Woman To Woman With Joanne The Magazine February 2020 Issue

THE MAGAZINE February 2020 Issue 28

HONORING SISTER THEA BOWMAN

INAUGURAL MISSISSIPPI BLACK WOMEN’S BUSINESS EXPO

Celebrating 100 Years of Women’s Suffrage

Celebrates Black History Month DREKA SHEVON Women in Business

LOVE, MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP

KEEPING POSITIVE

Mental Health on Valentine’s Day

more inside…

Together, we have the strength.

Education

MCADV provides training sessions, special events and resource materials to all sectors of the community, including law enforcement, professional, civic groups, and services providers.

Public Awareness

MCADV conducts ongoing statewide media campaigns aimed at specific target audiences including action-oriented communications to victims and the public as well as building public awareness about domestic violence in various entities within the community at-large.

Technical Assistance

MCADV provides training, support, resources, and capacity building to member shelter programs and coordinates efforts between programs and other community service agencies to enhance the strategies and programs for victim service provision as well as provide referrals to domestic violence shelter programs and other available services.

Resource Distribution

MCADV maintains information on domestic violence resources and services including stalking, teen dating violence, domestic violence and the faith community, victims’ rights, and elder abuse.

Legal Services

MCADV conducts the coordination of legal services to victims of interpersonal violence associated with the shelter programs, such as family law matters and other non-tort legal services in civil court matters.

1-800-898-3234 SUPPORT@MCADV.ORG MCADV.ORG

SANKOFA BOOK CLUB An auxiliary of Women for Progress of Mississippi Presents

Book Discussion of The Month And Welcomes

Joanne Bell Wright Author of

Fear Was My Friend

MARCH 7th, 2020 | 5:30PM 622 Duling Avenue Jackson, MS Hosted by Women For Progress of Mississippi Angela Stewart, Vice President TO ORDER YOUR COPY GO TO: Womantowomanwithjoanne.org, amazon.com or Call 601-398-6733

Free and open to the public

CLINTON MUSIC CONSERVATORY

All ages: Piano,Voice Lessons Preschool Ages: Kiddy Keys Contact Dr. Brenda Wilder, Piano & Voice 601-918-3026 brendawilder@comcast.net or Shardae McAfee, Piano 601-906-4130 shardaemcafee@gmail.com

Join the Fun!

contents FEBRUARY 2020 In This Issue 9

Ask Joanne

There are many wonderful reasons to celebrate the month of February.

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Go Red For Women

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Women’s Suffrage Movement

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Kairos Outside

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Keeping Positive Mental Health on Valentine’s Day

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States. ...

During the 19th and 20th centuries, Black women played an active role in the ...

Kairos Outside provides a support weekend for women who have a relative or ...

Chocolate hearts and stores decked out in pink and red can only mean that ...

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Features

Sister Thea Bowman

12 Sheri Albert

Confessions of An Empty Nester.

Three Organizations Uniting Mississippi Through Love

Unite Mississippi, a 501 C-3, Not for Profit Foundation, is a parachurch ...

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Mya Bell is a 16-year-old Mississippi School of The Arts student with a focus in ...

Cover Story – Honoring Sister Thea Bowman Stepping Out of An Organized Closet It’s the beginning of a new year, and most women have the overwhelming feeling ...

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Pursuing Your D.a.p.p

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True Love Starts From Within

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Mississippi Black Women’s Business Expo Review

After years of creating my own content, I decided to pursue a degree in Film, ...

How does one define love? Actually, love can be defined in many ...

Melissa Banks and Tameka Dyon hosted the 1st Black Women’s Business ...

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Feature – Confessions of An Empty Nester Sheri Albert has been married to her husband, Dr. Michael (Bert) Albert, for ...

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Love, Marriage and Partnership - James and Natasha King Joe and Kathy Amos During the month of February, we wanted to share a story of love, marriage, ...

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Martin Luther King Celebration Review Tougaloo College and Millsaps College hosted the annual 2020 Celebration ...

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MS Women In Network Conference Review

Mississippi Women In Network celebrated their 3rd Annual Mind, Body, ...

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Jackson Area Events February 2020

What's coming next months Women's History Month

622 Duling Avenue Jackson MS 39216

Joanne Bell Wright

Assistant Editor Dr. Brenda Wilder

Layout Design

Ahmed Allaudin

Staff Photographers Mya Bell

Cover Photo

Courtsey of https://www. sistertheabowman.com/ biography/

Mya Bell’s Abstract Photos

For Black History Month, Woman to Woman with Joanne has chosen to honor ...

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Publisher & Editor

COTACT WITH US 601-398-6733 woman2woman.joanne@yahoo.com

Staff Writers

Dr. Brenda Wilder Dr. Amanda Lucas Kaitlyn Anderson Kate James

Contributing Writers Amanda Jones

Website

womantowomanwithjoanne.com

Subscribe

bit.ly/joannebellmag

All rights reserved. No portion of Woman to Woman with Joanne may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The management of Woman to Woman with Joanne is not responsible for opinions expressed by its writers. Woman to Woman with Joanne maintains the unrestricted right to edit or refuse all submitted material.

All advertisements are subject to approval by the publisher. The production of Woman to Woman is funded by advertising and sponsorship.

Joanne’s Desk Why We Celebrate February There are many wonderful reasons to celebrate the month of February. It’s Black History month, and as an African American woman, I enjoy celebrating my history.

There are many strong, beautiful, and absolutely amazing African American Women in my life, and I want to celebrate each of them. I choose to honor women from the Civil Rights Movement because they have paved the way for women to be where we are today. They fought for our right to vote as women and for equality. We must know where we have come from in order to know where we are going, so let’s celebrate our history.

Another reason to celebrate February, known as the month of love, is Valentine’s Day. We should show love every day, but this is a special time for giving a favorite person some special sweet gifts to show how much we care. Just saying “I love you” a little more makes this time even sweeter. My baby girl, Mya, was born on Valentine’s Day, making her my Happy Valentine gift every year. Let’s be sure to show some extra love this month and continue every month thereafter.

February is also the month of “Go Red for Women.” It is Heart Health Awareness month, and we want to remind everyone, especially women, to take special care of their heart. Eat healthy, exercise, and schedule yearly checkups. Taking care of the body is the most important thing one can do for self-love and for their family.

The most important reason to celebrate this month is life. We woke up this morning and have another chance to love, be loved, and live the life we were created to enjoy. Celebrate having a choice and freedom to live life as you desire. Take time to see the people around who need love and support.

Choose to give hope this month and every month. Let’s practice loving each other more and being a support system to each other.

We are never alone because God is always with us, but God’s greatest and most valued creation is human beings. He wants to commune with us, and He wants us to commune with each other. Take time to spend quality time each other. Quality trumps quantity every time.

Love ya much!

We should show love every day, but this is a special time for giving a favorite person some special sweet gifts to show how much we care.

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Joanne

Staff Writers

Dr. Brenda Wilder

Dr. Amanda Lucas

WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE : THE MAGAZINE • Issue 28, February 2020

Kate James

Kaitlyn Anderson

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QUESTIONS FOR ASK JOANNE What advice concerning priorities would you give a college student who wishes to have a successful career? –Lindsee Answer I would advise being organized in life, thoughts, and goals. Figure out what you want life to look like, set goals, and organize time around making those goals become reality.

Prioritize and spend time wisely.

Successful people and not-sosuccessful people have the same 24 hours in every day. Successful people choose to prioritize their time and organize their day ahead, even planning daily or weekly ahead, to assure full and wise advantage is taken of every minute.

What is the outcome desired for your life? What do you envision your life will look like in five years, ten years, and twenty years? What is the most important area in your life for focus currently?

To have priorities in order, get organized and stay that way. Have a planner and prioritize each day. Writing tasks down removes the stress of trying to remember everything.

Hope this helps.

Love ya much!

Joanne

WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE: THE MAGAZINE

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Go For Red Women Women and Heart Disease Prevention Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States. Although heart disease is sometimes thought of as a “man’s disease,” approximately the same number of women and men die each year of heart disease in the United States.

Every woman should learn how to lower the chance for heart disease by asking a health provider questions about heart health and making sure to know the symptoms of a heart attack.

A woman can lower her chance for heart disease by eating healthy, staying active, being smoke-free, and limiting alcohol. Risk Factors for Heart Disease are: • Diabetes • Diet high in saturated fats and cholesterol • Excessive alcohol use • Family history of heart disease • High blood cholesterol • High blood pressure • Obesity • Physical inactivity • Tobacco use Seek answers to these questions: • What is my risk for heart disease?

• What is my blood pressure? What does it mean for me, and what do I need to do about it?

• What are my cholesterol numbers (including total cholesterol, LDL or “bad” cholesterol, HDL or “good” cholesterol, and triglycerides)?

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•

• •

• • •

•

What do they mean for me, and what do I need to do about them?

What is my “body mass index” and waist measurement? Is my BMI in the “normal” range? Do I need to lose weight for my health?

What is my blood sugar level? Am I at risk for diabetes?

What other screening tests for heart disease do I need? How often should I return for checkups for my heart health?

How can I quit smoking?

How much physical activity do I need to help protect my heart?

What is a heart-healthy eating plan for me? Should I see a registered dietitian or qualified nutritionist to learn more about healthy eating?

How can I tell if I’m having a heart attack?

A woman suffers a heart attack every 90 seconds in the United States.

If one suspects a heart attack, call 9-1-1 immediately. The good news is that if help is sought quickly, treatment can save the person’s life and prevent permanent damage to the heart muscle. Treatment works best if given within 1 hour of when symptoms begin. Common symptoms are: Unusually heavy pressure on the chest, like there’s a ton of weight on the chest • Sharp upper body pain in the neck, back, and jaw • Severe shortness of breath

WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE : THE MAGAZINE • Issue 28, February 2020

• Cold sweats (not hot flashes from menopause) • Unusual or unexplained fatigue (tiredness) • Unfamiliar dizziness or lightheadedness • Unexplained nausea (feeling sick to the stomach) or vomiting Source: CDC.gov

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Black Women and the Fight For Voting Rights

WOMEN'S SUFFRAGE MOVEMENT D

uring the 19th and 20th centuries, Black women played an active role in the struggle for universal suffrage. They participated in political meetings and organized political societies. African American women attended political conventions at their local churches where they planned strategies to gain the right to vote. In the late 1800s, more Black women worked for churches, newspapers, secondary schools, and colleges, which gave them a larger platform to promote their ideas.

But in spite of their hard work, many people didn’t listen to them. Black men and white women usually led civil rights organizations and set the agenda.

They often excluded Black women from their organizations and activities.

For example, the National American Woman Suffrage Association prevented Black women from attending their conventions. Black women often had to march separately from white women in suffrage parades. In addition, when Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony wrote the History of Woman Suffrage in the 1880s, they featured white suffragists while largely ignoring the contributions of African American suffragists. Though Black women are less well remembered, they played an important role in getting the Fifteenth and Nineteenth Amendments passed.

Black women found themselves pulled in two directions. Black men wanted their support in fighting racial discrimination and prejudice, while white women wanted them to help change the inferior status of women

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in American society. Both groups ignored the unique challenges that African American women faced. Black reformers like Mary Church Terrell, Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, and Harriet Tubman understood that both their race and their sex affected their rights and opportunities.

Because of their unique position, Black women tended to focus on human rights and universal suffrage, rather than suffrage solely for African Americans or for women. Many Black suffragists weighed in on the debate over the Fifteenth Amendment, which would enfranchise Black men but not Black women. Mary Ann Shadd Cary spoke in support of the Fifteenth Amendment but was also critical of it as it did not give women the right to vote. Sojourner Truth argued that Black women would continue to face discrimination and prejudice unless their voices were uplifted like those of Black men.

African American women also believed that the issue of suffrage was too large and complex for any one group or organization to tackle alone. They hoped that different groups would work together to accomplish their shared goal. Black suffragists like Nannie Helen Burroughs wrote and spoke about the need for Black and white women to cooperate to achieve the right to vote. Black women worked with mainstream suffragists and organizations, like the National American Woman Suffrage Association.

However, the mainstream organizations did not address the challenges faced

by Black women because of their

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race, such as negative stereotypes, harassment, and unequal access to jobs, housing, and education. So in the late 1800s, Black women formed clubs and organizations where they could focus on the issues that affected them.

In Boston, Black reformers like Josephine St. Pierre Ruffin and Charlotte Forten Grimke founded the National Association of Colored Women (NACW) in 1896. During their meetings at the Charles Street Meeting House, members discussed ways of attaining civil rights and women’s suffrage. The NACW’s motto, “Lifting as we climb,” reflected the organization’s goal to “uplift” the status of Black women. In 1913, Ida B. Wells founded the Alpha Suffrage Club of Chicago, the nation’s first Black women’s club focused specifically on suffrage.

After the Nineteenth Amendment was ratified in 1920, Black women voted in elections and held political offices.

However, many states passed laws that discriminated against African Americans and limited their freedoms.

Black women continued to fight for their rights. Educator and political advisor Mary McLeod Bethune formed the National Council of Negro Women in 1935 to pursue civil rights. Tens of thousands of African Americans worked over several decades to secure suffrage, which occurred when the Voting Rights Act passed in 1965. This Act represents more than a century of work by Black women to make voting easier and more equitable.

Source: NPS.gov

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Kairos Outside

By Dr. Brenda Wilder

Kairos Outside provides a support weekend for women who have a relative or friend who is or has been incarcerated. The loved one could be incarcerated in state or federal correctional facilities, as well as county jails and offender programs.

Since spouses, parents, relatives, and friends often feel they “do time” along with their loved one, it is important for them to know they are not alone and that the Christian Community cares about them.

By sharing the love and forgiveness of Jesus Christ, Kairos is a prison ministry that hopes to change hearts, transform lives, and impact the world. Kairos Outside is designated for women who have loved ones who are or have been prisoners. Kairos sprang from the Cursillo movement and is supported by volunteers from organizations such as Cursillo, National Episcopal Cursillo, Presbyterian Cursillo, Lutheran Via de Cristo, The Upper Room's Walk To Emmaus, and independently ecumenical Tres Dias, as well as volunteers from independent and non-denominational churches.

As a ministry, Kairos embraces a diverse group of volunteers working together to fulfill Christ's call to action in Matthew 25:36 (http://www.mykairos.org/about. html).

Kairos Outside for women is free to participants and provides the opportunity for attendees to interact with other women who are in similar situations and learn

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how to form small support groups

in their communities to strengthen them on this life journey. The purpose of Kairos Outside is to demonstrate God’s grace and

Kairos Outside for women is free to participants and provides the opportunity for attendees to interact with other women who are in similar situations and learn how to form small support groups in their communities to strengthen them on this life journey. The purpose of Kairos Outside is to demonstrate God’s grace and love through Christian support for women who have loved ones associated with incarceration.

love through Christian support for women who have loved ones associated with incarceration.

The weekend retreat involves talks and activities of women sharing their life journeys. Participants may share in small family groups, but this is voluntary. There is music, prayer, fun activities, and general pampering for the women.

Although the weekend is Christian in nature, no religious affiliation is necessary to attend. Any adult female age 20 or above is eligible to attend if their life has been impacted by the incarceration of relatives or friends.

Weekend team members consist of approximately 28 women, six men cooks, and two clergy women. All come from different denominations and are committed to ministering to inmates and their families. The weekend begins at 6 PM on Friday night and ends on Sunday around 4 PM. There is no cost to the guests, as funds are provided by local Christian Communities. Assistance with child care can be provided upon request.

The weekend retreat is held at a retreat center or camp, where everything is provided except personal articles. Dress is casual, and transportation can be provided.

The upcoming retreat for Mississippi is Mar 20-22, 2020. Weekend Leader is Kayse Jennings, who can be contacted at 601-416-0448 or Kaysejo4@gmail.com. Registration forms are located at http://www. mykairos.org/register.html.

WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE : THE MAGAZINE • Issue 28, February 2020

WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE: THE MAGAZINE

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WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE : THE MAGAZINE • Issue 27, January 2020

Keeping Positive MENTAL HEALTH ON VALENTINE’S DAY

By Dr. Brenda Wilder

C

hocolate hearts and stores decked out in pink and red can only mean that Valentine’s Day is approaching soon. While there is plenty of romance, the holiday can produce more anxiety than joy for some. The media and stores provide constant pressure to prove love for someone through a day of gifts and grand expressions. Couples often stress over what to buy, and those who do not have a partner are many times left feeling alone; but before drowning in self-pity and candy if the second category applies, consider some strategies for a fun and relaxing Valentine’s Day (DeMello, 2014).

Actually, a person doesn’t need a special someone to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Friends, siblings, parents, and grandparents all have an influential role in life. Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to show appreciation for the people who are important to you during the entire year. Social interaction can have significant influence on an individual’s mental health and psychological wellbeing. Close relationships not only boost happiness and reduce stress, they increase feelings of self-worth,

something everyone can use. Make the effort to spend time with loved ones – take them out for coffee or a meal, make a gift, send a text, or call to wish them a happy holiday.

Small gestures cost little but can be incredibly rewarding and meaningful (DeMello, 2014).

Valentine’s Day can also be the perfect opportunity to unwind and pamper one’s self after a long week.

Get some extra sleep, make or buy a favorite dessert, get a manicure or pedicure, or spend time doing something fun. Constantly being busy doesn't give the brain a chance to rest and replenish itself, so resting can be a special treat. Being alone with no distractions gives one the chance to clear the mind, focus, and think more clearly. It’s ok to be somewhat selfish if it’s for one’s own mental, emotional, and physical well-being (DeMello, 2014).

Happy Valentine’s Day! You are loved!

DeMello, H. 2014. Retrieved from https://www.unh.edu/ healthyunh/blog/2014/02/mentalhealthvalentine.

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Three Organizations Uniting Mississippi Through Love Unite Mississippi, Mission Mississippi & The Roaring Lambs.

Unite Mississippi, a 501 C-3, Not for Profit Foundation, is a parachurch ministry. Our mission is, “Uniting the Body of Christ by Serving the Community.” At the very core of our existence, we serve as a facilitator, incubator / resource center, umbrella and think tank; partnering with churches, schools, foundations and corporate / government stakeholders, that desire to address and alleviate systemic and adverse family and community (grass root) issues. Our passion is in creating networks and partnerships with other stakeholders that can bring to bear improvements in school systems (grades K - 12), as well as spiritual awareness, freedom and economic development; more-so in distressed, deprived and disengaged families and communities. Our partners, to-date are, Dr. Tony Evans’ Urban Alternative’s National Adopt A School Initiative, Dr. John Tolson’s Mentorship Training Program, Churches, Court Systems, Law Enforcement Agencies, Corporate and other Non-Profits. Our goal is to engage, and work towards making families and communities whole in a healthy, comprehensive and sustainable manner.

Unite Mississippi, a 501 C-3, Not for Profit Foundation, is a parachurch ministry.

Our mission is, “Uniting the Body of Christ by Serving the Community.

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Mission Mississippi has been leading the way in racial reconciliation in Mississippi for the past 23 years. Our model is to bring people together to build relationships across racial lines so they can work together to better their communities.

It is difficult to know how to respond to racial tragedy but we want to help people understand the Biblical response. We believe that opening an honest dialogue across the racial lines can help to prevent racial incidents. We want to encourage Mississippians to be proactive and work to understand those of other races in order to be able to celebrate our differences.

A POWERFUL VISION To engage, to equip and to empower the next generation to build relationships across racial lines, to work together with better understanding, to build greater respect for one another and to trust each other while making a better Mississippi together.

Our DNA EVANGELISTIC

process. We cannot shy away from making people uncomfortable.

Mission Mississippi’s efforts are evangelistic, i.e. to win people to Christ. We must show to the “outside” world that being a Christian can make a difference in one’s life. By living a reconciled life, we are better able to share the message of Christianity.

ISSUE-BASED

UNAPOLOGETIC

RELATIONSHIP DRIVEN

We do not apologize for asking hard questions or raising issues that must be dealt with in the reconciliation

Everything that we do is to promote relationships with people and to keep them at the table. We must

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Current issues drive Mission Mississippi forward. Those issues that affect the everyday lives of people are the things that Mission Mississippi must deal with. We cannot be afraid of dealing with the difficult issues.

WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE : THE MAGAZINE • Issue 28, February 2020

encourage people to keep talking when the subjects get uncomfortable and people would rather leave the discussion to avoid embarrassment or hurt feelings.

LOCAL LEADERSHIP DRIVEN the movement belongs to those whose lives/professions are touching the issues on a daily basis. Our actions must be intentional. We must encourage people to be aware of the need for cross-racial interaction and see the benefits that it holds, both personally and for all of society.

The Greater Jackson Roaring Lambs is a parachurch ministry. Our mission is to “Inspire and Equip the Body of Christ to Amplify their Faith in the Marketplace.” We do this in several ways. First, by inviting the community to a monthly luncheon, where we host personalities from around the country; whether they be professional athletes, business people, clergy, missionaries, lay persons, law enforcement / first responders, political figures, educators, etc., to come in and share words of encouragement, as well as chronical their testimony. This is done in a diverse and open setting.

This luncheon is held every third Thursday, 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM, at the Mississippi Agriculture Museum; the Ethnic Heritage Building, located 1153 Lakeland Drive, Jackson, MS. The luncheon is open to the public.

Secondly, for those individuals who desire mentorship, or have a passion, desire or even questions about how to disciple others, our leadership engage and tutor small groups through a 10 – 12 week curriculum. Lastly, we host training podcasts, and conduct medium to larger size summits, intended to train Church leaders on the principles and practices of Christ-centered discipleship making.

Our foundational and core beliefs is

founded, that the Holy Bible, and only the Bible, is the authoritative Word of God. It alone is the final authority in determining all doctrinal truths. In its original writing, it is inspired, infallible and inerrant. And as a result, our passion, motivation and conviction cause us to accept the overarching mission as commanded by Jesus Christ. He said, as recorded in Matthew 28:19, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Our primary and only goal IS NOT to make more

Our mission is to “Inspire and Equip the Body of Christ to Amplify their Faith in the Marketplace.”

“Church People and Pew Warmers,” but Disciples of Christ. For more information about Roaring Lambs, you can log on to www.roaringlambs.org.

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Mya Bell's Abstract Photos Mya Bell is a 16-year-old Mississippi School of The Arts

student with a focus in Vocal, Theater and Photography. She is the daughter of Joanne Bell Wright.

To view her website go to MyaBell-2021.weebly.com. Follow her on Instagram @myabell_photography

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Sister Thea Bowman

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or Black History Month, Woman to Woman with Joanne has chosen to honor Sister Thea Bowman, a Mississippi Native who was an Educator, Missionary Disciple, and Advocate for Cultural Awareness and Racial Harmony for the Diocese of Jackson, Mississippi. We are delighted to share Sister Bowman’s biography with our readers.

1937-1990

“We unite ourselves with Christ’s redemptive work when we reconcile, when we make peace, when we share the good news that God is in our lives, when we reflect to our brothers and sisters God’s healing, God’s forgiveness, God’s unconditional love.”

Sister Bowman shared these words as part of a reflection on Holy Week just a few weeks before dying of cancer in her home in Canton, Mississippi.

The reflection was titled, “Let Us Resolve to Make This Week A Holy One,” and was shared in the Diocese of Jackson’s newspaper, Mississippi Today.

These would be the final public words of a religious woman who dedicated her life to spreading the joy of the Gospel and promoting cultural awareness and racial reconciliation

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A self-proclaimed “old folks child,” Thea was the only child born to middle-aged parents, Dr. Theon Bowman, a physician, and Mary Esther Bowman, a teacher. At birth she was given the name Bertha Elizabeth Bowman. She was born in 1937 and reared in Canton, Mississippi. As a child she converted to Catholicism through the inspiration of the Franciscan

Sisters of Perpetual Adoration and the Missionary Servants of the Most Holy Trinity who were her teachers and pastors at Holy Child Jesus Church and School in Canton. These religious communities nurtured her faith and greatly influenced her religious vocation.

Growing up, Thea listened and learned from the wisdom of the “old

“We unite ourselves with Christ’s redemptive work when we reconcile, when we make peace, when we share the good news that God is in our lives, when we reflect to our brothers and sisters God’s healing, God’s forgiveness, God’s unconditional love.”

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folks,” the elders of her community.

Ever precocious, she asked questions and gained insights on how her elders lived, thrived, and survived. Family members and those in her community taught her coping mechanisms and survival skills. These skills proved essential as she navigated through the horrid experiences of blatant racism, segregation, inequality, and the struggle for Civil Rights in her native Mississippi. At an early age, Thea was exposed to the richness of her African-American culture and spirituality, most especially the history, stories, songs, prayers, customs, and traditions. She was cognizant that

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God loved and provided for the poor and the oppressed. Her community instructed her, “If you get, give—if you learn, teach.” These life lessons instilled in her an abiding love for God and to be charitable toward those most in need.

For Thea Bowman, her conversion to Catholicism was rooted in what she witnessed. She was attracted to the Catholic Church by the example of how Catholics seemed to love and care for one another, most especially the poor and needy. She was impressed by how Catholics put their faith into action. At the age of fifteen, she told her parents and friends she wanted

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to join the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration and left the familiar Mississippi terrain to venture to the unfamiliar town of LaCrosse, Wisconsin, where she would be the only African-American member of her religious community.

At her religious profession, she was given the name, “Sister Mary Thea,” in honor of her Blessed Mother and her father, Theon. Her name in religious life, Thea, literally means “God.” She was trained to be a teacher and taught at all grade levels, eventually earning her doctorate and becoming a college professor of English and Linguistics.

The turbulent 1960s was a period of transformation for a nation torn by racial strife and division. The United States was confronted by the quest for justice and racial equality for all Americans. The late 1960’s was also a time of transformation for Sister Thea Bowman, both a spiritual and cultural awakening. The liturgical renewal of the Second Vatican Council encouraged Sister Thea to rediscover her African-American religious heritage and spirituality and to enter her beloved Church “fully functioning.” She emphasized that cultural awareness had, as a prerequisite, intentional mutuality.

She was eager to learn from other cultures but also wanted to share the abundance of her African-American culture and spirituality. Indeed, Sister Thea became a highly acclaimed evangelizer, teacher, writer, and singer sharing the joy of the Gospel and her rich cultural heritage throughout the nation.

Spurred by the need to return home to Canton in 1978 to care for her aging parents, with the blessing, approval and

permission of her superior and religious community, Sister Thea accepted an appointment by Bishop Joseph Bernard Brunini to direct the Office of Intercultural Affairs for the Diocese of Jackson. In this position Sister Thea continued to assail racial prejudice and promote cultural awareness and sensitivity. She was a founding faculty member of the Institute for Black Catholic Studies at Xavier University in New Orleans. With the full support of the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, Sister Thea remained then and remains still a member in good standing in her religious community.

In 1984, Sister Thea faced devastating challenges: both her parents died, and she was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Her friends and students encouraged her to choose life. Sister Thea vowed to “live until I die” and continued her rigorous schedule of speaking engagements. Even when it became increasingly painful and difficult to travel as the cancer metastasized to her bones, she was undeterred from witnessing and sharing her boundless love for God and the joy of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Donned in her customary African dress, Sister Thea would arrive in a wheelchair with no hair (due to the chemotherapy treatments) but always with a joyful disposition and pleasant smile. She did not let her wheelchair or the deterioration of her body keep her from one unprecedented event – an opportunity to address the U.S. Bishops at their annual June meeting held in 1989 at Seton Hall University in East Orange, N.J. Sister Thea spoke to the bishops as a sister having a “heart to heart” conversation with her brothers.

This well-crafted, yet at times quite spontaneous message, spoke of the Church as her “home,” as her “family of families,” and as her trying to find her way “home.” She explained what it meant to be African-American and Catholic.

She enlightened the bishops on AfricanAmerican history and spirituality. Sister Thea urged the bishops to continue to evangelize the African-American

In 1984, Sister Thea faced devastating challenges: both her parents died, and she was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Her friends and students encouraged her to choose life. community, to promote inclusivity and full participation of African-Americans within Church leadership, and to understand the necessity and value of Catholic schools in the African-American community. And when she was finished, she invited the bishops to move together, cross arms, and sing with her, “We Shall Overcome.” She seemingly touched the hearts of the bishops as evidenced by their thunderous applause and flowing tears.

When asked by her dear friend and homilist, Father John Ford, S.T., as to what to say at her funeral, Sister Thea responded to tell them what Sojourner Truth said about her eventual death, “I’m not going to die. I’m going home like a shooting star.” And so she did, peacefully at five o’clock in the morning of March 30, 1990, in the home where she was reared in Canton, MS. Sister Thea said that she wanted inscribed on her tombstone the simple, yet profound words: “She tried.” “I want people to remember that I tried to love the Lord and that I tried to love them.” She was buried beside her parents and an uncle at the Elmwood cemetery in Memphis, Tennessee.

Source: SisterTheaBowman.com

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STEPPING OUT OF AN ORGANIZED CLOSET

By Amanda Lucas

It’s the beginning of a new year, and most women have the overwhelming feeling that it's time for a fresh start. There is no better feeling than waking up or coming home to a clean fresh-smelling home, and it is a great feeling to open or step into an organized closet.

Last year I realized I had too many clothes that were being lost in piles and laundry baskets, while only a small amount were being hung in my closets. It was time to organize and resell or donate numerous items, but it was also time to make my space more remarkable. Working for one of the most fashion-forward companies in the world, I took some creative ideas I use daily at work and applied them to my home, making an amazing difference. By utilizing the following suggestions, anyone can have their own island of calmness and arrive anywhere on time looking good. It’s time to be your new

fabulous self and clean out the closet.

1. Clean whatever floor space you that is available. Cleaning services such as Stanley Steemer (www. stanleysteemer.com/offers) will clean carpet at a reasonable price. Wood floors should be cleaned with the hardwood floor swiffer.

2. Align clothes in piles by items: shirts, skirts, pants, hoodies, sweaters, and coats.

3. Use hangers to place clothes in the closet. Begin with tanks followed by short sleeve tops, then long sleeve items, and end with sweaters.

4. Color code items from light to dark. A rainbow scale can be used, with each section starting with a different rainbow color.

5. After shirts are in order, proceed to shorts, skirts, and pants. Denims

can be first, followed with color pants, starting with white and ending with black. Plaids and florals can be together by brightness but in coordination with their base color.

6. Next hang pants and dresses, starting with white and short sleeve to long sleeve, allowing the entire closet to be categorized by length.

7. End with coats and furs, which are better stored in darkness. Faux furs can be stored in any closet.

Real furs should not be placed in a cedar chest in order to preserve their look and eliminate the fur smelling like cedar. A dark closet is best for storing furs, which should be kept away from windows and humidity to preserve their look. Do not wrap them in plastic.

8. Fold hoodies with both arms inside like a gift and stack them neatly. Fold the front like a dress shirt, wrap the hood around the end of the sleeves, and tie the hoodie like a bow.

9. If one doesn’t prefer hangers for pants, a revolution fold can be used by folding pants the long way and then bringing both ends together like a sandwich.

10. Lastly, enjoy stepping out of your new organized closet!!!!

For more tips, email Amanda Lewis at dr.mogul2you@gmail.com.

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WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE : THE MAGAZINE • Issue 28, February 2020

PURSUING

YOUR D.A.P.P

By Amanda Jones

After years of creating my own content, I decided to pursue a degree in Film, earning a B.A. degree in Film with a minor in Marketing. In 2007 I created my first feature film, worked at a couple of TV stations (including Channel 12 in Jackson, MS), and was Production Manager at Channel 5 WMC in Memphis, TN.

(Dreams, Ambitions, Passions / Purpose)

P

ursuing Your D.A.P.P is a platform for women entrepreneurs who are interested in sharing their stories with other women.

This month the film/production industry was researched, where I discovered Dreka Shevon, who is CEO of her own company, Prime Stone Media Group. In addition, she is also Producer, Director, and Content Creator. My interview with Dreka provided much inspiration and wisdom for other women entrepreneurs.

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Q: How did you get started in this

Q: What /Who motivates or inspires

A: I started creating videos and music videos as a kid and always had a passion for telling stories. After years of creating my own content, I decided to pursue a degree in Film, earning a B.A. degree in Film with a minor in Marketing. In 2007 I created my first feature film, worked at a couple of TV stations (including Channel 12 in Jackson, MS), and was Production Manager at Channel 5 WMC in Memphis, TN. Ten years later in January 2017, I made the decision to pursue my business full time, and the rest is history.

A: I’m a very self-motivated person, always having a desire to make success happen. When I’m not motivated or fall into a slump, I keep myself surrounded by other entrepreneurs who inspire me to continue, causing a bad day to become a good day.

industry?

Q: What is the one thing you want

the world to understand about being an entrepreneur?

A: Being an entrepreneur has its benefits and challenges. The most important thing to learn as an entrepreneur is how to manage time, a great challenge but also a unique opportunity.

Q:

What has been the hardest thing for you to face or learn?

A: The hardest thing I had to learn was how to manage time. One can easily get into the habit of thinking she has plenty of time; however, as an entrepreneur, the clock is always ticking. If one isn’t working, one is eating! In addition, learn how to save money during the great months to provide for the bad months.

Q: What has required the most courage from you in life so far?

A: Stepping away from financial security took the most courage. To forgo the assurance of a guaranteed check to enter the world of entrepreneurship was a little difficult for my parents to understand; however, once they realized I wasn’t asking them for money and could pay my own bills by working on my own timetable, they were understanding.

you?

Q: What do you wish you knew when you were first starting that you know now?

A: I wish I had known how important relationship building really is. I’m pretty self-contained in the fact that I can do all the necessary jobs such as shooting, editing, lighting, writing, and producing. As a result, I haven’t had the pressures of making friends or building relationships with others who can supply those activities; however, I now know relationships are great to build for a business network. Sometimes it’s great to call, have a conversation with a business friend, and share talents with others who may want to acquire the knowledge you already know.

That’s why I’m devoted to an intern program to share and teach some of the things I’ve learned over the past 17 years in professional video production.

Q: What is your biggest accomplishment?

A: I produced my first feature film in 2007 in Mississippi during a time where there weren’t other independent filmmakers making features, so I helped to pioneer the movement. I left the state in 2008, and when I moved back in 2010, I was so excited to see many others producing feature films and content.

To be a black woman who was Production Manager at an NBC affiliate station was exciting for me. There have been many times in the Production Industry where I was the only woman and the only black in the room. Now when I look around, I see more color and more women.

I was recently the Director of Photography (DP) and assisted as a Co-Producer on a film starring Jackee Harry, Lawrence Hilton Jacobs, Chico Benymon, and KD Aubert. I was excited to be a Black Female DP and work with such a Stellar cast.

Q:

Any new and exciting thing you would like to share?

A: I currently have a few projects in development. My company, Prime Stone Media, is servicing clients around the globe, and we are looking to collaborate and create even bigger projects.

Q:

Any advice you would like to give to other women entrepreneurs in your field?

A: My advice to any woman entrepreneur, regardless of industry, is to be so good at your job so that your gender doesn’t matter. Let your work speak for itself, and never lose your integrity for a dollar. Great things can happen to those who work hard to achieve their goals. Always Think Positive, Be Productive, and Expect Greatness.”

For more information on Dreka Shevon, visit her website at primestonemedia.com.

I’ve also produced short films that have won awards, screened at Hollywood Black Film Festival and at Martha Vineyards African American Film Festival, and won at the Miami Women’s International Film Festival.

Amanda Jones

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WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE : THE MAGAZINE • Issue 28, February 2020

TRUE LOVE Starts From Within

By Kaitlyn Anderson

H

ow does one define love?

Actually, love can be defined in many ways. Love can mean choosing to be your best while the significant other is at their worst.

Love can also mean putting selfish feelings aside to help someone else in need.

When women think of the month of February, they usually think of Valentine’s Day and associate that day with love. There is much talk about love in relationships between a boyfriend and girlfriend or a husband and wife.

Also heard is talk about love with family and friends; however, one thing not heard about enough is self-love.

Self-love is has been defined as having a high regard for your own well-being and happiness. Self-love means taking care of your own needs and not sacrificing your well-being to please others. Self-love means not settling for less than you deserve.

In other words, self-love is learning to love yourself. This is a great topic to address during the month of February, not just because of Valentine’s Day, but because I am on my own journey of self-love. I admit

the journey has been a challenge, but it is worth being addressed.

During middle school and high school years, I remember desperately wanting a boyfriend. All my friends had one, and I wanted the same feelings and experiences. Not having a boyfriend was extremely hard for me because I felt that it was destined to happen. It was appropriate to have a Valentine, a fair date, a prom date, etc. I wanted someone to love me the way I witnessed in Princess and Hallmark movies. I didn’t realize that I needed to work on loving myself before allowing someone else to love me as a girlfriend.

The Oxford dictionary defines love as an intense feeling of deep affection.

The Bible describes love as being patient and kind, not boastful or proud, keeping no record of wrong doings (1 Corinthians 13: 4-5). This scripture is important to remember when thinking about love, whether it’s love for a husband or boyfriend, a family member or friend, or even love for a pet. It’s also a good scripture to ponder for self-love. Reading this scripture reminds me to be patient with myself when I get frustrated

When women think of the month of February, they usually think of Valentine’s Day and associate that day with love. when I’m taking too long to learning something or make a mistake.

I learned how to remember this scripture and apply it to thinking and speaking positive characteristics about myself.

One of my favorite romantic movies is A Walk To Remember, not just because of its romantic story but because it also had a spiritual meaning. The movie character, Landon Carter, is known as a selfcentered bad boy who hangs around

with a group of people who bully others who are seen as different or unpopular. He falls in love with a kind-hearted God-loving girl, Jamie Sullivan. She is viewed as weird by students of the school because of her beliefs and the way she dresses and acts, but her character never changed. Jamie didn’t try to fit in and or impress others, staying true to herself and God, which demonstrated a sign of strong self-love. She had a strong love for God and was content with just that.

The spiritual meaning behind this movie is 1 Corinthians 13:44 and is one of the main lessons of the film.

Women can begin their own journey of self-love through several actions: Be mindful: stop and think, take the time to understand personal feelings and thoughts. Get to know the real you.

Practice self care: Take care of your total well-being, not just physically, but also mentally. Understand there are people who are needed in life and others who are wanted. The two can be very different. Learn to step away from people who are negative influences mentally, emotionally, or spiritually. The results will be worth the effort.

Depend on God: Depend on God to get through difficult situations rather than just friends. Let go of negative friendships and trust God. Doors will open that the believer didn’t think would ever be there, and sense of peace will be present. It’s a peace that assures even in the hardest times, the believer will be ok.

Stay in the Word: Studying the Bible and reading devotional books brings not just peace, but faith and open my eyes to wisdom that couldn’t be seen before. Having personal time with God and worshiping Him will build faith and strength. God is capable of doing anything through a person who lives in His will, including the development of self-love.

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Mississippi Black Women’s Business Expo Review Melissa Banks and Tameka Dyon hosted the 1st Black Women’s Business Expo of Mississippi on January 18, 2020. Their goal was to encourage black women entrepreneurs. During the event they honored women chosen as the Top Black Women In Business in Mississippi. The event featured speakers, vendors and

Tameka Dyon and Melissa Banks

Nikisha Ware, Host

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a fashion show. Among the speakers were Willie Jones, Miranda Joiner, Alice Tisdale, Funmi Franklin, Amanda Furdge, Lateshia Pearson, Anitra Bender, Shatina Posey and Hey Aprill. The host for the event was Mrs. Nikisha Ware. Congratulations to the Co-founders and we can’t wait for next year’s event.

Tameka Dyon and Melissa Banks

Crowd

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Alfrenette Jenay Chambers

Alicia Berry-Kaho

Ameka Coleman

Carlisa Jenkins

Charity A. Jones

Coach Gigi Gates

Coretta Frazier

Dr. Channing Wells

Dr. Yolanda Jerry

Ebony Jones

Felicia Brookins

Georgette Huston

Jessica Starks

Joanne Bell Wright

Khadijah Muhammad

Kiera Johnson-Robins

LaDonna Marie

Latisha Holmes-Hannah

LaToya Hartwell

LaToya Miller

LaTracey Drux

Michelle Tapps-Vicks

Monica Cable

Natasha King

Nikisha Ware - Host

Pam Chatman

RaToya Gilmer

Rev. Dr. Tiffany Cooper Wheeler

Shannon Cromwell Brown

Sierra Rowley

Stacia Dunson

Tameka Dyon & Melissa Banks

Taunya Smith

Timeka Hart

Patrice D. Johnson

Angela Y. Carson

Cara DeLong

Debbie Morris

Kenisha Bryd Jackson

Lexi Williams

Santee Ezell

Tameka Dyon And Melissa Banks

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CONFESSIONS of An Empty Nester Dr. Brenda Wilder

Sheri Albert has been married to her husband, Dr. Michael (Bert) Albert, for 30 years. The only person she’s been with longer than her husband is her hairdresser! The Alberts have four daughters: Nora 37, Annelise 26, Caribeth 24, and Mary Linley 23, which accounted for lots of estrogen in one household. Bert is outnumbered because he a minority in a sorority of a blended family.

Nora is Sheri’s child from a previous marriage and was seven when the Alberts married. Bert adopted her four years later.

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Raising 2 different generations of girls was interesting. They had a teenager, preschooler, toddler, and a baby.

Translation: One in pampers, one in pull-ups and one using feminine products. Life seemed to be in a never ending state of change. Sheri never realized the childhood transitions of diapers to pull-ups, sippie cup to a cup with straw, and driving a Barbie Jeep to driving a real car were all preparing her to navigate her girls to lives that would be independent of her. She didn’t realize each little victory was a small step for her little

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birds to one day fly out of the safety of her nest into the realities of the world.

Sheri believes the most difficult transition for her in parenting has been no longer being the center of her adult girls’ lives and no longer their biggest influence. Before college, there were music lessons, basketball games, cheerleading, proms, homecoming, and an abundance of other activities going on throughout the week. She and Bert constantly juggled schedules, making sure one

dish, parmesan chicken. “What a wonderful supper this will be,” she thought. Everyone gathered at the table, the girls sharing about college and Sheri giving them wisdom and knowledge. Within five minutes, she was rudely awakened from her dream of perfection. One of the girls asked, “Mom, is that chicken free range, organic, and never injected with antibiotics?” Stunned at this question, Sheri gently replied “Well, sweetie, this chicken did not come with an obituary when I bought it at the Piggly Wiggly.”

The girls did not like her response. It was at this moment she realized after being in college for a semester, her girls were more worldly enlightened than during their eighteen years under her tutelage.

parent was always with each girl at every activity. Currently as an empty nester, Sheri is learning to be in the background of her daughters’ lives.

The parenting professionals give plenty of advice when children are young and as teens, such as, “Do not be your child’s friend” or “Parent, you are the authoritarian, not your child’s best friend”. However, there are few books advising parents how to become your child’s friend once they are adults.

Forging friendships with young adult children is delicate. This realization for Sheri grew gradually, like a frog being boiled in a pot of water, not realizing it is being boiled because the temperature increases slowly. Every time the girls made a weekend visit home from college, the temperature in Sheri’s “mother pot of holy water” increased. She vividly recalls on one of these visits, she was slaving in the kitchen making their favorite

In another event, Sheri purchased make up products one of the daughters had worn for years. In the excitement of giving the gift, she was abruptly told, “Mom, I do not wear that makeup any longer because it is not cruelty free. This make up is tested on animals.”

Shocked at the rejection of the thoughtful gift, Sheri immediately stated the cosmetics were tested on lab rats, not animals, which her daughter did not find humorous at all.

When the girls were younger and becoming teenagers, Sheri freely imparted her lifetime of wisdom to them. She thought she was really a great mom and that her girls were in awe of her, absorbing the wise advice. “I was Socrates, they were my Plato, so I thought,” states Sheri.

“As I reflect back to the days when they all lived under our roof, perhaps the girls listened to my words of wisdom because they had no other choice. As young adult daughters, my wisdom is no longer desired.

They constantly remind me they are more than capable of running their own lives.” I tell them, “If you would only let me run your lives, they would be such wonderful lives!”

Sheri believes the most difficult transition for her in parenting has been no longer being the center of her adult girls’ lives and no longer their biggest influence.

Before college, there were music lessons, basketball games, cheerleading, proms, homecoming, and an abundance of other activities going on throughout the week. She and Bert constantly juggled schedules, making sure one parent was always with each girl at every activity.

Christmas at the Albert house was and continues to be full of excitement and magic. Bert and Sheri struggled with the Santa issue but settled on Santa being a part of their family’s Christmas season.

The emphasis during Christmas was and is the birth of Jesus Christ.

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Bert is always the last one to share.

He tells what he is most thankful for during the past year and reads Luke 2 by candlelight. Sometimes there are tears because of lost family members and laughter because of the funny things experienced through the year. Ending with the story of the birth of Christ gives the family hope for the following year.

Santa is the spirit of giving; Christ was the ultimate gift given to all of us. Her girls knew a bearded man

“we take all strays during the holidays,” which is true.

Christmas Eve always finds an eclectic group of people in their home, playing games such as “Sinter Klaaus,” 36

in a red velvet suit driving a sleigh full of gifts would never compare to the gift God gave us in the birth of Jesus. Santa was no more or less real than the Mickey and Minnie characters we took photographs with at Disney World. Sheri and Bert made sure the girls gave of themselves throughout the year and not only at Christmas, encouraging them to babysit free for someone during the summer or clean up the kitchen when they babysat. Giving to others year round became the core of their family.

The girls lovingly joke “we take all strays during the holidays,” which is true. Christmas Eve always finds an eclectic group of people in their home, playing games such as “Sinter Klaaus,” a game introduced by a friend from Amsterdam and “Mr. Left and Mrs. Right Envelope Game.” The evening ends very solemnly by turning out the lights and everyone holding a candle.

Christmas Carols are sung by candle light with each person recalling what he or she has been thankful for throughout the year. After sharing, each person blows out their candle.

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Another Christmas tradition was to gather around the television watching the 10:00 news, waiting for the meteorologist to proclaim, “Santa’s sleigh has been spotted in the Jackson area.” This is the signal for all the girls and husbands to retire upstairs so Santa can work his magic. For years, after the girls would go to sleep on Christmas Eve, Sheri put out unwrapped gifts, things they had mentioned throughout the year they would like to have. It could be a pair of shoes or cologne they wanted but could not afford to splurge on themselves. Bert and Sheri still love to continue this tradition and experience the excitement!

In the new year of 2020, Sheri’s desire is to celebrate her girls for the young women they are becoming on their own and not what she thinks they should be. What a challenge this will continue to be! Sheri’s advice to women approaching the Empty Nest is to make sure they like their spouse.

There will be more time together than one could ever imagine, so be intentional with the one-on-one time with each other. These activities can be watching television together, going out for a meal, and spending time with other couples, Sheri is a member of Park Place Baptist Church in Pearl, where she and Bert have taught first grade Sunday school for six years. Sheri serves as a mentor at the Mississippi Correction Facility and has recently written a prayer devotional for the female inmates.

She is available to speak at women’s meetings and can be contacted at swalbert@reagan.com.

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LOVE

Marriage and Partnership

James and Natasha King During the month of February, we wanted to share a story of love, marriage, and partnership to encourage young and seasoned couples to work together, hold each up and hold each other accountable. Cover each other and pray with and for each-other. We are so happy to share a part of James and Natasha King’s story and journey with you.

OUR STORY Coincidentally, “Our Story” is the title of our first book in which we reflect on our journey to purpose. We initially met in elementary school, left there and reconnected 10 years later when fate would have Natasha work at the same school where James’ mom worked. Over the course of four to five years of sporadic hellos and good-to-see-yous, a friendship was

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established. That friendship obviously prompted a well-planned, waterworks proposal (which can be found on YouTube) that ultimately led to a very intentional engagement process.

Becoming married in September 2012 allowed us to cross a threshold of unimaginable growth and blessings.

Before becoming married, we operated independent businesses aside from our full-time professions

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and post-graduate trainings. However, simultaneous to the wedding, we launched a home-based business together that served as a paradigm shift for us. During the first four years of operating that business, we saw the value in doing it together.

We simply enjoyed being with each other and most everything we did became a partnership to the point where we were recognized as “Mr

and Mrs” with some people not even knowing our first names. Seemingly isolated pieces, we saw who we were becoming, how we were doing it and the impact that it had on others, yet it had not been solidified.

JOURNEY TO THE BRAND While developing our home-based business together, we activated two great skills – going the extra mile and leading by serving. These skills connected us to many people globally. In 2015, one of the individuals that we connected with in our previous company contacted us about a new business launch which was a training program (Taurea Avant’s System Mastery) for small business owners. We were excited about the opportunity because it aligned with a longterm goal that we wrote down right after we were married. While working through the training program, we began the process for our first book. The announcement and publication of our book drew much attention. In preparation for interviews and features about the book and who we were, we bean to have a conversation. That conversation was so genuine and so clear. All of the seemingly scattered pieces up to that point crystalized into the keenest vision, and James spoke the words “we are the comprehensive elements of what God designed Love, Marriage and Partnership to be.” We saw it.

We embraced it. We became it. And forever growing in it lol.

SEMINARS AND SPEAKING THAT HAS HELPED OTHERS AND STRENGTHENS US? There are four primary seminars that we personally host which are The Marriage Mindset ™, A ONEderful Life ™, The ONE Blueprint ™, and the Method & Mindset Book Writing Workshop. IN hosting these and speaking at a number of other events, we have had the privilege and responsibility to teach what we practice on a daily basis. The persistence that we have in growing

ourselves individually, as James and Natasha, makes us stronger together and we are able to authentically carry love, marriage and partnership into any space that we are serving in. We know that with our words and presence, we are able to shift people’s paradigms about what we teach. The connections and reactions that we receive during events and speaking engagements humbles us to continued growth and learning for an even greater impact in the next opportunity and connection. Simply put, we give singles hope and make couples dope!

In 2015, one of the individuals that we connected with in our previous company contacted us about a new business launch which was a training program (Taurea Avant’s System Mastery) for small business owners.

We were excited about the opportunity because it aligned with a longterm goal that we wrote down right after we were married. While working through the training program, we began the process for our first book.

Mr and Mrs Gratitude is our stamp that we live by. We firmly believe that gratitude is the seed for more.

THE PAGEANT Mr. & Mrs. & Ms. Black America Pageant (MMBA Pageant), America’s Premiere Pageant for the confident, beautiful, educated, poised Black, Brown, and/or Bi-racial Lady and Gentleman. We showcase Families and Individuals who are making a difference in their homes and communities. The Royal Family of our MMBA Pageant are leaders, ambassadors, influencers and change agents. They are trendsetters on a mission to build strong families, strong marriages, strong communities and a strong economy.

As Mr. and Mrs. National Ambassadors, we hold a servant leadership position working closely with contestants and the national office. We are excited to share that we will be hosting an inaugural pageant for Mississippi. Details are forthcoming, but individuals that are interested may visit www.mmbapageant.com or contact us directly.

WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT There are three questions that we often share with hopes of getting others to truly focus on what they desire in order to obtain it. The questions are WHAT DO YOU WANT? WHY DO YOU WANT IT? WHAT ARE YOU WILLING TO SACRIFICE TO HAVE IT? When you genuinely answer those questions, believe that you have received what you asked for, and began to work towards it, it is inevitable that it will be yours. Be it peace, love, wealth, health, new teeth, a nap … whatever… it is yours.

In all that we do, we desire to keep God the center and love people. The byproduct of that desire is to impact, inspire and initiate purpose in the lives of 10 million people.

Mr. and Mrs. James and Natasha King Love | Marriage | Partnership Jackson, MS

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LOVE

Marriage and Partnership Joe and Kathy Amos are the first reigning Mr. & Mrs. Black America Sr. 2019.

Joe has served in ministry for the past 41 years. They are the founders of Turning Point Fellowship Ministries International in Canton, Mississippi.

Kathy is the CEO/Founder of Business Empowered Mississippi, formerly Empowering Progressive Women’s Association doing business as (EPWA), Kathy Amos Coaching & Consulting LLC and Turning Point Community Development Corporation Of Mississippi.

Kathy is also the President SafeHouse Ministries where she conducts small group meetings wherever she’s invited to share the love of God and the good news of the gospel of Jesus to the unchurched and unsaved.

Together they are a dynamic power couple with a passion for transformation in their community and wherever they’re invited to serve others. They love honoring others and making them feel valued and purposeful.

Kathy’s philosophy and favorite quote is “Everything rises and falls on leadership.”

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Kathy is the CEO/Founder of Business Empowered Mississippi, formerly Empowering Progressive Women’s Association doing business as (EPWA), Kathy Amos Coaching & Consulting LLC and Turning Point Community Development Corporation Of Mississippi.

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MARTIN LUTHER KING CELEBRATION

Tougaloo/ Millsaps Collaboration

TOUGALOO COLLEGE AND MILLSAPS COLLEGE HOSTED THE ANNUAL 2020 CELEBRATION OF LIFE FOR CIVIL RIGHTS LEADER, DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR., WITH A PRAYER BREAKFAST AT TOUGALOO’S KROGER GYMNASIUM ON MONDAY, JANUARY 20, AT 8:00 AM.

Tougaloo College and Millsaps College hosted the annual 2020 Celebration of life for Civil Rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., with a prayer breakfast at Tougaloo’s Kroger Gymnasium on Monday, January 20, at 8:00 AM. The theme of this year's event was "From the Ground Up: Inequity, Bias, Privilege, Structure, Death." Pamela Junior, Director of Two Mississippi Museums, served as guest speaker, and both college presidents, staff, and student leaders participated in the program.

The Two Mississippi Museums: the Museum of Mississippi History (MMH) and Mississippi Civil Rights Museum (MCRM) in Jackson named Jackson State University alum Pamela Junior as the museums' new director on July 1. Junior had served as director of the MCRM since 2017. Before becoming the director of the civil-rights museum, she served as the museum manager of the Smith Robertson Museum and Cultural Center in Jackson. Junior's new position as director of both museums comes after MCRM and MMH decided to merge their staff to strengthen programming and visitor experience.

The following photos of the collaborative MLK celebration are provided by Tougaloo College.

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Mississippi Women In Network Conference Review Mississippi Women In Network celebrated their 3rd Annual Mind, Body, Soul and Business Conference titled, “Victory In The Vision. The guest speakers were Hope Lamberton, Selika Corley-Funchess, Dr. Zonzie McLaurin, Abby Coombs, Joanne Bell Wright, Sue Magee Davis and

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Founder, Vanessa Upkins.

This was a life changing event and if you have never attended one of these conferences, put it on your calendar for next year.

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WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE : THE MAGAZINE • Issue 28, February 2020

Jackson Area Events February 2020

EVENT

DATE

TIME

PLACE

CITY

12-FEB 13-FEB 14-FEB 15-FEB 16-FEB 17-FEB 18-FEB 19-FEB

Blythe Doll Customization Panel

8:00 AM

Blythe Doll House

Jackson, MS

Jackson Scavenger Hunt: Pretty Mississippi

8:00 AM

Let’s Roam Scavenger Hunts

Jackson, MS

Jazz Nights

6:00 PM

4th Avenue Lounge

Jackson, MS

Todd Snider

7:30 PM

Duling Hall

Jackson, MS

Charlie’s Effin’ Karaoke

9:00 PM

Ole Tavern

Jackson, MS

Jackson Scavenger Hunt: Pretty Mississippi

8:00 AM

Let’s Roam Scavenger Hunts

Jackson, MS

Museum After Hours

5:30 PM

MS Museun of Art

Jackson, MS

Cats

8:00 PM

Thalia Mara Hall

Jackson, MS

Ladies Night at Ole Tavern

9:00 PM

Ole Tavern

Jackson, MS

Jackson Scavenger Hunt: Pretty Mississippi

8:00 AM

Let’s Roam Scavenger Hunts

Jackson, MS

Koinonia Friday Forum

9:00 AM

Refill Café

Jackson, MS

Mardi Gra Ball

6:00 PM

Two MS Museums

Jackson, MS

Offbeat Friday Night Live

8:00 PM

Offbeat

Jackson, MS

Cats

8:00 PM

Thalia Mara Hall

Jackson, MS

Lost Dog Street Band

8:00 PM

Duling Hall

Jackson, MS

Jackson Scavenger Hunt: Pretty Mississippi

8:00 AM

Let’s Roam Scavenger Hunts

Jackson, MS

Food Is Peace: Vegan and Pescatarian Gathering

11:00 AM

Soul Wired Café

Jackson, MS

All Ages Pokémon League

12:00 PM

Van’s Comics, Cards and Games

Ridgeland, MS

Magnolia Magic Party Gras Parade & Festival

12:00 PM

511 E Pearl St

Jackson, MS

Latin Dance Party

10:00 PM

Salsa Mississippi Club & Studio

Jackson, MS

Jackson Scavenger Hunt: Pretty Mississippi

8:00 AM

Let’s Roam Scavenger Hunts

Jackson, MS

Iron Horse Grill Sunday Brunch

10:00 AM

Iron Horse Grill

Jackson, MS

1908 Provisions Sunday Brunch

10:00 AM

1908 Provisions Restaurant

Jackson, MS

Food Is Peace: Vegan and Pescatarian Gathering

11:00 AM

Soul Wired Café

Jackson, MS

Jackson Scavenger Hunt: Pretty Mississippi

8:00 AM

Let’s Roam Scavenger Hunts

Jackson, MS

Ramen Night

6:00 PM

Saltine Oyster Bar

Jackson, MS

Jackson Scavenger Hunt: Pretty Mississippi

8:00 AM

Let’s Roam Scavenger Hunts

Jackson, MS

Easybridge: Bridge Lessons

9:30 AM

Jackson Bridge Association

Flowood, MS

Jackson Scavenger Hunt: Pretty Mississippi

8:00 AM

Let’s Roam Scavenger Hunts

Jackson, MS

Creative Healing Studio

12:30 PM

MS Museum of Art

Jackson, MS

Jazz Nights

6:00 PM

4th Avenue Lounge

Jackson, MS

Charlie’s Effin’ Karaoke

9:00 PM

Ole Tavern

Jackson, MS

WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE: THE MAGAZINE

45

EVENT

DATE

TIME

PLACE

CITY

8:00 AM

Let’s Roam Scavenger Hunts

Jackson, MS

Fondren Fitness Fun Run

6:00 PM

Fondren Fitness

Jackson, MS

“The Rockin’Tale of Snow White”

7:30 PM

Black Rose Theatre Company

Brandon, MS

Ladies Night at Ole Tavern

9:00 PM

Ole Tavern

Jackson, MS

Jackson Scavenger Hunt: Pretty Mississippi

8:00 AM

Let’s Roam Scavenger Hunts

Jackson, MS

Jackson Personal Injury Attorneys Meetup

9:00 AM

Sneaky Beans

Jackson, MS

Look & Learn with Hoot

10:30 AM

MS Museum of Art

Jackson, MS

Krewe De Roux Festival

5:00 PM

Brandon Amphitheater

Brandon, MS

“The Rockin’Tale of Snow White”

7:30 PM

Black Rose Theatre Company

Brandon, MS

Offbeat Friday Night Live

8:00 PM

Offbeat

Jackson, MS

Shovels & Rope

8:00 PM

Duling Hall

Jackson, MS

Krewe De Roux Festival

12:00 AM

Brandon Amphitheater

Brandon, MS

Jackson Scavenger Hunt: Pretty Mississippi

8:00 AM

Let’s Roam Scavenger Hunts

Jackson, MS

61st Gem, Mineral, Fossil and Jewelry Show

9:00 AM

Mississippi Trademart Center

Jackson, MS

Food Is Peace: Vegan and Pescatarian Gathering

11:00 AM

Soul Wired Café

Jackson, MS

All Ages Pokémon League

12:00 PM

Van’s Comics, Cards and Games

Ridgeland, MS

Old School Hip Hop Reunion

7:00 PM

Mississippi Coliseum

Jackson, MS

“The Rockin’Tale of Snow White”

7:30 PM

Black Rose Theatre Company

Brandon, MS

Bravo IV - Best and Brightest

7:30 PM

Thalia Mara Hall

Jackson, MS

Synergy Night

9:00 PM

The Med Fish and Grill

Ridgeland, MS

Latin Dance Party

10:00 PM

Salsa Mississippi Club & Studio

Jackson, MS

Jackson Scavenger Hunt: Pretty Mississippi

8:00 AM

Let’s Roam Scavenger Hunts

Jackson, MS

Iron Horse Grill Sunday Brunch

10:00 AM

Iron Horse Grill

Jackson, MS

61st Gem, Mineral, Fossil and Jewelry Show

10:00 AM

MS Trademart

Jackson, MS

1908 Provisions Sunday Brunch

10:00 AM

1908 Provisions Restaurant

Jackson, MS

Food Is Peace: Vegan and Pescatarian Gathering

11:00 AM

Soul Wired Café

Jackson, MS

“The Rockin’Tale of Snow White”

2:00 PM

Black Rose Theatre Company

Brandon, MS

24FEB

Jackson Scavenger Hunt: Pretty Mississippi

8:00 AM

Let’s Roam Scavenger Hunts

Jackson, MS

Ramen Night

6:00 PM

Saltine Oyster Bar

Jackson, MS

25FEB

Jackson Scavenger Hunt: Pretty Mississippi

8:00 AM

Let’s Roam Scavenger Hunts

Jackson, MS

Easybridge: Bridge Lessons

9:30 AM

Jackson Bridge Association

Flowood, MS

26-FEB

Jackson Scavenger Hunt: Pretty Mississippi

8:00 AM

Let’s Roam Scavenger Hunts

Jackson, MS

Jazz Nights

6:00 PM

4th Avenue Lounge

Jackson, MS

Charlie’s Effin’ Karaoke

9:00 PM

Ole Tavern

Jackson, MS

Jackson Scavenger Hunt: Pretty Mississippi

8:00 AM

Let’s Roam Scavenger Hunts

Jackson, MS

“The Rockin’Tale of Snow White”

7:30 PM

Black Rose Theatre Company

Brandon, MS

Reckless Kelly

8:00 PM

Duling Hall

Jackson, MS

Ladies Night at Ole Tavern

9:00 PM

Ole Tavern

Jackson, MS

Jackson Scavenger Hunt: Pretty Mississippi

8:00 AM

Let’s Roam Scavenger Hunts

Jackson, MS

“The Rockin’Tale of Snow White”

7:30 PM

Black Rose Theatre Company

Brandon, MS

Offbeat Friday Night Live

8:00 PM

Offbeat

Jackson, MS

Jackson Scavenger Hunt: Pretty Mississippi

8:00 AM

Let’s Roam Scavenger Hunts

Jackson, MS

Food Is Peace: Vegan and Pescatarian Gathering

11:00 AM

Soul Wired Café

Jackson, MS

All Ages Pokémon League

12:00 PM

Van’s Comics, Cards and Games

Ridgeland, MS

“The Rockin’Tale of Snow White”

7:30 PM

Black Rose Theatre Company

Brandon, MS

20-FEB

Jackson Scavenger Hunt: Pretty Mississippi

21-FEB 22-FEB 23-FEB 27-FEB 28-FEB 29-FEB 46

WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE : THE MAGAZINE • Issue 28, February 2020

Willie Jones President & CEO

DEPENDABLE SOURCE CORP. OF MS

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Call us today on 601-355-3889 | Email: admin@dependablesourcecorp.com WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE: THE MAGAZINE

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