TRIUMPHANT MAGAZINE
JUNE 2019
The Honorable Doctor Joyce M. Cusack Honoring Fathers #WESALUTEYOU
Exclusive Intervicw with Dr. Cusack, a Women of Faith, Perseverance and True Vision! Pg. 8
The Essentials of Healthy Living
TRIUMPHANT MAGAZINE
JUNE2019
Contents Page 4 Volusia County Democratic Black Caucus - Annual Black & Blue Gala Page 5
The Essentials of Healthy Living - Dr. Primrose Cameron Page 6 AAEA - African American Entrepreneurs Association, Inc. Page 8
Exclusive Interview with Dr. Joyce Cusuck - Theresa Jordan Page 11
This Fathers Day, We Salute Deacon William L. Bradley, Sr. Page 14 An American Tragedy - Dr. L. Ronald Durham Page 15
This Fathers Day, We Salute Doug Miller - Theresa Jordan Page 17
"Hopefully, You Make the Right Decisions" - Angie BEE Page 20 Bold, Beautiful and Bald Beauty Bazaar
The Essentials of Healthy Living By Dr. Primrose Cameron
When we think of essentials, we often think of taking a trip and not forgetting our toiletries, the basic food items needed for survival or what to have in case of emergencies. But what would our life be like if we looked further than tangible belongings? What if we considered our mental health or inner being as a priority. Last month, I had the opportunity to celebrate my cousin's 40th birthday in Washington, DC and not only was I filled with emotions, I was led to reflect on the importance of living while able and how beautiful it is to connect with those you that love. We had time to think about what truly matters and the types of relationships that we would accept, to include short or long term friendships. The past few weeks have actually been a roller coaster of emotions that without the essentials, one would find difficulty in surviving. So what are these essentials, you might ask? It is the essentials of successful living: peace, comfort, happiness and love. Within these elements, there is no room for regret, negativity or imposed sadness. Despite the tabloids and potentially social media, we can not allow the beauty of everyday to be compromised by not embracing the essentials. I encourage you to self-select away from anything that does not make you happy, people included. I encourage you to define your essentials and live by them. I encourage you to find peace, comfort, happiness and love on your path towards fulfillment. Dr. Primrose Cameron Motivational Speaker-Empowerment Coach-Facilitator www.primrosecameron.com
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DO SOMETHING TODAY THAT YOUR FUTURE SELF WILL THANK YOU FOR. Our actions and decisions today will shape the way we will be living in the future.
The Honorable
Dr. Joyce M. Cusack
Featuring Dr. Joyce M. Cusack
A Women of Faith, Perseverance and True Vision! By Theresa Jordan The Honorable Dr. Joyce M. Cusack is originally from New Smyrna Beach, Florida but she grew up in Deland, Florida. She attended Euclid High School; Euclid was a segregated school for colors. Students attended from first grade to the twelfth grade. Perseverance allowed Joyce to rise against all odds, she was raised in a single family home. She encountered situations first-hand where AfricanAmericans weren't allowed to enjoy the same privileges as others. Cusack recalls during her teenage years having a low tolerance for injustice, and she remembers orchestrating sit-ins at the lunch counter of F.W. Woolworth and McCory Department stores in Downtown Deland. Her mother requested that she not return there again, but her resilience wouldn't allow her to condone this behavior, and she returned daily, not only for herself, but for the present and future generations to come. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., has a quote, "Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter."
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Dr. Cusack remembers her grandmother, Willie Mae Smith owning Smittys' Cafe. Black ownership was flourishing at that time and African-American Businesses were located within the proximity of Greater Union Baptist Church in Deland, Florida. The businesses covered several blocks, and there were Black Doctors, Black Dentists and several other African-American owners. There was only one white establishment and that was Otis Thomas Liquor Store. According to Joyce, Stetson University didn't allow colors to attend school at the time. We discussed what transpired after Cusack finished high school; she decided to attend FAMU and she was driven to the Greyhound Station by a colored taxi driver. During that time, African-Americans couldn't travel with white cab drivers. After getting on the Greyhound Bus, there were certain seats you could sit-in, but when your opposite counterpart needed a seat, you were expected to get up immediately. It goes back to the scripture, "If God is for us, who could be against us? (Romans 8:31) Years later the same parents that didn't want Joyce and people of our color sitting downtown at the lunch counter to eat hamburgers in Deland. Their children would become diversified and they would send her to the State of Florida. Many thought Cusack wouldn't win, but she won 8 elections and she never lost a race. The original plan was to become the Commissioner. On the other hand, her Professor T. Wayne Bailey, a Political Science instructor, informed Joyce, "If you are ready to run for city commissioner one
She proceeded to call a meeting with the Cusack family to further discuss her plans for running for office. This decision would affect the entire family because nothing would remain private, and their lives would become an open book to the public. Joyce knew a decision had to be made about her place of employment. She would have to leave her job, and it was important to get her families' commitment towards this new journey. Cusack embarked this office with dignity, honor and total commitment towards the betterment of Volusia and its surrounding communities. Fortunately 16 years later, Dr. Cusack has established high standards for anyone interested in running for public office. The bar remains high today, and she has supported and mentored several running for office. Many people remain inspired by Joyce's commitment to the community and the offices she has held. She continues to thrive in leading people, and letting them know the importance of going out to vote. It's important that the people within your circle get involved and know there is no room to just sit around and complaint. Dr. Cusack knows, "In life you have to be willing to take a stand, where there is an injustice, and "You must be willing to address it."
year from now, then you're ready to run for Florida Legislative. "
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Joyce mentioned, "It is important to tell our history to young folks for them to standup " Dr. Cusack mentioned, "She can't forget where she came from, and the struggle hasn't been easy." Dr. Joyce Cusack, Volusia County honors you for 16 years of service. 8 Years in the State Legislature and 8 years as The At Large member of Volusia County Council. Thank you for paving the way for future leaders. You're remarkable and your community service and hard work are appreciated. You've wholeheartedly taught us the significance of standing up for injustices and we thank you for taking the lead. It's imperative that we don't remain silent by not voting because there's consequences. We are affected directly and indirectly when we don't use our voice for voting. Dr. Cusack your contributions have been notated; therefore, you will always have a special place in all of our hearts.
16 Years
"Thank you to the citizens of Volusia for giving me the opportunity to serve as member of Florida House of Representatives for 8 years and as The At Large member of Volusia County Council for 8 years." Dreams Do Come True! - Dr. Joyce Cusack
Deacon WilliamL. L.Bradley, Bradley, Sr. Deacon William Sr. Theresa - Deacon Bradley, please tell us a little bit about yourself? Deacon William Bradly, Sr. - I was born February 9, 1929 in Osteen, Florida. I was raised in the town of Lake Helen, Florida. I am the son of a pastor who instilled in all of his children, the love of God, the love for family and the desire to be a servant for God and to attend church regularly. So, I faithfully served in church most of my life. I have two brothers that are pastors, one brother that is a deacon and I have been deacon for over 50 years. I was married to the love of my life, the late Eugenia Bradley for 45 years. We had six wonderful children. My family is a high priority for me. Unity in my Family means a lot to me.
"Unity in the family means a lot to me!"
I served in the United States Army and I am now a Veteran. At an early age I developed a talent for fixing many different things; cars, buildings, you make it, I can basically fix it. I worked for a number of years at General Electric Company in Daytona Beach. I was able to retire from General Electric at the age of 58.
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Theresa - How was it growing up? Deacon William L. Bradley, Sr. - I had a loving family. I am the second oldest of eleven children. Four boys and seven girls. For many years I had a lot of responsibilities because I was the only boy for a long time. There were a lot of tasks I had to complete around our home: Pump water, chop wood, and work in the field. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it all. How I was raised caused me to be the faithful man I am today. My parents instilled in me at an early age to respect and love God. Show respect to your elders and be a hard worker. I am grateful for the hard work ethic my parents instilled in me.
Theresa - What lessons did you pass down to your children? Deacon William L. Bradley, Sr. - Raising six children, (Regina, William, Deborah, Duncan, Troy, and Cynthia) was not easy. We had our difficulties, but we made it work and we were blessed. Our family learned to make the dollar stretch and we set standards on how to teach our children right from wrong. I taught my children they had to live by a certain standard; there were certain lines, they could not cross. I was supportive with all of my children, but I was a strict disciplinarian. Children have to know that yes means yes and no means no. There is a right way of doing things and there is a wrong way of doing things, there is no middle ground. To help my children deal with peer pressure I told them to not be influenced by somebody else’s negative opinion or direction.
I taught my children they had to live by a certain standard; there were certain lines, they could not cross." The hardest part of being a father was losing my son Duncan to leukemia in 1995. It was a difficult time for my whole family, but by the grace of God we made it through. We had help from the community our friends; we were all comforted and we came out of that time of grief fine. As a father, I was not perfect, but I look at my children now, and I feel I did a good job. My wife and I taught our children to put Christ first in their life and the priority of family. They all now save and serve in ministry at local churches. It is a blessing to see how my children fellowship and support each other. My wife and I taught our children the value of bible study and how to pray. We taught our children the importance of a good education, to do their best in everything and to work hard.
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Theresa - What has been your proudest moments as a father and grandfather? Deacon William L. Bradley, Sr. - I am proud to see the fruit of my labor through my children. As parents we put in a lot of time, great care and hard work into our children. That enable us to give not just tool for success and significance to our children, but also our grandchildren. I have two sons that are Pastors and they are doing a great job. I am proud of their dedication and service to God. I am blessed to see my children and grandchildren become productive citizens. The things that make me proud about my children and grandchildren is their love for God, their service in church, their academic achievements, and their careers. They stick together as family and that really means alot to me. I am a blessed man God has given me wonderful children who constantly love and care for me is so rewarding. God has been so good to me he has given me a great life, a good family .
Deacon William L. Bradley, Sr., we thank you for being an extraordinary Man of God, Father and Grandfather! #WESALUTEYOU
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It's time to celebrate Great fathers all over! Doug Miller #WESALUTEYOU
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Doug Miller Theresa - How was it growing up? Doug Miller - I had a very strong mother and father, and you had to go by the rules. My parents were very strict and as I grew older I realized they saw things in me that I didn't see in myself. There was no prejudice in our household and it wasn't tolerated to talk against other races. Disrespect was unacceptable and this type of behavior wasn't allowed in our house. In the late 50's in Louisville, Kentucky, I went to school with Diane Sawyer on 20/20 and she was one of my classmates. I went Seneca High School, and most of the students that went to school with their parents were
Doug Miller - I started playing music at the age of 16. My father and I were watching television together and I saw this boy playing a trumpet. At that time, I told my father that I can play music. My father responded by saying, you are just saying that because you saw it on television. When I saw the boy playing, I knew in my heart that was going to be my profession. Theresa - “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” - Proverbs 18:21 (KJV) There's another scripture that says, (As it is written, I have made thee a father of
doctors, lawyers and politicians. The black
many nations,) before him whom he
children on my block and some of other
believed, even God, who quickeneth the
children near my neighborhood were the
dead, and calleth those things which be
only ones whose parents weren't doctors and
not as though they were. - Romans 4:17
In 1961, I started playing in the high school band and I played professionally. I played in the Army Band. I played with a group called Bobby Lester Moonglows and they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000. I wasn't one of the original members, but I started playing with them later.
lawyers. Students in the tenth grade came to school driving Jaguars. Doug dealt with it
Doug, you spoke those things that were
first-hand because he had a couple of friends
not into existence and your words
that drove expensive cars to school.
became life. That is amazing!
going on here, students coming to school in
Theresa - That's amazing because that means the Lord was preparing you for what Doug Miller - I knew that was my purpose your future would look like and that is greater. and calling over my life. I was
Jaguars.
approximately 11 years old, when my
Theresa - I bet you were looking like what is
Doug Miller - In 1984, we played for Darby City R & B All-Star played during Reagan 's Theresa - What was your father's reaction Presidential Debate. A gentleman came to the job after you started playing? and heard the band, and he stated, he may have a job for our group. Doug Miller -After my father realized, I father and I watched the show together.
Doug Miller - He started laughing and said, yes, especially when you are waiting to get on a school bus. I rode a school bus everyday with some of the children that lived on my block or lived near my neighborhood.
was serious he bought me my first
He proceeded to say, During that time to
saxophone. I played saxophone up to my
drive around in a Jaguar in the 50's you had
40th birthday. I taught myself how to
to have money. For teenagers to drive around
play the piano and guitar.
in an expensive car like that was unheard of
during those times. On the other hand, we saw students driving these cars to school, and if you saw a Jaguar you were doing good. Theresa - When did you start playing music?
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We found out later, it was the Presidential Debate, and they sent 3 limousines to pickup our group. I've played with The Third World Edition. I've met wonderful people and groups: the Temptations and Melvin Franklin whose with the Temptations. I've opened up for Ike and Tina Turner. Earth, Wind & Fire. (just to name a few) I'm humbly blessed!
"Hopefully, You Make the Right Decisions" Fatherhood and the Dads-On-Duty Workshop An interview with Bartee
Written by Angie BEE In 2013, Bartee and I met, dated and married in just six months. During a recent conversation with my husband, I heard his words and I felt his heart when he spoke about the importance of fatherhood in his life.
"I always wanted to have children of my own and God blessed me to have two of my line. Yes, I am a dad. I'm a dad, twice! That is important to me because I want my name to continue on through my kids and through the love from their dad, passed on from generation to generation". The frown lines soften on his face, and his eyes glisten a bit when he talks about his sons aged 18 1/2 and 26. His heart then opens when he talks about his dad. "My dad was a good man and a good provider. He was a good father! My parents were separated while I was growing up, so I don't know if he was a good husband or not. I had a wonderful dad that took care of everything! He did all the cooking and all the cleaning. He signed his name with an "X" because he never learned to read or write. He was a hell of a man, and I appreciate that!" Edward Donald Neal was born in 1897. As Bartee's father, he lived by example and Bartee followed his lead. “He walked everywhere he went and if he needed to take us anywhere of distance, he had friends that would drive us," Bartee explained. "His actions spoke for themselves. He taught me the basics of love and understanding". "Hope that your children pass along what they learned from you to their children! I hope (my children) look at me and I hope that I set a good example. Everyone has to set their own path for life, but I hope my life can help them," Bartee lovingly states.
"I used to run away and get in trouble. My dad wanted me to come home but my pride wouldn't allow me to come home. I thought that I would bring hardship to my dad if I came home. My actions actually brought hardship to my dad, because he wanted me home. I had just got out of prison when my dad passed away. Instead of me being at the hospital with him to hold his hand, I was out in the streets, trying to make up for lost time. I got out of prison Aug 11, 1975 and my dad passed away August 19, 1975", he says remorsefully. As I listened to my husband, we began to reflect on the ministry workshop that we launched together not too long after we exchanged vows in August 2013. At that time, Bartee said to me "I don't know if I am that good of a father, but I can at least share what I've learned". By listening to the voice of God and following the instruction from the Holy Spirit, Bartee helped me to launch the Dads-on-Duty workshop in January 2014. This outreach effort is an important part of The TOUR that Angie BEE Presents evangelism troupe.
"Actually, I am learning from the workshop myself. Fathers get together to talk about ways to improve their relationship at home between husbands and wives, and that trickles down to the kids. You have to start with yourself first and build a strong foundation. Then you can build a life and a family from there". His mind returns to his sons as Bartee continues. "Hindsight is something else! I wish I had done a lot of things differently. I wish I would have pushed my kids more so than I did. For me, I pushed my kids into a direction that wasn't their choice. I would make them stay there for a while, doing whatever I had them involved in, before I allowed them to quit the program. Some things I think about, like for my youngest son...,” he reflects and his voice trails off with the memory. "The school board had determined that my son had ADHD. I wish I had studied and learned more about ADHD, before I started whipping my son. I thought he was a disciplinary problem at school, but he was not. We talk about situations like this and others as we share resources during the Dads-on-Duty workshop".
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I often tease my husband about "The Man Cave" that the fathers enter during the Dads-on-Duty workshop. Bartee always corrects me by stating, "In the workshop, we really discuss what's happening in the world today. As a dad, I really have not been able to talk to my youngest son about his maturity such as girls, babies... all that stuff that a dad needs to do. We really haven't had that conversation yet. Plus, His attitude doesn't let me sit him down to talk to him because I am busy trying to correct his behavior" he concludes. As I begin to reflect on earlier conversations with my husband about parenting styles, he continues with "In our family, I was the disciplinary. I know that in some families, the mother is the disciplinarian. Both parents need to be on the same page in terms of raising their children. It just will not work if you are not. That is a problem, that I see. Make the decisions! Search your heart. Search where you came from and what you learned from your dad and the world and then you come up with answers. Try not to look back!" Sometimes, being an uncle that is present in a child's life can serve as an extension of fatherhood. "I try to treat people like I would like to be treated. My older brother passed away in 1992 and I still try to look after my niece and nephew! Now, Bartee has a new set of nieces and nephews coming up and we are both wondering what spending quality time with them will be like this summer, and after his retirement". "I survived as a loner from the 5th grade with God's help. God gave me enough common sense to make decisions that were somewhat positive in my life. There were consequences with my life. I lived them, and now I want to share them to help others". When Bartee and I married, he became a stepdad. "I've got two daughters... two grown daughters! It's different being a step-dad when they are grown. You are not trying to teach them how to wear a dress or deal with boys. Angelyn and Jasmine have a mom and dad that are living, and these young women have been taught well! I'm not there to be a substitute father. I am there if you need my advice and I will give it to you. It gets to the point where I am here for you, but the decisions that you make... you make. You have to live with the consequences. If there is a situation that I can help you in, I will help you. I'm here for you, but it is still your life! I enjoy having grown step children," Bartee concludes, with a smile. “I thank the other fathers that have participated in the Dads-on-Duty workshop over the years. Those men have blessed me with their knowledge and they have shared their situations and problem solving that we do. It is a continuing saga. As long as I am living, I will always be a daddy. I hope that my sons will remember me even after I am deceased, as well as the ones that cared about me. Hopefully, they will remember me too”. Bartee concludes by adding, “I was able to have two sons, which I always wanted. God gave me just what I always wanted, and even gave me more than I thought I wanted by adding daughters and a ministry to lead. I thank God for my life, health and strength, and for that, I am triumphant!”
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Niagara Falls
We Thank You!
TRIUMPHANT MAGAZINE