Woman To Woman With Joanne The Magazine August 2019

THE MAGAZINE August 2019 • Issue 26

Maya Schopmeyer Juanita Ward

Joanne Bell Wright

WOMEN IN POLITICS Kimberly L. Campbell, Esq.

Long-Term Care and Women

Women’s Equality Day 7 Essentials Every Global Forgiveness Day

Woman Needs In Her Closet

Mya Bell

WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE PRESENTS THE

5TH ANNUAL EMPOWERMENT CONFERENCE

more inside…

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WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE: THE MAGAZINE

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Joanne’s Desk

CEO, Publisher & Editor Joanne Bell Wright

Contributing Writers

Dr. Fred Hall Nicole Brown Jim Griffith

BY JOANNE BELL WRIGHT, FOUNDER

Layout Design

T

Mohammad Alauddin

Photographers

Phillip C. Washington Mitch C. Davis

Cover Photo

Phillip C. Washington Mitch C. Davis

Website

womantowomanwithjoanne.com

Subscribe

bit.ly/joannebellmag

Contact us

601-398-6733 woman2woman.joanne@yahoo.com 622 Duling Avenue Jackson MS 39216

Contributing writers

Nicole Brown

Dr. Fred Hall

with you in hopes of inspiring and encouraging you past anything you may be going through, and to remind you that you don’t have to do life alone.

You don’t have to cry alone. You don’t have to walk through any of life’s issues alone. Someone knows exactly what you are going through and may be able to help you get through it as well.

Take a chance and join us this year. We look forward to seeing you.

Love ya much! Joanne

Also, in this issue we share a part of our conference speakers' stories.

They are excited and prepared to be transparent and share their story

Love ya much!

Joanne

In This Issue Jim Griffith

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.

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his month we host our 5th Annual Empowerment Conference and I can’t tell you how excited I am.

When I held my first conference in 2015, I was so nervous and afraid I was going to mess up, and I was afraid it would not be a success. Five years later I look back and I am so grateful that I listened to the voice of God. We have reached and connected with so many amazing women and long-lasting relationships and friendships have been built as well from our conferences as well. I invite and encourage each of you reading this to come out on August 31st and share in our conference. It is an experience you will never forget.

Mya Bell's Inspirational Quotes and Photos ............................................................... 5 Global Forgiveness Day ............................................................................................. 6 Women & The Need for Long Term Care .................................................................... 10 Women's Equality Day................................................................................................. 11 7 Essentials Every Woman Needs In Her Closet ......................................................... 12 A Woman's Mental Health .......................................................................................... 14 Conference Speaker Mya Bell .................................................................................... 16 Kimberly Campbell, Esq ............................................................................................. 17 LaTanya DeLoach ....................................................................................................... 19 Maya Schopmeyer ..................................................................................................... 20 Juanita Ward .............................................................................................................. 22 Mary Ward .................................................................................................................. 24 National Senior Citizens Day ...................................................................................... 26 Women In Nursing ..................................................................................................... 27 Women In Politics ...................................................................................................... 28 Women In Education .................................................................................................. 30

WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE : THE MAGAZINE • Issue 26, August 2019

MYA BELL'S INSPIRATIONAL PHOTOS AND QUOTES Mya Bell is a 16 year old Mississippi School of the Arts student and the daughter of Joanne Bell Wright.

WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE: THE MAGAZINE

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Global Forgiveness

Day

Date When Celebrated: August 27th

International Forgiveness Day the first Sunday of August

F

orgiveness Day is a time to forgive and to be forgiven.

It must be a pretty good thing, because there are two groups that lay claim to a Forgiveness Day in the month of August. Both are world or international events. There's enough trouble and strife in the world. Two forgiveness days can only help to make things better.

We agree with the sponsors of this day, that a little more forgiveness will help to make the world a much better place.

Global Forgiveness Day began in 1994. It was created and is sponsored by the Christian Embassy of Christ's Ambassadors.

This holiday originated in Vancouver, British Columbia,

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WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE : THE MAGAZINE • Issue 26, August 2019

Canada.

International Forgiveness Day was created by the World Forgiveness Alliance, a non-denominational, educational foundation. According to their website: " International Forgiveness Day dedicated to evoking the healing power of forgiveness worldwide." The founder is Robert W. Plath, from Mill Valley, California.

Do your part: Take a few moments to sincerely forgive someone.

And, make it public. That way forgiveness will spread.

Source: Holidayinsights.com

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WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE : THE MAGAZINE • Issue 26, August 2019

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Women

& The Need for Long Term Care

By Jim Griffith

W

omen face many challenges in life. In addition to taking care of their family and balancing a career, women face the challenge of living with dignity and independence as they age.

According to the AARP Public Policy Institute “because of higher rates of chronic health problems, disability and lower incomes than men on average many women don’t have the resources to pay for their longterm care”.

Women live on average five to seven years longer than men and are also themselves the primary providers of long-term care. Overwhelmingly caregiving responsibilities fall more heavily on women who are older and many with health problems of their own.

With advances in medical science Americans are living longer, as a result the need for long -term care is increasing along with the cost. Since women have a longer life expectancy than men the probability of needing longterm care is higher.

Seventy percent of people over the age of 65 will need some

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form of long-term care during their lifetime and 70 percent of nursing home residents are women, the average age at admission 80. After age 75 women are 60 percent more likely than men to need help performing one or more activities of daily living such as eating, bathing dressing and just getting around. After age 85 the need for assistance in performing these activities of daily living increase.

Millions of older women can’t afford to pay for long-term care. A major factor being 70 percent of women age 75 are widowed, divorced or have never been married compared to about 30 percent of men.

Living on a single income makes paying for long-term care problematic.

About 48% of older women live on a single income and live alone compared to about 22 percent of men. So, planning for long-term care for women is a must not a need.

The cost for long-term care services can be expensive.

Most people can’t afford longterm care insurance, it’s too expensive. Many companies no longer offer long term care

insurance for this very reason which has caused its cost to increase by 50 percent or more. According to a survey from MetLife as of 2012 the average annual cost for a private room in a nursing home was $90,500 a year, the cost for a shared room was around $81,000 a year.

Today there are alternatives to long term care insurance that allow women to maintain their dignity and independence as they age and address it’s rising cost.

Today’s modern life insurance policies provide riders that allow access to money for critical, chronic and terminal illness. There are also annuities that provide enhanced benefits for longterm care. Some annuities are specifically designed to pay two to three times more than the initial premium for longterm care needs. If you haven’t given thought to how you will pay for your long-term care now is the time for action. The cost of procrastination and not having a plan is financial and emotional stress placed on your loved ones and a lack of dignity and independence in your golden years.

WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE : THE MAGAZINE • Issue 26, August 2019

Date When Celebrated: Always August 26th Women's Equality Day commemorates the 19th Amendment to the Constitution, granting women the right to vote.

I

n 1971, after much work, and at the urging of U.S. Representative Bella Abzug (D-NY), Congress designated August 26 each year as “Women’s Equality Day.” This day was selected to commemorate the passage of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution on August 26, 1920. This amendment granted women the right to vote. This was the culmination of decades of effort by women suffragettes and other groups. Their efforts dated back to first women’s rights convention in 1848 at Seneca Falls, New York.

Celebrate this day in a number of ways. First, stop and celebrate the accomplishments made in gaining the right to vote, and towards equality for women. Women's rights groups suggest you continue to be involved in pursuing full and equal rights for women in all areas and in all issues.

Source: Holidayinsights.com

WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE: THE MAGAZINE

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7 essentials every woman needs in her closet

by Nicole Brown If you’ve ever wondered what you need or don’t need in your closet, I’m here to highlight your most needed essentials, and how it can be developed into your own mini wardrobe capsule. Whoohooo!

Whether you’re a working professional, college student, stayat-home mom, or retired these essentials will not only take you from day to day, but also through special events. You may be surprised that many of these essentials are already in your closet!

So grab a comfy seat, a pen, and let’s dive in!

Dark Denim: Classic, stylish dark denim jeans look great dressed up or worn casual, night or day.

Opt for a bootcut, or straight leg fit when looking for your one pair of dark denim. You can still have your jeggings, but having a nice fitting pair in your closest will be your saving grace when needing to be polished.

Black or Navy Trouser Pants: Owning a pair of trouser pants in the color black, navy, or both is a quick option when needed to wear to the office, a meeting, interview, or casual church event.

A White-Button down: Believe it or not, a crisp white button down blouse is needed in every closet. You

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can easily pair a white button down under a blazer, cardigan, sleeveless dress, or under a sweater vest. The options are endless! And if you’re anything like me that tends to easily mess up high collars from wearing makeup, opt for a “low collar”, or “no collar” option. See? Easy peasy!

A Black or Navy Blazer: Blazers are iconic staples in a closet! Wearing trousers? Throw on a blazer to complete a look. Wearing your dark denim jeans and a white button down? Hello “casual/dressy” look!

Blazers pair so well with just about anything from a skirt to even shorts to give it a more “dressy” look.

Pointed or Round toe heels: Whether you’re a fan of heels or not, having a pair of “stand-by” heels will help if you need to attend an event, meeting, wedding, etc. (just keep those flats near!). Wedges are another option if heels are out, wedges now come in pointed or in a round toe.

Black cardigan: I think it’s safe to

WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE : THE MAGAZINE • Issue 26, August 2019

say that I am the queen of cardigans.

I own one in just about every color and print. I do make sure that I have my black, or navy cardigan near and even keep one with me in the event that a. I need to spruce up my outfit for after-hours or, b. If I’m a little cold. Cardigans can be paired with just about any and everything as a “layering” piece; they can be tucked into pants or a skirt, or tied around your neck while you’re wearing your white-button down.

The LBD: Every woman should have that one Little Black Dress (LBD) that they can reach for in their closet.

Your LBD can take you to dinner, church, special event, a black-tie wedding, funeral, etc. You could also throw your blazer or cardigan over your LBD, if needed.

BONUS! Something FUN! Yes, something fun! Maybe it’s a fun pattern print dress, or a rich bold color blouse. It could be polka dots, florals, leopard, rich colors of red, yellow, or emerald green.

Why does having something

fun in your closet matter? I truly believe that confidence is found within, but something happens when you put on something fun or bold that takes your confidence to another level. Find a fun print or a bold color that suits you, and that you feel comfortable in (you’ll know which it is by how you feel, and by the amount of compliments you’ll receive). For me, polka dots do not work well, and that’s okay, but you know what works well for me?

Leopard print! If you’re unsure, start with some fun and bold accessories.

Start small and build up. Whatever you decide, make sure you pick something that brings you “joy.”

Lastly, here are a few pointers to remember as you build your wardrobe capsule with those 7 essentials: • Always make sure your clothing is clean, ironed, and not too tight (As my mom would say, “if you have to think twice before walking out the door, don’t wear

it”) To add: If you keep tugging at something you’re wearing before leaving the house, just go ahead and change into something more comfortable. Wherever you’re going – you don’t want to be tugging at your outfit all day.

• Choose accessories that compliment your clothing rather than distract from your look.

• Alteration can be your best friend!

Keep pants hemmed floor length, and not dragging the ground by having your pants or dress properly hemmed. Be mindful of clothing that are too baggy, if it’s something you love have it altered, or cinch in the waist with a belt.

• Always invest and splurge on things like trouser pants, blazers, sheath dresses and cardigans – these pieces will carry you season after season and will hold well if you invest in them. Oh and shoes!

Invest in great shoes.

• Know your size and adjust if needed! Who cares what the inside size label says, if those “mediums” don’t fit anymore it’s okay to buy a “large!” Size does not matter, wear what makes you happy, but in the correct size.

• SMILE! Adding a smile really does complete your outfit, it’s all about how you feel and owning the outfit you’re wearing!

I hope that I have inspired you in digging in your closet to begin building your wardrobe capsule!

If you’re still unsure or would like additional guidance, I’m your girl! I’m available for booking for one on one personal consultation.

For more information email me atleliassoutherncharmandgrace@gmail.com and for daily style inspiration & tips, below are 2 ways to find + follow me: Instagram: Leliassoutherncharm Facebook: Lelia’s Southern Charm & Grace

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WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE: THE MAGAZINE

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A WOMAN’S

MENTAL HEALTH

by Dr. Fred Hall

A

s a woman, do you battle with getting a handle on your emotions? Maybe you can’t seem to heal from the pain of past experiences. Many people struggle with a variety of self-worth issues, but they don’t have solid strategies to detach themselves from negative thoughts or unhealthy dependencies. Without helpful strategies to manage destructive emotions, you can’t truly heal.

Some mental health conditions are biologically based due to physical trauma, injury, genetics, exposure to toxic substances, such as lead, or physical disease. In these cases, medication and other treatments are generally required to manage the symptoms.

Other aspects of mental health are believed to be highly susceptible to environmental influences. This means that we can contribute to good mental health based on therapy and our choices. In order to do that, the following has been shown to be helpful in resolving and maintaining good mental health: Establish and maintain a healthy support network: staying connected to a network of people, groups, and organizations which feed you and your purpose are good sources for achieving a health and balance.

Knowing who and where to receive support in times of crisis can be transformational and lifesaving.

Manage Stress: coping with stress effectively can prevent a multitude of problems such as depression, anxiety, burnout, and physical illness. Developing a plan for coping with stressful work, family, and life

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situations can be the difference in surviving or thriving.

Take care of yourself psychically and mentally: rest, relaxation, exercise, creative thinking, freeing yourself from toxic relationships, learning to set boundaries (and stick to them) are all effective keys to obtaining optimal health and a strong sense of self.

Ask for help (professional help) when you need it: everyone needs someone

Some mental health conditions are biologically based due to physical trauma, injury, genetics, exposure to toxic substances, such as lead, or physical disease. to talk to or do life with. Sometimes the people or resources in your primary circle are not available or equipped to provide you with the level of assistance you need. It is ok… more than ok to see a professional counselor. Counselors help people see their lives as it is, examine the causes and motivators of problems, and provide solutions to resolve the issues. It’s talking with a purpose: a purpose of healing, restoration, and freedom.

Counselors help with dealing with past hurts and trauma which impairs your

WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE : THE MAGAZINE • Issue 26, August 2019

current level of functioning. Counseling is not magic but it does provide a space to have questions asked of you that no one else is willing to ask you.

The counselor says to you things that are not always wanted but certainly, always necessary. The counselor serves as a “mirror” reflecting the impasse, negative self-image, ineffective problem solving skills, and lack of focus that often times brings women into therapy. With empathy, warmth, and guidance the counselor can co-counsel with you about what you are facing, what strengths you have, and can help you develop a plan for solving the issue.

Counseling for women can be seen as a pathway to freedom. Counseling helps you turn off the negative self-doubting voices and helps you replace with positive and liberating self-care strategies. Problems still arise but they don’t debilitate anymore because you have learned how to take care of yourself in healthy and supportive ways. It’s your life, life it like it was designed to be lived… in Abundance.

Whatever or whoever (internal or external) keeps you from enjoying and operating in your glory and purpose, let it go. A counselor or support person can help you see the alternatives to continually living in pain and show you what freedom and victory look like.

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PRESENTS THE 5TH ANNUAL EMPOWERMENT CONFERENCE

SECURE IN HIM August 31, 2019 from 9am-1pm Two Mississippi Museums, 222 North Street, Jackson, MS

•

Speakers are:

LaTanya DeLoach Kimberly Campbell • Mya Bell • Joanne Bell Wright • Maya Schopmeyer • Juanita Ward •

Tickets are $40 and can be purchased AT WOMANTOWOMAN5.EVENTBRITE.COM For more information, contact Joanne Bell Wright at 601-398-6733 Empowering Women Beyond Their Circumstances

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram Woman To Woman With Joanne

WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE: THE MAGAZINE

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Mya Bell M

ya has blossomed into a beautiful and talented young lady who has a heart for God and keeps Him first in everything that she does. In grade school, she played Dorothy in the Wiz and she had key roles in several other plays. In Middle school she was on the girls' basketball team in 7th and 8th grade, she also ran track and was in the choir.

In high school during her 9th and 10th grade year, she won the school talent show 1st place both years, (Germantown’s got talent) and she was in the choir as well as she ran track and play LaCrosse. She is now a student at Mississippi School of The Arts in Brookhaven Mississippi and she loves it.

She is an artsy kind of girl and she loves to sing, act and take pictures. She has joined several clubs since her start there and we know great things are going to come from her.

Mya has been and still is an honor student and she loves helping people.

She has a passion for Senior Citizens and she thinks they are the sweetest people.

Her heart is to serve God in everything that she does. She leads worship during High School Ignite and Middle School Ignite at Pinelake Church’s Madison Campus and she teaches 4th grade girls on Sundays when she is home.

She has had experiences where she has had to choose to keep friendships or move on from those friendships that didn’t help her grow spiritually. She has been so brave to make the tough decisions to help her fulfill her mission in life, as she continues to seek God for purpose.

During our 5th Annual Empowerment Conference she will share her heart and her experiences with having to make those tough decisions and we are so excited to hear from her.

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Mya (JaMya) Bell was born in Flowood, Mississippi at River Oaks Hospital. She is the daughter of Joanne Bell Wright, (Maximus) founder of the magazine and she is now 16 years old. She lived in Crystal Springs with her mother and father (Antonio) until they divorced in 2007 and they relocated to Madison, Ms after living in Byram, MS for one year.

WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE : THE MAGAZINE • Issue 26, August 2019

Kimberly L. Campbell, Esq. AARP Mississippi State Director

B

orn and raised in Jackson, Mississippi, Kimberly L. Campbell, Esq. is a product of the Jackson Public School District, graduating from Callaway High School with honors in 1990. She received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English from Mississippi State University, a Master of Arts Degree in Organizational Communications from Auburn University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Mississippi School of Law. Kimberly is the Former Mississippi State Representative, for District 72, which encompassed Hinds and Madison counties. She served in the Mississippi legislature for nearly nine years. Kimberly also served as a Special Judge in the Hinds County Youth Court, for almost seven years.

Additionally, Kimberly has practiced law for 15 years.

“Growing up in Mississippi was inspirational for me. There is beauty here in Mississippi. Regardless of our issues, we still have a fabric of Love for our People, Southern Traditions, Community and Neighbors here. I think you're able to look at it different when you come from a network of family and community that's very supportive.

I was fortunate enough to have parents that were amazingly supportive. We have a big family and a big extended family and education

was important to them all.

Everybody was pushing the envelope, working hard to become as successful as they could, and they were big on taking care of the community.

They weren't just trying to advance for their own bank account, but they were trying to reach back and help the community around us.”

“My mother, Ruth Batton Campbell, was the first African American woman to have a statewide show on ETV (Educational Television), now called the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS). The show was called Faces. She was also the first African American executive producer for ETV and this was in the late seventies. From there she was very political. She served in special committees for Governor William Winter and then in the administration with Governor Ray Mabus. My father, Leon Campbell, was a long-term algebra instructor educator for over 40 years in the Jackson Public School District. He was also the Head Football Coach at Murrah High School.”

During Kimberly’s tenure as a Mississippi State Representative, her comfort level was tested when she was approached with a new opportunity. “It's daunting to leave a comfort zone. I remember a friend

of mine calling to discuss the position I currently hold as the State Director for AARP Mississippi. It sounded really good and interesting, but I had

gotten comfortable here in Mississippi with my Law practice and being a legislator where more than likely I could have probably held the legislative seat as long as I desired, so I thought I was good.

But my brother who's almost seven years younger than me, whom I absolutely adore, said something very interesting to me. He said, “the minute you get too comfortable, is when you’ll begin to stop growing and God can't use you in your comfort zone.” So, I realized that you can't pray for your territory to be enlarged and to have increase if you're not ready to have a different platform. Sometimes you have to know when God has said it is finished. God will never let you fail. If the job fails, it's because that season is up, but He’ll always have another ram in the bush. Don't focus on what could go wrong, focus on how God will transform you in your new

WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE: THE MAGAZINE

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season. Besides, your security is not coming from anybody's job. Your security is coming from the Lord and He will always make provisions for His children. You have to step out on faith. My brother also said, “you do your inspirational speeches, now you have to live it and move your feet.” So, I went into deep prayer and meditation and I really felt more and more that God was saying, this is the next step. This is where I want you to go. Trust me. And that's what I did. And it has literally been one of the very best decisions I've ever made in my life. Absolutely!"

Kimberly joined AARP Mississippi in May of 2016. At AARP Mississippi she is responsible for all initiatives that involve the 50+ population and their families. She also promotes the national agenda of AARP and has a strong presence in

Washington, D.C. and throughout the entire state of Mississippi. Kimberly is committed to her nearly 288,000 AARP members in Mississippi, to living their best lives.

Kimberly is a member of Pearl Street African Methodist Episcopal Church. Additionally, Kimberly is a noted and well-sought-after empowerment speaker on topics that discuss spiritual breakthroughs, prayer to praise and cultivating a deeper understanding of the Armor of God. Her motivational messages are laced with spiritual principles.

Her favorite scripture is Isaiah 40:31: But they that wait upon the Lord, shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Kimberly believes in adhering to a moral compass to direct her steps in life.

Moreover, she believes that being a Christian isn’t about judgment, but about love and tolerance of everyone.

Some of her professional/ community affiliations are: The Office Against Interpersonal Violence-Advisory Board Member, Mississippi Supreme Court Special Committee on Judicial Campaign Intervention, Capital Area Bar Association, Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority, Inc. (Beta Delta Omega Chapter)., The Jackson (MS) Chapter of The Links, Inc., Junior League of Jackson (Sustainer), Leadership Jackson Alumni.

Kimberly and her former husband, Mayor Kelvin Buck (Holly Springs, MS) are the Proud Parents of four amazing daughters: Sage, Brelan, Iliya and Kerrigan.

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WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE : THE MAGAZINE • Issue 26, August 2019

LaTanya DeLoach Woman To Woman With Joanne had the pleasure of speaking with Ms. LaTanya DeLoach, who is also a speaker for our upcoming conference. She is an amazing woman and she will be speaking on finances and using your good credit in a positive way. We are so happy to share her story with you.

L

aTanya DeLoach was born and raised in Crystal Springs, Mississippi. She is a basketball coach in Pearl Mississippi. She is also a financial and credit coach.

“I look at finances the same way I do coaching basketball. It’s about strategies and having a financial game plan, and knowing what's best for each individual that I work with.”

Growing up in Mississippi has been a good experience. She has a close family and grew up in a great community. “There are some good quality things going on in Mississippi, but I feel financially and socially the opportunities and things to do here are very scarce. I don’t

think Mississippi has come as far as we need to come as far a racial prejudice is concerned, I still think we have a way to go.”

“I think there is a much-needed change in economic development and education, especially to the minority and lower income people. I think it's well overdue. There are also more opportunities in other states to develop, whether it be financial or in other areas. One of my best friends just moved to Houston, TX as a teacher and her income is going to increase by $15,000. It’s things like that think we are behind on. I am encouraging my daughter to go to this wonderful dental hygienist program we found in Houston, TX. I am pushing for her to go because I want her to get out and experience life while she is still young. I want her to see what other states have to offer. She has experienced Mississippi for 18 years and I want her to have more opportunities to grow.”

DeLoach got started in the financial and credit education business when she started going through her divorce. “My daughter needed $3500 and she had already witnessed the heartache of divorce between her father and I and I didn’t want her to feel any of the financial burden that might have come with that. So, I started working on credit repair.

I had learned enough about fixing credit from my ex-husband and from friends, so I went to social media and started doing live videos and YouTube videos about credit repair.

Within four months I had saved the money for my daughter's tuition, not knowing that her dad had already

paid it for her. That’s how I got started and my pastor encouraged me to keep going and help others.”

“The first thing I would suggest any woman do whether married or single is to make sure you have adequate life insurance on yourself and your spouse to take care of your children after you are gone. I believe in passing on generational wealth and life insurance is one of the most inexpensive ways to do that. Any woman wanting to get into the arena of credit and financial coaching, I would suggest working on your credit first. Then, don't have a great credit score just to say I have a high credit score. A high credit score is very empowering and if you can take care of your credit, you can combine it with any type of business concept and make a living.

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Maya Schopmeyer

Maya Schopmeyer was born and raised in Mississippi where she spent most of her life in Brandon, Mississippi.

At the age of 7 years, her mother moved her family to the Philippines for two years. After a brief year in Tunica, Mississippi, she and her family moved to Brandon Mississippi where she completed high school. After receiving her degree from the University of Mississippi, Maya moved to Jackson where she met her husband Chris. They have been happily married for twelve years.

After several few years of infertility, they have 3 children, twin girls Ava and Kaitlyn and one son Joshua. They currently reside in Madison, Mississippi. She works as a systems administrator at Forman Watkins and enjoys serving in women’s ministry at Pinelake church.

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A

t an early age Maya Schopmeyer felt different than her peers. “My mom is from the Philippines, and my dad is white. I started noticing I was unusual because my skin color was different than others.

When I entered grade school, I was called the “N” word. But I thought to myself, ‘I wasn't black, and I wasn't white. I’m Filipino.’ As a first grader, I didn't understand what interracial meant. All I knew was that I was different.”

Today, Maya is settled in her identity of who she and is at peace with how God created her to be. But as a child entering school in Ridgeland, Mississippi and continuing into an adult, the Lord began a journey of identity that lead through her adulthood. She learned to put off the early lies she believed and instead put on the truth of what God’s word says about her.

“Shortly after first grade, my mom moved us to the Philippines. I was so excited. I thought, ‘I am Filipino.

I'm finally going to be with my peeps and fit in!’

“However, when I arrived in that country, I saw that Filipinos have dark skin and jet-black hair. In contrast, my hair was brown and my skin was lighter than theirs.

Suddenly, I was too white. Wherever I went, for the next two years, everybody stared at me and I was reminded over and over again that I was different. So, at a very early age I wore the reality of ‘you are different’ and heard whispers in my mind of ‘you don’t belong.’ I know that now that's not true, but growing up, that's the lie that I heard.”

While trying to figure out life she sought to do what successful people did. She attended college at the University of Mississippi and spent most college years looking for belonging. She searched to find her

identity in guys, and she did what she could to fit in. She started partying and drinking and found that she could out drink most of the guys.

This made her the cool girl, and she received affirmation that she could hang with the boys. Unfortunately, she would drink too much, and there were occasions when she wasn't under the protection of her guy friends that she was sexually assaulted. This happened multiple times.

“As a victim of sexual assault, understand that there's a part of you that somehow says it's your fault and that you're spoiled goods, and you don't deserve to be honored and cherished. That's a lie that I believed.

But, praise the Lord, God has brought me so much healing through that.

of Jesus that gives me peace and purpose.

“One Sunday, our pastor called us to surrender to Jesus. I went home and laid face down in the living room, and said to the Father, ‘Oh Lord, I feel like I’ve already done this, but let’s make this formal.’ I said, ‘Father, I’m tired of doing life my way, but I want to live life your way. Thank you for loving me so much to send Jesus to die for me and pay the price for my sins.

Lord, you be Lord over my life!’”

“I was born again! I was sealed with the Holy Spirit!” Now I didn’t understand all those spiritual technicalities yet, but that’s what happened 16 years ago. And God by His grace, began the long process of sanctification and healing in my life.

“After I graduated college, I got a job at a law firm in Jackson while trying to decide what I wanted to do with my life. I looked at the successful people around me who had the dream jobs I wanted and did what they did. They ran marathons, so I started training for a marathon. They went to graduate school, so I started working on an MBA. Anything those “successful” people did, I did.

“Since then God has blessed me with amazing Godly mentors who taught me the importance of encountering God through spending daily time in the bible. The Lord also lead me to biblical-centered counseling. I spent around 2 ½ years in therapy where we were able to work through the wounds and false believe systems I was in bondage to and really rest in my identity of who He says I am.

“I started dating a guy and got my heart broken, so my roommate invited me to go to church. I thought, ‘that's one of the things that successful people do!’ Let's go to church.

“The key to my identity has been resting in the knowledge of God’s word. Resting in what His truths say about Himself and about me.

This resting requires me to take the time to daily encounter the Lord through bible study and prayer. It’s a discipline, but it’s a daily date with my Father in heaven whom I love.

“I remember weeping every Sunday I went. God used the timing of my broken and searching heart to soften my soul. I finally heard the gospel, and I finally heard about Jesus who loves me. I heard that He wanted a relationship with me, and God impressed upon me that it's not that dream job, it's not that boyfriend, that’s going to give me purpose.

It's not running a marathon or grad school that's going to give me peace.

It's trusting in Jesus Christ as my Savior and living a life in pursuit

Maya no longer believes those early lies that she is different or she does not belong. “In the early years of my marriage to Chris, I remember being haunted by images of my past. I learned to face those memories and to declare to the enemy, ‘yes, those memories are mine, and that was me in the past, but that is not who I am today. Today, I am a new creation in Christ.’”

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JUANITA WARD "I can, I will succeed" is slogan for the beautiful Juanita Ward. Woman To Woman With Joanne was so excited to have the opportunity to speak with her and have her as a speaker at our upcoming Conference. Take a minute to read her story:

J

uanita Ward was born in Bolton, Mississippi but she grew up living with her late grandmother in Jackson, Mississippi whose name was also Juanita Ward. She attended Callaway High School and went on to Syracuse University in New York, which is where she got her start in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) after college to play with Tulsa Shock of Tulsa Oklahoma. Her first overseas adventure was in Germany, Switzerland and Nice France, then on to Stara Zagora, Bulgaria.

“The day I signed my contract with the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), I remember driving to my grandmother's house to have a conversation with

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her, not knowing if she was even going to recognize me, much less understand what I was saying to her. I just knew I wanted to talk to her and let her know I had made it.

My grandmother had Alzheimer’s and when I was a young girl, I went to live with her to help care for her.

When I got to her, I kissed her on the forehead and I said, ‘Moma Nita I made it.’ And I remember just like it was yesterday, her face was turned to the left and I was sitting to the right of her. She turned, she looked at me and she said, "Juanita?" At that moment I was so happy she knew who I was, I just said God thank you. Because I just wanted to

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hear her say one last thing to me.

And she did that.”

Growing up playing basketball against her brother (Thomas Ward) was always practice games to see who was better. They played on a dirt basketball court that they sprayed with a water hose to keep the dust down. “I was destined to be in my family. God knew everything about me. He knew that I was going to grow up in a not so wealthy family, but He also knew that He was going to transform me and take me to places that I'd never been before.”

Playing in the WNBA really helped shape the woman she is today and she gives back to young girls by offering basketball camps. During the camps she encourages them and motivates them to be the best that they can be. She instills in them that they can do whatever they put their mind to and they can be whatever they want to be. “Being a little girl growing up in a small town, I wanted to be the difference. I searched for ways to be the change that I wanted to see. I started doing the basketball camps for girls because I wanted them to see something different. I want them to know that it doesn't matter who you are, you can be whatever you want to be. You can be a professional athlete or you can even be the president of the United States. You can do anything you set your mind to.”

“The transition from College to Professional Basketball wasn’t easy, especially playing overseas. In basketball, you have to have tough skin, and you have to be able to deal with a lot. For me, I had to be able to take a lot of criticism and negative words, and learn how to make God’s Words sound stronger and clearer.

The opposition, the tests and trials that I had to go through felt like they were stones and bricks being thrown at me. But through it all, I still stayed faithful and God stayed faithful and brought me through it.”

Ward played professionally for a total of five years. “The number five means grace and God was truly gracious to me during my time in the WNBA. I didn’t get hurt other than a few scrapes and bruises. It was an incredible experience and I wouldn't change it for anything in the world.”

As a speaker at the upcoming conference, Ward will give her all to reach women of all walks of life.

Women who don't understand the love God has for them. “I would first

want to know them. I want to hear their story because everybody has a story and it is through sharing their testimony that they can begin the healing process. Through their testimony, I'll be able to see if they understand that what they went through didn’t kill them, it made them stronger and they are still standing in spite of it, that they still have a purpose. God has laid it on my heart to talk about Jeremiah 1:5

As a speaker at the upcoming conference, Ward will give her all to reach women of all walks of life. Women who don't understand the love God has for them. “I would first want to know them. which states; Before I formed you in your mother’s womb I knew you.”

“There is a time and a purpose for everything and God places people in a specific location as, we're going to be for the Woman To Woman With Joanne Empowerment Conference.

God is going to bring people to the conference that are predestined to be there, that need to hear what the speakers are going to say. And it is through our testimony that people can connect.”

“To any young lady that is dreaming of a career in the WNBA, I would say be steadfast and hold on tight

to your dream. There has to be some hard work, dedication, and determination because you're going to hit a few bumps in the road.

You're going to go through different obstacles and you may hear more no’s than you hear yeses. But keep running after your dream. Keep looking for opportunities to live the life God planned for you.”

Juanita Ward is the daughter of Mary and Thomas Ward. She was a McDonalds All American in high school. She was a two-time ClarionLedger First Team All-State and a three-time Dandy Dozen selection.

She was nominated for the Naismith National Player of the Year Award, Mississippi Gatorade Player of the Year, Two-time Parade All-American, Two-time Street and Smith AllAmerican, Named an All-American twice by the All-Star Girls’ Report, Four-time all-district and all-metro player of the year, Nominated for the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame, Averaged 26.5 points per game during her high school career, and Selected to the 2004 USA Women’s Youth Development Festival.

Off to college, she went to the Gulf Coast, then Odessa where she won a National Championship then to Syracuse (Alumni) and finally landing herself in the WNBA as a Professional Basketball Player, where she won Most Valuable Player and Defensive Player of the Year in Bulgaria, Professional Championship in Ukraine, Israel Leading Score, #15 Jersey Retired, Inducted into Callaway Hall of Fame, and she is now a Powerful Motivational Speaker.

Most people call her a Diamond in the Rough, because everything you see on the outside of a person is not always shiny, but when trying to find the Diamond you have to search within. "A wise man once told me to keep following my dreams no matter what comes my way." That wise man was my father.

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Mary Ward Mary Ward was born and raised in Jackson, Mississippi and she is also the mother of Juanita Ward, The Encourager.

She is the mother of five, three boys and two girls and she has been married to Thomas Ward for over 43 years. Woman To Woman With Joanne is elated to have her speak at our 5th Annual Empowerment Conference this year.

in the hour that we are living in and it is an institution that God ordained from the beginning, where family would come together in love and unity. And it is so good that we can pass that teaching on to the next generation. What we teach today is for the next generation.”

Her goal during the conference is to help us get back to the foundation, which is being grounded in the word of God. “For the women who have

Mary Ward loves the state of Mississippi. From the trees to the clean air that we breathe. “I love it here because we are a strong state and we can fellowship together, communicate and collaborate together, black and white. We have a unique love for each other and despite the negative things that people may think about us, Mississippians are a strong people.

I have travelled to other states and visited, and all of my family is in California, but there is nothing like coming home to Mississippi.”

For over thirty years Ward was an electrical technician for Siemens.

She also worked as a nurse and she spent some of her younger years in the banking industry. She is now retired and enjoying life with her husband. She is also a minister of the gospel.

Mary Ward is passionate about helping restore the family unit in Mississippi and she will share her heart towards it during this year's conference. “Family is so important

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been hurt by different people and circumstances in their lifetime, I would lead them to God by letting them know that God loves them. I will help them realize that God has predestined everything before they were born. Everything we go through in life, there is a purpose and a plan to show the next generation that God will never leave us nor forsake us. We go through tests and trial to prepare us for our purpose.”

We have to find our security in Christ. The Word says; If you abide in me and my word abide in you, you can ask whatever you will and I will do it for you.” John 15:7

Life Insurance If someone you love relies on your income, you need life insurance.

Call Joanne for a free quote at 601-398-6733.

Photo Credit: eugenesergeev/Adobe Stock

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National Senior Citizens Day Date When Celebrated: August 21

National Senior Citizens Day honors our elderly population. On this day, we are encouraged to recognize and show appreciation for the value and contribution of elderly people to home, family and society.

In his Presidential Proclamation (August 19, 1988), President Ronald Reagan said, "For all they have achieved throughout life and for all they continue to accomplish, we owe older citizens our thanks and a heartfelt salute. We can best

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demonstrate our gratitude and esteem by making sure that our communities are good places in which to mature and grow older."

On National Senior Citizens Day, we should: • Spend some time with senior citizens • Show our appreciation for senior citizens

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• Do volunteer work in support of the elderly If you are a senior citizen, enjoy your day any way you desire. After all, this is your day! Make sure to take advantage of senior citizens specials and discounts. There's bound to be plenty offers today.

Source: Holidayinsights.com

Women In Nursing She chose to become a nurse to help others. “My motivation was my family.

God opened the nursing career door wide making it easy for me to get accepted into nursing school. I was an honors Geometry teacher and after much prayer, God closed that door. It was not right for me. I prayed daily for Christ to guide me in my career – whichever career I was to have. I worked for 1 year at a call center saving money and praying. After one year, I was given a very distinctive answer – nurse! I continued to work for a total of one and a half years so I could pay for nursing school. I was accepted to Hinds Community College’s Associate Degree of Nursing program and I haven’t looked back!”

“I work in Obstetrics and absolutely love what I do. However, some days patients ask you hard life questions. For example, “Why did God take my baby?” This is never an easy situation! You cry with your patients. When asked this question early in my career, I answered, “God did not take your baby. God received your baby with open arms and perfect love. Your baby is now perfect and whole.”

LAURA EZELLE

L

aura Ezelle was born in Jackson, MS and raised in Clinton, MS. She attended Clinton High School and after graduation she attended Hinds Community College, Mississippi State University for a BS in Math, Hinds Community College for her RN and University of Mississippi Medical Center for her BSN.

I work at University of Mississippi Medical Center in the mother/baby unit.

I am a high-risk OB nurse. I take care of high risk antepartum and postpartum women. I also help new moms by teaching them how to take care of their newborns. I love what I do and I am blessed that I get to love these women and babies like Christ loves us. Beloved, let us love one another. My motivation in what I do is as follows: 1 John 4:7-8 and John 3:16, Love others because God first loved us that He gave His only Son for us!

For any woman or person that decides to make nursing their career, I would say follow your heart!! Study! It is never too late to go back to school!!!

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Women In Education

E

die Evans was born at Women’s Hospital in Flowood, MS and lived in Canton, MS, until she left for college.

“My parents have been together since they were teenagers at Canton High School; Growing up in the same town with all four of my grandparents was wonderful—we spent a lot of time together as a family and my childhood memories are rich and sweet.”

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EDIE EVANS I attended Canton Academy grades 1—12. From there, I went to Mississippi State where I earned my bachelor’s degree in education. After teaching several years, I decided to further my education and I earned my Master’s in Curriculum & Instruction from Belhaven University.

My husband Scott and I met the summer after I graduated high school—we were counselors at Camp of the Rising Son in French Camp, MS. Being in a Christian camp environment was ideal for beginning a relationship with a strong foundation.

We dated throughout college and got married in the same church where my parents were married, where I was baptized, and where Scott and our son would later be baptized. We moved to Pensacola, Florida, a few days before our first anniversary and three years

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later our son Will was born—he’s a senior this year at Germantown High School and is such a blessing!

We wanted to have more children, but we were unable to get pregnant again. God steadily built our faith and strengthened our marriage through every disappointment and failed attempt to have another baby. There were some difficult seasons of deep sadness, and the enemy whispered the meanest things when our hearts were heavy, but praise God we serve a Father who triumphs over the enemy!

After a 10-year journey of doctor visits and fertility efforts, God healed our hearts and led us to a place of acceptance and contentment. There are many passages of Scripture that helped me along the way, but the one that provided the most comfort was Jeremiah 29:10-14. Knowing that God

deeply loves me helped me accept that something good would come from my pain and sadness, and now I can say that by the grace of God, I live every day in great joy.

I chose to become a teacher on the advice of my mother. I entered my freshmen year at Mississippi State as “undecided” in my major. Everything seemed so interesting that I could not pick just one career. My mother taught for many years, and she advised me that I could be all the things I was interested in as a teacher: counselor, advisor, missionary, encourager, and motivator. When my guidance counselor told me I had to pick a major or my student loan would not get renewed, I declared Education. I’m about to begin my 22nd year of teaching, and it has been a wonderful career.

the way numbers work in patterns and that every answer can be proven.

Analyzing data also gives an objective perspective and helps guide and direct fruitful paths. For the last 4 years, I have specialized in helping middle

I chose to become a teacher on the advice of my mother. I entered my freshmen year at Mississippi State as “undecided” in my major. school students who need extra help specifically in mathematics, and I love my job.

EDIE EVANS I am certified to teach elementary education, mathematics and language arts in the middle school, and I am a certified librarian. For the majority of my career, I have taught math. I love

When I became a mother, balancing work and family became really tough.

I was blessed to be able to stay home with Will until he was 5 months old, and God provided a wonderful lady who kept him at her house when I

went back to the classroom, but I shed many tears on Sunday nights as I was preparing for another work week. It was easier for me when Will started kindergarten because we were on the same schedule, but even now that he is seventeen, the challenge of balancing work and life persists.

I would advise a woman deciding whether to become a teacher that if she is going to find fulfillment in her work, she must consider it an investment in people rather than a job. James 3:1 cautions teachers to understand that “we who teach will be judged more strictly,” (NIV). The most important work teachers do is not measured by test scores, and being consumed by data will cause her to lose sight of the privilege God has given to make a difference in the lives of many people. High test scores are awesome and important— don’t get me wrong!—but when that becomes the primary focus above everything else, she will not feel joy and excitement in teaching

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Women In Politics Shawn Jackson

T

ell us about your experience living in Mississippi.

I always say, that most Mississippians, regardless of race or socioeconomics would like to return to Mississippi.

There is a sense of connectedness.

Even the breeze after a rain delivers a familiar scent of home.

field are you in at this Warren County Supervisor - District 3 W hat particular time?

After having managed a NMTC investment fund, and upon moving back home after my parents got sick, I created a consulting and workforce development company. I train employees so that they have the needed skills for work. And I also consult companies and municipalities on special projects. Day to day I may conduct lengthy workforce trainings, offsite executive leadership retreats or take children to sporting events.

W

hy did you decide to run for this particular office?

I’ve been blessed to amass a wonderful corporate skillset as well as local, state and national relationships.

I am running for office to make a difference in my community and my district by bringing these skills and

I

was born and raised in Vicksburg, MS - District 3 where I still reside presenty. I finished my schooling in Ithaca, NY and I attended college at Cornell University, where I majored in Labor Economics and Negotiations. I am the mother to three boys (Kai, Jayce & Taj). My ex-husband and I were married for 14 years before divorcing. He lives nearby and we have a great coparenting arrangement. Here is her story.

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relationships to county governance.

Vicksburg has immense potential.

We would be the top growing and economically developed county in Mississippi (and beyond), if we had elected officials with diverse skills. I am running because I know my district, I know the needs of the county, and Warren County Supervisor is an ideal space for me to serve.

W

hat is the main thing you want voters to know about you that they will not read on your push card?

Passion, energy and accessibility is often lost in printed media. A push card can’t convey that. I want my voters to know that with your vote on August 27th, you are getting someone who has the passion to bring about new and positive change, the energy to stay the course on critical issues, and the accessibility to always be a phone call or email away to help.

H

ave you encountered any opposition as a woman running for this political office?

This is a tough answer to articulate in a short time, because all indicators as well as the current political landscape clearly shows that women candidates

face opposition. I would be the first black woman supervisor in the history of Warren County and the second woman. Those stats alone tell us that political participation of women is not a level field.

But with that said, Vicksburg and Warren County are unique in that we’ve produced and support phenomenal women leaders, educators and entrepreneurs.

So, regardless of the soft or firm opposition that may exist, I am running with the spirit of our native women leaders like Lucy Jefferson, Madame CJ Walker & my Grandmother Dolores Pearl Bullock.

Since I can’t change being a woman, and can’t change the influence of strong women leaders, I guess I’ve got to stay focused on helping to change our community for the better, like the female leaders who came before me.

W

hat will be your main focus if you are to win this position?

As compared to what we’ve had thus far, my focus is to simply work! For the past 23 years, no one can come up with a short list of 2-3 things that’s been done to move the dial for our District. That’s a lifetime for

many. I want to bring in a sense of accountability. Say what you mean and mean what you say. Be it a small or large project, I am ready to roll up my sleeves and get busy for our county. There are so many directions to go in. I want to focus on tapping into additional funding sources for the county, securing resources to rebuild the aging homes in our District, and bring necessary community-based programs to District 3 (such as after school programs, etc).

W

hat advice would you give to another woman wishing to run for any political office?

Running for political office is a big decision with unique implications for women. I would advise that you seek strong mentors both women and men. I would also suggest they look to organizations like Emerge America for support.

I was recently selected by Emerge America, to participate in their inaugural candidate boot camp. This was not only an honor, but hugely helpful. To be in the ranks of over 4,000 women candidates (current and former) across the nation and learn about effective campaigning, etc, it's a huge source of support.

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Used Books, Coffee, Breakfast, Beer & Snacks Come snuggle up in our newly renovated space!

In Midtown Jackson on the corner of West St. & Millsaps Ave Check us out on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!

1619 N West Street, Jackson, MS 39202 coffeeprose.com WOMAN TO WOMAN WITH JOANNE: THE MAGAZINE

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Woman To Woman With Joanne’s Let’s Talk Sessions provide a safe environment for women to come and share whatever is on their heart - burdens, struggles, joys. We invite women to share openly without fear of being judged, talked about, or broadcast all over social media.

Upcoming Events for

2019

Let’s Talk Sessions are held at the Mantle once a month.

August

August 31st - 5th Annual Empowerment Conference 9am - 1pm Mississippi Civil Rights Museum 222 North St. Jackson, MS

October October 17th Let’s Talk Session, 7pm - 8pm 622 Duling Ave Jackson, MS 39216

September

- Annual September 19th

Let’s Talk Session 7pm - 8pm 6pm - 9pm 622 Duling Ave Jackson, MS 39216 1oam - 2pm

November November 21st Let’s Talk Session, 7pm - 8pm 622 Duling Ave Jackson, MS 39216

December December 19th Let’s Talk Session, 7pm - 8pm 622 Duling Ave Jackson, MS 39216

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A Special

Thank you to Our Sponsors

Renesant Bank Personal Touch Insurance CNC Integrated Payment Systems Tonyatta Hairston Dana Hiley Jeff Good

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