MARCH 2021 EDITION
RALPH
PITTMAN
Balancing
Life Marriage & Business
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 Editor Reginald Kearney Advertising Inquiries Phone: 301-661-3989 E-mail: reginald.kearney@marylanddailyexaminer.com Website: www.urbansentinel.com
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I can smell spring in the air as we enter the month of March. The last couple of weeks of February were really tough as the nation dealt with some of the coldest weather that the nation had ever experienced. The residents of Texas took a huge hit as many homes lost power and water and experienced the breakage of water pipes in their homes and businesses. There was also some great news for the public as the government increased the distribution of vaccines that will help prevent the spread of the Covid-19 virus. This month’s magazine cover features Ralph Pitman, Jr. who discusses how he balances life, family, marriage and business. Ralph Pitman, Jr. discusses his love and admiration for his beautiful wife Drew Sidora, legacy building for their three wonderful children, and his passion and growth around his ambitious feats. At the end of the article, the reader realizes that Ralph Pittman, Jr. exudes confidence, and strength, and he has an incredible drive to succeed. 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. 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 March 2021 edition.
SUMMARY
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Wendy Nelson
Emil D. Gordon, Sr.
32
20
4
White Man Caught On Video
6
Wendy Nelson Is Not Afraid of Cancer
10
Quick Makeup Routine On The Go!
12
Ralph Pittman, Jr.- Balancing Life, Marriage and Business
18
Are You Preparing for Growth and Success?
20
Music Was My Dream
24
4 Principles of Effective Leadership Part 4
26
Game Changers
28
March Forward
29
Virginia’s Decision to Kill the Death Penalty
32
Model Spotlight: Tionna Moss
38
Hosanna! Hosanna!
41
Enjoying the American Dream
Tionna Mass URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | MARCH
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WHITE MAN CAUGHT ON VIDEO. TRIED AND ACQUITTED:
WELCOME TO BLACK REALITY TELEVISION by Jay Arrington for urban sentinel Insurrection? What insurrection? Oh, you mean that thing
that your skin color or in their case, the lack thereof, doesn’t/
that happened at the US Capitol. That ain’t nothing new. Black
no longer afford/s you the right to enter. Blacks have been
folk had seen it before. In fact, many of us (blacks) have lived
starring in this show for years. Welcome to Black Reality
it for most if not all our lives. The everyday lives of Black
Television.
Americans have felt to some extent like we have been and remain under constant siege. Sacked if you will.
Between March 2014 and April 2015 there were 13 police killings of unarmed black men captured on video/body
Each time a police officer rides your bumper attempting to
cameras
https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2015/05/
startle or frighten you, a store employee follows you around
police-shootings-caught-on-tape-video/. Of those only two
the store, or you are denied employment, housing, social
resulted in charges being filed and only one that lead to a
services, equal protection under the law, or the new thing
conviction. Keep in mind these are from 2014 and 2015. The
“Karened”, in either instance as a black person in this country
fatalities since that time no doubt number in the high double
our lives are stormed, and besieged. And just like that most
digits. All of which are on video. Tamir Rice, Eric Gardner,
sacred process of certifying the electoral college votes being
Michael Brown, Andre Hill, Stephon Clark, and Patrick
conducted on January 6, 2021 at the US Capitol was deemed
Warren to name but a few.
by the insurrectionists not to count; we (blacks) do not count. We do not matter.
But just like the old white juries of Jim Crow, modern day prosecutors and US Congressmen/Senators, see it, hear it,
No. Black votes don’t matter. At least according to the more
and some even take part in it. Yes. Take part in it. The second
than 140 republican members of the US Congress who
impeachment trial acquittal of Trump in the US Senate was
immediately after the insurrection voted to nullify the election
no different than the acquittal of the murderers of Emmitt Till
results, thereby discounting millions of black votes. No. Black
or the failure to indict the murderers of Eric Gardner, Michael
lives don’t matter. At least according to the thousands of
Brown, Tamir Rice or Terrance Crutcher. They saw it. They
lynchings gone unpunished in this country. The hundreds of
heard it. And some even took part in it by way of cover up, (the
fatal police shootings/chokings of unarmed black men and
blue wall/prosecutorial discretion)) instigation/obstruction
the hundreds of shootings/chokings/rapes of black women
(Lindsey Graham, Ted Cruz, Josh Hawley, Mitch McConnell)
also gone unpunished in this country. Many caught on video.
or jury nullification (the other 39 GOP Senators).
Just like video captured Donald Trump incite and whip into
The script’s always the same. The prequel and sequel all have
a violent frothing mass, a mob of his fellow racist illiterates
the same plot and ending. Power’s all that matters. White man
masquerading as patriots. Suffering from the insecurity that
caught on video. Not indicted and if so, tried, and acquitted.
white no longer is the “open sesame” that magically opens
Welcome to Black Reality Television. No need to check your
doors. As if they needed inciting. Don’t get me wrong. I get it.
local listings. Broadcasting 24/7 in cities everywhere.
It’s a frightening and terrible thing to come to the realization
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URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | MARCH
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Wendy Nelson IS NOT AFRAID OF CANCER by C. NaTasha Richburg for the urban sentinel Scientists such as those from geology.com have known
breast. Panic rested in her spirit then she immediately
for decades “the formation of natural diamonds
started to sweat. “I just didn't know what to do so I sat
requires very high temperatures and pressures.” With
on the floor for a long time.” Once she calmed down,
that being said, individuals in our lives oftentimes
she made an appointment with the doctor who said
face mounds and mounds of pressure to form, what
‘not to worry,’ he didn’t expect anything serious. When
appears, from the outside looking in, like a level of pain
the doctor actually examined Wendy his eyes got big.
that is difficult to imagine. However, from the inside of
Panic substantially covered his now flustered face fully
Life’s pressure, a precious diamond is often formed. The
encompassing the color red. He was pretty scared. At
diamond glistens in the light to bring a smile on the
that point in time, Wendy’s eyes cried. Her tears had
face of people who admire the shine. Wendy Nelson
tears. “I saved my ugly cry for my private time when
is that shining light who illuminates hope with endless
I left the doctor’s office.” Concerned that the lump
possibilities. Her inspirationally heartwarming story
was very large, Wendy’s doctor immediately ordered a
holds true to the belief that God’s grace can evolve one’s
mammogram and biopsy to take place that same day.
life to recite the formative processes steeped in the
Wendy sat down with her family in their living room;
making of a precious diamond. Wendy probably never
they had no idea what was going on. As she spoke to
imaged when her 5-year-old-self moved from Prince
them, while working through her own personal turmoil,
Georges County, Maryland to Baltimore City, that she
the words hit them as they sat processing their disbelief.
would carry a level of importance to make a difference
They sat with one another in complete silence knowing
in the lives of many. Now gracefully approaching 50
“a new normal” forever loomed in their personal life.
years of age, Wendy agreed to have an up-close and personal interview with communiqué Magazine about
What was your diagnosis? I found out through a phone
her purpose driven life.
call the biopsy confirmed stage 2B breast cancer.
In 2012, Wendy was cleaning the house, instantly
According to nationalbreastcancer.org, “Stage 2 means
something came over her and she noticed a lump in her
the breast cancer is growing, but it is still contained in URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | MARCH
7
the breast or growth has only extended to the nearby
including searching the Internet, I decided on my plan
lymph nodes. Stage 2A and Stage 2B. The difference
of action. I actually watched the lumpectomy surgery
is determined by the size of the tumor and whether
on YouTube for the exact same type of cancer I had. I
the breast cancer has spread to the lymph nodes.” I
wanted to know everything I could to understand the
was HER2-positive and estrogen-receptor-positive as
treatment possibilities. I understand that knowledge
well. My doctor recommends I see an Oncologist right
is power. That was eight years ago. Based on what I
away. According to healthline.com, “HER2-positive
learned from an Internet search, I was able to help my
breast cancers have abnormally high levels of HER2
doctors with diagnose my approach to treatment.
proteins. This can cause the cells to multiply more quickly. Excessive reproduction can result in a fast-
What did you do with the information gained from
growing breast cancer that’s more likely to spread.
the Internet? I changed the course of my treatment
Approximately 25 percent of breast cancer cases are
and told my doctor. I wanted a bilateral mastectomy
HER2-positive.” According to breastcancer.org, “a
with reconstruction, no chemo and no radiation. He
cancer is called estrogen-receptor-positive (or ER+) if it
loved the plan and said my plan would reduce the risk
has receptors for estrogen. This suggests that the cancer
of cancer returning in my body by 80%. I remember
cells, like normal breast cells, may receive signals from
thinking, ‘well why didn’t you come up with this plan?’
estrogen that could promote their growth.”
I just thank God He led me to research what would be the best health plan for myself.
How did your feelings about cancer evolve? Originally, the news was sobering. Although I was fearful of the
What advice would help others through a similar
unknown, I knew this wouldn’t kill me. My emotions
journey? Do your research and don't panic because
fluctuated from fear, to nervousness then to strength
cancer is not necessarily a death sentence. Take in all
in a matter of seconds. I felt like my body betrayed me.
the information and knowledge you can gather, spread
‘Where did this come from?’ Anger, fear, anxiety filled
it on a table, and look at all of your options in one
my head, and then God’s peace enveloped me. I’d only
setting. Remember, Doctor's practice medicine and
told close friends who evolved to become an amazing
don't necessarily have all the answers. This approach to
support system. They ran to my rescue to cover and
treatment can and will change your life for better. No
pray over me. Although they were quite nervous, my
question is dumb or embarrassing.
friends were positive and supportive. Research, Research, Research! Find out all the How did you decide on the best treatment strategy? The
information you can about the type of cancer you’ve
doctor suggested a lumpectomy to remove the large
been diagnosed with and get all the facts. Once you have
tumor, chemo and radiation. However, I wasn’t at peace
all the facts, you can make an educated decision about
with that treatment plan. After doing my own research,
your treatment plan. You only have 1 life, protect and
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preserve it as much as possible. Love yourself enough to give yourself the best options you can find.
My life’s journey, like many, has
had unexpected high’s and low’s, heartbreak, disappointments, failures as well as triumphs. It’s okay to make mistakes because mistakes provide you wisdom and character if not repeated. Be at peace with things you cannot change and learn to let things go. In 2019, Wendy founded and became Executive Director of “Sisters4theCity” a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that educates and advocates partnerships that promote wholeness for women’s empowerment within the community. Wendy has a long list of honors and accomplishments. Most of all she enjoys traveling, hiking, interior design, home staging and writing. She is the proud mother of two talented children, James D. Nelson, III and Jade Milan Nelson. Wendy reminds us that sometimes we hold on to people and things too long, which may become toxic to our mind, body and spirit. We should not be afraid of cancer and know that unhealthy relationships or connections to toxic people can act as a form of cancer. Cancer, as well as any other toxicity of any kind attacks to destroy healthiness, we all must continue to give ourselves permission to live a healthy lifestyle.
URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | MARCH
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Quick Makeup Routine On The Go! by Olympia Kent for urban sentinel There once was a time when I spent hours getting ready
out the door. First fill in your brows to make sure they are
before going out on a night on town with my friends. Now
not all over the place and smooth with no gaps. Next take
I am finding that time waits for no women, especially one
your foundation sponge and BB cream and apply it all over
with a husband and kids to handle. I understood when I was
your face making sure you blend it into your skin well so
younger, I had time to waste but now I need every moment,
that this gives a smooth base you will then apply concealer
second, hour to be well spent in my life. In my daily routine it
under eyes center of four head and blend it making sure
is hard to get every detail of a skin care and makeup regimen
you’re not removing to much product but just enough to
included but I am here to tell you it is possible and if you are
make it smooth and take out any harsh lines with your eye
wondering how? Just continue reading this article, you will
shadow duet choose browns to dust under cheek and on
soon find out how to create a quick makeup daily routine
apple of cheeks along the sides of face and around the four
and If you are going out with coworkers you will learn how
head blending into the edges of the high light area. You will
to change that same look into an happy hour makeup look in
now use your press powder to go all over your face to set
3 minutes and enjoy your night!
everything in place and some eyeshadow on lids, mascara, finally your Lip and you are done!
Most women would just as soon leave home without makeup as they would walk out the door without wearing pants.
This look will take you throughout your day just keep you
Makeup is an essential, which is why one of a woman's
press powder close to touch up and you are good to go. Let
most important accessories is her makeup bag -- the little
us say your co-workers are going out for drinks after work
pouch that holds every tool she needs to look fresh-faced
you do not have time to go home and change. You can create
throughout the day and night.
a new look by just changing your eyeshadow. You already have a nice neutral eye color, now just take a darker color,
We will start with what is in your makeup bag. Your makeup
and add it to the out edge of your eyelid to create a smokey
bag should be big enough to hold everything you need but
eye blending any harsh lines but keeping it in that corner not
small enough to fit inside your purse. If this is your first time
making too much of a mess then take the neutral color and
exploring the world of makeup, I am giving you the bear
use it as an eyeliner on the bottoms lash line to really make
basics. This list is small but anyone with it should be able to
that eye pop!!! And a bold lip and you have really transformed
create a flawless, natural look with these products. Mascara,
your look in 3 min.
BB cream, A press powder, Concealer, Eyeliner (pencil), An eye-shadow duet, A foundation sponge or beauty blender,
This was two quick and easy ways to keep any woman well
Lip balm -gloss or stick, Tweezers, Makeup-remover wipes,
put together with a daily makeup kick start just keep doing
Make sure you have done your morning routine of skincare
it and it becomes a habit you will not have to think about it
and your makeup can be the last thing you do on your way
twice! URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | MARCH
11
Balancing
Life Marriage & Business
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RALPH PITTMAN by Stacey Henry-Carr for urban sentinel It was like taking in a breath of fresh air listening to Ralph Pittman, Jr. speak about his life, marriage, family, and business ventures. He spoke with love and admiration for his beautiful wife Drew Sidora, legacy building for their three wonderful children, and passion and growth around his ambitious feats. There are many layers to this man but his intelligence, and love for his family permeated throughout our conversation.
About Life Ralph said. “I graduated from the school of hard knocks.” He was born in New Brunswick, New Jersey and was raised in a single-family household where he had to step up as the man of the house at a young age. He said his quote, “Without struggle triumph is nonexistence” defines his journey. He had to overcome many struggles and challenges but stated that those experiences shaped his character and made him the strong and confident man he is today. He learned at a young age that nothing is given to him, he had to earn it. He played football in high school and college and earned his degree in Business Economics from Rutgers University. But after an on-the-field injury derailed his football dreams, Ralph decided to pursue a career in software sales. Today, he invests in real estate and advises Fortune 100 organizations on technology solutions to support key initiatives and drive market share. He helps these organizations to shape and change the world with the technology we will see in the future such as AI and machine learning. Ralph has an established relationship with these companies, and the new spotlight of being on The Real Housewives of Atlanta has not had an impact on that part of his career. Ralph spoke passionately about his venture Mind Music which is, “A sleep system designed to help little minds get the rest they need, and parents get the rest they deserve.” He explained that Mind Music is growing, and he is working on developing an app, and other exciting products. Ralph has a love for music and a deep curiosity about how music can heal and shape the mind. He played the piano and drums professionally and has done a Sunday inspiration gospel track with his wife Drew. Ralph and his wife are focusing on their passions to give people things they can relate to and what can help them. As he works on expanding Mind Music which is in the beginning stages, he recognizes now more than ever children and parents need a modality to bring about some normalcy. Homeschooling has shifted the children’s routine it is harder to get them to sleep. He loves the mind and loves exploring how music affects people. He recognizes that music is used for therapy and is passionate about Mind Music and its results. He shared that he tried mind music out with a friend’s daughter in a crowded noisy restaurant and proved to be URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | MARCH
13
a viable tool. He also uses it for himself when his mind is racing. He expressed excitement about the future of Mind Music. Ralph believes we all must go through struggles to have a true definition of ourselves. He said, “It is within the struggle that you define your character and show who you are.” He is not afraid to mess up, fail, make a mistake, and go through challenges because he has garnered the fruits of his labor. He said, “That struggle has been my life story and I hold on to that dearly.” Although he had to fight through those arduous experiences, he said he does not look at all of them as negative because they have become a part of his “Winning formula.” Through it all, he triumphs he gets to look back and celebrate how far he has come. Because of his past experiences he made a conscious effort to break that cycle. He was intentional about being strong and tried not to give people a reason to say anything negative. He quickly realized that is inevitable and is a part of life. This successful Business Executive and Reality Television Star on The Real Housewives of Atlanta knows a thing or two about balancing life on the world’s stage.
About Marriage During our conversation, Ralph exhibited a profound self-awareness about who he is as a man and how it shapes the relationship he has with his family, business, and his community. And so, it was no surprise when he candidly responded to my questions about marriage. He said, “Marriage is not easy, but if you put effort into it, it can work.” He explained that some of those “hard knock” experiences that have served him well in his life, has also hindered relationships. Through The Real Housewives of Atlanta show, he wants the viewers to see him and his wife navigate through the many layers and levels of their relationship. He agreed that this can be a challenge while balancing family, being a mentor, and a businessman. I asked Ralph why was it important for him and his wife to address their marital problems on national television? He said they wanted to portray themselves as a fun-loving couple, but they started encountering real-life issues. This happened when many different external events were happening ranging from the social injustices, Black Lives Matter protest, and him becoming a full-time caregiver while his wife healed from her surgeries to her Achilles. She developed a staph infection in her ankle, and he had to nurse her and do IV changes. There were heated moments and arguments that led Ralph to make a comment to Drew 14
about her not understanding Black men. Ralph’s openness in discussing his reason for that statement showed true authenticity. He said there are various ways how the world perceives Black men and there are things that have shaped him as a man, things he learned growing up, and things he overcame. He explained that even the differences as to how women and men communicate their feelings play a significant role. He explained that while most women are vocal and talk through their issues with friends, many men will bottle up their feelings and not talk about them. He acknowledged that men and women have different ways of communicating. That statement he made to his wife was his attempt at explaining that no one else can utterly understand the emotions that are triggered based on the things a Black man has been through. Ralph referenced the trauma of seeing the social injustices such as George Floyd and how it impacted him. He said, “The Black man experience is different.” He said things got to a boiling point and he and his wife got into an explosive argument and he left for three days. When he went back home, he and Drew had to decide how to move forward with the show. They decided to show people their true reality and what marriage looks like. Ralph said, “It’s another example of going through something and coming out victorious on the other side.” He explained that he had to fight and be strong all his life but recognizes and understands as a husband that there is a balance needed so that it does not appear to his wife that he is fighting against her. Ralph credits his wife with getting him to go to marriage counseling but said he quit at first because he felt like he was not being listened to. He encourages counseling but said it is all about choosing a professional that is the right fit. He said, first there needs to be a level of respect between the man and the therapist, second compatibility making sure they can understand the struggles that are being discussed and have commonalities that will help to build trust. He recommends getting individual counseling because everybody needs someone to talk to. He was pleased that they found a therapist who he described as unbiased and spoke his language. Ralph considers himself an alpha male and the strength he had to build and rely on at an early age in his life helped to define that. He believes that alpha males can often find themselves in marital issues because they are holding down the family with being the provider, while the woman
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is looking for more gestures of love and it becomes problematic. He said, “There must be a balance and routine that shows that even as a strong man you are catering to your family’s needs and emotions.” Ralph agreed that he was a work in progress. In this balancing act, Ralph knows he must stay grounded. Being on a show with high visibility, everyone has an opinion about who is. Ralph and his wife are making a concerted effort to stay out of the comments, not allow things to pull them away from what matters, their children and each other. They are homeschooling and juggling many ventures, and so they have increased their communication level and set aside mindful family time with no devices. The show has taught Ralph and Drew how important it Is to work as a unit. He said, “Many relationships endure challenges when put on reality TV. I am being intentional and proactive with safeguarding my family. We are working together and staying strong.” Ralph’s television notoriety is his new chapter, and it is allowing him to make a difference on a larger level. With his life in the spotlight, other men have reached out to him seeking advice and mentoring for their challenges and struggles. Ralph expressed that he would love to see men come together more and talk about what they are going through. He stated that “Many men don’t talk about their issues or seek therapy because they are told they are supposed to be strong and they don’t think they need help.” He said he wants to create a safe atmosphere where men can be vulnerable and know that they can get the support they need. Ralph had many gems he wanted to leave for the Urban Sentinel readers, however, vulnerability and equality stood out. He said, “Vulnerability is power, and being authentic is important.” He expressed that too many of us do not communicate true feelings, and desires, and show ourselves as the person we are out of fear of being judged. He encourages each of us to own the good and the bad and show up authentically. If Ralph had a billboard sign it would say equality. As a Black male, he wants others to know that they can break the stereotypes and become successful in different traditional ways. Black men are doctors, engineers, and business executives and he has proven to use a traditional career to create an extraordinary life. One thing for sure Ralph Pittman, Jr. exudes confidence, strength, and an incredible drive to succeed. He stated that his drive and passion came from never wanting to be in that position again where he had nothing. “I want to provide a life for my children where they never have to experience what I had to go through. I want them to have the choices to do different things. The only limitation we have is the ones we create for ourselves” Ralph is driven and passionate about life and his family. 16
URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | MARCH
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ARE YOU PREPARING FOR
Growth and Success? by Dr. Anita Davis-DeFoe for urban sentinel Too often, entrepreneurs spend a great deal of time
projections so that you know how much credit you're going
thinking about what they will do if things go wrong. But,
to need well before you have to start dishing out money.
on the flip side, are you prepared for growth and success?
Develop and maintain strong relationships with your
What if it turns out that your positive expectations were
funding sources and be sure to have primary and backup
just way too conservative? What if an unexpected celebrity
sources available. .
endorsement sends demand for your product soaring beyond imagination? On what if shifts in the marketplace
3. Get comfortable being in the spotlight.
increase the demand for your product or service tenfold,
Successful owners of growing companies arealmost always
and if so, are you ready for what that will mean for your
in the spotlight to some degree--within your industry and
enterprise?
with your employees. Be prepared for a heighthened level of attention.
To prepare for growth and success, consider these strategic planning mindset treasures:
4. Hire people based on where you want to be, not where you are.
1. Know what growth means for you and your company.
The team that can successfully run a $1 million company is
To prepare for something, you have to know what it is and
not the same team that can operate a $100 million company.
how you'll recognize it. Growth is more than just hitting
If your goal is growth, hire people who can perform in the
a set of numbers--it's a package that includes changes
size company you want to be, they can help you get there.
to your company in terms of operations, production,
Hire based upon strong workplace behaviors and technical
staffing and facilities. Ponder what does growth mean
skills.
to you personally. What will your life be like when your company grows and profits increase? Are you clear about
5. Put the right people in the right places.
how hard you will have to work? Are you ready and
The right people doing the right jobs is absolutely critical
willing to do what it takes?
to sustain growth. Evidence based workplace assessments and job benchmarking will allow you to take a systematic
2. Maintain relationships with your funding sources.
approach to hiring and career development, which will
The faster you grow, the more cash you're likely to need.
reduce your mis-hires and employee turnover.
Growth financing is every bit as hard--if not harder-to obtain than startup funding particularly in brown
6. Take care of your people.
and black communities. Conduct regular cash-flow
Your employees are what keep you successful. Recognize
18
and reward that on a consistent basis. Take note of your employees' work and respond appropriately, or risk losing top talent. Create an organizational culture that people want to be a part of so that they remain willing to give their skills and be fully engaged with the organizational missionpains. In addition, take care of your suppliers, professional advisors and anyone else who can have an effect on your operation. 7. Listen to the experts. You may be an expert in your business, but you don't know it all. Identify the experts, listen to them and learn from them. Let them help smooth out your learning curves and keep you on your growth track. 8. Stay close to your customers. No company can do without customers, and if you don't stay close to them, you'll lose them. Know what they need, but more important, know what they want and do everything you can to give that to them. Collect customer service data and use the results to inform continuous improvement initiatives. 9. Focus on your core business and don't get distracted. Stick to the business your company knows best. Be sure any diversification or product line expansion you do makes sense. If it has nothing to do with your core business don't get into it just because it seems like a good opportunity. Think strategically, intentional, local and how to expand globally. When you consider and plan for growth just as you focus on the downside of things, you better position yourself and your business to achieve your growth goals. Additionally, as change knocks on your door, you will welcome it with open arms and not with trepidation simply because it was so unexpected.
URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | MARCH
19
Music was my dream…
AND NOW METRICAL MUSIC PRODUCTIONS IS MY REALITY Emil D. Gordon, Sr., Owner of Metrical Music Productions (contributing writer: René Gordon) Growing up in Detroit gave me an opportunity to see and
My dreams of producing slowly started becoming a reality
hear some of the most amazing music. This experience
as we built our studio together, first with the software, then
led me to a love affair with music and eventually led me to
monitors, a mixer, a midi controller, sound panels, and
start my own music production company, Metrical Music
on and on…even down to the artwork on the walls. We
Productions, making tracks for all genres. But I’m getting
now have a full in-home studio and I produced my first
a little ahead of myself. Let me take you back to where it
EP, Hear My Music, which debuted on Google Play Music
started…in Liberia.
at #9 on the Jazz top albums in March 2020. The EP has four instrumentals and one song. My wife René wrote the
We listened to all kinds of music in my house with my
lyrics and sings on the song From the First Day We Met.
mother and grandmother, who we affectionately called
Songwriting comes so naturally to her and her lyrics bring
Big-Mommy. From a young age, I was blessed to have
life to my music.
the sounds and rhythms of my native country along with influences from around the world playing in my head.
With God in our life and my wife by my side, we have
When war broke out in Liberia, we moved to the United
been producing and making music together for a year as of
States. Things were not very easy for us, and I found it
March 2021. We may not always agree on an arrangement,
challenging to fit in sometimes.
but we know we make great music together. My wife always encourages me every step of the way. She also made sure
Nevertheless, I was once again blessed to have amazing
we went through the necessary steps to open the business
music in my life...the sounds of Motown, Jazz, Raggae,
properly with all the registrations for the IRS, Dept of
Hip-Hip, Blues, Rock, Hard Rock, House, Techno, South
Revenue, ASCAP, and DistroKid to name a few. We will be
Bass…you name it, and I heard it. As I became an adult, I
releasing another EP where she will be singing on most of
was able to go to concerts on the river and hear so many
the songs including one she composed. She also produces
talented performers. Music was ingrained in my heart.
music for her own songs and spoken word pieces. René has
I always knew I wanted to produce music, I just didn’t
a spoken word EP that will be released this year.
know when or where that part of my life would start. All of this is to say, it may take a while, but stick with your After moving to Georgia, I met my wife, René Gordon,
dreams and see them through. What works for me? I keep
who is a writer. At the time, I didn’t know she was a
God in my life. I have someone in my corner supporting
published author, and later I discovered her talents as a
me. I keep striving to learn more and do better. Finally,
singer, songwriter, spoken word artist, writing coach, and
I never gave up. Music was my dream, and now Metrical
publisher. She has her own company, ReneWritesBooks
Music Productions is my reality.
that she publishes under. I support her in all her talents.
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URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | MARCH
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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 4
by dr. sharon h. porter for urban sentinel In the December, January, and February issues of the Urban Sentinel, I have had the pleasure of presenting the first three principles of effective leadership;
Integrity,
Execution,
and
Competency. In this month’s issue, I will end the four-part discussion with the fourth principle; Collaboration.
Collaboration involves individuals
working collectively to problem-solve. “Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships”- Michael Jordan Indeed, collaboration is all about teamwork. While it is not necessary to complete all tasks as a team, as a leader you should; however; complete all complex tasks as a team. The advantage is the diverse and multiple perspectives collaboration brings. I will use the acronym ‘T.O.G.E.T.H.E.R” to describe how and why collaborating is an important part of leadership.
TEAM In order to effectively collaborate and ensure that the contributions will ultimately benefit the organization, you must pull together the right team. You can just have any group of people working together, it must be individuals with the necessary skill set that is needed for the issue at hand. Collins (2001) in Good to Great talks about how you first must get the right people on the bus, the right people in the right seats, and the wrong people off the bus to figure out how you’re going to get where you are going. It’s the “First Who Then What” concept. This is the first step in collaboration. Teamwork really does make the dream work”! Optimal Results
24
High Level Impact The goal and benefit of collaboration is to achieve optimal results. When your team effectively collaborates, it builds
In a joint study between Rob Cross, Edward A. Madden
camaraderie and improves productivity and engagement
Professor of Global Business at Babson College and the
which ultimately leads to achieving your goals. It has
Institute for Corporate Productivity, it was found that
been widely researched that worker engagement increases
companies that promoted collaboration were five times as
when individuals are able to work together in teams and
likely to be high performing. High level impact occurs
collaborate. There must be a plan in place. “The whole is
when there are defined goals, clear roles, and a culture
more than the sum of its parts.”
that is intentional and team members can share ideas and communicate freely.
Gain Clarity Expectations Once team members have a clear understanding of the task at hand, what their role is on the team, the strategy or plan
A collaborative effort calls for certain team expectations.
that has been put in place, what goal achievement looks
Each member of the team must know and understand
like, and the purpose of the goal, effective collaboration
their role. The sharing of information and ideas should be
will take place. You don’t want team members duplicating
expected as well as being open to constructive feedback.
efforts or overlooking certain aspects of the task. Clarity
Team members must be accountable for their work, self-
is the beginning… Start with why. The “why” of the team
reliable, and reliable.
should align with the why of the greater organization. They “why” always should start with the mission statement.
Reflection
Encourage, Empower, and Embrace
After a task has been completed it is always a good idea to reflect on the process. An After Action Review (AAR)
As a leader, you should encourage a creating environment,
should be completed. I prefer the What?/So What?/ Now
authenticity, and personal accountability. You should
What? Protocol. It promotes discussion and reviews the
empower team members to be innovative and embrace a
experience of the team.
culture of mutual respect. During the What, you state the facts...what happened and Trust
with whom. During the So What, you are now interpreting the facts, asking why… During the Now What, you begin
Trust is at the core of collaboration. It has been said that a
to apply the lessons learned and set future goals, including
team without trust is not really a team….It is just a group of
creating an action plan.
individuals working together. A study that was published ub the Journal of Knowledge Management found that
To demonstrate effective leadership, Integrity, Execution,
trust was a key element in a team’s knowledge acquisition.
Competency and Collaboration must exist.
URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | MARCH
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Game Changers! by Claudia Newby-Tynes for the urban sentinel
introduced. Two events identified as game changers in this article are: 1. COVID-19 or Corona virus is an event we can all identify with that occurred in March 2020. It is still running rampant on March 2021. 2. Eastern Standard Time (EST) converts to Daylight Saving Time (DST) starting March 14, 2021. Game Changer #1 - The COVID-19 or Corona virus is and has been a global game changer since March 2020. The world was put on a total lockdown because of this global pandemic. Too many people lost their loved ones, and some people have been attacked but have since recovered from the lifethreatening pandemic. Scientists, The Center for Disease Control (CDC), and the World Health Living in changing times is an understatement these days.
Organization (WHO) are collaborating together with
Have you ever found yourself saying, "Something has to
formulation of vaccines, establishing rules and regulations
change?" According to the Greek Philosopher, Heraclitus,
regarding production, distribution, and getting everyone
"Change is the only constant." Contrary to public opinions,
vaccinated.
time marches right on regardless of the happenings and the state of the current affairs that surround us. This is factual in
Game Changer #1 – Identify some causes and effects as a
the natural and spiritual seasons of our lives. Change occurs
result of this change. Change can be sometimes painful, but
literally and figuratively every second of our lives.
change is needful. The world has changed. While we are no longer under a total lockdown, many regulatory limitations
The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines game changer
and precautions have been imposed on our living situations.
as a newly introduced element or factor that changes an
Involuntary and voluntary covid tests and vaccinations are
existing situation or activity in a significant way. The Collins
given to those who are first responders and employed in
Dictionary defines game changer as a person or thing that
the medical industry. In addition, seniors and those with
significantly affects the outcome of something. If you look
compromising health challenges are high on the list for getting
closer to these definitions, causes and effects occur when
vaccinated. The wearing of masks when outside of the home
game changers take place.
and keeping social distancing by six feet are vital. Frequent washing of hands and sanitizing are vital lifestyle changes
Since 2020/2021 significant game changers have been 26
to protect ourselves and others too. We have mastered the
art of meeting virtually in church worship, concerts, office
first-ever madam vice president, the highest ranking female
meetings, and even remote and distant learning are a vital
in the U.S. history who is the first African American and first
part of this lifestyle change. Would you agree with me that
Asian American. Along with her election came the first ever
these are game changer for you too?
second gentlemen to fulfill the role as spouse to the madam vice president. Now let me ask you a question, "How are these
Game Change # 2 – The commencement of Daylight Saving
game changers working for you?"
Time. Every year on the second Sunday in March, the United States (with the exception of Arizona and Hawaii) switches
It’s time to switch gears. Now you know I will not leave you
from Eastern Standard Time (EST) to Daylight Saving Time
hanging like that. Let me share God’s Word with you and
(DST). On Sunday, March 14, 2021, at 2 a.m. we will go
balance these game changers. Have you ever heard the saying,
through this drill of setting our clocks one hour ahead all
"Change is not change until you change?" Know that when
over again. Daylight Saving Time will continue until the first
we shift our thinking and our doing by putting the Word on
Sunday on November 7, 2021, at 2:00 a.m. This change was
it, game changers become Word changers. Let’s say you are
effected since 2007 per the Energy Policy Act of 2005, and it
believing God for a physical, spiritual, or financial change
still poses some game changers today for me.
(or all three promises) in your life? If so, keep standing in faith on every promise He has given you. One promise in His
"Spring Forward" is the phrase that gives me clarity to turn
Word that comes to my mind is
my clocks one hour forward, and "Fall Back" let me know it’s time to turn them back one hour in the fall.
3 John 2, a three-old prosperity, that reads, “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health,
Game Changers #2 - Some causes and effect as a result of
even as thy soul prospereth.” While you are standing on His
this change. There are physical and biological changes that
Word, know that distractions will come and try to throw you
occur. In addition to conserving energy, some statistics
off balance. Fears of the “What ifs” will emerge through every
suggest it reduces accidents and the crime rates. We get
crack and crevice of your thought life. Keep standing of the
more daylight and less artificial light in the evenings. The
Word that says, “The Just shall live by his faith” Habakkuk 2:4
question was asked, “Is Daylight Saving Time good for your
(KJV). Keep your spiritual eyes focus on God and not your
health? On WebMD.com, in a November 4, 2019, article
situation by declaring His Word and not your situation.
written by Robert Preidt, health experts suggests, “...it might be better if time changes ended for good. It is more than an
God does not change...we do. His Word declares, “I am the
inconvenience, it’s a potential health threat, they warned....”
same yesterday, today, and forever.” Words matter. Speak the
While the clocks are moved up an hour, our biological clocks
Word! Speaking faith-filled words changes your thought life.
do not get the message. “It’s not one hour twice a year. It’s
Changing your thought life changes your mind. And when
a misalignment of our biologic clocks for eight months of
you change your mind, you will change your world. It’s the
the year,” says Dr. Beth Ann Marlow, Director of the Sleep
Word of God you speak aloud out of your own mouth. Put
Disorders Division at Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Word on it. You are the change agent when your work the
in Nashville, TN.
Word. The Word is the ultimate GAME CHANGER when you speak it. Word up!
The 2020 presidential election and the inauguration of a new administration on January 20, 2021, were more history making game changers for the country. We the people, in addition to electing the 46th president also elected the 49th URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | MARCH
27
March Forward...
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 I do not know about you, but upon reflection, I have been forced to come to grips with so many missed opportunities. When I ask myself, “What went wrong?” again I must be honest and acknowledge several realities, Self-reflection is not always easy, but if you are to march forward and ever have an opportunity to enjoy a fulfilling life, understanding yourself is a must. My answers flooded into my mind much like the high tide claims space on the sandy shore. I was not ready, I was unwilling I had not learned an important life lesson and made the choice to change my habits, or because of the storms of life, I had become complacent believing that the dreams in my spirit and the realities of my life could not be one the same. Change is all around us, stress and strife will be around too; even so, we cannot let that stop us from learning how to relish life everyday. And the only person who can rescue your life is you. You are the only person who knows the longings of your heart and you must be willing to work for those things, that means persisting in the face of doubters, criticism, or setbacks along your journey. Far too many of us are waiting for someone to come along, or something to happen before we earnestly begin to live and enjoy life. Sadly, for some people their life is quickly over and they have yet begun to live. Time waits for no one, and time will not nudge us if we are wasting it. With the gift of life, we all receive a treasure chest of gifts, talents, and responsibilities. So many of us never discover these treasures; instead, we waste our time in dead-end unfulfilling jobs, we add to that unhealthy, spirit depleting relationships, and we toss into the mix self-limiting habits and beliefs. Carrying such an emotional load is too heavy a burden for the strongest back to withstand. If we look around in our neighborhoods, within our own families, sometimes at work, or even in church, noticeably 28
there are some people who are so cloaked in sadness, that you cannot help noticing. There are some people who have obviously given up and are simply existing. If you are one of those people, it is time for you to make a change. We all face pain and disappointment in this life, but we do not have to wallow in it forever. Those who find true serenity in their lives spend time chasing their dreams and achieving their personal goals. They dare to keep aspiring, to keep trying, to learn and grow from their life experiences. A more joyful life can be yours too, if you decide to claim it and March Forward, step- by- step, day-by-day. With a positive attitude and faith as your foundation, your goals and dreams as your compass, your persistence and commitment as your fuel, there is nothing that you cannot accomplish once you resolve to March Forward. Vow that your will uncover, use and expand your talents and March Forward. Choose to find work that you enjoy or start a business if that is your dream and March Forward. Surround yourself with positive people who champion your dreams and offer you a support system in times of need, for these are people who can help you to March Forward. Know that occasional life storms will come your way, but you can weather them, heal and learn from them and still March Forward. Realize that you have only one life to live and you will experience constant disappointment, personal longing and accomplish very little if you do not choose to March Forward. So, decide from now on to honor your life. For as singer Jill Scott says, “live your life like it is golden”, because indeed it is.
Virginia’s Decision to Kill the Death Penalty
by Brandee Johnson for the urban sentinel On February 3rd and 5th, Virginia’s legislature came to a
refreshing to see that the legal system is finally aligning itself
decision that I never thought I would witness in my lifetime.
with the views of the general public. 60% of Americans, when
Both the Virginia House and Senate voted to pass legislation
asked in a 2019 Gallup poll which punishment for murder
that would abolish the death penalty. Although nothing is
is more preferred, chose the option of life imprisonment
set in stone as of yet, Governor Ralph Northam has been
without the possibility of parole over the death penalty (www.
very vocal about his stance on abolishing the death penalty;
deathpenalty.org). Virginia itself – with its lengthy history of
he’s even gone so far as to state that he plans on signing the
executing criminals – has shown, over time, that opinions
bill into law as soon as the bill reaches his desk, making the
about the death penalty have changed. The last time someone
abolishment of the death penalty in Virginia a done deal.
was executed in Virginia was 2017, and as of today only two men are on death row.
As someone who adamantly opposes the death penalty, it’s URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | MARCH
29
There are many reasons why Americans hold an opposing view on the death penalty. The cost of keeping someone on death row and essentially wasting the money of taxpayers is one reason, for those who are motivated and fueled by money. The possibility of wrongfully executing someone who’s innocent is another reason, for those who are guided by their morals and values. For many Black Americans – including myself – the disproportionate racial impact of the death penalty is the main reason why we oppose it. Southern states have historically treated the death penalty as the extended arm of lynching.One of the common characteristics of a lynching was the false accusation of a rape between a Black man and a White woman. Between 1900 and 1977, Virginia alone executed 73 Black defendants for convictions of rape, attempted rape, or armed robbery that did not result in death (www.deathpenaltyinfo.org). One execution that occurred in Virginia was so unjust that it deserves to be mentioned with the Scottsboro Boys trial and the Groveland Four. That was the execution of the Martinsville Seven.
The Martinsville Seven is, sadly, a tale that the Black
scale furniture factories whose ages, with the exception of
Community is all too familiar with. On January 8th,
Francis DeSales Grayson (37), ranged from 18 to 23 years old.
1949, a White woman by the name of Ruby Stroud Floyd
Despite the fact that Grayson and Hampton were the only
accused 13 Black men of raping her while she was passing
two out of the seven that Floyd identified as her “rapists”, all
through Martinsville, Virginia, a poor African-American
seven men were charged with rape by the spring of 1949.
neighborhood. In little to no time, the police dwindled the 13 suspects to 7. Those 7 young men – Frank Hairston, Jr.,
Each of the young men were tried in separate trials over the
Booker T. Millner, James Luther Hairston, Howard Lee
course of eleven days. There was one common theme with
Hairston, John Clabon Taylor, Francis DeSales Grayson, and
each individual trial: similar to a lynch mob, the prosecution
James Henry Hampton – were laborers who worked in small-
vetoed all potential Black jurors, making sure that the jury was
30
electrocuted on February 2, 1951. The remaining three – John Clabon Taylor, James Luther Hairston, and Francis DeSales Grayson –
were
electrocuted
on
February
5.
The
Martinsville Seven, just like hundreds of thousands of Black men, were victims of the racial terror under Jim Crow; and the death penalty was the justice system’s way of legally lynching Black men and getting away with it. Although nothing can really make up for the extreme Black
injustices defendants
that have
faced because of the death penalty, it is still interesting to witness Virginia become full of all-white males. All six of these all-white male juries convicted the young men and sentenced them unanimously
the first Southern state to abolish the death penalty and hopefully set a precedent for
to the death penalty.
other Southern states to do the same.
From 1950 to 1951, the NAACP exhausted all efforts to
For more information on the Martinsville Seven, take a look at
appeal the Martinsville Seven’s convictions. NAACP lawyers were even citing the racial disparities between White defendants convicted of rape, who “seldom if ever” received the death penalty in Virginia. Sadly, it was to no avail. The U.S. Supreme Court rejected the case twice without review,
The Martinsville Seven: Race,, Rape, and Capital Punishment (Constitutionalism and Democracy) by Eric W. Wise. For more information concerning the death penalty, visit www.deathpenalty.org and www.deathpenaltyinfo.org
and despite the letter-writing campaigns, editorials, and local vigils, the Virginia governor John S. Battle refused clemency. Ironically, the dates that the Virginia legislature passed legislation to abolish the death penalty are around the same dates that the Martinsville Seven were wrongfully executed.
Image Credits: Image 1 - www.patheos.com Image 2 - www.richmond.com Image 3 - www.blackpast.org
Four of the Seven – James Henry Hampton, Howard Lee Hairston, Booker T. Millner, and Frank Hairston, Jr. – were
URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | MARCH
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Model Spotlight
Tionna
MOSS
by Myeka Johnson: MJI Talent Agency for urban sentinel
Bio: Tionna Moss is a college student and model living in New York. She attends Keuka College and is studying to become a doctor. She was born and raised in Colorado Springs, CO then moved to New York after graduating high school. Tionna was signed to MJI, a talent agency in Manhattan, New York where she is currently the host of the MJI Talent Tour. Tionna continues to excel in her studies and in her career as a model.
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INSPIRATION
it comes to this. It is an artform and needs to be treated as
A lot of times, inspiration and motivation are our influencers.
such. You are creating art. You are embracing art. You are
When asked who her motivators are, Fashion Model, Tionna
showing art. When asked how she embraces her passion,
Moss expresses how she is deeply motivated by her family. Her
Tionna expresses how she will always let it be known what
mom, who pushes her every day to get up and take care of
her passion is, and she will be persistent and do what needs to
business and do what she needs to do to be successful. Her
be done to be successful in that. Tionna is pursuing more than
younger sister, who looks up to her and is inspired by her.
one passion, she currently lives in New York attending Keuka
But she also mentions being inspired by supermodels Naomi
College majoring in Biomedicine. She plans on using her
Campbell and Kendell Jenner.
degree to become a neonatologist in New York City. Tionna signed to MJI in Manhattan, New York back in 2020 to help
POSITIVITY
her continue to pursue her dream of modeling.
I think criticism – in any industry – but, especially in the entertainment industry is a weight that cannot be completely
A DAY IN THE LIFE
ignored. There will always be critics who will lift you up, and
Life as a fashion model is not as easy as it looks on the outside
then there are the ones whose motive is to tear you down.
looking in. Tionna explains how it goes beyond just putting on clothes and walking down the runway. Preparation behind
“Not everyone will like everything that you do, but the group
the stage can take hours when you take into consideration
of people that do will always be there to support you. I wouldn’t
practice, wardrobe, makeup, and hair and nails. There are
let the negative criticism outweigh all of the good criticism.”
so many different components that need to come together synonymously for smooth and successful results.
EMBRACING BEAUTY When it comes to the world of fashion and modeling, the term
Aside from her modeling life, Tionna is a full-time student
BEAUTY holds a lot of weight. Beauty can mean many things
and athlete. When Tionna is not preparing for a modeling gig
in this industry, but what is crucial is what beauty means to
she is focused on her studies as a sophomore in college. She
YOU, both externally and internally. When asked what beauty
is originally from Colorado Springs, CO where she originally
means to her and how she embraces her beauty, Tionna
started her modeling career until moving to New York in
expresses that beauty is accepting yourself no matter what,
2019.
whether you’re wearing makeup or showing your bare face – you are beautiful. She goes on to elaborate on how showing
“As a model, it’s my responsibility to have all of my wardrobe
beauty is uplifting other people.
and makeup that I need to bring, and as a student it is my responsibility to show up to class ready to learn.”
“I don’t think beauty is only exterior. I think it’s interior, too. You know that there are other beautiful people out there, but
Words of Wisdom from Fashion Model, Tionna Moss:
you still have to be able to acknowledge that you’re beautiful as
“Don’t let anything hold you back. There are a lot of stereotypes
you are without comparing yourself to others”.
but don’t let that discourage you, just go for it.”
PASSION Passion and persistence in anything you do is very important to have. The fashion and modeling industry is essential when 34
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Tionna
MOSS
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HOSANNA!
HOSANNA! by bridgette m. alfred for urban sentinel
A.
The History Of Palm
Sunday:
disciples. And accordingly the disciples did as Jesus had directed
(CEB): The next day the great
1. Physical: We will celebrate
them, and they made ready the
crowd that had come for the
Passover supper.
festival heard that Jesus was
Palm Sunday on March 28th, which is the Sunday before Easter. Palm Sunday is the first day of Holy Week leading up to the Jewish holiday of Passover. Beginning in the fourth century in Jerusalem, Palm Sunday was marked by a procession of the faithful carrying palm branches, representing the Jews who celebrated Christ's
B. The Palm Branch
to
Jerusalem.
They
took palm branches and went out to meet him. They shouted,
1. Physical: God's Word tells us
“Hosanna! Blessings on the one
the people cut palm branches and
who comes in the name of the
waved them in the air, laid them
Lord! Blessings on the king of
out on the ground before Jesus as
Israel!”
He rode into the city. The palm branch
represented
goodness
C. Jesus’ Triumphal Entry:
entrance into Jerusalem.
and victory and was symbolic of the final victory Jesus would
1. Physical: Jesus chose to ride
2. Spiritual: Matthew 26:17-
soon fulfill over death. A palm
in on a donkey, which directly
branch is a symbol of triumph, a
fulfilled Old Testament prophecy
banner of peace, and a physical
of Zechariah 9:9. In Biblical
representation of surrender to
times, it was common for kings
King Jesus as Lord. There is
or important people to arrive by
power in knowing that the same
a procession riding on a donkey.
Jesus whom they celebrated in
The donkey symbolized peace,
the Jerusalem streets, is the same
so those who chose to ride them
Jesus who we celebrate today.
showed that they came with
19 (AMPC): Now on the first day of Unleavened Bread [Passover week], the disciples came to Jesus and said to Him, Where do You wish us to prepare for You to eat the Passover supper? He said, Go into the city to a certain man and say to him, The Master says: My time is near; I will keep the Passover at your house with My
38
coming
peaceful intentions. Jesus even 2. Spiritual:
John12:12-13
then reminded us that He is the
Prince of Peace.
to honor Jesus as King and to sacrifice. We could not have the
(CEB): He said to them, “Go into
empty tomb if we did not have
the village over there. As soon as
the cross, and we could not have
you enter, you will find a donkey
the cross if Jesus did not willingly
tied up and a colt with it. Untie
go to it in obedience to the Father.
them and bring them to me. If
We celebrate that Jesus chose to
anyone says anything to you, say
defeat sin and grant us His victory
that their master needs them.”
and peace.
He sent them off right away. Now this happened to fulfill what the
HOSANNA!
2. Spiritual: Matthew 21:2-7
prophet said, Say to Daughter
2. Spiritual: Romans 10:9-13
Zion, “Look, your king is coming
(CEB): Because if you confess with
to you, humble and riding on a
your mouth “Jesus is Lord” and
donkey, and on a colt the donkey’s
in your heart you have faith that
offspring.” The disciples went
God raised him from the dead,
and did just as Jesus had ordered
you will be saved. Trusting with
them. They brought the donkey
the heart leads to righteousness
and the colt and laid their clothes
and confessing with the mouth
on them. Then he sat on them.
leads to salvation. The scripture says, All who have faith in him
D. Conclusion:
won’t be put to shame. There is
no distinction between Jew and 1. Physical: During Holy Week,
Greek because the same Lord is
may God direct our thoughts and
Lord of all, who gives richly to all
attention towards what matters
who call on him. All who call on
most, Jesus Christ our King. Let's
the Lord’s name will be saved.
choose to focus on worshipping our Lord, thanking Him for the gift of His sacrifice, celebrating the power of the Resurrection, and the new life found in Him alone. Palm Sunday reminds the church
HOSANNA!
meditate on the week of His great
URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | MARCH
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40
ENJOYING THE
American Dream by Reginald Kearney for urban sentinel
I recently had the opportunity to have a conversation
that has held principal roles on television shows- such
with a superwoman that wears many hats including
as an attorney on the hit TV show: Katie Fforde- and
that of an entrepreneur. Kat Taylor embodies the
TV commercials like the Wayfair, just to name a few.
American Dream when it comes to being a full-time employee and business woman along with wearing a
Kat Taylor is also CEO and Founder of Mattoon-Soap
hat of a media personality.
Company, LLC along with Charis Miller. Kat started the skincare line after she noticed that a lot of friends
From the daily grind of her full-time job, and then
suffered from dry skin and acne. She began suggesting
moving on to the microphone, the witty, classy, and
her handcrafted products- originally made to remedy
funny lady, Kat Taylor is an American Radio Personality,
her own skin ailments. The results were phenomenal!
Voice Over Actress, Lifestyle Model and an Actress.
As her friends’ skin began to clear up, the word quickly
Kat’s sensual and alluring voice can be heard seven
spread about Kat’s amazing products. Strangers
days a week between 12:00am and 6:00am, as she hosts
began inquiring of how these men and women were
Melodic Whispers on New England’s only independent
maintaining such healthy and clear skin. After 10
radio station, WEIB 106.3 Smooth FM. When she is not
years of experimentation and encouragement from
on the air, she is creating copy for radio commercials;
family and friends, Kat decided it was time to share
voicing various characters for audiobook bookings; on
her amazing products. Thus, this was the birth of the
set acting in a TV show or commercial, or voicing a
Mattoon Soap Company.
Radio commercial. Kat Taylor is also the founder of Kat Taylor Media
Urban Sentinel: Given that your hometown is
Productions, LLC (KTMP) - which is a media
Washington, D.C.; what events in life made you locate
production company which provides an array of media
to Massachusetts?
services. Kat has been a voice over actress for many
Kat Taylor: I was working in Washington, D.C. with the
different companies. Kat Taylor is a vibrant, rising talent
Washington, D.C, Metropolitan Police Department as URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | MARCH
41
Police Officer and another opportunity came about
Zoom meetings. The only time I leave my house is
in Pharmaceuticals. After I received my Master in
when I need to be on-set or at the radio station.
Business Administration (MBA), I made a move and took a job in Compliance and eventually I ended up
Urban Sentinel: How did you find yourself in the
in Massachusetts.
media word? Kat Taylor: It was by accident. After I relocated to
Urban Sentinel: How has your experience been in the
Springfield, MA, my neighbor and CEO and Founder
Pharmaceutical Field and New England ?
of Spirit of Springfield, Judy Matt, invited me as
Kat Taylor: Since living and working in New England
her guest to the Bright Night Ball. It's an annual
it has been good and bad. I have experienced some
fundraiser and black tie affair that she hosts . While
racism. For instance, While driving home in my Range
there, I was introduced to Carol Moore-Cutting, CEO
Rover, I was profiled and stopped by a Connecticut
and Founder of WEIB 106.3 Smooth FM. Carol and
Police Officer . The Officer asked where I was going?
I became friends, several months later. While at my
I stated home to my house in Litchfield, Connecticut.
house, Carol asked if I would like to become a radio
The officer asked “How did you find that?” I responded
personality. I didn’t think that I had the talent to be an
“It’s on the freakin map.” I then showed the Police
on- radio host, but Mrs. Cuttings said that she would
Officer my credentials. Once the Officer viewed my
have someone from her staff train me. I agreed to a 60
identification he immediately terminated the stop. I
day trial run and the rest is history.
have also been questioned by some colleagues on how I am able to afford the lifestyle that I live and where do
Urban Sentinel: How did the Mattoon Soap Company
I get all my money from.”
skincare line come about? Kat Taylor: After relocating from Washington, D.C.
Urban Sentinel: How do you juggle and balance your
to Litchfield, Connecticut, I developed allergies that
life to accomplish everything that you do?
caused me to breakouts in hives which left dark
Kat Taylor: It is a balancing act, I am able to get it all
dark spots over my entire body. I went to several
in from the comfort of my home. At least for the most
dermatologists and none of the physicians could
part. Laughing out loud. I designed my home to fit
identify or treat my condition. Finally, I called my
my professions. I am able to audition for voice-overs
friend who is a Celebrity Dermatologist, Dr. Melanye
auditions, acting auditions, and modeling auditions
Maclin, MD, and she advised me that due to the change
from my recording studio. Mattoon Soap Company
of environment it was causing me to have severe
Facility is in walking distance. I also have a lot of
allergies. Dr. Maclin gave me her professional opinion
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URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | MARCH
43
44
and provided instructions on how to cure the hives.
friend’s where they could purchase the skincare and
The guidance that she provided helped, but I still had
if there was a website. With the high demand for the
dark marks. I researched and researched until I found
product through word of mouth. The Mattoon Soap
a solution that would assist in lighting or getting rid
Company was born.
of the dark marks completely. I formulated products in my kitchen such as – a shower gels, and lotions which healed my skin and lightened the dark spots.
Urban Sentinel: Do you have any plans of expanding
I conducted additional research on how to formulate
your product line into a brick and mortar store?
facial wash, toner, serum and a facial cream that were
Kat Taylor: Yes, I hope to sell the Mattoon Soap
all natural, vegan, and organic that would reduce or
Company’s Skincare line and Home Decor line in
prevent the cause of any future allergy outbreaks and
Nordstrom’s and other major department stores.
that would also be cost effective.
Currently, Mattoon Soap Company’s entire skincare line is being sold at Mike’s Beauty Supply store
I recall visiting the Nordstrom’s cosmetic counter
located in Downtown Springfield, MA. Mattoon Soap
with a girlfriend. Our weekend outing. Girls just
Company’s products will be hitting the store shelves at
wanna fun and shop. Laughing out loud. We made
a Washington, D.C., boutique in the very near future.
a trip to Nordstrom's every other week so that my
Maybe before this article is published. Laughing out
girlfriend could purchase a $300 facial cream. While
loud. Just working out the legalese matters.
at the cosmetic counter the sale’s representative complimented me on how healthy and glowing my
If you would like more information on Mattoon Soap
skin was and asked if I used the products that he was
Company, or you would like to purchase products,
selling. I stated “Heck no, I was not about to spend
please go to www.mattoonsoapco.com and follow
that type of money for one item or $1000 for the entire
Mattoon Soap Company on Facebook, Twitter, and
line of skincare.”
Instagram at mattoonsoapco. Stay on point with Mattoon Soap Company.
After many trials, errors and formulating various skincare products, I was confident in my product line and began to share it with friends and family members. My family and friends were receiving compliments from strangers regarding their skin and how healthy and growing their skin was. People were asking my URBAN SENTINEL MAGAZINE | MARCH
45
PHOTO CREDITS
Wendy Nelson Photo Credit: Peculiar Images By RJ- Pages 3, 6 and 9 Ralph Pittman Photo Credit: Seats Photographix: Pages 12, 15, 17 and Front Cover Emil D. Gordon, Sr. and Rene Gordon Photo Credit: The Gordon’s Pages 3, 21, and 22 Kat Taylor Photo Credits: Jesssenia Li Ahmed - Pages 43 Tim Coburn - Page 44 and Back Cover
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