Urban Sentinel (March 2021) - Ralph Pittman

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

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4 Principles of Effective Leadership Part 4

26

Game Changers

28

March Forward

29

Virginia’s Decision to Kill the Death Penalty

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Model Spotlight: Tionna Moss

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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

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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

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Balancing

Life Marriage & Business

12

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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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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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

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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

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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

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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

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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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