Urban Sentinel (December 2020 Edition)

D E C E M B E R 2020 E D I T I O N

a b el M

MOORE

d n e g e L A Living

EDITORIAL

From The Desk of The Editor Reginald Kearney Editor

Corretta L. Doctor

Brandon J. Jolly

Business Manager

Layout Designer

Yvonne Medley

C. NaTasha Richburg

Writer

Writer

Musa Bangura

Anita Davis-DeFoe

Writer

Writer

Stacey Henry-Carr

Bridgette Alfred

Writer

Writer

Sarah Jefferis

Jay Arrington

Writer

Writer

Claudia Newby-Tynes

Dr. Sharon H. Porter

Writer

Writer

Urban Sentinel Magazine Address: 102 Discovery Ct. La Plata, Maryland 20646 Phone: 301-661-3989

Wow, we have finally made it to the last month of the year and what a year 2020 has been. Many families are preparing to celebrate the Christmas holiday, but the celebration will be different this year because of the social distancing requirements due to the Covid-19 virus. We all probably learned new ways to celebrate holidays recently during Thanksgiving. It is being suggested that we continue to scale back the family gatherings and stay at home again with a small group of family and friends. As we know, this too shall pass. Let us continue to pray for everyone that is affected by this virus and let’s not forget our essential workers when we pray.

This month’s December cover features the living legend and remarkable songstress, Melba Moore. An awesome singer and actress, Melba Moore is a force to be reckoned with. She is a four-time Grammy nominee and a Tony Award winner who is still a giant in the entertainment industry. The article will give you insight on how she has thrived for over 50 years as a musician, performer, and an award-winning actress.

This issue also features a plethora of great stories that are filled with heartwarming sentiments and words of encouragement. We are excited for you to turn each page and enjoy the articles from front to back.

We are striving to be a favorite magazine to readers around the world. We are reaching homes across nations and sharing stories of empowerment, inspiration and entertainment from the film, music and literary industries. In keeping with our broad approach to bringing you the very best information in a highly professional manner, we are striving to be the best.

We value the feedback from our readers because it helps us to grow. Please email us at reginald.kearney@marylanddailyexaminer.com with your feedback. If you would like to advertise with us, send an email with the word ‘Advertise’ in the subject line. Like us on FaceBook at The Urban Sentinel, follow us on Twitter at @UrbanSentinel and you may follow us on Instagram at @theurbansentinel .

Visit our website at www.UrbanSentinelMagazine.com .

I invite you to view our new show, ‘Urban Sentinel Live’, which can be viewed on Facebook @UrbanSentinelLive on Monday nights at 8:30pmET. It is a half hour show that features guests that have been featured in the Urban Sentinel magazine. Shows will resume on January 11, 2021, as the staff is enjoying the Holiday Season.

Editor Reginald Kearney Advertising Inquiries Phone: 301-661-3989 E-mail: reginald.kearney@marylanddailyexaminer.com Website: www.urbansentinel.com

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Thank you for your continued support. The Urban Sentinel magazine and talk show are great ways to share amazing stories about amazing talent. We thank you in advance for sharing our brand with your fans, family, and followers. We hope you enjoy all of the great stories in the December 2020 edition.

SUMMARY

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32

48

4

The Symphony of Words Spoken by Nate Couser

6

Vice President Elect Kamala Harris

8

Veronika West-Nothing Can Keep Me Down

12

Entrepreneurial Leadership is a Must

14

The Rise of African American Leaders

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A Revealing Look at the Life and Times of Living Legend Melba Moore

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Camouflaged Blessings

24

Thankful Just Because

26

SHEBIZ! Meet May El Maraashly (Egypt)

29

Quality Legal Resources That Help Empower Black-Owned Businesses

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The Spark that Continues to Thrive - Hattye C. Knight

35

4 Principles of Effective Leadership Part 1

38

Clean Canvas

40

For Your Health: Diabetes and Nutrition Part 2

43

Spiritual Nourishment: The Perfect Gift

46

The Christ Story

48

A Gifted Minister

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | DECEMBER

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The Symphony

OF WORDS SPOKEN BY NATE COUSER

by C. NaTasha Richburg for urban sentinel

radio interview amazingly informative.

Nate has gained many lessons from his years of working in the arts and the theater world that season his professional profile in the seventh year of The Be Exposed Radio Podcast. The Baltimore creative scene recognizes Nate’s ability to give voice to the local artistic community. However, The Be Exposed Radio Podcast is only one of the many expressive art forms that offer a pathway to Nate’s soul. The different doors opened to his artistry pursuit provide additional ways to tell stories that curate the journeys of individuals rooted in the creative community such as: When an indie artist or entrepreneur wants to find a media outlet to get the word out about a new project, the Artist Exchange Radio Podcast, hosted by Nate Couser (pronounced Cows-er) will welcome them with open arms. The 37-year-old actor, director, jewelry designer, art teacher, curator, and entrepreneur often partake in many complementary roles that support his job as a radio host. Nate has worked every position in the visual and performance art discipline successfully, as guided by his studies in the Urban Arts & Production at Coppin State University. With a concentration in acting, Nate has unique oratorical skills that command the attention of his audience.

The artistic creative nature of Nate’s calm confident demeanor brings forth a comforting symphony of words spoken in harmony with the show’s theme to engage artists and entrepreneurs seeking to make their 4

Actor: Nate is an actor first. He has acted in over fifty plays and three short films. His biggest acting accomplishment is the "Insurrection Holding History”, directed by his good friend Kyle A. Jackson. This is the first production for which Nate received critical acclaim, accompanied by a Broadway World Best Actor nomination.

Director: After taking a hiatus from acting and teaching school, Nate began directing plays, starting with his directorial debut at Evergreen AME Church when he was the leader of the Fine Arts Ministry. Since that humble beginning, Nate has directed over thirty plays.

He is currently working to turn the play "BootPrints"

by Latonia Moss into a film.

Art Educator and Entrepreneur: Over the past fifteen

years, Nate is most proud of his work with children.

He has created a way to help young people to find their voices through his acting and visual art instruction. He is currently working on a curriculum that integrates art therapy and storytelling to help students struggling with trauma.

Jewelry Designer: For the past twelve years, Nate’s company VashtiBlue Jewelry has made and sold handcrafted jewelry. This company was started in memory of his grandmother Shirley Chisley and greatgrandmother Marie Wilson at the urging of his friends Tennelia McKinney, Tracie Jiggetts, Elaine Foster, and Cleatress Tobe.

Budding Author: Lastly, Nate’s current project is forcing him to look within. Nate is in the process of writing his first book that takes a deep dive into the

many sides of his life. The book will comprise many of his traumatic life experiences, along with other stories that have shaped the man Nate currently is today.

Nate has many open doors available to him. Several of these doors will advance his desire to help others while promoting the arts. The doors open to Nate have also afforded him opportunities to travel and network with many individuals and organizations in the arts and entertainment world. Nate is a podcast host who digs deep and asks intriguing questions focused to maintain the interest of the listening audience. It is obvious to anyone who knows him that Nate has always been an individual who positively affects everyone around him. Anyone interested in a seasoned actor, director, jewelry maker, educator, or podcast host with an entrepreneurial flair should reach out to Nate at BeExposedRadio.com.

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | DECEMBER

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VICE PRESIDENT ELECT

KAMALA HARRIS Biden’s Thank You to Black Women and His (Maybe) Apology to Anita Hill

by Jay Arrington for urban sentinel Going into the South Carolina democratic presidential primary most people had virtually written off Joe Biden’s lackluster 2020 presidential campaign. In fact, a loss in that state would have represented the tolling of the death knell and the final nail in the coffin for said campaign.

But then along came Jim Clyburn, U.S. Representative for South Carolina's 6th congressional district who gave Biden a full-throated endorsement which many view as the major contributing factor in Biden’s chasm wide margin of victory.

Biden carried every county in the state and won nearly 49% of all the votes cast- 61% being votes cast by African Americans- credit Clyburn's endorsement. And while 61% represents both male and female African Americans voters, it is widely held that it was African American women, that led the charge that put Biden over the top. Not only in South Carolina on that leap year day in February, but also enabled Biden to leap, if you will, over his rivals going forward to become President-Elect Biden.

NBC News exit polls showed that 91% of African American women voted for Biden in this year’s presidential election. Thanks in large part to women like Stacey Abrams, Founder of the voter rights organization

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‘Fair Fight’, and LaTosha Brown, Co-founder of ‘Black Voters Matter’. Not to mention the countless local and community African American women activists whose names we never hear. The point is, is that African American women have been and continue to be the turbo in the engine of the Democratic Party and as such, were owed more than just a mere thank you.

So, when I watched Vice-President Elect Kamala Harris’ historic speech as the first Black/Asian American and woman elected to the nation’s second highest office, it suddenly dawned on me that there was perhaps an unspoken reason why President-Elect Biden chose then Senator Harris. Could Biden’s selection of Harris be not only a thank you to the millions of African American women whose votes propelled him to victory during the primaries, but also a longstanding and overdue apology to Anita Hill?

It was reported in 2019 that Professor Hill would back Biden’s candidacy, but also that after nearly 30 years, she was “ready to hold Joe Biden accountable” regarding Biden’s role as Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee during then nominee Clarence Thomas’ confirmation hearings for a seat on the United States Supreme Court when Professor Hill accused Thomas of

She concluded by saying, “The focus on an apology, to me, is one thing,” Ms. Hill said. “But there needs to be an apology to the other witnesses and there needs to be an apology to the American public because we know now how deeply disappointed Americans around the country were about what they saw. And not just women.

There are women and men now who have just really lost confidence in our government to respond to the problem of gender violence.”

Prayerfully, Biden’s selection of Vice-President Elect Kamala Harris will serve not only as a thank you to black women and an apology to Anita Hill, but that it will also give us clear information that he (Biden) has made a change and that he is going to do something to make us all better off around gender discrimination and also a nation as a whole.

VICE PRESIDENT ELECT

A major point of contention for Professor Hill was Biden’s failure during the Judiciary Committee hearings to call other women as corroborating witnesses. Professor Hill told the NY Times in April 2019 that “by leaving them out, she said, he created a “he said, she said” situation that did not have to exist.”

H A R R I S

During an October 2019 interview at the Citizen by CNN conference in New York, Professor Hill told CNN’s Christiane Amanpour, "Have I forgiven Joe Biden? I'm ready to move on, but I am also ready to hold Joe Biden accountable. Accountability means acknowledging your role in a problem and the harm it's caused.

Acknowledging that you have culpability," She went on to say "Giving me clear information that you have made a change and that you are going to do something to make us all better off around gender discrimination."

KAMALA

sexual harassment.

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | DECEMBER

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Veronika West Nothing Can Keep Me Down

by Portia O. Perry for urban sentinel Veronika West has a compelling story of resilience, survival and forgiveness after years of mental, physical

Veronika suffers from depression, bipolarism and Post

and sexual abuse. She is a divorced mother of three grown

Traumatic Stress Syndrome. She spoke about days when

children, a son and two daughters, and two grandchildren,

she is unable to sleep but when she does she can fall into a

Cameron and Legend. Veronika married at a young age

deep sleep for 15 hours or more. Recently, her daughter

and divorced some years later. Interestingly enough she

advised her that she shook her for about 5 minutes before

said, “My best years of 30 years of marriage were the first

she actually woke up. Additionally, her husband had also

two and the last two.” Her husband was a mentally and

been diagnosed as having bipolar disorder.

physically abusive man. He was more mentally abusive than anything else. He pushed her around but never

Ms. West began to share some of the trauma in her earlier

really hit her. Veronika said, “He often told me that no

life. Unfortunately, around the age of eight or nine,

one would ever want me but him.” She said, “He was so

Veronica’s step-grandfather began molesting her. She felt

demeaning to me.”

really weird about him touching her, but after a while she began to think maybe it was normal. “This went on for

Veronika and her husband lived in Houston, Texas for

about a year and I remember because I was in the third

a while. They later moved to Victoria after the birth

grade,” she said. Around this same time she was learning

of their son where he attended nursery school. They

in school how children should not be touched in their

moved around a bit and then moved to College Station

private places. Then one day Veronika got the nerve to

because she felt her son would have better opportunities

tell her grandmother about it. “My grandmother beat

for success in a smaller town. She was trying to earn a

me until I almost could not stand. She would tell my

degree in nursing but finally accepted it was her father’s

mother she was keeping me home from school because

dream, not hers. She never took the nursing exam

I was sick.”

because it was not what she wanted. Veronika decided to pursue her own dreams and later earned an Associate of

Shortly, within that year, her step-grandfather became

Arts Degree in Business Management. To her, the most

deathly ill. On his deathbed he asked for forgiveness and

important role in life was being a wife and a mother.

she responded, “Granddad, I love you and I forgive you.”

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | DECEMBER

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This helped her move forward.

humiliating. Veronika was attending school to attain a certificate to be a life coach. It ended after the stroke.

Ms. West said she and her two sisters had to move with

The doctors said she would never walk. But a year later

her grandmother mainly because her mom had them at

she knew God had the last word. Veronika got all of her

an early age and she was going to school and working

abilities back to take care of herself and her family.

trying to take care of them. Although her grandmother

Ms. West believes her life experiences with mental,

was an abusive alcoholic, the girls did not want to move

physical and sexual abuse gives her some perspective to

to another school or leave their friends.

help others. She has been helping others all of her life going back to when her children’s friends hung out at her

“Anyone who lives with an alcoholic understands

house seeking advice from her. She always made time

what it is like.” Ms. West also said, “I tiptoed around

for them. Offering bits of wisdom was something she

my grandmother because I thought it was about my

loved doing and the children told her they wished she

complexion. My grandmother, mother and sisters were

was their mother.

very light skinned.”

“They are light, bright and damn near white.” Veronika

Currently, Veronika West is pursuing opening a business

mentioned she is more caramel and believed her

as a life coach. In addition, she continues her efforts to

complexion was the reason her grandmother was abusive

write. She recently co-authored a book entitled, “Dear

to her.

Future Husband.” She just completed a children’s book about one of her grandchildren and has begun a second

The most ironic thing is that she and her husband ended

book that will describe learning how to live with trauma

up taking care of her grandmother because she was struck

and mental illness.

with Alzheimer’s. Veronika prayed and asked God to

Veronika spoke about how great it was to see the look on

allow her to have a conversation with her grandmother

her children’s faces when she was first published. But it

before she died. She wanted to know why she was so

was also the day her mother had ever told her how proud

mean to her. Close to death and in a rare moment of

she was of her. While her journey through life at times

lucidity, Veronika’s grandmother admitted she knew

has been tumultuous, filled with pain and trauma, but

she was hard on her. Her grandmother asked for her

through it all, she has emerged from that despair, and is

forgiveness. Veronika became a little emotional sharing

ready to help others like her do the same. Nothing can

this part of the story. She said, “I am okay because I

keep her down.

know I did nothing to cause it.”

Subsequently, around 2003, while in College Station, Veronika had a stroke. The stroke left her in a wheelchair and she could not use her right side. Her mother and husband had to help her do everything which she found 10

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | DECEMBER

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ENTREPRENEURIAL LEADERSHIP IS A

MUST!!

by Dr. Anita Davis-DeFoe for urban sentinel Entrepreneurs and entrepreneurship are getting more press these days than ever before. Worldwide, entrepreneurs are being looked to for innovation and inspiration. These days entrepreneurship has become recognized as vital to economic and community vibrancy.

Whether running a business as an owner or working at a business as an employee, one of the resources in demand regardless of the sector, are individuals with an entrepreneurial mindset. So just want is an entrepreneurial mindset, simply stated, it is a set of skills that enable people to identify and make the most of opportunities, overcome and learn from setbacks, and succeed in a variety of settings. Today’s global business ecosystem and an exploding virtual marketplace due in part because of technological advancement and the uncontrolled pandemic which has wreaked havoc impacting business models for all organizations, becoming an entrepreneurial leader is essential.

Entrepreneurial leadership is organizing and inspiring a group of people to achieve a common goal using proactive entrepreneurial behavior by optimizing risk, innovating to take advantage of opportunities, taking personal responsibility and managing change within a dynamic environment. Is that you? Well, it should be, regardless of the industry or type of organization you operate or work for in any part of the world!! Typically, the traditional corporate mindset is focused on systems and processes, whereas the entrepreneurial leadership style is more risk oriented, particularly a viewpoint that has become critical with such high levels of uncertainty in all types of organizations.

As you work to “level-up� personally or to upskill your staff, common characteristics of impactful entrepreneurial leaders are: 12

1. Communication skills The leader is able to clearly articulate their ideas, and the plan to achieve common goals. They encourage communication between departments and across levels.

They avoid ambiguities and generalizations, and are able to avoid conflict and misunderstanding due to poor communication.

2. Vision A successful entrepreneurial leader has a clear vision. She/ he knows exactly where they want to take the team and how to get there. They communicate their vision to the team and work with them to make the vision a reality.

3. Supportive An entrepreneurial leader realizes the importance of initiative and reactiveness, and they go out of their way to provide all the support that the team needs to achieve their goals. The leader usually does not punish employees when they take a calculated risk which misfires. Instead, they sit down with employees to analyze what went wrong and work with them to determine opportunities for improvement.

4. Self-belief The leader has tremendous belief in themselves and has confidence gained from years of experimenting, at times failing, and learning. They are aware of their strengths and opportunities for improvement.

5. Shares success When the team or the organization succeeds at something, the leader does not hog the limelight or take all the credit.

They acknowledge the contribution of others and shares the accolades with them.

6. Involved You will not find an entrepreneurial leader cooped up in the office. Leaders like to spend time among employees, walk around the factory or department, interact with everyone, and see them doing their job. This leader will usually take some time out to informally chat with employees, and understand their work and personal challenges.

7. Create an atmosphere conducive to growth With a deep understanding of the importance of other people’s contribution to organizational success, the entrepreneurial leader creates an atmosphere that encourages everyone to share ideas, grow, and thrive.

They actively seek other’s opinions, and encourages them to come up with solutions to the problems that they face.

The entrepreneurial leader also provides positive feedback when employees come forward with an opinion.

8. Honesty Honesty is the most important quality of an exceptional leader. Entrepreneurial leaders who are honest are able to quickly win the trust of their employees. People respect leaders to come across as honest, and are more likely to accept positive or negative feedback and also work harder.

9. Perseverance When the going gets tough, the entrepreneurial leader perseveres. True entrepreneurs simply don’t quit, they keep going till they prevail.

10. Learning The leader not only invests significantly in learning and updating their knowledge, but they also create a learning environment in the organization encouraging others to improve their knowledge, widen their experience, and tackle multiple challenges. They encourage employees to think beyond the box and come up with creative solutions to problems.

As you work to maximize opportunities, remember it starts with expanding your skills and influence, and your ability to create strategies and execute in these uncertain times. Entrepreneurial leadership is a necessary skill when striving to navigate any organization to success, so skillUP!!

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | DECEMBER

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The Rise of

African American Leaders: Making an Impact on Corporate America

by Kathy J. Bynum for urban sentinel While African American executives have been scarce in c-suites across the country, there is one organization that is working to change that reality for the Pittsburgh region.

The Advanced Leadership Initiative, after only two years of existence, is making great inroads as it works to build a pipeline of African American leaders who are prepared to contribute to their organizations and communities at the highest levels throughout the city. The issue that they are addressing locally is a problem that African American leaders throughout the country can relate to – the fact that African American executives have been pushing against the glass ceiling for decades.

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So how do you provide effective tools for change and create more opportunities for African American executives who want to advance in corporate America? The Advanced Leadership Initiative (TALI) has taken a unique approach to addressing that need, which includes a combination of education, mentorship, coaching, and building peer connections. The idea for The Advanced Leadership Initiative was initiated by Evan Frazier, Founding Director and Senior Vice President of Community Affairs at Highmark Health, and it was the culmination of years of conversations with some of Pittsburgh’s prominent African American leaders.

The vision was to create an institution that would serve the Pittsburgh region and have a national impact across the country.

Although Pittsburgh has been known for being one of the most livable cities, it trails other cities in terms of leadership diversity. “In Pittsburgh, there have been black professionals who have secured leadership positions, but they often end up leaving due to a lack of advancement opportunities. They have great resumes, but they come to Pittsburgh and soon develop the impression that they can’t grow here. In addition, they typically lack the peer network needed for professional support,” according to Evan Frazier. These are some of the problems The Advanced Leadership Initiative was created to solve. Evan’s vision to improve the landscape for African American executives was born out of his own experiences as he rose up the corporate ladder. He admits that he was very fortunate in having numerous mentors and sponsors as well as educational opportunities along the way. In addition to formal degrees from Cornell and Carnegie Mellon Universities, he was also a part of the Wharton executive development program along with people from around the country and world; and he was the only African American from the United States in the program. This was one of the experiences that really made him begin to question why more African Americans were not given opportunities to participate in these types of executive education programs.

His experiences in academia, and in the professional workplace, gave him first-hand knowledge on what it is like to walk alone as the only African American in a professional environment. Through The Advanced Leadership Initiative, his goal was to create an infrastructure that would in turn help create an ecosystem for African American leaders to overcome these challenges.

The central element of TALI’s strategy is its world-class, customized education provided through the Executive Leadership Academy. This is TALI’s signature program in partnership with Carnegie Mellon University’s Tepper School of Business, which includes a robust, seven-month Executive Education program providing local and national instruction geared to the challenges that African Americans uniquely face. In spite of COVID-19, social unrest, and other trials, this program has continued to thrive. This year, it shifted from classroom-style learning to a hybrid model including asynchronous and distance learning, cutting-edge technology, and direct engagement, when feasible.

The educational opportunity is just one aspect of what TALI is doing to help African American executives get ahead. Cohort members in the program have the added advantage of being paired with an executive coach to help them gain a greater sense of leadership identity. They are matched with an executive mentor, which allows them to leverage their mentor’s professional and personal networks. This connection also has the potential to lead to an executive sponsor relationship. “Someone within the corporate circle has to be advocating for you, Evan explains.

“Deeper relationships provide greater opportunities for advancement.”

Access to peer networking opportunities is another essential aspect of the TALI cohort experience. Cohort members become a part of a community where they can share ideas and talk about their challenges with fellow members; and it can also extend to the entire TALI alumni community. TALI is in the process of building a structured, life-long alumni network with ongoing enrichment opportunities.

TALI is accomplishing what other organizations have not been able to achieve. National organizations have operated in this space for some time, but it appears that few have had the ability to impact a particular region and build a pipeline of African Americans in that community. And, while TALI partners with companies and institutions, it is an initiative that is motivated by, and built on, the interest of the communities it serves.

The needs that TALI is working to fulfill have been around for some time. Veteran corporate leaders such as Greg Spencer, Founding Board Co-Chair of The Advanced Leadership Initiative and President and CEO of Randall Industries, has had a passion for connecting and advancing African American leadership in Pittsburgh over the years. In fact, Mr. Spencer previously spearheaded a large-scale program designed to do just that. Spencer has worked through three different corporations, and he was often the first African American in those positions. Yet, he worked very hard to make sure he wasn’t the last African American in these companies. Spencer started an initiative in 2001, which had goals similar to TALI – to advance African Americans in corporate positions. He was going to resurrect it at some point, but when he was approached by Evan Frazier, he decided to collaborate with The Advanced Leadership Initiative. “Let’s do this together,” he said. As Spencer reflects on his career: “I went from working as a laborer in the steel URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | DECEMBER

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mills to working in corporate positions. I have a desire for African Americans to be in the room when decisions are being made, and I feel called to do this work,” says Spencer.

“It is important to prepare African American professionals to get through this system, and Evan Frazier recognizes what needs to be done in this region,” he adds.

The Advanced Leadership Initiative has seen clear results from its efforts, according to Marsha Jones, Advisory Board Co‐Chair and Executive Vice President & Chief Diversity Officer at PNC. Mrs. Jones has been a strong advocate of TALI since its inception. When the concept was still in the idea stage, she participated with a select team of individuals (including Evan Frazier, Dr. Lonie Haynes, Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion at Highmark Health, and others) who traveled to Boston, a city that found itself in similar straits some years ago. As a result of viewing Boston’s professional development program, they were able to gain insight on how to make a program work in Pittsburgh.

“The Advanced Leadership Initiative is the only initiative of its type in the country that focuses on the development of senior executives in a particular city. By partnering with corporate, non-profit and local government agencies, TALI identifies individuals with potential and strong professional skill sets. Cohort members already come with experience and they receive additional development through the Executive Leadership Academy. It is an experience unlike any other,” says Mrs. Jones.

The TALI Advisory Board includes representation from a variety of industries in Pittsburgh, including leaders such as Jerry MacCleary, Advisory Board Co‐Chair and Retired Chairman, President and CEO of Covestro. He also serves on the CEO Council and is a TALI mentor.

Mr. MacCleary has been a champion for diversity in the workplace. He recalls a time when he became CEO of Covestro in 2012. As he described it, “I looked out into the audience at a town hall meeting and saw only people who looked like me, and I thought, how are we going to recruit more diverse candidates?” So, he began to change Covestro’s human resource policies, how they recruit, and how they interview. He then hired Dina Clark, Head of Diversity & Inclusion, for assistance in how to make things inclusive, how to operate with integrity and respect, and how to address biases. MacCleary already had the mindset that diversity was needed in corporate Pittsburgh; so, when he was approached about joining the TALI team, he was honored to be included. “Some say they can’t find African 16

Americans, but we have to be intentional to really make a difference; TALI is on target to help our community be more successful; Evan has had this idea for years, Greg has lived it and fought hard for many years, and Marsha is a professional who is skilled and very well respected,” he explains. “Then when you tie it into CMU, which provides education that addresses the real issues and how to work in the corporate world, plus members of the CEO community who are truly making a difference by taking action (not just checking off boxes, but being ambassadors) – when we pull this all together, we will help drive the change.”

Is what TALI trying to accomplish working? The results speak for themselves. Examples include cohort members such as Michael Thomas who was promoted to Executive Vice President and Co-head of Real Estate at PNC Bank and Lance Hyde who (after his previous company went through corporate restructuring) obtained connections through TALI that landed him the position of Director of Global Inclusion and Diversity at Koppers, Inc. Members of The Advanced Leadership Academy cohort are getting noticed; they are having a stronger voice; and doors are being opened. While advancement is not guaranteed for every member who goes through the Executive Leadership Academy program, it definitely creates greater exposure and new opportunities.

The Advanced Leadership Initiative has received support from major corporations and foundations in the Pittsburgh region, including Lead Contributors The Heinz Endowments, BNY Mellon Foundation of SWPA, Hillman Family Foundations, and The Richard King Mellon Foundation. Current Presenting Sponsors include Highmark Health, PNC, and UPMC. Contributors include The Buhl Foundation. Gold Sponsors include Bank of America, BNY Mellon, Covestro, Dollar Bank, FHL Bank Pittsburgh, Gateway Health, Giant Eagle, Giant Eagle Foundation, Koppers, and PPG. Silver Sponsors include Ernst & Young (EY) and Wabtec. POISE Foundation has served as Fiscal Sponsor for TALI since its inception.

For information about The Advanced Leadership Initiative or the Executive Leadership Academy, visit www.advancedleadershipinitiative.org or contact Robert Young, Managing Director at robertyoung@ advancedleadershipintiative.org.

URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | DECEMBER

17

A Revealing Look

at the Life and Times of LIVING LEGEND

a b el M

MOORE

by Alesha Brown for urban sentinel

Singer and actress Melba Moore is a force to be reckoned with. This four-time Grammy nominee and Tony Award winner was not satisfied with dominating the musical charts or television screen. After taking a brief sabbatical in 1972, she formed and launched her own production company, Hush Productions. I had the pleasure of spending time with the star as she revealed some of the little known truths of her past and the key to her success and longevity.

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Just reading her biography reveals that Ms. Moore is nothing short of remarkable. How many people can thrive for over 50 years as a musician, performer, and awardwinning actress? Brazen is the word that comes to mind when I think of a black woman taking a sabbatical from television and reemerging with her own production company in the early 70s. But Melba revealed the true reason for her leave of absence and it was almost had a fatal ending.

Fresh off of Broadway, and in the backdrop of an urban apartment building, real-life lovers Melba Moore and Clifton Davis hosted a summer variety show. The Melba Moore and Clifton Davis Show included comedy skits and musical performances.

It was short-lived although well received. Both stars have gone on record stating that the root cause of the show’s cancellation was the end of their relationship. But Melba shared in our interview that the reason for her sabbatical was due to a more

than one-year medical battle from a life for good. ruptured appendix.

With her severe illness, exploratory When Melba discovered that she surgery, and extended recovery, was pregnant with the couple’s child, Melba feared the worse and moved Clifton Davis requested that she have back to New Jersey to stay with her an abortion, believing a child at that family as she recuperated. But her visit time would ruin their careers. Clifton revealed just how much had changed advised her to get an IUD as a form while she was pursuing her career. of birth control. The IUD ruptured She discovered that her mother was Melba’s appendix and led to an uphill alone, her stepfather and mother had battle for more than a year, forcing separated, and the family was divided her to leave television and music and going in different directions. It while almost ending her career and was similar to the first 10 years of

her life, which Melba described her family then as “broken and scattered.”

Her mother was a single parent and took care of Melba’s grandmother who had several strokes and had forgotten how to speak. Her nanny and grandmother raised her in their Manhattan apartment on Central Park West, 108th Street in New York (USA). The star stressed that “if you don’t have a solid beginning, you can get into a lot of trouble.”

Melba's portion of a “solid beginning”

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the same time. Certain parts of But if I'm telling you it might be your work may garner public something great around there, your recognition; other areas will not. attitude is going to make you want Often those other areas are what to open and, primarily, you're going will sustain you and keep you to be looking for what God is doing going. Continue to work even and when He is doing great things. when you feel like “people don’t And that's kind of a bit of protection see you.” A lot of times artists against negativity or what the devil's that we haven't heard from in going to put in front of you. Your the United States are performing attention is already taken up upwards. overseas and doing well.

You're already busy with something Try to adopt the attitude that you will good.

• Maintain good health and habits be a perennial disciple...That means that enhance your skill/gift. “Keep student. You're going to keep an open Now I sound like a preacher, but... experimenting and developing mind. If you're blessed to have some God came so that we could have life your own techniques to see what longevity, or maybe a lot of longevity and have it more abundantly. And God is teaching you as you keep like I have, you're going to find out that’s so much more. We want Him to trying to get strong. I work out, I that God is always doing something make the choices because He wants lift weights or run. I'm a swimmer. more for us than we can ever think of. new, so stay open.

That's why I can hold those long notes. I wasn't always able to hold God says that He owns it all. He created I asked the legend if she ever wanted a note for 30 seconds or longer. us for his pleasure so He wants us to to give up and she assured me that Start with whatever your gift is, have it. That’s not just the industry. she did. Some of her downfalls were but keep trying to increase it. If The industry is so charismatic and so “devastating and disastrous” and you do, it will get better.” draws us into the point that once we she felt like she didn’t have “anybody get inside there, we can’t see or feel to show her how to get back up in or experience anything ‘cause it’s so the industry.” She shares this advice • Follow your dream for your life, not someone else’s, and ask for powerful and has such a powerful to those trying to enter the industry what you want. Melba’s stepfather influence on us. But He means it for today (especially young people): once told her that she needed “to anything. He may change your mind get a real job”. She told him how • Explore different areas of the and give you something else to do. he was the one that was excited industry. One of the key reasons about her being a school teacher, Melba credits for her longevity Sometimes we think we're being open but she wanted to “get out there is because she worked in “a lot and don't know if we are. So if I say it and have fun like he did.” Melba of different areas. The theatrical at least I can bring your attention to it. asked him to introduce her to industry is totally different You could ask yourself the question, some of the people he knew that from the recording industry.

Am I being open? I think you're going could help her get started and he Your success is also different in to be more willing to be open. It could did. As a result, he introduced her various seasons but opportunities be really great cause you're going to to several agents that led to some will present themselves as you look forward to something great. But jobs and auditions, one leading continue to work” your craft. if you're always told to be afraid of to a highly successful Broadway this and afraid of that, you're going to performance.

• Continue working and have a keep shutting down. variety of things going on at was provided by her early enrollment into Catholic school where she was indoctrinated with Jesus Christ.

Today, as a born again Christian, she notes this was key to her being able to overcome life’s challenges and her faith strengthens her to this day.

Melba attributes her joyful nature and spirit to God. She encourages one to keep an open mind:

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Honestly, it appears that it was Melba’s diligence and resilience that opened multiple doors despite the twists, turns, and devastations she experienced. Broadway led her directly into television despite the limitations that existed for black actors and actresses at the time. The legend was honored and received an award for her work on Broadway this October, courtesy of Women of Color in Broadway, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting women of African, Latin, and Asian descent pursuing careers in musical theatre.

There are no words to describe the power of being in her presence, the igniting aura she omits, or the richness in the knowledge she shares.

I asked her when she takes her last breath how would she like to be remembered? What would she want people to say about her? Her reply says it all: That's a difficult one because you asked me to look at myself like people look at me. I don't know if I can completely do that. Hmmm. A Holy Ghost Humble Diva (laughs).

If you just said diva, that sounds like you’re so into yourself. No, no, no.

You've got to be into yourself and you’ve got to take care of yourself, but you're not the end of it, you know.

You're not the beginning of it. You can be whatever you want but you know what the context is.

I agree and I am fine with that title but she is so much more anWd the

universe agrees with me. Hear her latest and greatest work and keep up with her upcoming appearances at: http://www.melbamoore.com/.

regularly and toured England and France in the summer of 1937, but by 1940, Hill had left the band business to manage Minton's.

stepfather, pianist Also, check out her latest track, Just • Melba’s Clement Moorman, introduced Doing Me, now available on Spotify, her to several agents which led to YouTube Music, Apple Music, Deezer, some studio work and eventually and where most major music is sold an audition that landed her a and streamed. Melba Moore joins role in the cult classic Hair on forces with producers Terry Hunter Broadway in 1969. It was in and George Pettus, Jr. to get you on Hair that Melba became the the dance floor with a soulful groove first African American woman with a driving bass line, rhythmic to replace a white actress, who guitar, horns, and four-on-the-floor happened to be the acclaimed thump to make you move. Side Note: Diane Keaton, in a lead role on I need to get the black lacey, partial Broadway. see-through outfit she’s wearing in the YouTube video in my size.

Melba Moore isn’t missing a beat and • Ms. Moore was the first female pop/R&B artist to do a nonshowing us how to really close out operatic solo concert at New York 2020 and bring in 2021!

City’s Metropolitan Opera House

and the Olympia in Paris.

Other Facts you need to know about Legend Melba Moore: Melba Moore’s produced version of • Melba Moore indeed has music “Lift Every Voice and Sing" which in her genes. Her mother, Bonnie was entered into the United States Davis, was a professional singer Congressional Record as the official who had a #1 hit on the R&B Negro National Anthem in 1990. The charts with the song “Don’t Stop song was named an “American Aural Treasure” by the National Recording Now." Registry of the Library of Congress for • Melba’s biological father, the late her co-produced recorded rendition Teddy Hill, is best-remembered of the anthem. for managing Minton's Playhouse in Harlem, a seminal jazz club in • Melba is a five-octave singer. Most people have a two-octave vocal Harlem. He started his own band range, but Melba has five like in 1934, attracting such sidemen singers Celine Dion and Mariah as Roy Eldridge, Chu Berry, Dicky Carey.

Wells, Bill Coleman, and Dizzy Gillespie (who recorded his first solos while with Hill). The band played at the Savoy Ballroom URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | DECEMBER

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CAMOUFLAGED

s g n i s s e l B

by Claudia Newby-Tynes for urban sentinel

On wrapping up 2020, this year has proven to be one

diligently fulfilling their 2019 assignments and waited

that will be recorded in the history books for decades to

patiently for the expiration of 2019. Still others plotted

come. In mid summer of 2019, I heard this declaration in

and planned their new and next level for 2020. They

my spirit for the upcoming New Year 2020. After hearing

dismissed the fact that they still had unfinished work

it multiple times in my spirit, I posted this declaration

left for 2019. I found myself somewhere among these

on my social media platforms. The post declared, "Year

scenarios.

2020: Perfect vision. Clarity on vision and purpose for the believer."

While penning this article and reflecting on 2020, it has definitely proven to be an interesting year indeed.

Soon thereafter, others shared similar visions for

Four days had elapsed since the presidential election

2020. When the curtains were opened in 2020, we

on November 3, 2020. President Elect Joe Biden and

(the believers) rejoiced in the joy of our salvation. We

Vice President Elect Kamala Harris were declared the

rejoiced in knowing that God had new and better plans

projected winners on November 7, 2020. The broadcasted

lined up for us. And He did! They just didn’t come

footages of the unthinkable, the unimaginable, the

packaged to our likings. His blessings were camouflaged.

unprecedented, the never-seen-before, the record-

Some believers rejoicing had halted them from moving

breaking and the first-timers were played out before our

forward during the remainder of 2019. Some continued

eyes.

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chaotic disruptions, including the COVID-19 pandemic, "Yes! I can see clearly now!" as 2020 concludes, and

exposed the good, bad, and ugly characteristics in my

stuff is still happening. How has 2020 lived up to your

own life. The pandemic, coupled with the presidential

expectations? While it didn't work according to my

election process, tested and exposed our love walk and

plans, hindsight says it worked out according to God's

our talk.

will and His plans for me (see Jeremiah 29:11).

Journal writing is therapeutic for me. It helps me to flush Oh wait a minute...don't turn me off yet! Read on...we

out the negativity of my own thought life. Writing helps

can agree to disagree. If that's you, holla at your girl!

me to expose the "enemy in the inner me" (in my Bishop

During a recent telephone conversation with my niece,

T.D. Jakes' voice). God showed me vivid images through

as we were wrapping up some business matters I said, "If

dreams and visions the areas where I needed some

you need me holla!" She let out one of those deep belly-

serious course corrections. Self introspection helped

aching laughs. So did I. Those who really know me know

me to align my love walk and talk with the Word. Did

that slang talk is not the norm for me. But using slang

I see this blessing coming? Absolutely not because the

language is fine in its appropriate setting.

blessing appeared flawed, it was camouflaged. God is in the blessing business. We cannot dictate to Him how to

Year 2020 has changed on so many levels for me. This

bless us.

year came with a life full of what I called camouflaged blessings in the areas of character building and fruit

Let's finish 2020 strong by living each day of your best

bearing for kingdom living. The dawning of a new day

life to its fullest potential. God is not through blessing

and a new dimension rushed in and moved me out of my

you in 2020. So stop looking for your blessings to arrive

comfort zone. The year of the new and now has allowed

wrapped in metallic gold foil paper and trimmed with a

God's creativity to flow freely and unhindered through

red velvet bow. Focus your attention on those blessings

me. Clarity of my call as a Kingdom Communicator was

that are camouflaged or disguised (not appealing to the

revealed. Psalm 46:10, "Be still and know that I am God"

five senses). God is trying to tell you something! Are you

kept me focused.

listening? If so, holla!

"So what are camouflaged blessings?" Let's say that God is big on seeing His people walking in love and displaying godly character. Seeing ourselves through the mirror of His Word is our plumb line or measuring rod. The

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Thankful Just Because

by Catherine Tyson for urban sentinel

You know so many times we wait to be thankful. We feel that when this happens, we will be happy and of course thankful. But how about just being thankful right now, in the midst of the madness? Today I just want to share a prayer of thankfulness for nothing and for everything. I think we all could use some of this right now. A friend sent it to me from an unknown author and I think it is great to will share it with you.

Dear Lord, I want to thank you for what you have already done I am not going to wait until I see results.

I am going to thank you right now I am not going to wait until things get better or I feel better I am going to thank you right now I am not going to wait until the people who hurt me say they’re sorry I am going to thank you right now I am not going to wait until the pain in my body disappears I am going to thank you right now I am not going to wait until my financial situation improves I am going to thank you right now I am not going to wait until I get a job I am going to thank you right now I am not going to wait until I understand every situation in my life that caused me pain I am going to thank you right now I am not going to wait until the storm is over I am going to thank you right now I am not going to wait until I win I am going to thank you right now!

I am thanking you because I am alive I am thanking you because I am still standing I am thanking you because you haven’t given up on me And I am thanking you because I am blessed beyond measure!

Amen Look around you. Do you have food to eat, a roof over your head, shoes on your feet? Then isn’t God good anyway and things could be a lot worse than they are? Let’s get to being grateful and thankful for the little blessings in our lives and see what the results of that is.

Until next time. Look me up on Facebook at Catherine Tyson and follow me on Instagram @realcatherinetyson.

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SheBiz

Meet May El Maraashly (Egypt) by dr. anita davis-defoe for urban sentinel In my work as a global solutionists, I meet “Shepreneurs” from around the globe, incredible women chasing passion. Through my collaborative business partnership with Businessita based in Egypt, I am introduced to women who aspire to mind their business!! Meet May El Maraashly as she shares her journey.

Directing my graduation short feature project, “Painting the Lily” has not been about directing a 13-minute short in over 9 months; rather it has been about finally accessing self-expression in over 32 years! Coming from an academic family with both parents working as full-time professors, I have been a hard-working student and wanted to follow my parents’ suit and become a university professor.

I studied like nuts, came tops and got appointed as a demonstrator, then received two Fulbright scholarships and went to Columbia University in NYC to pursue my M.A. in English and Comparative Literature. I spoke 6 languages, learnt maybe 10 and been to a solid 80 cities in 14 countries. For many, I was an over-achiever, a symbol of success and independence. Yet, I was not happy. Not fulfilled.

Not even close.

Upon my return to Egypt, I decided all I knew was I needed to quit my prestigious position at the University and that I would rather create than criticize other’s people’s art all my life. I had this enormous creative energy buried deep inside and had not the foggiest how to find an outlet for it. It was a long, excruciating process of soul-search and

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experimenting with different modes of creation: photography; painting; dancing; music. Until I attended a film directing workshop and thought that’s pretty much it! It is the best umbrella to encompass all my passions for arts; storytelling; music; choreography in one! It was the beginning of a very long turning-point, that I believe am still trying to come to grips with.

I have always been ardently in love with cinema, and for long had fantasies of acting, but never acted upon these fantasies. It was not until I was hitting my 30year threshold that I decided to leave behind all my success, and failures and start from scratch. I left my hometown in Alexandria and relocated in Cairo to pursue a two-year filmmaking diploma at the French University in Cairo. Throughout these two years I attended a myriad workshops on directing; acting; cinematography. I directed about 6 feature shorts and one documentary.

My graduation film project, "Painting the Lily," co-written, produced and directed by me was officially selected in 36 international and local film festivals and won 6 awards: First Prize as best film at the 1st edition Luxor University African Forum, held in Luxor, Egypt, February 2020. Le Grand Prix as Best film at the 6th edition of Casablanca Short Film Festival for the Arab World, held in Casablanca, Morocco, December 2019.

Best Achievement Award for the Director in Short Narrative Film Category at the 10th edition of Silicon Valley African Cinema FF, held in San José, California, USA, October 2019.

Best Cinematography Award at the 3rd edition of Eyoun Short Film Festival in Baghdad, Iraq, July 2019. Principal Actress received an appreciation certificate for her role as actress in a leading role at Silicon Valley FF. Director received

an appreciation certificate at Eyoun FF. My later short film, "Sunset Memory" won First Prize at the short fiction film workshop competition at the 3rd edition of Sharm Sheikh Asian Cinema Film Festival, February 2019.

When I ask myself, however, why I decided to make a film about two women bonding in different intimate crises, I find that the answer goes far beyond this project. I grew up with a solid feminist upbringing and academic education. I have always believed in women’s rights. Being a female film director was partly my safe haven to exercise both my creativity and leadership skills that are often taken for bossiness for not so feminist peeps! Yet, I did not want to tackle women battered up and having their identities eroded by men.

I did not want to portray a relationship in any romantic sense, either. I wanted to show the uttermost power women bring into this world: their unwavering ability to nurture; heal and support themselves above all, and others.

Women grow up with tons of insecurities; prohibitions; threats and restrictions in the name of protective patriarchal figures. I personally both have and haven’t suffered from his. I grew up equal in my household, yet faced an array of oppressive mentalities in society as I hit rock-bottom reality in the job market. I still get shocked to the very core with the amount of bigotry and misogyny some men still have deeply entrenched in 2020. Yet, I cannot say I was ever oppressed enough to have my life decisions taken for me or imposed upon me by anyone. Hence, I wanted to portray women who have crises concerning their own passions; life pursuits and evolving identities in face of pain; without any authoritarian patriarchal figure being the perpetrator. I wanted us as women to discuss us; as independent beings with our own psychological makeup and aspirations. That is why, I wanted to show the power of women in solidarity to lift up themselves, by themselves, for themselves because is not that what all women do every single day?

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Quality Legal Resources That Help Empower Black-Owned Businesses

by Brandee Johnson for urban sentinel

Despite the challenges that COVID-19 has thrown Black business owners, the entrepreneurial spirit still burns bright. Many Black men and women are either starting businesses or taking the necessary steps to keep their businesses running. No matter what stages our businesses are currently in, they need to be protected at all costs – financially and legally. There are multiple avenues that Black business owners can explore to receive legal resources for their businesses. Three organizations, in particular, offer quality legal resources to Black business owners and entrepreneurs at little or no cost.

BLACK CONNECT Founded in June of 2019, Black Connect is a nonprofit organization whose sole mission is to tackle the racial wealth gap in America by increasing and empowering the number of Black-owned businesses. With a vision of creating “Thriving Black communities in every state in America and throughout the African diaspora”, Black Connect is an extension of Blackconnect.com, a wide-ranging, Black-owned business and social networking program whose members reside in the United States, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom, and Africa. Because Black Connect is a membership-based organization, you will have to pay a membership fee to access the resources for entrepreneurs; however, the membership fees are a small price to pay for the programs and services that Black Connect offers.

One of the most beneficial programs that Black Connect provides is the Small Business Legal Services (SBLS) Program. The SBLS Program is a volunteer program that provides access to free or low-cost legal services. Its purpose is to educate business owners and entrepreneurs not only about the legal and business issues that impact business ventures but how to protect and enforce their legal rights. Industry-specific classes and workshops are given based on the needs of the members, and cover various topics such as contracts, business formation, intellectual property, and consumer rights. To access these services through the SBLS Program, you must hold a membership in the Small Business/Entrepreneurship category and own and operate a business located in the United States. To learn more about Black Connect, visit https://www.blackconnect.org.

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MILES & STOCKBRIDGE Venroy July

(Corporate attorney at Miles & Stockbridge) Miles & Stockbridge is a law firm with offices in the Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia area. With a brand of “standing out, embracing innovation and navigating the risks and opportunities of the evolving 21st century legal arena”, Miles & Stockbridge lived up to their brand and launched an initiative designed to help Black-owned businesses. Created

by Corporate attorney Venroy July, the Black Business & Start Up Initiative aims to provide quality legal resources to Black business owners at little to no cost.

The Initiative is aimed at assisting start-up companies that are at least 50% owned by Black owners, have less than five years of operating history, and/or have less than $500,000 of annual revenues. The advantages of the Initiative are that the lawyers involved have a variety of experience providing legal counsel to businesses from all walks of life, from start-ups to family-owned and mid-market businesses. In addition to expertise, lawyers also provide the resources of a full-service business law firm to Black business owners. For more information on the Black Business & Start Up Initiative, visit https://www.mslaw.com/black-business-start-up-initiative.

VORYS SATER SEYMOUR & PEASE Janay Stevens (Vorys Sater Seymour & Pease)

Similar to Miles & Stockbridge, Vorys is a law firm that launched an initiative with the intention of supporting Black-owned businesses.

Created by Janay Stevens – Senior associate and attorney behind the project – the Vorys Initiative for Business Empowerment provides free foundational legal services to Black business owners. The Initiative is open to businesses at all stages. Once you complete a brief questionnaire about your business, a consultation will be scheduled where your business objectives will be discussed in more depth. After the initial consultation, a one-on-one counseling session will take place assessing your business’s legal needs. Some of the common legal areas the Vorys Initiative aids in are employment, business formation, tax, financing, contracts, leasing, brand protection and intellectual property. For more information on the Vorys Initiative for Business Empowerment, visit https://practices.vorys.com/vorys-initiative-for-business-empowerment.

These three organizations provide legal resources to Black-owned businesses with the goal of empowering Black business owners. As we enter the new year, let us enter with the spirit of empowerment, and continue to search for

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SPARK THAT CONTINUES TO

THRIVE THE

H AT T Y E C . K N I G H T

by C. NaTasha Richburg for urban sentinel

There may come a time in our lives when we can reach back into our memory to revisit the lighthearted smile that walks our way in the form of a very friendly, funloving person. The person blessed our heart to radiate a smile within us to inspire the onset of brightness in our day. A “new day smile” may engrave a lasting impression that generates a “feel-good” memory. Hattye C. Knight is that individual who sees light at the end of every dark tunnel. She radiates an energy that acts as a power source to drive sadness from the atmosphere. Hattye sees herself as “an ordinary person whom God has allowed to do extraordinary things.” If the word “extra” is added to the prefix of Hattye’s “ordinary” assessment, the word “extraordinary” would evolve to best reflect the dream-driven conquests of this seasoned woman who has survived divorce and an empty nest only to fulfill her desire to pull up stakes once again to arrive at a new residence. You see, since leaving her home in the Bronx, New York as a teenager, Hattye has lived in 8 states and Puerto Rico, and currently lives in Dallas, Texas. Hattye is relentlessly focused to follow her dream to live her best life. The three-time divorcee bravely removed herself from several fruitless marriages, raised two grown

daughters, and has an adorable granddaughter. The motto that guides Hattye ’s reality at this stage in life, where she can finally put herself first, is called the “Be about the business of you” stage. The dream foremost in Hattye’s heart is the dream of becoming an actress.

When did you know you wanted to become an actor? Growing up in the Bronx, I started watching the soap opera, “All My Children” only to follow the storyline of Jessie and Angie closely and longed to become an actress. The real spark came after working for ABC News-Harris Poll. I discovered if I used a non-regional, generic speaking voice when talking on the telephone, I got the best survey results. Eventually, I learned to eliminate my Bronx accent that was heard by the listener only when I spoke certain words. One day, I landed a call that put me on the telephone with an American white supremacist. The call took place during the US hostage crisis. I used my Southern belle accent when speaking with the respondent, which resulted in an informative conversation with him that was useful to the authorities seeking details on white supremacy and race relations at the time. Using the Southern belle accent provided a

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spark that made me want to pursue becoming an actress.

What are your standout acting roles to date? I had a casting agent in Maryland, and I landed several commercials in 2019. I have had ongoing roles on “House of Cards, ’’ a television series based on the 1989 novel by Michael Dobbs. In 2019, the AARP YouTube series “Never Gets Old” featured me as an actress in 7 of 8 episodes https://youtu.be/fEiOj-aSgyI . Since moving to Dallas, I have done several voiceover projects and a commercial all without an agent.

What is your acting goal? To bring my whole-self to the set with the intent to encourage people. I know I am gifted in connecting people with similar interests. I will go out of my way to make sure the connections happen on and off the set. Casting directors love the energy I bring to the set and ensure that I get into as many camera shots as possible.

What additional dreams do you have? I always wanted to travel outside of the country, so I traveled to Egypt with the travel group Vacation Envy International (VEI) that “allows clients to focus on exploring uncharted territories—leaving the hassle of coordinating logistics to [them].” VEI affords safe travel for groups as well as individuals traveling alone. While in Egypt I had a dream to see Moses’ side of the Nile and did so. Once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted, I plan to proceed with a planned trip to Greece.

Hattye worked as a Human Resources Consultant for over 20 years, including Employee and Labor Relations.

She is also a Navy veteran, former Air Traffic Control Tower Supervisor, a paid actress, authored the book titled Against Company Policy (a Christian workplace thriller has afforded her to express herself through the pages

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of the book), co-hosted the Authors Talk Live Radio Show, and is an Motivational Speaker. Hattye engages audiences with real-life stories expressed in a humorous manner. Hattye afforded audiences insight on how she overcame obstacles and professes continued passion for positive results on her life’s journey. Her journey has been tremendously difficult and would have knocked out the average person. However, Hattye’s faith and commitment to meeting with a therapist on occasion helps support her ability to maintain an emotional balance that can invert troubles to become wonderful lessons that fuel her passion. Hattye is destined to reach her dream of becoming a full-time working actress.

What advice would you give someone over 40 years old wants to follow their dreams? It’s never too late to love. It’s never too late for self-love. It’s never too late for self-discovery.

4 P rin c ip le s

E ff e c t iv e L e a d e r s h ip of

PA R T 1

by dr. sharon h. porter for urban sentinel How do you define a leader? There are a plethora of definitions of leader. I absolutely love John Maxwell’s definition: A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way… That sums it up for me. In order for a leader to demonstrate effective leadership, one must embody the mindset and actions of a leader. It doesn’t matter the industry, I am a believer that as a leader you demonstrate certain characteristics, specific qualities, and common traits.

As part of my research for my Women Who Lead, Next in Line to Lead, and Young Ladies Who L.E.A.D., book series, I have interviewed more than 100 leaders in various industries around the United States. From this research, I have identified four principles of effective leadership: Integrity, Execution, Competency, and Collaboration.

“Real integrity is doing the right thing, knowing that nobody;s going to know whether you did it or not” -Oprah Winfrey Integrity refers to being trustworthy and honest. Do your actions align with your words? Are you reliable? A leader that demonstrates integrity has no problem owning up to their mistakes. Your leadership reputation is dictated by your level of integrity. As a school leader, I learned early that transparency was the key to building trust with staff, parents, and all stakeholders. That same lesson

This article will highlight part 1 of 4; Integrity.

has allowed me to build trust as a business owner and

Integrity

the organization I lead. You cannot say one thing and do

entrepreneur. As a leader, my behavior is a reflection of something entirely different and expect others to respect

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35

you as a leader. Behavior and actions must align with

through on a promise.”

your core values.

Integrity demands honesty.

It is the foundation of

Sigma Assessment Systems Inc. identify key questions

leadership. There is no compromise with integrity...It is

you should ask yourself to assess your level of integrity:

not situational. “You do the right thing because it is the right thing to do.” Brian Tracy says integrity is the “True

• Am I accountable for my behavior and the decisions I make?

Mark of Leadership”...”how fair you can be when other people are treating you unfairly.”

• Do I accept responsibility for my mistakes?

• Am I setting a good example for my direct reports?

According to a survey by Robert Half Management

• Do I always follow through on my commitments and

Resources, both employees and C-suite leaders rated

promises?

• Do I act in ways that build trust with my direct

integrity as the most essential leadership trait. But what does integrity look like?

reports?

• Am I open and honest with my co-workers and direct reports?

1. It is being honest and trustworthy. “Honesty is the only policy”.

2. Treating people fairly and valuing their time.

Where do you fall with integrity?

3. Demonstrating accountability and responsibility.

Keeping your commitments

“The Buck Stops Here!”

4. Owning your mistakes and giving credit where credit is due.

With leadership comes accountability. Accountability is taking responsibility...period. You act, assess, and adjust

5. Putting personal agendas aside to focus on the greater good of the organization

as necessary. If you do this with fidelity, You own the good, the bad, and the ugly. As a business owner, I had

Integrity is one of the key principles of effective leadership.

to realize that honoring my commitment was tied to

Live it. Speak it.

my reputation, which as I’ve noted above is dictated by your level of integrity. Accountability and integrity goes hand in hand. Early on in my business, I would take on more work than I was able to complete by the provided completion date. This was a bruise to my reputation initially. I had to turn that around if I wanted to stay in business .Making deliverables on time became my top priority. “It is far better to say no than it is to fail to follow

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“Success without integrity is failure.” -Anonymous

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Clean Canvas

by Olympia Kent for urban sentinel

Knowing the type of skin, you have is crucial. Your skin type greatly influences the types of products, treatments you use.

No matter what your skin situation is there are three core steps you should apply as a foundation for a successful skin care routine. Keeping your skin care routine simple will avoid overwhelming your skin. Different skin types have a variety of needs that need to be met on a consistent basis. It is essential to wear a face mask everywhere you go throughout your day. Because of the pandemic you may have noticed a breakout in your face around the jawline, cheeks, or chin where your mask is worn and wondered what caused it?

Keeping your mask clean would be the first step to getting rid of this acne problem. If you are using a reusable mask, please wash it daily with non-irritation soap and warm water. After each use and dry it in the dryer, store your fresh mask in a bag to keep it clean.

One easy method for determining your skin type is the 30-minute skin test. To perform this test, thoroughly wash your face, removing any previous products. After, wait 30 minutes. During this time, refrain from applying any other products to your skin. After the 30 minutes are up, examine your skin in the mirror.

type they are best for.

The first step is to find a cleanser. A cleanser removes the dirt, oil, and bacteria that you meet during the day, or at night while you sleep. This first step in your routine is critical. Cleansing your face will help you start or end your day with fresh skin. Additionally, you will be able to receive the maximum benefits from the products you apply after cleansing, because your face will be free of any dirt and debris that would impact the way products are absorbed.

People with oily skin should look for foaming cleansers that remove excess oil and pore-clogging bacteria, while people with dry skin should look for hydrating cleansers to help restore the skin’s moisture barrier.

Secondly you use a good moisturizer Your skin needs moisture to replenish the water it loses throughout the day. Moisturizers with ingredients such as ceramides and hyaluronic acid can provide your skin with the healthy hydration it needs to stay soft, supple, and youthful.

Even if you have oily or combination skin, it is still important to moisturize. In fact, a lack of moisture can drive your skin to produce more oil to compensate for it, which can lead to clogged pores and breakouts.

Upon examination, you can determine your skin type based on the characteristics you see. For example, consider the following characteristics:

Consistency is key when it comes to skincare, so make sure whatever routine you create is one that you will be able to consistently follow daily.

Oily Skin: Skin looks shiny, may feel slick to the touch

Give your routine time to work, do not get discouraged if your skin does not change overnight with your new routine.

For the most noticeable results, aim to follow your routine for at least six weeks. This is approximately the amount of time it takes your skin to complete the cycle of renewing itself with new skin cells. Once this cycle is complete, you can begin to see the impact of the products you have been using.

Dry Skin: Skin has dry, flakey areas and may feel tight Sensitive Skin: Skin looks red and irritated, may be painful to the touch Combination Skin: Skin has a combination of both oily and flakey areas. If you are having trouble distinguishing your skin type, please talk with a dermatologist.

Once you have determined your skin type, you can narrow down which products to look for, and which ones to avoid.

Many products will indicate on their label what sort of skin

Because everyone has different skin types, every skincare routine is unique. For example, if your skin is dry, you may want to skip a cleanser in the morning and just splash water on your face instead. Or, if you have oily skin, you may opt to only moisturize your skin at night.

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FOR YOUR HEALTH

Diabetes and Nutrition by dr. lenore t. coleman for urban sentinel ALCOHOL USE AND DIABETES If you have questions about alcohol use you need to discuss this with your doctor. Alcohol • Provides calories and has no nutritional value. If approved by your doctor it may be included in your meal plan but should be used sparingly to avoid weight gain • Can raise or lower blood sugar in some people with diabetes • When mixed with diabetes medications can cause unpleasant side effects such as nausea, flushing, sweating, or headache.

• Can dramatically lower the blood sugar when the person is on insulin • Should not be used if the person is taking Metformin The following guidelines should be followed if your doctor says that alcohol CAN be included in your meal plan.

• Drink occasionally and only if your diabetes is “well controlled” (Note: Blood sugar goal should be 90130mg/dL) • Use your blood glucose monitor frequently (2 times a day unless at goal) • Limit your alcohol intake to one drink once or twice a week • Have alcohol with a meal or snack to prevent low blood sugar reactions • Avoid sweet drinks, sweet wines, liqueurs • Alcohol should not be substituted for food if you are taking insulin IF YOU HAVE DIABETES, THE FOLLOWING TIPS ARE IMPORTANT:

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• You should eat small portions of a well balanced, low fat diet • Eat about the same amount of food at the same time each day.

• Try not to skip meals and incorporate small snacks into your meal plan. Skipping meals and snacks may lead to large swings in your blood sugar levels, especially if you use medication to control your blood sugar.

• The number of calories you need depends on your weight, height, age and activity level.

• Avoid “fad diets” since some of them may actually cause you to have problems with your kidneys or may adversely affect your blood sugar.

HOW DO I GET STARTED EATING A HEALTHY DIET AND CONTROLLING MY DIABETES? The first step is to talk with a registered dietician to determine your daily nutritional need and help you work out your own nutritional prescription. We have registered dietician as part of our Village Club membership. (www.hovhealth.com). The dietician will help you match the calories, carbohydrates, protein and fat you eat with your own physical activity level and with the insulin in your body. You and the dietitian will work out a specific meal plan for you. Your meal plan is a guide which shows the number of food choices you can eat at each meal and snack. As mentioned earlier the major reason for obesity in the U.S. stems from the fact that we eat TOO MANY CALORIES at each meal. Most women can achieve their ideal body weight by consuming 1200-1500 calories per day. Most men require 1800-2000 calories per day. You can eat more calories if you have a highly active lifestyle and participate in moderate to vigorous exercise every day. Table 2 and 3 provide you with a calorie chart

and sample menus. Thinking ahead and planning your menus is especially important. Preparation is the key to successfully achieving a lifestyle change. There are many books commercially available that provide a complete listing of foods and portion sizes for each food category. (i.e. starch, fruit, milk, vegetable, meat / meat substitute and fat).

WHAT IS THE GLYCEMIC INDEX? This is a concept that is used by some nutritionists to control the blood sugar. Carbohydrates are absorbed into the blood stream at different rates. The faster a carbohydrate is digested and absorbed into the blood stream more rapid the blood sugar rises. Rapid rises in blood sugar levels have been found to be detrimental to the lining of the blood vessels (endothelium) and may be linked to cardiovascular disease. The Glycemic index is a measure or ranking of the effect of carbohydratecontaining foods on the postprandial (post meal) blood glucose response compared to a reference or test food. Glycemic indices range from less than 20% to over 120%. There are many factors that can affect the glycemic index of a food; the carbohydrate structure, fiber content, how the food is cooked or processed, storage, ingestion of other nutrients simultaneously, etc. Foods that contain glucose or sucrose produce a large increase in blood glucose levels whereas foods that contain high amounts of soluble fiber decrease glucose absorption. When you eat foods with a high glycemic index your hunger may return more rapidly.

Table 4 provides a partial list of the glycemic index of some foods compared to one slice of White Bread (= 100).

HOW DO I READ A NUTRITION LABEL? In order to maintain your calorie intake and not overeat it is important to learn how to read the Nutrition labels (“Nutrition Facts”) that is found on the back or side of most foods. The Nutrition label contains information on ingredients, serving size, servings per container, calories per serving, and detailed nutrient information.

Total carbohydrate content is listed and broken down into sugars and dietary fiber. When reading the label for Carbohydrates or CHO

• Check the ingredient list for sugar. When sugar is listed as one of the first three ingredients, most or all of the sugar in the product is added.

• If sugar is not listed in the ingredient list, then the sugar occurs naturally in the food • Sugar can be listed as: sucrose, maltose, fructose, lactose, glucose, dextrose, levulose, corn syrup, honey, brown sugar, cane sugar or molasses.

• Check the labels for sugar alcohol (sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol, maltitol, starch hydrolysate). o Products using sugar alcohol are often advertised as “No Added Sugar” o Sugar alcohol contains the same calories as sugar; however, they have a slower effect on the blood sugar. o Use only small amounts of these products and count the carbohydrate as part of your daily food allowance URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | DECEMBER

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• If you are having wide swings in your blood sugar then you should consider decreasing your carbohydrate intake and adding more fiber to your diet.

• Check the label for total fat and saturated fat. You should avoid foods that have more than 30% fat.

b. Keep a fruit bowl or small packs or applesauce, carrots or raisins near you at all times

In summary, the key to a healthy lifestyle begins with good nutrition. It is important for you and your family to begin eating a low calorie, low fat, balanced diet with an emphasis on increasing your fruits and vegetables.

Here are some helpful hints that will help you begin to eat a healthy diet and achieve your weight loss goals.

d. Enjoy ½-3/4 cup of 100% fruit juice every morning

1. Set a weight loss goal. Focus on dietary and exercise goals that will give you long term, sustained weight loss. Weight loss goal should be to reduce your body weight by 10 percent from where you started. A weight loss goal should be about 1 to 2 pounds per week for a period of 6 months. Try to decrease your current dietary intake by 500-1000 calories per day to lose 1-2 pounds per week. In order to control your weight, you should:

f. Choose fruit for dessert. Top low-fat yogurt or sherbet with berries

a. Reduce intake of high fat foods such as fried foods, gravies, salad dressing and other fats b. Control portion sizes 2.

Eat a well-balanced diet.

a. Plan to eat meals 4-5 hours apart or have a snack if your meal will be delayed.

b. Include a variety of foods according to your meal plan.

c. Distribute foods evenly throughout the day.

3. Eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables a day. Here are some suggestions to help you eat more servings of fruits and vegetables.

a. Buy frozen, dried, canned and fresh fruits and vegetables

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c. Add berries or sliced fresh fruit to you breakfast cereal

e. Add thinly grated carrots or zucchini to soups, sauces and casseroles for a light, sweet taste and extra nutrient punch

4. Eat high-fiber foods, aiming for a total fiber intake of 25-30 grams per day.

5. Limit fat

a. Limit saturated fats such as butter, lard, whole milk, cream cheese, and fatty meats. Use skim or 1 percent milk

b. Control amount of fat: trim the fat from meat and remove the skin from chicken. When eating meat, poultry, or fish, limit you portion to 2 or 3 ounces (the size of the palm of your hand).

c. Replace saturated fats with vegetable oil

6. Decrease your salt intake especially If you have high blood pressure. Goal is no more than 2000 of sodium per day = approximately 1 teaspoonful 7. Use low-fat cooking techniques like grilling, broiling, baking and steaming. Avoid fried foods.

8. Have no more than one glass of alcohol per day (1 glass = 4 oz or wine, 12 oz. of beer, or 1 ½ oz or 80 proof spirits)

The Perfect Gift

S P I RI T UA L N O U RI S H M E N T B RO U GH T TO YO U B Y THE URBAN SENTINEL AND UPSHIFT GLOBAL by dr. anita davis-defoe for urban sentinel The holiday season is here, and people both young and old are busy, in some cases frantically shopping in search of the perfect gift. This holiday season, with COVID-19, loss and suffering, a life and death Presidential Election, economic uncertainty, an intense focus on health and safety, and raging hate and racism, the 2020 holiday season is tumultuous for many. Nevertheless, here we are, welcoming the season, and after all, this is December, the gift-buying season, 31 days that serve as a magic carpet ride into the New Year. A year that promises hope and healing after the storms that impacted the lives of everyone in some form or fashion.

Bombarded by advertisements, sale papers, and commercials designed to lure us all back into stores, or online for those who are still unwilling to head back into stores considering the current uptick in COVID-18 cases, instead of being a joyful season, for some of us, the month of December becomes a time of despair, not to mention debilitating debt.

Sadly, for far too many of us, the holiday season is still defined by the number of video games we purchase; the numbers of gifts we receive; and do not forget about all the money spent for the exquisite dishes we prepare.

Before you call me Ms. Scrooge, give me an opportunity; allow me to write a few lines to explain.

Please do not misunderstand my statements for I enjoy

the holiday season, and I relish spending time with friends and loved ones during the holidays. This has become even more precious whenever safely possible as virtual hookups have become more of the norm. You see, my statements come from a caring and concerned heart; my feelings come from deep within my spirit as I painfully watch misguided value systems, low selfesteem, people pawning their souls, and internalized oppression make people think that gifts, trinkets or designer labels can soothe the emptiness that lingers in the depths of their souls.

For most of us, it takes a long and sometimes-difficult journey before we realize that spiritual contentment brings inner peace. Personal satisfaction and effectiveness comes not from the depth of one’s bank account, but from the condition of one’s spirit. Contrary to the feelings of some people, I believe that the caring and nurturing of one’s spirit does indeed matter, and in fact “the state of one’s spirit” contributes tremendously to one’s ability to find joy, achieve their desired level of personal success and most importantly to live soulfully.

I was moved as I sat in a Caribbean media conference some years ago in Barbados, listening to former CNN news anchor Andria Hall tearfully share that all of the thousands of dollars she was being paid at the time were not enough to quench the spiritual thirst that she felt deep within. Hall explained that peace came into her spirit the moment she began to honor a higher power,

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once she redefined her life, and only after she filled her spirit with positive thoughts, authentic people, and purposeful work. Ms. Hall glowed as she shared that her tears were not coming from pain and despair, but represented a level of spiritual awakening that she wished everyone could enjoy.

So, as you think about the perfect gift for your friends and family, or as you look for the perfect stocking stuffer, give some thought to giving gifts that inspire, encourage and give voice to the achievement of personal aspirations and dreams. Yes, a diamond may be forever, but a gift that enables someone to carve out a path that meshes his or her personal passions with his or her talents will forever outshine the sparkle of that diamond. Helping someone to feel valued, championing someone’s dream, sharing words that inspire and other acts of thoughtfulness can help people treasure one of the greatest gifts there is, and that is the unique gift of self.

Look deep within and make a personal vow that during this holiday season and in the New Year you will strive to expand your thinking. Decide to challenge yourself, creatively use your talents and begin to live a fuller life that includes dusting off your innermost dreams, and persisting forward to the achievement of your true-life goals. Using your gifts and talents in service to others brings personal success always, but most of us give up when we meet the first bump in the road. Change your mindset this holiday season, because in the end A times A equals A (Attributes X Attitude equals Altitude), and we control the direction of our lives with the choices we make. Give the perfect gift to those on your shopping list this holiday season; the gifts of self-awareness, selfgrowth and spiritual tranquility. Give them a “Recipe for Living”………………………..

Start with one cup of natural talent, and three cups of gifts, Blend in a heap of aspirational goals, and add a good

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attitude to this.

Stir in seven tablespoons of dreams, a cup of good habits and a dash of belief, A few more ingredients and the recipe will be complete.

Add an ounce of purpose, and some resilience too, Mix in a tablespoon of vision, sauté these ingredients just for a few.

Combine a half-cup of persistence, with a hint of passion sweet, Together, personal passion, purpose and persistence will make this recipe unique.

Toss in a pinch of gingered hope, some love and a hint of fresh faith, Pour in two pints of focus and a quart of determination according to taste.

You need to add a pound of courage, a cup of forgiveness, maybe two, Shake in a gallon of spirit, a bit of soul seasoning ads gusto to this wonderful life stew.

Simmer all of the ingredients and be sure not to boil, Remember that to achieve anything in this life, there will be some toil.

Anything you mentally conceive, you can most definitely with effort achieve, Everything first begins as a vision, a quest; a precious captivating dream.

Fill your plate; enjoy this dish, your hearty life stew, Let it guide, empower and nourish, all that you do.

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THE

CHRIST STORY

by bridgette m. alfred for urban sentinel A. INTRODUCTION:

B. PROPHESY FULFILLED:

consistent, and unchanged.

Who is Jesus? Son of God? Prophet?

Teacher?

Miracle Worker? The first four books of the New Testament of the Bible, (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) depicts the story of Jesus from His birth to His sacrificial death. The birth of Jesus Christ was one of the greatest miracles that has ever occurred, for it was a moment when God Almighty laid aside His glory and appeared upon the earth in the bodily form of a man.

1. Physical: The story of Jesus starts with a virgin teenage girl named Mary from a traditional Jewish home who found herself shockingly pregnant and unwed, thereby bringing shame on her family and the possibility of being stoned to death. The manner of Jesus’ birth was also prophesied hundreds of years earlier.

2. Spiritual: John 3:16-17 (ESV): For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.

1. Physical: Jesus was willing to leave His majestic realm of glory and enter the world of humanity.

Jesus chose to show up on man’s lowest step of social class system as a squirming baby.

2. Spiritual: Luke 2:10-11 (ESV): And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”

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2.

Spiritual: Isaiah 7:14 (AMPC): Therefore the Lord Himself shall give you a sign: Behold, the young woman who is unmarried and a virgin shall conceive and bear a son and shall call his name Immanuel [God with us].

C. THE SAVIOR: 1. Physical: Right now, Jesus is in Heaven seated at the right hand of God the Father, and He is making intercession for you and for me. Right now, Jesus is arrayed in splendor beyond human imagination – but His humility, love and works remains intact,

D. CONCLUSION: Jesus has been tired, Jesus has been hungry, Jesus has been misunderstood, Jesus has been betrayed, and Jesus has stood at a loved one’s grave. Jesus has been tempted – tested – in everything that you and I have experienced.

What does that mean to you and me? The fact that Jesus has suffered what we experience makes Him a priest who can effectively represent us before God the Father.

Spiritual: Hebrews 13:8 (ESV): Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

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A

Gifted

MINISTER

BY MIN. ROOSEVELT BOLES Minister Roosevelt Boles, Jr. was born in Mount Vernon, New York . His family, later relocated to Hampton, South Carolina where he lived for over 20 years. At a very young age, Minister Boles demonstrated an insatiable appetite for ministry. In 1994, he was ordained a minister under the Mount Calvary Holy Churches of America. At that time, he was under the leadership of Pastor D.L. Russell, Jr. of St. Helena Island, South Carolina. In that ministry, he served in the following offices: Pastor's Armor Bearer, AST’s Youth Minister, Praise & Worship Leader, Choir Member and financial board. Minister Boles has been blessed with the gift of song and he has made it his mission to spread the gospel with that gift. In 1992, he initiated the group Trinity and they became a well known gospel group. They ministered in many different venues and performed for many different audiences. Minister Boles later discovered his love for evangelizing / outreach ministry. This love, propelled him down various avenues. In particular: extensive counseling at various Prisons, feeding the needy at Homeless Shelters and testing at local HIV AIDS centers. Minister Boles has taken the time to understand the purpose for his ministry and he takes it very seriously.

He walks in the office of a prophet, which has served as enhancement to his ministry. He believes in capitalizing

on every opportunity that God offers and he loves God’s people. His creed is “ONLY WHAT YOU DO FOR CHRIST WILL LAST" and he believes in working while it’s day.

In 2001, Minister Boles stepped out on faith and relocated to Atlanta, GA. At the core of this move, he felt that God had numerous doors awaiting him. Since relocating, Minister Boles’s ministry has reached a worldwide platform. He has traveled extensively ministering in Psalm combined with the prophetic. In October of 2005, God placed Roosevelt under the leadership of Pastor Keith Young, Sr. of VISIONS FOR SOULS FAMILY WORSHIP CENTER in Mableton, Georgia. Under his tutelage, Minister Boles became even more receptive to the new favor overtaking his life. This favor, allowed him to meet his producer Christopher Starr of Austell, GA. Under Christopher’s’ label, STARRTRAXX PRODUCTIONS, Minister Boles completed his first album.

The album was entitled “Hallelujah Thank You Jesus” and it allowed him space to pay homage to his late mother. After its release, Minister Boles was selected by Silver Dollar productions to be in play opposite Rueben Studdard and Johnny Gill. Along with that Toronto Gospel, a legendary site for international music, highlighted his album for more than six months.

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Minister Boles was recently featured on the Word Network and recognized as a NEW ARTIST at DR. BOBBY JONES 21st BI-Annual Gospel Retreat. During this event, Minister Boles shared the stage with legendary greats such as: Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Kim Burrell, Tye Tribett, Dorinda Clark-Cole, J. Moss, Beverly Crawford, Albertina Walker, Byron Cage, Dottie Peoples, Ricky Dillard, Leonard Scott, Shirley Murdock, Melvin Williams, and Ambassador Dr. Bobby Jones and a host of other gospel matriarchs. He was also asked to participate in a tribute to honor his idol, Vanessa Bell Armstrong.

On June of 2009, Minister Boles released his sophomore project entitled “Mirror, Mirror”. The album was a testament of his self-journey and it featured Latocha Scott from the female pop group XSCAPE. This album in particular, has already begun to take Minister Boles in a new direction.

After its release, the title track “MIRROR, MIRROR” aired on 97.5FM Atlanta’s largest Gospel radio station. The track caught the attention of radio personality, Coco Brutha, and he featured it on his radio Show. He placed the track in his shows music competition and it won three consecutive nights. Impressed by the tracks mass appeal, Coco Brutha has become an advent supporter of Minister Boles’ music.

Having been encouraged by both Dr. Bobby Jones and Coco Brutha, Minister Boles fights to maintain that standard of Excellence that he is increasingly becoming known for. This project has also birthed a desire to mentor and cultivate the talent of others. While traveling, Minister Boles acquired a group of talented back-up singers. These singers have evolved into the group “GRACE” and they are now under his tutelage. God has helped to catapult Minister Boles into a new realm and now beginning to work on his junior album being produced by 2010 Stellar Award Winner Phillip Carter. Min Boles has been on tour in London and have been nominated by Gospel Magazine, “I AM” featured him in the October ’10 edition. Minister Boles has been blessed ’12 to be featured in Tyler Perry’s new movie, “Witness Protection” which has given him more exposure in all entity in the entertainment industry.

Minister Boles HIGHLY ANTICIPATED JUNIOR PROJECT IS GOING TO BE RELEASED AUGUST 7, 2012 entitled, “SHOW ME”. Minister Boles is a sought after Prophet and Recording Artist with much depth and 50

KINGDOM ASSIGNMENT. Minister Boles is a member of Stronghold Christian Church under the leadership or Dr. Benjamin and Sherry Gaither of Lithonia, Georgia.

“SHOW ME” gave Minister Boles another level in the gospel industry so that he was nominated for several different awards. One of the major nominations was Rhythm of Gospel Awards nominated Minister Boles for five categories: Contemporary Male Vocalist, Special Cd Event of the Year, Traditional Male Vocalist of The Year, Praise and Worship CD of The Year, Rhythm of Gospel Artist Of The Year. So honored to be in categories by the third largest gospel award entity, Roosevelt just was thrilled to be nominated. Minister Boles not only ministered at The All White Pre-Show but also ministered on the Main Stage of the Awards Show. He is the winner of Traditional Male Artist of The Year 2013 for THE RHYTHM OF GOSPEL. Roosevelt was also nominated as Male Artist of the Year for the Gospel Choice Awards 2013. In October 2013 Roosevelt was selected out of 1.6 billion entries for THE VOICE OF MCDONALD’S 2014 being in top 20 SemiFinalist of USA. Finally Roosevelt was left in top four to represent the USA in the Semi-Finalist for THE VOICE OF MCDONALD’S 2014 where he was given the standing ovation of the night and given great reviews from the man himself Wayne Brady sharing to Minister Boles you are: AMAZING, INCREDIBLE, YOU HAD ME ABOUT TO TESTIFY, I WAS GOING TO THROUGH MY SHOES AT YOU, I HAD THE PLEASURE TO WORK WITH LUTHER VANDROSS AND MAN YOU WOULD HAVE DONE HIM PROUD”.

Minister Boles had the honor of sharing at the RMHC(Ronald McDonald’s House Charity) prestigious event appearing to sharing a tribute song to the families during a donation benefit even in Atlanta where he was given incredible ovations and comments from many donors at the event.

He was told by Atlanta’s own Chief Meteorologist David Chandley said, Roosevelt performance is INCDREDIBLE he is still trying to see why he did not win VOM. 2014 Minister Boles was selected to sing THE NATIONAL at the final Atlanta’s Falcons home game against Carolina Panthers receiving incredible ovations from the teams and the entire audience at stadium. Roosevelt getting such

huge opportunities was selected by McDonald’s to head to LA and shoot major national/international commercial airing for the Summer Promotions.

Minister Boles has been blessed to bring another HIGHLY ANTICIPATED PROJECT entitled “THESE ARE THE THINGS YOU ARE” projected to release September 1, 2015. This project has been picked up for National and International Radio Promoter Damon D. Steward who has such incredible successful clients as: John Legend, Kirk Franklin, Casey J, Fred Hammond, Tamela Mann just to know a few has picked up Roosevelt Boles as his client for radio promotion and fell in love with Roosevelt’s new single entitled, “THESE ARE THE THINGS YOU ARE”.

These Are The Things You Are charted top 34 on BDS Radio charts for weeks and got the attention of Superstar Kirk Franklin radio station playing the single for months consistently.

Minister Boles has released a single with T1 Sound entitled, “HIDE ME” October 8, 2019 which is getting major attention in the great state of New York. Many other states to come, keep your eyes open to see what GOD is going to do in this ordained work.

Minister Boles is also projected to release another album May 2021 with major backing of producers and other Stellar Award Wining Artist. Watching GOD and his plan.

Minister Boles has endured many heartaches throughout the duration of his career. He believes that these heartaches are designed to strengthen his character. His desire is to not only enhance the gospel music industry but to also educate upcoming artist.

He continues to empower the people of God with his various gifts and talents. Ultimately, he plans to start an entertainment company starting with his two groups Trinity and Grace. For more information refer to his website at www.rooseveltboles.net URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | DECEMBER

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pictures of Melba Moore- Photographer Marget Long Pages 3 & 4 pictures of Nate Couser- Photographer Kedrick Foster Page 5 picture of Nate Couser- David Odom Page 3 picture of Hattye C. Knight- Photographer @Tyghtshotsphotography Page 32 and 34 pictures of Hattye C. Knight- Photographer Lisa Henson @queen1283

PHOTO CREDITS

Cover and Page 19

Page 3, 48, 51, and 53 pictures of Roosevelt Boles- Photographer if Christopher Starr

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