Today's History Makers: Judge Janet Jackson

Black History happens everywhere, including in my hometown of Columbus, Ohio. This week's History Maker is Judge Janet Jackson.

Janet Jackson has had a life filled with FIRST. She was the FIRST born to a big, beautiful family in Randolph,Virginia; the oldest of six children. Janet excelled in school and would become the FIRST to integrate Randolph Henry High School in Virginia. While visiting family in Ohio, between her Junior and Senior year of High School, Janet visited the campus of Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio. She applied and after graduating from high school, Janet was accepted to Wittenberg;  graduating with a B.A. degree. Janet would continue her education, getting a J.D. degree from the National Law Center at George Washington University.

Her career has included serving as a Franklin County Municipal Court Judge for nearly 10 years, making her the FIRST Black female judge in Franklin County history.  She would eventually serve six years as the Columbus, Ohio City Attorney, which made her the FIRST woman in Columbus to hold that position. It was also the FIRST for a Black person in Columbus.

Janet has a long list of community service and accomplishments. She spent 14 years as President and CEO of United Way of Central Ohio, which is one of the largest United Way organizations in the country. And in true history making fashion, Janet was the FIRST woman and the FIRST Black person to lead that organization too. 

Throughout her life, Janet has received numerous honors and awards including: Woman of Achievement Award from the YWCA of Columbus, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Humanitarian Award from the Columbus Education Association and Woman of the Year by the Niagara Foundation. She was inducted in the Ohio Women's Hall of Fame and the City of Columbus Hall of Fame.

Judge Janet Jackson is not slowing down. She continues to serve on various boards and commissions. And I'm sure we can look forward to many more FIRST to come.

Today's History Makers: Reverend Jesse Jackson

Black History IS American History, including stories of our own families. My husband, our daughters and I often talk about family history. Are you passing down stories about your family? It's good to share with our next generation so that history will never be lost. 

Today's History Makers: Reverend Jesse Jackson

My first job after graduating from college was working at CNN (Cable News Network) in Atlanta, Georgia. It was an amazing opportunity to learn from media professionals as I built my communication career. And another perk of working at CNN was meeting entertainers, politicians and the various movers and shakers. You never knew who would be entering the television studio. One day to my surprise, Reverend Jesse Jackson was being interviewed. When I had the opportunity to meet him you can see by the smile on my face how thrilled I was! Reverend Jackson was so respected as one of the Civil Rights Warriors. Following the assassination of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr in 1968, some had labeled Reverend Jackson as the next leader of the Movement. Although Reverend Jackson continued to support causes that were initiated by Rev. King, he also formed his own organization in 1971 called Operation P.U.S.H. - People United to Save Humanity. Throughout his life Reverend Jackson had a stellar career. He traveled the world speaking on behalf of the poor and disenfranchised, ran for President of the United States and even hosted Saturday Night Life. Today at at the age of 84, Reverend Jackson is still a respected figure encouraging the next generation of leaders.

You can find books about Reverend Jesse Jackson at your local library.

Next week I'll have another story on Today's History Makers.

Today's History Makers: Judge Greg Mathis

Happy Black History Month! Although February is identified as the official "Month" set aside to acknowledge Black History, I personally feel Black History is American History and should be celebrated everyday. Sometimes, when we hear the word History, our minds may think that means stories and people way back when; times of our grandparents and beyond. But that couldn't be further from the truth. Think how in 2013 when activists and friends Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors and Opal Tometi started #BlackLivesMatter and that movement began! History happens everyday. Throughout my life I have been blessed to meet amazing people.  During this month I will share stories to prove that the 21st century is full of history makers.

History Maker: Greg Mathis

Greg Mathis was born on April 5, 1960 in Detroit, Michigan. After his parents divorced, Greg was raised by his mom Alice Lee Mathis, in the drug and crime infested projects of Detroit. In his youth, Greg  unfortunately succumb to the streets, arrested several times, labeled as a juvenile delinquent. He did not graduate from high school. While incarcerated a judge offered him a second chance: get your GED or stay in Jail. We know which path he chose that turned his life around and made him the respected person he is today. He became the youngest judge in Michigan's history and the longest-running African American male television judge. 

While I was a freelance reporter, I was asked to interview Judge Greg Mathis. What a joy to meet him. I'll admit, I was awe struck, since I watched him daily on his reality court TV show, Judge Mathis. He was very kind and it was pleasure to get the opportunity to interview him.

You can find books about Judge Greg Mathis at your local library.

Next week I'll have another story on Today's History Makers.

Christmas Everyday - A Message for the New Year

As we put away the Christmas decorations and have that last slice of pumpkin pie, many of us are already missing that warm Christmas feeling of kindness and fellowship we enjoy during this time of the year. There really is something special in the air. But as we get ready for a new year, it doesn't mean we must end having Christmas. We can experience the joy of the season all through the year.

During the holiday, a friend sent a Christmas card with a beautiful message, with a little help from Hallmark cards, that shared the same sentiment. It said:

"Every time a hand reaches out to Help, that is Christmas. Every time a person chooses Peace, that is Christmas. Every time we forget our differences and remember the Love that connects us, that is Christmas."

In 2026, I pray you will be blessed with a spirit of Peace, Love and Joy. And I hope you'll find ways to celebrate Christmas all year long.

Music in the Air

Almost every year, I share a message about music. Most of us would agree that music is such an important part of the holidays.  But playing music doesn't just start for me during this season. It has always been a part of my life. 

Growing up, if you walked past our house, you would always hear records playing on the stereo or the latest hits coming from the radio. My parents would take me to concerts, I sang in choirs and even learned to play the flute. And those experiences formed my diverse taste for various types of music today. From Country to Rock & Roll. I love it all!

And when I hear Nat King Cole singing "The Christmas Song" on my car radio in December, it brings back fond memories from my childhood.  And throughout their lives, I've tried to duplicate the musical exposure I experienced for my daughters. They have heard the sounds of Mozart and danced to the beat of MJ.  And over the years, I've learned sharing music with our children isn't just a great tradition, but it also has big developmental benefits.

According to an article written by Kidsville Pedatrics, titled "The Impact of Music on your Child's Brain Development", finding ways to boost your child's cognitive skills, language development and enhancing their memory doesn't have to be complicated.  Here's a few suggestions:

1. Play Different Genres: Introduce various types of music to your       child

2. Sing Together: Songs like nursery rhymes, lullabies or pop songs        can be a fun way to bond

3. Introduce Instruments: Start out with simple instruments like a        tambourine or keyboard

4. Enroll in Music Classes: Look for free or cost effect classes at            your recreation center or local library.

5. Create a Musical Environment: Keep musical toys and play            music at home regularly. 

There is something for everyone to enjoy. Find your melody and add music to your family's life year-round.

No Bullies Allowed

 Many of us have experienced bullies back in grade school; chasing you on the playground; asking for your lunch money or spreading lies. However, have you ever dealt with adult bullies? They may be a jealous coworker, the loudest voice at the parent meeting or that lady at church who must always be right, or there will be problems. Unfortunately, just like a child, these adult bullies have that same childish and tormenting behavior as they try to tear down your confidence and your character. And it can be a challenge to use logical techniques to handle their negative behavior, especially when they are rude, aggressive and illogical. So, what can you do? If you don't know where to start, Author, Speaker and Coach, Sandra Crowe, MA, PCC has the following suggestions:

*Stand up for yourself. Let the bully know you don't like their behavior.

*Ignore them. When you don't give bullies attention, it lessens their power.

*When interaction with a bully becomes too intense, leave the space. Don't stay in an environment with a bully if you don't feel safe.

*If their behavior goes past verbal insults to physical touching, report the bully to someone in authority, even the police.

Dealing with bullies can unfortunately happen at any age. Find ways to stay sane, stay smart and stay safe.

September Season

September is here. Can you believe it? It seems like only yesterday when we were celebrating New Year's Eve entering into 2025. Now we are only 3 months away from celebrating 2026. For me, September is a month of new beginnings: Summer vacations, cookouts and pool parties are ending as we begin a new fall season; students and teachers begin a new school year, wondering what may lie ahead. And since September is the BEST month of the year, I'm blessed to begin a new year as I celebrate my Birthday! September can also be a time to begin new traditions. Who says we have to wait until December 31st to write our resolutions.

                            Here's a few suggestions to start your September Season

1. Clean Out Your Closet: If you have a piece of clothing that you keep holding onto that is too small, out of style, or you frankly have never liked it, this is the season to release it. Donate it to a thrift store or a homeless shelter so someone else will enjoy a perfect fit to their wardrobe. 

2. Volunteer In Your Community:  We see it on the news everyday; many community programs are losing funding. We complain, criticize and even cry, but what are we doing about it? Your contribution doesn't have to be a BIG thing, but maybe you can do something.  Give to a local a charity, volunteer at a food bank or read to a child at the local library. You may not change the world, but you will help someone in your part of the world. 

3. Make That Call: Who has been on your mind for a while? You hear a song that reminds you of them; drive by a restaurant where you once caught up on some girl time. This person was your buddy; your ride or die. Nothing really happened, but time. Now you can't remember the last time you spoke. Make that call today. It may be a hard talk, but you have put it off way too long. Tomorrow is not promised, so please promise yourself you will contact them before next month. It may be the best conversation you have ever had.

                                                                   Happy September!