Natural Queen

A Dream Fulfilled...

2012-01-26T17:41:00.001-08:00

I was happy to spend a day of service with my dolling pal, Lauren! We attended a Martin Luther King, Jr. prayer breakfast where the Lt. Governor, Anthony G. Brown, was the keynote speaker. The uplifting occasion and experience was memorable. I appreciate the sacrifices made, not only by King, but by all of our predecessors to live a life of freedom and peace.

Bowling with Dolls

2011-12-30T02:14:00.000-08:00

It was great to get out and "play" with my dolling friend, Lauren, who organized this event! Participating in various fun, social and volunteer activities is how we collect and save dolls for our two annual doll deliveries. While I cannot bowl worth a lick (I did not even bowl my age, lol!), we are off to a great start for next year's doll collection!

Black Doll Christmas Delivery 2011

2011-12-17T19:30:00.000-08:00

What an experience... the most touching for me of all the deliveries I have attended! One little girl walked up to Ko and I and said, "Presents!?" How precious!!

The girls were very receptive to our activities and thankful. I received many hugs from the girls and thanks from the onlooking parents. We served 20 girls ages 3-4 today. Parents took Black Doll Affair business cards and bills, thankful for the organization and wanting to know more. One mom wants to sign up and we look forward to having her join us!

I am excited to continue this philanthropic work in 2012. Ko and I have some great ideas!! Won't you join us next time? :) I love BDA!! Join us!

Releasing to Renew in St. Croix!

2011-11-20T19:04:00.000-08:00

Here are photos from the 2nd Annual Heal a Woman to Heal a Nation Releasing to Renew conference in St. Croix! :)

Miss Atlantic Coast Pageant

2011-10-29T02:43:00.000-07:00

Excellent job to Shana Hinton Williams, director of the Miss Atlantic Coast Pageant!

Congratulations to Becky Albini, Latrece Hopkins, and Tanee DeCosta--The New Atlantic Coast Titleholders! I am a proud sponsor of these lovely ladies. :)

Silent Tears No More: Domestic & Sexual Violence Empowerment Breakfast

2011-10-29T02:12:00.000-07:00

With a former Mrs. United States Queen

I love this annual event run by one of my favorite organizations, Sisters 4 Sisters, Inc., in which I have been a member of since 2008. Carolyn Washington, the founder, truly has a heart to serve the entire world and she is starting in Prince George's county! View the video of this event here!

I first presented at this breakfast in 2009 (view the blog entry here) and came back to present again this year! :) I taught the audience how to take the steps towards healing with a very interactive presentation. To date, I have always had some entertainment in my presentations here... lol.

Miss Montgomery County's Outstanding Teen, her mom and I. Beautiful, hard-working and powerful women in our community!

I was ecstatic to see so many men and young men in the audience. While men are also victimized, the fact is women are at a much higher risk of experiencing violence. Men who stand against violence are key to its eradication.

I stand against violence... forever and always. As I signed this, I had a quick thought of some friends who said that I need to take a break, sit down and enjoy life because I have done "enough". The approximate 9 seconds that it took me to sign this is the amount of time needed for another person to be raped or beaten. I am so glad I cut off naysayers (part of my presentation!).

Congratulations to the Honorable Judge Cathy Serette, who is a fair judge, offering services to victims of sexual and domestic violence, who received the Love Cares Award from Sisters 4 Sisters, Inc. just now. I thank God for people like her in our community.

Until the next event...

Butterfly Sistas "Unique" Workshop

2011-10-22T05:10:00.000-07:00

Butterfly Sistas are at it again and this time we were defining our "unique" qualities (and being proud of them too!). Again, I am so gracious to Heal a Woman to Heal a Nation for believing in me enough to allow me to lead the youth of this organization! Thank you, Chardia Murray, Miss Maryland International 2012, for her constant support!

View the entire photo album from today's workshop! :)

Year 3 of Purple Poetry

2011-10-19T04:46:00.000-07:00

In 2009, on behalf of TurnAround, Inc. and W.A.V.E., I made up several fundraiser ideas to support domestic and sexual violence awareness. One of the ideas that I was most proud of was the Purple Poetry Book (great alliteration, such an English teacher!). This year, it was created again! I am ecstatic to see awareness continue in the Baltimore City and County communities. Since 2009, TurnAround Inc. has create a Rape Helpline (443.279.0379)!

If you are interested in supporting TurnAround, Inc, there are a variety of ways you can help, especially for the holidays!

Adopt an individual family and donate items on their wishlist
donate toys for the agency's annual children's party
Donate gift/food baskets or gift cards

If you are interested in helping, please contact Melanie at 410.377.8111 (ext. 107) or email her at mdavis@turnaroundinc.org. Looking forward to many more great things ahead with this issue!

"Lumo" Viewing During Baltimore Congo Week

2011-10-18T19:19:00.000-07:00

LOVE Makes the Difference Domestic Violence Awareness Event

2011-10-17T19:03:00.000-07:00

http://www.sisters4sisters.com

"Sparkle for a Cause" Traci Lynn Fashion Jewelry Run/Walk for Domestic Violence & Breast Cancer Awareness

2011-10-16T11:43:00.000-07:00

Race Organizer, Thereasa Proctor, and runners

With Candace, who helped me with registration. We look like family! ;)

Learning how to wobble and warm up!

We were very glad to see Carolyn Washington, founder of Sisters 4 Sisters, one of the beneficiaries of today's fundraiser! Carolyn always, always considers others. She is such a blessing to our community!

1st and 2nd place! Congrats ladies!

3rd place diva (how do you run a 5K and come back looking this glamorous? LOL!)

Conversations of Legacy: Congo

2011-10-15T11:21:00.000-07:00

Saronda and I had a great Conversations of Legacy about the Congo. She informed me that she was not really aware of what was occurring there until recently after noticing my posts on Facebook and after viewing the Congo Friends site. I brought 2 additional friends who joined our Conversation of Legacy. We had a great discussion with them, not only about the Congo, but also about how to be a B'huetiful Black Doll! They may be joining us soon! ;) Today was a great experience as I got to bond with Saronda and spread awareness of the atrocities occurring in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Thanks, Saronda and friends for your support--it means the world to me. ♥

Article in Towson University's "The Towerlight"

2011-10-14T02:44:00.001-07:00

Read the entire article here.

Voices of Survivors and the Great Turn Out!

2011-10-10T04:52:00.000-07:00

In the past six years, I have had the opportunity to speak out about sexual assault and domestic violence at several types of locations. In my experience, college campuses have usually had the lowest turn out. Even though this is an important issue for young adult students (1 in 5 college women and 1 in 33 college men are sexually assaulted in national statistics), I chalked this up to be that college students had better things to do with their time.

However, this was never the case at Towson University...

I have participated in several events at Towson: Take Back the Night, Walk a Mile in Her Shoes, etc. Each and every event has not only had great turn outs, but also a lot of men, who are not only vital in this issue, but they are also victimized.

I was impressed and inspired by the 129 students who came out to hear panelists speak about sexual violence. It was purely amazing and on a Monday evening! To see guys bringing in more and more chairs... simply amazing. I was overwhelmed--not just with seeing such a large college audience, but that the college students deemed this event as important.

Afterwards, I received many hugs, heard "my story" retold a few times from different students... This is why I do what I do. You never know how many audience members need to see your strength...

On a panel of two, Cathryn and I did a great job answering some tough questions. I was so proud of Cathryn--this was her first time speaking out publicly and she was very nervous. She has taken such a powerful step towards healing and I am looking forward to seeing more great things come from her. She is so strong, but also sweet and inspiring. :)

A special thanks to Marie Lilly, the Towson University Women's Resources Center for Student Diversity Associate Director (and lifelong friend from TurnAround, Inc.), Kathy Ferguson (pictured on the left), Coordinator of several sexual assault program's on Towson's campus and Sarah LaCorte, who interviewed Cathryn and I for the Towson Towerlight Newspaper.

View my follow up blog entry here.

Please Join Me!

2011-10-05T16:03:00.000-07:00

The following events will be promoting the awareness of sexual assault and domestic violence. Educating yourself and your family on these important issues are vital to living a healthy and safe life. If you live in the Maryland area, please join me! If you have any questions, feel free to email me: tisdal@hotmail.com or send me a message on Facebook. Hope to see you there! :)

I Am the Ancestor

2011-10-02T18:03:00.000-07:00

This event touched my heart. Today I met "Monique Smith", a woman who is not sure if she is 43, 44 or 45 after being abducted at 2 years old and having no linkage to her family. I sat and watched her talk about her life through smiles and tears--her story reminded me so much of my own. I, too, feel that I have no "linkage" to those that I should, but I am doing the same as Monique: sharing my story to help others prevent the same occurrence in their lives. Monique has such strength! I was proud to attend her book signing of I Am the Ancestor and donate funds to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. I am so glad that I attended this event and I am looking forward to future contact with Monique, an asset to our community!

Even if you have no linkage to your family, you can do great things with what you have.

- Monique Smith

Kicking Off Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Beadly Speaking...

2011-10-01T17:23:00.000-07:00

With inspirational poet, "Spicy"

I was honored to be in a room full of strength today at the Beadly Speaking Fundraiser for Breast Cancer Awareness... Oh my! From the organizer, Dyon Davidson, to the Ms. Hall, an elderly woman who long outlived the expiration date given to her by doctors. Today, I was enlightened. I heard from a woman who was diagnosed at 30 years old, my age, and had no idea that she had it because there was no history of cancer in her family and she felt healthy. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, but it can be prevented. My goal: to have a mammogram done before 2011 ends. Thanks to Dyon for caring so much about our community to organize such a successful fundraiser!

With the host and comedian, Greg Alexander. He was too funny!!

Walk for Lupus Now 2011

2011-09-24T17:48:00.000-07:00

You're Invited!

2011-09-23T03:57:00.000-07:00

As the coordinator of Butterfly Sistas Mentoring & Leadership Academy of Heal a Woman to Heal a Nation, Inc., it is my goal to help raise funds so that participants will have the opportunity engage in community outings and experiences. A very special thank you to all who joined me to not only learn how to wear your smile in style, but also to support a great organization and cause! We raised $30 and counting in funds! :)

Signing Up More Young Ladies for Butterfly Sistas!

2011-09-17T17:31:00.000-07:00

Signed up another young lady today at the Butterfly Sistas Mentoring and Leadership Academy Information Session today! If you are interested in joining or signing your daughter up, please email me at laquisha@partofthecure.org for more info! :)

Stomp Out Sickle Cell National Walk

2011-09-17T17:24:00.000-07:00

For many years, the Washington metropolitan area sickle cell community voiced interest in having a walk, but no one group was able to coordinate it by themselves. In 2007, several community-based groups and medical institutions came together to sponsor and promote the First Annual Stomp Out Sickle Cell Walk. Through the hard, unified work of several organizations, the First Annual Stomp Out Sickle Cell Walk was held on September 18, 2007. Over the years, over 1000 walkers have participated in this collaborative effort. I was very excited to join my friend and survivor of sickle cell, Jamila, and her team (Team Jamila's Survivors) for the fifth annual walk this year. All proceeds benefited the Howard University Center for Sickle Cell Disease and Faces of Our Children, Inc.

Faces of Our Children, Inc. is dedicated to raising awareness, support and funding for the fight against sickle cell disease worldwide in cooperation with the Howard University Center for Sickle Cell Disease through the development and delivery of educational programs and materials via the internet and mass media at work sites and schools and through community-based organizations that will help effectuate progressive public policy and increase both government and corporate funding in order to significantly improve the lives of families with sickle cell disease and ultimately eliminate this deadly disease that afflicts not only people of color but people from India, Greece, Italy, the Middle East, South and Central American and the Caribbean.

Thank you, Jamila, for inviting me, raising awareness and being a powerful voice for survivors!

Happy 2nd Birthday to DC Black Dolls on 9/10/11!

2011-09-10T03:06:00.000-07:00

With our beautiful "Mama Doll"

It was so wonderful to meet up with the dolls! What made this event even more special is that Dana Hill, a.k.a. "Mama Doll" and the founder of the Black Doll Affair, flew in from Atlanta, Georgia to celebrate with us! I also got to catch up with another doll queen, Allison Hill, Miss District of Columbia International 2011! We laughed, exchanged gifts, laughed, enjoyed great food, laughed and celebrated Aisha's birthday, and laughed some more! I am looking forward to our next date and collecting more black dolls to remind young girls of their beauty...

With Allison Hill, Miss District of Columbia International 2012

2012 Maryland International Workshop

2011-08-21T20:56:00.000-07:00

What an honor it was to be in the presence of royalty today! A grand opportunity was presented my dear friend, Chardia Murray, Miss Baltimore International, and I to meet our new sister queens, Mrs. Annapolis, Mrs. Montgomery County, and Miss Frederick International. It was also a pleasure meeting Sandra Bryan-Grier, Mrs. Maryland International 2011, and Ciji Dodds, Miss Maryland International and Miss International 2011. Both of these queens are remarkably entertaining and funny! I look forward to the pageant and wish all of the fabulous ladies God's blessings!

Butterfly Sistas "Beautiful" Workshop

2011-08-20T20:49:00.000-07:00

Butterfly Sistas is off to an excellent start this school year! The girls were very engaged in our activities today that promoted being "beautiful" and defining their own beauty. Again, I am so gracious to Heal a Woman to Heal a Nation for believing in me enough to allow me to lead the youth of this organization!

View the entire photo album from today's workshop! :)

Modeling for the Top of the Morning Show

2011-08-15T10:32:00.000-07:00

Modeling Summer Wear on the "Top of the Morning Show", a Regional Cable Television Show hosted by Mr. Dale Bradshaw at the Baltimore Inner Habor aboard the USS Constellation. The models also created PSAs for the "Top of the Morning Show" and historicships.org. Thanks so much for this exciting opportunity, Mr. Dale! ♥

With other models aboard the USS Constellation!

Let the show begin...

Creating PSAs!

Sylk Cosmetics Grand Opening Runway Show

2011-08-14T10:32:00.000-07:00

The SYLK Cosmetics Grand Opening Runway Show was an event you would not have wanted to miss! If you did, you missed one of the most fabulous presentations I have ever seen in Baltimore! Sylk had the best designers and boutiques present their lines--the fashion, glamor, and sophistication of SYLK Cosmetics was overwhelming! I was proud to be a model for this show...

Local artists who performed were Condor, Kenny Waller, Jazz and Just Us. Partners included:
Christopher Schafer - The Baltimore Fashion Alliance
Claudia Jeffers - AXA Financial Advisement
Danielle Baker - Signature Ink & Girls Glam
Pinky - Exquisite Pageants
Ella Pritsker - Maryland Academy of Couture Arts
Lana Rae - KIS Management
Barbara Choice - Choice Management
The Hour Haus

Makeup Artistry was provided by the SYLK Cosmetics Team, who did a wonderful job to my face! Hair Styling was provided by Art Salon & Spa, who created one of the most exotic hair styles I have ever had! Not only did I love, but so did onlookers!

Featured Designers:
Kantakerous Couture
Dennya
Lux Designs
Whimsy Boutique
Paris Couture
Deporian

Official Jewelry Sponsor: B.Foxy

Additional Jewelry by:
Vogue Boutique Jewelry
Jerry Brown Dezine
Beadly Speaking

Photography Provided by:
Jazzy Photos
Lexington Blu Photography

Afterwards, we attended the VIP Afte-Party at the Intercontinental Hotel. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Baltimore Fashion Alliance.

I was a proud and pretty peacock on the runway! :) Peacocks are actually my favorite animal...

My husband was too proud to stand by my side. What did he like most about my appearance? My hair! LoL... He adored it and talked about it all night!

With another beautiful model!

With Pinky and the 2010-2011 Exquisite International Queens! :)

I love Tiffany with everything in me! She is my sponsor for my upcoming pageant and great friend. I cannot be more proud of her for her accomplishments. She is destined for success!

Giving Tiffany words of encouragement... she wanted to cry. She is so sweet...

VIP After-Party

Exquisite International Pageant 2011

2011-08-13T10:31:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Pinky, director of the Exquisite International Pageant System, I had the chance to volunteer taking tickets at this great event. Congratulations to a wonderful year represented by the 2010 queens! All of you did a fantastic job! A special shot out to Chardia who accompanied me at a few events. I love you, girlie! :)

I was so very proud of my sister, twin and close friend, Latesha Blue, who came in 1st Runner Up in her very first pageant! She was rocking it out! Congratulations to all of the new 2011 queens! :)

It was so pleasant to meet up with friends at the same time... miss her. :)

Victorious Interview Prep

2011-08-07T14:54:00.000-07:00

I was excited to have the opportunity to serve as an interview judge and coach for Be Victorious Pageant and Image Prep. We worked with six beautiful girls who are all competing this month. We also had to interview their parents to help them understand the pressure their daughter would face in an interview. The parents could use a little coaching from their children, lol. Overall, the girls did great, under the explicit coaching of Viki Mohamed, and seemed eager to head into the pageant arena!

Encouraging Parents & Youth

2011-08-06T14:37:00.000-07:00

J & Company Christian Modeling Kids Fashion Show 2011 was a huge success!! I was excited to watch my god-daughter model in the show. She was too cute! Growing into a queen... :) I was honored to be introduced to the audience as my new local title and to have the opportunity to speak to the parents and youth in the audience about keeping kids engaged in activities that will be uplifting and beneficial to their future success!

Pictured with Jearlean Taylor, the CEO of this modeling company. She should be proud--hosting almost 50 kids in this fashion show!

My beautiful God-baby and I. Her blue "cutie" dress was created by her mom for the wild and wacky fashion segment. She did a wonderful job in the fashion show!

Black Doll Christmas in July & Ice Cream Social

2011-07-31T03:41:00.000-07:00

Did you know that July is National Ice Cream Month? Black Dolls did! We celebrated this month nationally at various ice cream parlors with little girls by giving them the gift of encouragement and, of course, a black doll.

I was especially excited for this playdate because I got the opportunity to catch up with the beautiful "Ko" and my BFF, Raise (a.k.a "Rice", lol). We had such a great time--I wouldn't have had it any other way! What was really cool about this meetup was how many people came up to us and asked who we were (did we look official? I guess so!). We got many compliments on our appearance and especially our hair!

I was especially touched when I approached a family, offering the information on the Black Doll Affair and the black dolls I was getting ready to offer his darling daughter. His response, skeptically, was, "How much is it?" (LOL!) This was the first time I have ever had someone think there was a fee! When I shared with the family that we were giving their daughter the doll free of charge JUST remind her of her beauty, they were overjoyed with thanks! The mother even shared with me that she spent some time living in Africa and she has had a hard time finding black dolls in the United States. The mother was especially thankful not only for the doll, but for what the entire Black Doll Affair organization offers our youth. :)

♥ Be a Doll, Give a Doll! ♥

Launching Butterfly Sistas with "You Are Special"

2011-07-28T08:35:00.000-07:00

Today was the launch of a series of workshops to be offered via Butterfly Sistas: Mentoring & Leadership Academy. We hosted the "You Are Special" workshop at Studio A in Randallstown, Maryland. Under the leadership of Adrienne Watson-Carver, these girls are already destined for success! We were glad to offer them just a little more encouragement and support.

I am honored to join the fabulous staffing of Heal a Woman to Heal a Nation! Each member of this team are truly dedicated to empowering women and girls. I am excited about our journey ahead!

Don't Be A Snicker Anti-Bullying Workshop

2011-07-19T18:06:00.000-07:00

I was honored to hear that Sister Carolyn Washington was please with this workshop--one that I made up in the middle of English class while waiting on my students to finish an assignment (2009). :) The girls started with a discussion on "Snickers" using candy and having discussion. The workshop ended with the girls creating anti-bullying posters!

The girls hold up the anti-bullying pledge that I created but they signed and agreed to!

Conversations of Legacy with My Twin & Fellow Dollista

2011-07-16T06:51:00.000-07:00

I had a great time with my fellow dollista, Latesha Blue (who is also known as my twin!). We had a great conversation at my home over fondue! Also, in our 2 girl meetup, we collected 4 dolls! Looking forward to the next event as I continue to "Be a doll!"

Tween Summit & Black Doll Christmas in July Delivery

2011-07-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

I opened the camp with a fun fact about Maryland to prepare the girls for Mrs. Maryland! :)

This was a wonderful end to a very long day and week. The girls were super confident before and after we left! Aisha and I had a blast! :) Carolyn Washington, founder of Sisters 4 Sisters and the hostess of this camp, sent me this message on Facebook: "Ohhh Wow, thanks so much for blessing the camp with your beautiful presentation, the girls were so appreciative and grateful. I appreciate so much your heart which is so sincere for our Girls. I am very touched. One of the little girls asked "Ms Washington do I put the doll back ..I said no Baby it's your Doll, she smiled so brightly and I nearly broke down in tears. She said I can keep my doll...and I said yes...Sis, this truly was a blessing to my heart!" Thank you, Dana and Aisha for helping to make this possible...

The phenomenal queen, Tamika Hall, Mrs. Maryland United States 2011, speaks to the young ladies before the Black Dolls workshop.

Auditing for Miss Teen & Miss Northern Virginia USA

2011-07-10T05:53:00.000-07:00

Awesomely directed by Yolanda Makle, Ms. Galaxy International 2010! :)

Speaking at the "Daddy & Me Tea"

2011-06-18T05:42:00.000-07:00

After speaking during the "Daddy & Me Tea", I attempted to help a young daughter understand and "juggle" the many responsibilities of a loving and hardworking father!

Speaker (me), Comedian (Shawn Mason Spence) & Songstress (Toni Hatton) for the Daddy & Me Tea!

I met this young beauty at the Daddy & Me Tea... Her family published this book, "Whitaker Book of Poetry", and uses the money from the sales to support the community. I was so proud of her--young people doing great things (and she is only in middle school!!). Check out her smile!! Beautiful! :D

Elite Female Mentoring Sex Appeal Fashion Show Volunteer

2011-06-10T05:32:00.000-07:00

Tyesha is such a SUPERmodel!

Elite Female Mentoring Sex Appeal Fashion Show Volunteer who wanted her vagina back! ;)

The highlight of the evening for me--a personal chat with Dr. Pam Love Manning a Certified Life Coach, salon owner, educator,the Chair of the CSU Development Foundation Board, and author of several books, including "I Want My Vagina Back" (her newest book is empoweing females of all ages to make values driven decisions when it comes to sexual behavior).

"Talent Tank" with DC Black Dolls

2011-06-05T05:16:00.000-07:00

Finally the snow has melted, the ice has disappeared and 30 degree temperatures are now a distant memory. Spring has sprung and summer is around the bend.

Spring and summer offer the perfect setting to pull out our b'huetiful Black Doll Affair gear and meet for an exchange of ideas and unique skills -- a Talent Tank to build our network.

We had a great time, chatting and making plans for the future of Black Dolls in the DC & Maryland area. :)

My Man and His BIG Heart!

2011-06-04T16:35:00.000-07:00

Mardis presenting the new fuse ball table!

My husband got the opportunity through his job, BB&T, to write a proposal for a grant to support a cause he was passionate about. He got his grant approved for $1,800 and went to work on behalf of the Hannah More Women's Shelter!

The Hannah More House is a 24 hour emergency shelter, meals and counseling for single women and families with children. Admitted by referral only through Baltimore County Department of Social Services, the women housed here very much needed encouragement and just an overall boost. So proud of my hubby who was able to do that today!

Mardis began by touring the shelter a month earlier to see what was needed. He was overwhelmed with the fact that the shelter housed 75 women and children but they were low on food and not even expecting any donations. The television that the residents watched had a broken tube that cause the picture to be distorted. At that point, he knew that $1,800 would not even be enough and he began to seek not only necessary, but fun donations...

My husband diligently worked to find:

13 totes of clothing and shoes (provided by Security & Owings Mills Branches of BB&T)
500 free games of AMF Bowling
Packages of sanitary products and lotions
$1,200 worth of food!
Stainless Steel kitchen cutlery and cooking utensils
A brand new, large grill
A brand new water cooler
A brand new foos ball table
A brand, new flat screen televsion, donated by Best Buy and to be mounted by the Geek Squad
Free truck rental and $100 in gift cards from Home Depot (Owings Mills & Randallstown stores)
$100 gift card from Target
$300 in cash donated by his BB&T clients
Subway (Pratik's on Security Blvd.) provided lunch the day before the main event

Mardis discusses how he obtained the new foos ball table to Demetra, the director of the shelter, and some of the children and volunteers

Unloading the foos ball table...

Shannon Orange, the Security BB&T Branch Manager, prepares to unload the Home Depot truck!

Mardis with Mena DeSousa, a BB&T coworker, and a client who came out to volunteer.

Mardis carries 1 of 10 clothing/shoe totes inside...

Shannon, Robbie and volunteers set up the foos ball table in the play room.

Mardis with Maurice, his assistance from Home Depot!

The only time you will see my husband pushing a cart of sanitary items... lol! :)

Robbie Marsh, the Owings Mills BB&T Branch Manager, helps unload sanitary products and more food...

Mardis chats with Home Depot personnel about his project and soliciting more help!

Mardis and I dropping off the Home Depot rental van!

Mena, Robbie and Shannon unloading...

Mardis presents much needed kitchen utensils to 1 of the 2 chefs. She was in tears to see cutlery! It truly is the small things that make a difference...

The new foos ball table!

500 Free AMF Bowling Games from a professional bowler! LOL... :)

Presenting the grand gift--the flat screen television, which generated applause and cheers from the crowd! :) What an accomplishment!

After getting all of the donations and items inside and presenting the grand gift, the television, Mardis hosted a cookout behind the shelter for all of the residents. Many of his coworkers attended--he even had a client come out to help! After the cookout, Mardis played the children and an adult on the new foos ball table--beating everybody! LOL...

"Da Cook", who is one of two chefs at the shelter told Mardis that in her 10 years of working at the Hannah More House, "this was the best thing that anyone has ever done!" Children played games and laughed. The director of the shelter, Demetra, said that some of the kids who smiled today have not smiled or laughed in a long time...

My heart was overwhelmed to see how much hard work he put into this project. Even though I only helped in what I consider a small way by volunteering (he claims he is so thankful for me--what did I do??), I was so touched, honored and thankful to be at his side, as his wife. Not only as his wife, but also as his volunteer! He is always at my side for my philanthropic work, always supporting me (and taking the photos). I was so happy to return the favor for him... and take all of his photos! He is truly a good man--a good man with a BIG heart.

I love you, "Mardy"...

Stars & Stripes & Spokes 2011

2011-05-28T02:30:00.000-07:00

Stars & Stripes & Spokes, a four-day festival on Memorial Day Weekend in Washington DC, honored America’s Armed Forces and brought together thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts with live music, military vehicle and equipment displays, food and more. A portion of the event proceeds was donated to the Walter Reed Society Warrior/Family Support Fund to assist service members and/or their families during the patient’s treatment at the hospital. The event was new this year, but definitely fun! Live music ranged from classic, southern and alternative rock to R&B, blues, soul and country performed by bands such as the Nighthawks, Jasmine Cain, SnakeBite, Kirk McEwen Band and John Luskey, all of whom I was exposed to the first time. J

Some special events included military equipment displays and a bikini contest, in which I attended to support my pageant pals, Yolanda Makle, the gorgeous and enthusiastic emcee, and Maria and Nicole, two of the knockout contestants! I cheered so loud and so much that Tareq-Michaele Salahi, a white house party crasher and Real Housewife of DC, judged the pageant and noticed my diligent effort to keep my pageant pal’s spirits lifted. When we got the chance to meet her afterwards, I got ready to introduce myself and she said, “Oh, I know you… You’re my girl! The girl cheering in the front!” So… no introduction needed for me, lol.

Both Maria and Nicole did a great job! Maria came in second runner up too Miss Stars & Stripes & Spokes, won $100 and a fabulous vacation prize! (If only I could do a competition like that… lol).

Pageant Success Expo to "Be Victorious"!

2011-05-22T22:53:00.000-07:00

Be Victorious (BV) Pageant and Image Prep hosted various vendors and speakers that it believes are critical to pageant success during the 2011 Pageant Success Expo.

This event was originally created as a way for BV clients to meet a few necessary vendors, but expanded to the entire mid-atlantic region and beyond, to answer the need of pageant girls everywhere who needed that suit, gown, or jewelry item - or even need to meet with a speaking coach, to learn the difference between a model walk and an evening gown walk, and much more!

This expo was fun, informational and necessary in the mid-atlantic area because we don't have many events like this (let alone gown shops) around!

All proceeds of the ticket purchases benefited Children's Miracle Network! Victory Mohamed and her team did a phenomenal job! I will be back for the next one!

With the beautiful designer of Arabesque Jewelry! I am wearing her custom made earrings in this photo! :)

"Creating the Attitude of a Winner" Workshop Facilitator, Cheryl Wood. She was so upbeat and inspiring!

Beautiful Queens!

Women in Power Conference Panelist

2011-05-21T22:50:00.000-07:00

I was asked to participate in the panel discussion entitled “Breaking Through the Abuse – From Victim to Victorious” during the 2011 Women in Power Conference. The theme for the conference was "Breakthrough: From Victim to Victorious". The goal was to inform and empower each woman in the following four key areas: Political Awareness/Community Involvement; Health & Wellness, Business & Economic Empowerment; and Spiritual Development.

I was thankful to have the opportunity to participate. After the panel discussion, so many women cried, prayed, expressed their gratitude and even shared with us that we told their stories. As my dear friend and fellow panelist, Sister Tracy, says, "Healed people heal people." This was proven true today...

There have been a few times when I have asked myself if constantly speaking and doing all of what I have done has truly helped the cause of sexual violence. It just seems that every time I watch the news, more and more stories appear of this heinous crime. However, today was a day where I felt empowered and encouraged to continue this God-given mission of mine. The women who listened to our panel today responded in a way that proved to me that my work, while many cannot understand, is not done in vain.

Boot Camp Fit for a Queen with Walter Lewis

2011-05-21T22:12:00.000-07:00

As a part of our prizes for winning the MidAtlantic Perfect pageant, my sister queens and I received the opportunity to attend Walter Lewis's Fit for a Queen Boot Camp. It was a blast! Let me tell you why... ;)

I got to lay down while my sister queen and partner, Ashley Heslop, did all of the work...

I got to dance...

I got to eat...

I got to dance again...

I got to inflict pain on others...

I got to eat again (even if I was sneaking the food)...

I got a prize!! (the services of an event planner! Do you know how much I need her?? LOL...)

I got to watch others suffer...

I got to lay down again...

I got to text while working out my "abs that I already had"... (lol)

I got encouraged to eat and train better...

I got to eat some more...

I got to push Ashley around...

I got to meet other fabulous people and and reunite with queens...

I got to release all of my seemingly never-ending energy...

I got to dance some more... (for someone who can't dance, I sure enjoy it... lol)

I got to put my feet in Ashley face...

I got a chance to finally work out with the famous WALTER!

...and I got another chance to be "Perfect" with my sister queens and wonderful, fantabulous, encouraging and inspiring director!! I did not know that pageantry could "feel" this good--thank you, Walter, for the work out and thank you, Ginny, for allowing me to be a mini and for giving us this opportunity! :D

Walking the Mile (Again) in Pennsylvania!

2011-05-20T18:50:00.000-07:00

YWCA York, in partnership with York Revolution, hosted the second annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event today at Sovereign Bank Stadium. Walk a Mile in Her Shoes is an international march, aimed at stopping rape, sexual assault and gender violence, where men take part in a mile-long walk in women’s high heels. All proceeds will benefit York County victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and other violent crimes.

I am always so happy to see the support from so many men! This young man was walking for his second time. :)

As an English teacher, I had to help these junior queens pick out books...

...and of course let them know that they are "perfect" just the way they are!

This junior queen was showing me the way!

I applaud this ambitious and kind-hearted woman for attending as many events as she can in York, PA to "bug" the youth to read! (Oh! An English teacher's dream!!)

Encouraging participants that they CAN walk the mile! :)

Look at these creative shoes!

With Deb Stock began her relationship with YWCA York in 1990, serving on the Board of Directors for eight years and later as Board President for one and a half years. In 2000, she was appointed Chief Executive Officer and successfully moved the organization from ten years of deficits to a balanced budget. Under Deb’s leadership, the organization has grown from a budget of $1 million to approximately $6.6 million and 60 employees to over 200.

Meeting Jason Bristol and preparing for an interview on CBS 21 News. :)

I had the honor and task of cheering on the men as they arrived back from their mile walk and awarding participants with: Most Creative Outfit, Most Creative Shoes, Highest Heel and Most Entertaining. This was too fun!

The Interview! (see clip below...)

As a reward for our service today, the YWCA treated Mardis and I to dinner and the Revolution baseball game at the stadium--this was my first game! :)

This was such a cool experience... You know Mardis loved it! I was glad we both do something together that we both enjoyed. ;)

During the game, I was still chatting with others about sexual assault in the U.S. and the Congo... The voice in my head: "Sit down, girl, and enjoy the game!" LOL... I can't help it. :)

This was one of my best Walk a Mile in Her Shoes events ever! Thanks to my awesome hubby for driving, being the photographer and my cheerleader throughout the day. Looking forward to next year...

Team HWHN Walks for Babies

2011-05-14T14:40:00.000-07:00

I was glad to join team Heal a Woman to Heal a Nation today to support mothers having full-term pregnancies and the research that is conducted on the problems that threaten the health of babies. We did not have great weather, as it was very damp and cloudy, but we finished the walk! :)

Congrats, thank you and shot out to Carla Dee Blackwell for raising the most money on the team!

Only one more mile to go... :)

Team HWHN finished!! :D

Sexual Assault in the U.S. & Congo Radio Interview

2011-05-10T20:08:00.001-07:00

I am very thankful to Romunda for interviewing me, helping me with spreading awareness of sexual violence in the United States and the Congo! I hope to post a link to the interview soon! Thank you to Mariah Battle, Miss United States Beautiful 2011, who set this wonderful appearance up for me! :)

Supporting Women of the Congo with Friends on Mother's Day

2011-05-08T03:00:00.000-07:00

By all accounts, DR Congo is one of the worst places in the world to be a woman or girl,” says Anneke Van Woudenberg, a senior researcher with Human Rights Watch who has spent the last 10 years focusing on Congo. “These are often soldiers and combatants deliberately targeting women and raping them as a strategy of war, either to punish a community, to terrorize a community or to humiliate them.”

DRC Women & Statistics as reported by CNN:

* Most times the women are raped by at least 2 perpetrators.

* The majority of rapes are against childen, including boys, but primarily females.

* The UN estimates that 200,000 women and girls have been raped in Congo over the last 12 years.

* Rape is escalating, as a weapon of war.

* Often the rapes are committed in front of children and family members, as an additional dishonor and statement of power.

* Male family members are often forced to rape their own children and wives, at gunpoint.

Today we helped support and sent them our love. ♥

With Kambale Musavuli, Friends of the Congo Spokesperson & Student Coordinator, who avidly advocates for his country. He shared that his memories of the Congo were not those of violence, but that of a great home, home of the best fish and mango in the world. Kambale is such a wonderful representative of his country and he has taught me much about the war in the Congo. Thank you, Kambale, for all that you do.

This weekend, I borrowed a beautiful African garb from a friend and volunteered for a special Mother's Day performance of the play, Ruined, at Arena Stage in support of the women of the Congo.

Friends of the Congo, in partnership with Arena Stage Theater and the Pulitzer Prize winning play, Ruined, presents a special Mother's Day fundraiser for women in the Congo.

With other volunteers, beautifully dressed in African garbs

I am presented with Congolese cuisine, which I thoroughly enjoyed (as I do all food, lol...)

One of the waitresses said to me, "I can now say I have met the 'Perfect Woman'!" They were so kind and complimentary.

Chatting with Makeda Crane's mother. Makeda was one of the organizers of the event.

The Mother's Day celebration was chaired by Dr. Yvonne Seon and Ambassador Shirley Barnes, Former U.S. Ambassador to Madagascar. This special presentation of the play was highlighted by a pre-play reception featuring Congolese cuisine, music, and performers. Special performances were made by songstress Navasha Daya of Fertile Ground (pictured with me above) and Congolese performer Deja Belle.

Renowned author, Marita Golden, shared a literary treat and students from Duke Ellington School of Arts dedicated a special poem to the women of the Congo.

The play, Ruined, was phenomenal. I truly understand its winning an award... It was tough for me to watch at parts, however it did contain much humor and the plot was thoroughly carried out. If you did not see it, the play will be performed through June 5th--for your personal awareness of what is happening in the Congo, please go and see it.

Following the play, the two Congolese beneficiaries of the fundraiser (Association of Widows and Congo Restoration) along with members of the cast participated in a very informative post play discussion. If you knew nothing about the war in Congo, you certainly did after this day...

Mardis and I gladly donated $500 to this important cause. In case you could not join us in DC at Arena Stage, you, too, can still support the two women's organizations working in the Congo who are beneficiaries of this fundraiser by donating here. Or tell Obama and Clinton to send a special envoy to the Congo here! Thank you in advance for your support!

Alliance for Lupus Walk

2011-05-07T02:58:00.000-07:00

I got up early this morning to walk to support the Alliance for Lupus Research in leading the way to a cure for lupus through funding and research at the Rash Field-Inner Harbor in Baltimore. Some of my past friends have this illness. While I have not personally had to combat lupus, I have seen the effects of it and pray for those who have it. It is also important to support other causes when I too want support for mine, sexual and domestic violence, which is a very difficult pill to swallow. I walked with great friends who also support the cause.

Taking a break from the walk on Baltimore's Inner Harbor

With my new friend and walking teammate, Crystal!

Our team did a great job!

Get in the Mood for Going Nude

2011-05-05T04:02:00.000-07:00

Read my latest post and leave comments on the page!

Casual Corner: Get in the Mood for Going Nude

Week 1: May 2011 Style CAPS

Mother & Daughter Tea: A Success!

2011-04-30T03:05:00.000-07:00

I am very thankful for all of the support and the 88 attendees of our Queendom T.E.A. 2nd Annual Mother & Daughter Tea! I remember last year only having 60 guests--we just keep growing! :) I am only sharing one photo now, but I will update this post this week with photos from our photographers, Picture This! Studio.

Wear a Summer Coat

2011-04-28T23:46:00.000-07:00

Read my latest post and leave comments on the page!

Casual Corner: Wear a Summer Coat

Week 1: May 2011 Style CAPS

Take Back the Night: Towson University

2011-04-28T22:23:00.000-07:00

Today was my first appearance as MidAtlantic's Perfect Woman 2011!! I was glad to be a volunteer and speaker on behalf of TurnAround, Inc. at Towson University's Take Back the Night. It was such a well-organized and emotional event. There was a great number of students in attendance. I was glad to also see so many men in the audience. There was such an overwhelming support. I spent the afternoon with my friend and fellow volunteer, Cassie.

Again, I must say that I am sick of hearing my story repeated... survivor after survivor went up for the "Open Mic" and shared stories of men they trusted molesting or raping them, the survivor not being believed and feeling isolated. When will this catastrophic cycle end? Will it ever? The reoccurring theme of the night was for victims to speak out so that we can put a stop to this terrible, repetitious cycle in the lives of our people in our communities and our society. It is so disheartening to see this continue, but until we receive support from communities, until people step up and show concern and support, rape, molestation, domestic violence and more will continue.

Walking the Mile...

2011-04-20T20:03:00.000-07:00

Towson University Union, where the march began.

Again, this April, I volunteered at Towson University's Walk a Mile in Her Shoes®: The International Men's March to Stop Rape, Sexual Assault & Gender Violence. Men literally walk one mile in women's high heeled shoes to protest sexualized violence, educate their communities and raise money for chronically underfunded rape crisis centers, domestic violence shelters and other sexualized violence prevention and recovery services. Tabling for TurnAround, Inc. with Marie and Cassie was fun and for the first time in all of my years of participating in this event, I walked the mile with the men!

Mariah Battle, Miss United States Beautiful International, with her cute as a button self, joined us briefly! It was so great to see her lovely smile. TurnAround, Inc. Volunteers: Marie, Cassie, Bridgette and I.

With the handsome, supportive volunteers from the university soccer team! :)

Every year, I try to find the guy with the biggest feet, just so you can see how deep this is... lol. I did not wear heels this year, but I figured my swarovski crystal Steve Madden flats would still be a hit. :)

The mission of the Walk a Mile in Her Shoes organization is to engage men and their communities in efforts to stop rape, sexual assault and gender violence. I am always glad to see so many supportive men...

Making a sign for the march!

Attempting to draw a butterfly, the TurnAround, Inc. logo... lol.

I think the sign came out alright!! :)

Friends who marched with us. :)

Ok, so I love my sign... lol. Yes, I do. I held it up during the entire mile!

I know you all will not believe this, but Tim Tooten, the WbalTV Channel 11 News Anchor, is my new friend, lol! I am glad he interviewed my marching team (Marie, Cassie and I) and put this important cause on the news. We joked around about ages; he said he was old enough to be my daddy! By the time we done laughing, I was "Quisha Girl" and he was simply "Tim". :) A special thank you for their support to Tim, his camera man and the WbalTV News team!

Click here to watch my team and I on the news!

Until the next Walk a Mile or next April...

Take Back the Night: Stevenson University

2011-04-18T03:14:00.000-07:00

I was glad to be a speaker on behalf of TurnAround, Inc. (the other speaker was the kind president of the university, Kevin J. Manning, Ph.D.) at Stevenson University's Take Back the Night. It was such a well-organized and emotional event. There was a great number of students for such a small university and many resident directors in attendance. I was glad to also see so many men in the audience. There was such an overwhelming support. I spent the afternoon with my friend, Marie Lilly, an avid advocate for women's rights and violence prevention.. Ialso had the opportunity to meet another volunteer for the Maryland Coalition Against Sexual Assault (MCASA), D. LaShay Harvey.

I must say that I am sick of hearing my story repeated... survivor after survivor went up for the "Open Mic" and shared stories of men they trusted molesting or raping them, the survivor not being believed and feeling isolated. When will this catastrophic cycle end? Will it ever? The reoccurring theme of the night was for victims to speak out so that we can put a stop to this terrible, repetitious cycle in the lives of our people in our communities and our society. It is so disheartening to see this continue, but until we receive support from communities, until people step up and show concern and support, rape, molestation, domestic violence and more will continue.

2011 HWHN Conference: Keeping, Protecting, Growing...

2011-04-16T20:01:00.001-07:00

With Marie Lilly, Self Defense trainer, my friend and fellow advocate for women!

The 2011 conference was absolutely, positively awesome!! Mothyna James-Brightful and Monokia Tyson, founders and directors of Heal a Woman to Heal a Nation, Inc. did it again... and I pray they do it again and again and again!

I got up at 5 a.m. and arrived at 7 a.m. for this day--it was SO worth it!! I volunteered last year and had a wonderful time, but I felt this year was even better. I met many beautiful, successful women, received and gave some great advice and HWHN honored me with the Spirit of Woman Award--a surprise and blessing! I felt so special and overcome with love by the end of the day--truly a day of empowerment! I cannot wait for the upcoming conference in St. Croix and the 2012 conference...

With my girls, Morgan and Megan!

Morgan's Twitter: I had a great day @HWHN!! I met so many amazing teens and women I'm thankful for! Excited for next year! @LaQuishaHall

I gave "LaQuisha Jr.", Morgan's unborn baby girl, her first Easter Basket!

With fabulous workshop presenters and advocates for women and girls!

Awarding LaTayla Palmer-Lewis, workshop facilitator of "Self-Care for Incest Survivors".

Tara was also a great asset to the "Self-Care for Incest Survivors" workshop!

These two women empowered me more than they know... So, I saw their Traci Lynn table and gave them the heads up that I already own about $600 worth of the jewelry they had (lol... I know, I know). They complimented me so much on my appearance and requested that I model some of their jewelry for them. I wore this fabulous and extra "blingy" rhinestone choker and matching bracelet during the conference. It was sold by the end of the day! :)

My heart was overwhelmed with love for Mothyna and Monokia for choosing me as their Spirit of Woman Award recipient... I have received many awards, but these two women truly know me and know what I have been through. Not only do they know me, but I have volunteered with them for about two years--I just did not even consider myself in the running. They are just so supportive and encouraging of everything that I do, EVERYTHING. I will continue to give "tireless service" to this organization and I cannot thank them enough for how they made me feel today... I ♥ them both and the HWHN team!

They even tweeted giving us the award before we received it!! Smh... too special and thoughtful! :)

♥ My girls! ♥

My "award sister", Crystal, who also received an award! The Legacy of Strength Award was given to her for facing health challenges yet still rising to the top! Crystal is a survivor of lupus and cancer but you would never know because she never complains and she is an avid supporter and volunteer for HWHN! I ♥ her!

Until St. Croix... ♥

Easter Basket Community Service in Queendom T.E.A.

2011-04-14T19:58:00.000-07:00

For the past 3 years, I have considered it a pleasure to be a donor and volunteer for Dreamcatchers for Abused Children (DFAC). During Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Awareness Month (April), the goal of the organization was to serve neglected and abused children by providing them with the joy of having a special Easter Basket made just for them. DFAC are aiming to provide these baskets to children from the birth to 17-years old. Queendom T.E.A., again, proudly made this a community service project.

We purchased the materials to create and ship 10 Easter baskets!

With love and care, the queens of Queendom T.E.A. put each of the baskets together.

I would like to thank Nisha MacDonald and Wendi Shumard for their contributions to this project!

Imagine, Then YOU Do It.

2011-04-13T23:44:00.000-07:00

Imagine being 14 and your first kiss is an aggressive one from a 40+ year old man.

Imagine pretending to be sleep and praying he does not come into your room, but he does.

Imagine waking up and realizing he is locked in a room across the hall with someone that you love.

Imagine being a teen yet keeping to yourself the first time you are forced to have sex.

Imagine not telling anyone that you think you are pregnant and being scared that you will have to drop out of school.

Imagine begging God to die, then swallowing over 100 pills because you can no longer face him or anyone else.

Imagine, not crying, but sobbing silently in your room because you are too afraid to tell.

Imagine receiving a urinary tract infection that goes on for days from not receiving treatment because no one knows that you are having sex with him.

Imagine sitting in a pew watching him jump and shout about God knowing what he did to you two nights before.

Imagine hating yourself for not telling someone sooner or as soon as it happened.

Imagine living with the fact that those you love still talk to him and invite him over as if nothing is wrong.

Imagine living with the thought that he could have done it to someone else because you did not say anything.

Imagine wanting to run yet wanting to stay to ensure the safety of those you love.

Imagine not being believed, being called a "bitch" and a "liar" by someone you love when you finally tell.

Imagine feeling out of place at gatherings because you are the odd one that everyone gets mad at when you bring it up.

Imagine his scent, his voice, his stare, following you years after the catastrophe ends.

Imagine keeping all of this to yourself 1440 minutes a day, 365 days a years for at least 4 years while being a teen.

Imagine just wanting a hug or a "it's going to be okay" but only getting stares and criticism.

Imagine living with the fact that he is living his life care free, happily, without punishment while you suffer internally.

Imagine, just imagine, having a flashback of him while you are intimate with a man who truly loves you, your husband.

Imagine all of this--put yourself in my shoes. Then and only then tell me that I need to forgive, let go of the past and heal.

YOU DO IT.

My Thoughts at This Moment...

2011-04-13T22:33:00.000-07:00

Instead of looking at a survivor, saying they need to forgive and heal,

Analyze the situation and realize that the issue is real.

Don't judge, put down or ostracize

If it happened to you, you wouldn't want it minimized.

Instead help the survivor up, to look past their scar,

Especially if you are who you say you are.

Instead of offering love, prayers and support,

You stay "positive", yet choose to ignore.

No worries, it will all work out,

They'll be successful without a doubt.

It's easy to run your mouth when it didn't happen to you,

God forbid if it did, ignorance equals not knowing what to do.

Please, don't attend my funeral or shed a tear for me,

While I am alive is when you have a responsibility.

From victim to victor,

No longer silent anymore.

To my fellow survivors, don't give up, worry or fret,

God has not finished with you yet...

My 8th Take Back the Night

2011-04-12T01:49:00.000-07:00

I arrived very early, right after work and tired from working with kids all day (lol), to help set up.

My job: To put the Pieces for Prevention together. We have displayed for the past 3 years. As you have seen on my blog before, these pieces are decorated and designed by survivors and supporters as additional awareness and prevention.

I have personally made 4 of these pieces and my 2010 Queendom T.E.A. queens made 6. It was liberating to see all of our work again from previous years...

The finished "piece"!

Next, we put together vendors tables for TurnAround, Inc. and the supporting organizations and groups.

We were honored to have the mayor as our key note speaker for the second year in a row. She shared statistics of rape and sexual assault in Baltimore. She shared her plan of decreasing violence against women in this city.

Again, I welcomed our audience to participate in the "Open Mic"--the most powerful part of this event. Survivors and supporters come forward to share their stories and encouragement. For many, this is the first time they have ever shared their story publicly...

This is my new sister, Justine! Her story is very similar to mine. She is only 17, but has experienced more than you could ever imagine. After being betrayed and ostracized by people who should support her, she too has had to look to supportive friends as her strength. I adopted her into my family as of last night! :)

Sadly, this is the last Take Back the Night sponsored by TurnAround, Inc. and W.A.V.E that Marie Lilly would plan. Marie has been an employee of TurnAround for years, created W.A.V.E and has consistently planned TBTN since I have been on board. I can't imagine what it will be like without her and she will be dearly missed. This is the first time we have taken a picture as a group, with our new adopted sister in the center.

Justine reveals her Turn Around tattoo, thanking the organization for helping her along her journey. How powerful is that!!

I will never forget Marie, what she has done and how she has personally empowered and taught me how to be a strong survivor... <3

While I do attend TBTN at several colleges/universities, the event hosted by TurnAround is and will always special to me because I get to help plan it, volunteer for it and I was honored in 2009 to be the keynote speaker. I pray that it never ends.

Until next year's event...

"To Kill A Kelpie"

2011-04-11T03:30:00.000-07:00

This was one of the most powerful, tear-jerking sexual assault awareness events I have ever attended. I am glad to support Stop the Silence in my role as their spokesperson and the Queendom T.E.A. Director. This organization has done so much to help communities--this event was one not to be missed! I also got to meet up with Sandra, a past board member and current supporter of Queendom T.E.A., Carmen, a current board member and see the excitement of Pamela Pine for this wonderful production!

Stop the Silence brought in a playwright from Europe to perform his play in San Francisco, Chicago and D.C. I was so glad to meet the two actors. It is amazing how survivors can meet and make immediate connections--all too often because our stories are similar. It is like hearing your life being repeated in someone else's. While I would rather hear of happier similar experience, it is good to know that you are not alone...

‘To Kill A Kelpie’ is about the unfolding and sharing of a secret between two adult brothers that has never been spoken of before. A ‘Kelpie’ is widely known as a devious creature lurking in the depths of highland lochs. When two grown brothers reunite, following the death of their uncle, they realize that his gruesome tales of a child-devouring monster were simply a climate of fear created to ensure their silence and cooperation during years of sexual abuse. In this unconventional drama, we meet two men talking to the children they were. Still unsure whether there might be any truth in the Kelpie stories, they face one another like a mirror to open painful boxes of sexual confusion, self doubt, and shame, while endeavoring honestly to end the silence and open their minds enough to consider what it would take ‘To kill a Kelpie’.

This April has been one of the best awareness months to date... :)

My "Perfect" Motivation

2011-04-11T02:56:00.000-07:00

Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.

~ Harriet Tubman

Thank you:

Ginny Meerman

Rick Martinez

Terrianne Small

April Flower Power Workshop in Queendom T.E.A.

2011-04-07T02:25:00.000-07:00

A special thank you to Angel Richardson, a Life Coach and entrepreneur, who sponsored and taught this workshop! The other mentors, Nisha MacDonald and Wendi Shumard, the girls and I self-designed and made flower pens! Afterwards, they wrote encouragement cards to teachers and friends with their new pens as a community service project. I am very proud of the girls who attended the workshop and thankful to Angel, who has been such a tremendous support to Queendom T.E.A. this year.

I could not just sit back and watch... lol.

Ms. Shumard deep in thought...

Angel is a great instructor who knows very well how to work with teens!

Raffle time!!

A queens wins a very special raffle gift! ...and I am peeking in the bag, lol.

Raffle Winner!!

A thank you gift from several queens to two others...

Workshop Queens!

My Queendom T.E.A. pen! :)

Preteen & Teen Maryland International Pageant

2011-04-02T03:13:00.000-07:00

Preparing to judge the teen division. My hubby judged pre-teen! :) It was tough--all of the ladies did a wonderful job!

Judges

Congratulations to Margo Huffman, Miss Teen Maryland International 2011!

Congratulations to Alexzondra Wakefield, Miss Preteen Maryland International 2011!

Kayla was a beautiful and great queen!

My coach and second family... :)

With the beautiful America's Miss Maryland, Maris Screen.

Promoting SAAM on the Big Sis & Co. Show

2011-04-01T02:53:00.000-07:00

I was honored to be a guest on the Big Sis & Company show, along with "Beautiful Believer", a survivor and gifted poet, and Ed Kittrell, founder of 1lyfe.org, to promote Sexual Assault Awareness Month 2011.

With Big Sis and the other guests!

Getting ready to go live...

The best mic check lady in the world! :)

A Sneak Peak:

Show Info:

Fairfax Public Access Channel 10

Showing Times:

Wednesday @ 5:00pm

Thursday @ 5:30 am

Saturday @ 1:00pm

Big Sis & Company - Focused On The Issues- a weekly local talk show designed to discuss the issues facing the community. Besides, relationship advice, finance, health, fitness, and other issues, they also spotlight local folks in the community doing something positive through music, art, business, etc. A special thank you to Liletta Thompson, talk show host, for publicly promoting this important cause.

Interview on the Simply Bonita Show

2011-03-23T07:45:00.000-07:00

I would like to take the time to thank Bonita Linkins of SVMixRadio and the hostess of Simply Bonita radio show for having me! There were many callers listening in and in the chat room discussing the calamity of sexual abuse with me. I am appreciative of Bonita's efforts in supporting survivors of both domestic violence and sexual abuse. Survivors must continue to stand together against this calamity and encourage others who turn a deaf ear to stop and speak out. She encouraged me more than she knows. Tune in for her next show, Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m.

A link to this interview will be posted soon! :)

Modeling for Sylk Cosmetics (Part II)

2011-03-19T07:35:00.000-07:00

I did a photo shoot again for Tiffany Jeffers, the ultra fabulous creator of Sylk Cosmetics, singer, make-up artist, wife and mother. This time, I joined two other women in modeling for this unique new make-up line. I am especially excited to have been asked to be one of the faces. I WILL be one of the faithful buyers of this product! :D The photos below are a few candids--I can't wait to share the professional photos with you later!

Panelist for Domestic Violence Forum

2011-03-17T06:54:00.000-07:00

I was honored to be invited as a panelist for the "Does No EVER Mean Yes? Domestic Violence Exposed" Forum. Thanks to Steve Berlack of the The Berlack Method, LLC and Caprice Smith of SharperMinds Consultants for the invitation to discuss such an overlooked and serious issue in our communities. I applaud both of these determined individuals for their efforts and support. View the following clips for snippets of the discussion!

I was honored to serve on a panel with these awesome two! A student at Renaissance Academy, Ricky, who eloquently expressed himself, and Bonita Linkins, a beautiful survivor of domestic violence and radio personality and host of the Simply Bonita (Wednesdays at 7 p.m.) show on SVMixRadio.

Modeling for Sylk Cosmetics

2011-03-13T06:31:00.000-07:00

Tiffany Jeffers, is ultra fabulous! She is the creator of Sylk Cosmetics, singer, make-up artist, wife and mother. I joined three other women in modeling for this unique new make-up line. I am especially excited to have been asked to be one of the faces. I WILL be one of the faithful buyers of this product! :D The photos below are a few candids--I can't wait to share the professional photos with you later!

Jonzetta Carter, founder and director of Exquisite International Pageant and I after our photo shoots.

Tiffany Jeffers and I--I love her more than words can express! She truly is the definition of beauty, inside and out!

Queendom T.E.A. Invites "Sisciety"

2011-03-10T06:06:00.000-08:00

This empowerment workshop, led by Rashida McKenzie of Sisciety, empowered my Queendom T.E.A. girls to discover their full potential, understand who they really are, build solid-self esteem and learn real life strategies and skills needed to be happy and successful on their own terms. They had an action-packed experience! The uniqueness of the icebreakers and activities kept my girls engaged and interested. As a result of such a great workshop, Ms.McKenzie will be back as our keynote speaker for our 2nd Annual Mother & Daughter Tea on the Spirit of Baltimore!