Gabby is a flight attendant for a major airline and the female Advice Columnist. She is a Slam poet and spoken word artist from Chicago. Queen Gabby is one of the founding members of SaYes2Poetry. She landed a position as an Advice Columnist for The Soultown Magazine after dominating the Oakland poetry circuit with her provocative, opinionated poetry pieces. She also coached San Jose’s youth Brave New Voices poetry team to competitions in Berkeley, CA, and Chicago, IL. She is working on her first novel and currently resides in Las Vegas. gmshirley19@gmail.com

I can be a little petty, though, so I would remember their faces and take my lunch break the next time they came in.

~ Queen Gabby

~~~

Dear Queen Gabby, I overheard my man on the phone telling his cousin, “All men need is a woman with no drama and good sex”. Is this true? Strangely enough, I’m okay with this … are you?

~ Wait. What???

Dear Wait. What???

Well, I wouldn’t say he was wrong. It sounds stress-free! I also believe drama is provoked, so if this man is causing it, then it will be there. When men say “no drama,” it sounds like they want the woman to let a lot of stuff slide. If you’re okay with it, ensure you aren’t stirring up drama and that he isn’t causing it. I would let him know that you heard it and have him elaborate for your clarification. I would be okay with it if I knew there was some commitment. Strangely enough, that’s where the drama comes in. Good luck, sis.

~ Queen Gabby ,

Caught With My Soultown Magazine is a fun way to share excitement about our stories with readers in a quick snapshot. The Soultown Magazine’s positive stories implore positive progress in towns and cities with soul. If you are caught reading your Soultown Magazine, please email the image to chillin@thesoultownmagazine.

Students recognize familiar faces on the covers of multiple issues of The Soultown Magazine displayed inside the Domini Hoskins Black History Museum in Redwood City, California.

Soultown photo

Celebrating 30 Years of Love!

Information Technology Educator m.moses40@gmail.com

“I work with kids in low Income areas teaching them how to be fluent in all types of technology.”

Photos by Ron D. Moses Freelance Photographer

SHARING OUR SOUL!

Forgot your Soultown again? Stay connected with hometown and SOUL news! Get The Soultown Express digital experience for $5/month. Click, leave your contact info, and voila – your magazine is on its way!

The Soultown XPress!

I miss gazing into my great-grandmother’s dark chocolate face.

And no one can replace my grandmother’s strong embrace. If you had my momma, you would give yours away.

I love watching to-and-fro, oh… that’s the way my wife’s hips sway.

See me blush as my cheek lands my daughter’s kiss.

See me hush as she speaks, my sister’s voice brings bliss.

See me stand at attention when any of my aunties speak. See me yelling her childhood nickname, I love embarrassing my niece.

Female favorite cousins, number in the dozens.

Torrion Amie

Daily Daddy

Torrion Amie has a career that spans over 30 years in higher education, K12, and coaching. He is a published author, singer-songwriter, and poet. He was the UW-River Falls’ Outstanding Young Alumni Award winner in 2018 and was inducted into the Hall of Fame for coaching in 2021. He’s a Clifton Strengths Certified Coach. Mr. Amie is a national keynote speaker, emcee, trainer, and leadership coach. His expertise transcends into sacred spaces, where he’s led men’s ministry and worship. He and his wife have been together for over 20 years and have four children.

Torrion@dailydaddy.net

Daily Daddy LLC

Daily Daddy

Female favorite friends, fill my life with substance.

A woman deserves every bit of her name.

Marvelous WOAH-man. Oh, the WOES of man, if she never came!

More than 80% of my life has been shaped by women. They have nurtured, molded, and loved me beyond belief. Ladies, you deserve every good thing. Fathers, husbands, sons, uncles, nephews, cousins, and friends, this month openly honor women. They are one of God’s greatest creations. Where would you be if she never came?

I am Torrion Amie. Thank you for being a part of DAILY DADDY™, where fathers and father figures are edified, educated, and empowered. Thank you for having SOUL! ,

45 is the 50!

Colorectal Cancer (CRC) screening is an important step in protecting your health. As we age, our need for cancer screening increases. However, due to an increase in colorectal cancer in people under the age of 50 - the recommended screening age for CRC is now 45. This is good news! Beginning screening at an earlier age, gives a better opportunity to establish regular screening habits and catch pre-cancerous changes.

What screening do YOU need?

Along with eating a fiber rich diet and taking part in regular exercise, cancer screening is an essential tool in your health toolbox. Screening recommendations will vary depending on your personal and family health history. The most common options for screening include self-tests or visual structural exams.

• Most self-tests can be done at home and include collecting stool (or poop) to check for cellular changes that may indicate the need for further testing. They can be mailed for processing, and although they require less preparation, a prescription for the test may be required.

• Visual structural exams are completed by a medical professional. The most common type of this exam is colonoscopy, which is an examination of the entire colon. The colonoscopy requires a prep period to clean the colon, and you may have to take off time for work on the day of the test. While colonoscopy requires a bit more planning and preparation, it is a great tool in cancer prevention, because if a precancerous polyp is identified it can be removed immediately.

It is important to note that there isn’t a one size fits all option, so it is important to discuss your screening needs with your provider.

Most insurance companies now cover CRC screening beginning at age 45. However, if your insurance doesn’t cover, or if you are concerned about the out-of-pocket cost associated with CRC screening, the Iowa Get Screened Program may be able to help. Program coordinators are available in both Polk and Black Hawk Counties.

To enroll a person must be:

• 45 or older

• Under 45 with a family history of CRC

• Meet income guidelines (a family of 4 can make $90,000/ year net)

• Not currently experiencing symptoms related to colorectal cancer

March 2024 is the month that we celebrate Resurrection Day. This season brings the message that Jesus Christ lived, died, and now lives again, giving every Believer what the Apostle Paul declares in the following passage of Scripture.

I Corinthians 15:20-22 But Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. 21 For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. 22 For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.

Let’s look at you and me as spiritual beings with a human experience for the next few moments.

Our lives were IN God in Eternity Past, and then God in His Wisdom strategized that we should be here now “for such a time as this”!

Please think about Psalm chapter 139.

Man, that passage of Scripture lifts my spirit. Why? To know that WE are in God’s Sight and God’s Hand, which are. There to guide us, to protect us. This same God is so much bigger than any event and circumstance we may experience. And yes, that same God will block some stuff interfering with His Plan for our lives.

Scriptures of affirmation.

Philippians 4:13: “I can do all this through him who strengthens me.”

Romans 8:35 -39: “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 As it is written: “For your sake, we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” 37 No, in all these things, we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

I John 4:4: “You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.”

In the Fall of 2021, my nephew, Charles Mays, passed away. In the Fall of 2022, my father, Dave Rainey, passed away. In the Summer of 2023, my mother, Audrey Bibbs Rainey, passed away. Many of you know what the loss of family feels like.

As a faith enthusiast, I can say that through Jesus Christ, God has given unto life and life more abundantly. When we draw our last breath, “the dust returns to the ground it came from, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.”

So WE ARE here living now to live again.

II Corinthians 5:8: “We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.”

I am Dr. David Rainey, The Faith Enthusiast for The Soultown Magazine.

I thank God for having SOUL! ,

Dr. David Rainey

Faith Enthusiast

David Rainey is the founder and former pastor of Gift of Life Church in Waterloo, Iowa. He has a Doctorate in Theology and knows that more and more Americans genuinely love God but struggle with church. His writings and public presentations are designed to ‘free us from religion” and ‘release us to a relationship’ with God and creation. He is the Faith Enthusiast and has written in every article since the inception date of January 2017. Dr. David Rainey is the recipient of the 2022 Soultown’s Soul Prayer Award. drdavidrainey@gmail.com

WATERLOO EAST HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR DESTINED FOR SUCCESS

Teen Soul: Who is John Sailor?

John Sailor: I am a young Black male from Waterloo, Iowa. I grew up with a single mother, Amanda Clark. She has pushed me to be successful in everything I do. Growing up in Waterloo, I’ve seen a lot of things, from gang violence, police brutality, and even having a friend lose his life on the streets. I love my hometown, the culture engraved in this city, and the culture we are starting. I have an aspiration to create change in desperate areas in my community.

Teen Soul: What are your aspirations and goals?

John Sailor: I aspire to be a natural leader for my community and the younger generation in my neighborhood. I want to show them that it is possible to see success even from Waterloo, Iowa; no matter race, sexuality, or gender, and that anyone can be successful, just like I will. My primary goal is to invoke change. Yes, making money is a goal, but my real goal is to cause positive change for my people and anyone with the same mentality as me; everyone can do it. I want to be that shining light that shows people anything is possible.

Teen Soul: Why do you do what you do?

John Sailor: I do what I do because I’ve seen what happens when you lack focus on having a good life. Growing up in Waterloo, I’ve seen what it’s like for someone who fails in life and isn’t resilient enough to bounce back. I’d never want that for myself, so I stay on my toes and always stay busy.

Teen Soul: Share a challenge you’ve had to overcome that has led you to where you are now.

John Sailor: A challenge I’ve had to face

Sailor on my 18th birthday.

that has led me to be where I am today. Being a young Black male in spaces where people -- who don’t look like me -- doubt my abilities and look down upon me fuels my fire and drives me to success.

Teen Soul: What motivates you each day to do this work?

John Sailor: My mom wants me to have a successful life. For as long as I can remember, she has been there every day, pushing or motivating me to continuously push the limits of my education. She is always there, keeping me in check and supporting me in everything I do.

Teen Soul: What’s a project you’re currently working on?

John Sailor: In ijag, Iowa’s Jobs For America’s Graduates is a class that helps students prepare for their next step in life. We are currently working on our Basket Brawl for our showcase. Our showcase is the basketball Brawl, which is a fundraiser. The funds will assist our students in getting to the national competition for iJAG.

Teen Soul: What’s something new you’re learning?

John Sailor: I am newly employed at my second job at 4U Auto, where I am learning to detail cars.

Teen Soul: What are your short and long-term goals?

John Sailor: A short-term goal of

mine is to get enough Scholarship money to pay for all four years of tuition at The University Of Northern Iowa. Also, for a short-term goal, I’d like to finish my high school career above a 3.5 GPA (which I am at) and finish by being on the honor roll for all four years every semester. A longterm goal of mine is to be financially stable. Being rich would be amazing, but I would be thrilled to reach a point where my money is stable and not a big worry. Also, I’d like to own my own electrical trade business in the long run.

Teen Soul: What has surprised you about life? In other words, what happened that you didn’t expect?

John Sailor: I’ve received recognition for my hard work throughout school. I’ve made the honor roll, received scholarships, and recently, I have been named State Officer for iJag. I didn’t expect to see the fruits of my labor.

iJAG, or Iowa’s Jobs For America’s Graduates, has greatly impacted my educational success. iJAG has helped pave the way for my future by giving me real-life experiences and social interactions and teaching me the great qualities of a leader. Through iJAG, I have been blessed with the opportunity to become a state officer for Iowa. Being a state officer has

allowed me to travel to Washington D.C not once but twice for NSLA! I also went down to Orlando, Florida, for JAG nationals. On both of those trips, I did a lot of leadership workshops, gained new learning experiences, and made so many great friends from around the country that I still talk to today. iJAG has given me the best experience through high school, and there’s no one I can’t thank more than my iJAG professor, Mrs. Joyce Bennet; she continues to be involved in my iJAG story, always being in my corner and allowing me to grow under her wing.

Teen Soul: What would you do if money were no object?

John Sailor: If money were no object, I would be an NFL player or have my car brand. I am an athlete, and I’ve played football for six years, wrestled for seven years, and done track for four years. I’m attempting to return to the state track meet this year. But professionally, I would do pro football out of all the sports, so the NFL is where I’d go.

Teen Soul: What does having SOUL mean to you?

John Sailor: To me, having a soul means having empathy for other humans, having true feelings such as love or sadness, having the ability to care for objects or people who aren’t you, and finally, I believe it means having a heart. ,

Senior night, John Sailor with girlfriend Jacqueline Urbano.

John and the other iJag state leaders at Washington D.C for National Student Leadership Academy (NSLA).

Diquan Richard is a multi-talented Bay Area Native currently pursuing a Masters in Education, Equity and Social Justice at San Francisco State University. When Diquan is not studying, you can find him building his entertainment brand Quanster Entertainment, creating all sorts of things from online shows, poetry, 2D animations to making music. Diquan also donates his time as a worldwide humanitarian helping serve the underserved and under privileged communities around the world through missionary work.

2024 2024

Congratulations to the Class of 2024! The Soultown Magazine warmly welcomes graduates from kindergarten to college, celebrating individuals of all ages and stages. Thank you for considering featuring your graduate in The Soultown's 2024 "The Tassel Was Worth the Hassle" Graduation Issue! This full-color commemorative booklet will be available after June 1, 2024. Reserve your graduate's space today.

https://thesoultownmagazine.com/2024-grads-1

•$50 = Half Page Color Ad

• Digital Link

• (1) Booklet

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•$85 = Full Page Color Ad

• Digital Link

• (1) Booklet

Package (A)