Enjoy the Holidays

To all of my Faithful Followers, Thank You for taking the time out of your very busy schedules to read my monthly blog. Through the years I've written messages I feel deserve a second glance, and this is one of them. My family and friends know I love the Christmas season. My preparation gets earlier every year. This year, I started decorating on November 1st only because my family said October was too early; is it? Anyway, it may sound like a cliche, but there seems to be a different spirit in the air during the holidays. People are more kind and generous; families and friends get together. Special foods are shared. But sometimes when we try to plan the "perfect" events, we get too stressed to enjoy them.  As Thanksgiving, Christmas, Kwanzaa and New Year's Eve are quickly approaching, here are a few tips I've shared before, that may make your holidays more fun and less frantic.

Scale Back:  Unless you have a lot of household help, it can be difficult attempting the perfect Martha Stewart ambiance. I mean, who really needs a wreath made with fresh cranberries? Simple decorations can still be festive.

Simplify Gift Giving: Since my family is growing and our budgets are shrinking, we decided to draw names this year; literally picking names out of a hat. We've agreed spending more time together is better than spending more money.

Collaborate on Festivities:  Ask holiday guests to contribute to the party. Let them bring hors d'oeuvres or a dessert to your holiday event so you won't be responsible with all the cooking.

See the Holidays Through the Eyes of a Child: Most children want your presence instead of a present. Making memories like singing Christmas Carols as a family can bring more delight than a fancy toy. 

Give Yourself a Break: It may be difficult to find time for yourself, however, try. If you relax, your children, family and guests will be relaxed too.

Enjoy the Holidays!

Stormy Weather

"Expect the Unexpected" is a familiar phrase used to sell products, services and even promote TV shows. It's a way to invoke intrigue and mystery. Hearing those words may bring excitement when planning a weekend trip with your girlfriends, celebrating your birthday or trying a meal at the most popular restaurant in town. But who wants to hear "Expect the Unexpected" when you are starting a new romantic relationship, waiting for test results from your doctor, or wondering if you'll be hired for a job. The feeling of not knowing can loom large. I recently had an unexpected medical procedure that took me by surprise. However with prayer, a skilled physician and caring medical team, loving family and supportive friends, I was able to weather the storm and I continue to heal. 

Unfortunately everyone does not have a village to lean on when trouble comes. But that doesn't mean you just give up. There is always hope if you trust and believe. With the help of Living by Design, PaulTripp.com and Guideposts, here are a few tips that may help you when life takes you by surprise.

*Choose Faith Over Fear: Ground your mindset in the belief that divine love and goodness are stronger than anxiety.

*Practice Calm Obedience: Respond to sudden hurdles by focusing on steadfast, daily moral actions and follow foundational spiritual commands rather than panicking. 

*Engage in Good Works: Stay committed to positive, helpful actions and community support even when circumstances feel overwhelming. 

*Trust Completely: Surrender the need to control every outcome and lean on the assurance that a higher power is guiding you through the turbulence.

*Wait with Patience: Entrust the ultimate resolution to divine intervention, recognizing that difficult seasons can build long-term spiritual strength.

If you don't give up you can survive stormy weather.

Infant Mortality Awareness Month

September is National Infant Mortality Awareness Month. Infant mortality is defined as the death of a baby before their first birthday. I'll admit, that's not usually a topic discussed during your family reunion or when you're at brunch with your girlfriends. But maybe it should be. As an employee for a non-profit organization, The Mother's Cove, in Central Ohio, I work with young moms every day. Our primary goal is to keep moms and babies safe and healthy. Unfortunately, infant mortality is a health crisis and many communities across the country are struggling. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2024 sadly more than 200,000 infants died in the United States. And those statistics are even higher when it comes to Black babies, who die at more than two times the rate of non-Black babies. 

 The five leading causes of infant mortality are:

*Birth Defects
*Preterm Birth
*Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
*Unintended Injuries
*Maternal Pregnancy Complications

This article isn't meant to scare you or leave you without hope. Because we can turn these statistics around if we all join this infant mortality fight! Here's suggestions from the CDC on ways to help:

Before and During Pregnancy: Manage chronic health issues; Eat a healthy diet; Get early prenatal care.

Follow Safe Practices: Follow the ABCs of safe sleep for your baby - Alone, On their Back, In a Crib; Remove toys, soft bedding and pillows to prevent suffocation.

Avoid Harmful Substances: Stop smoking; Avoid alcohol, marijuana or illicit drugs during pregnancy.

Community and Public Health Action:  Support family planning and help women access contraception to plan pregnancies safely; Build local partnerships by encouraging community groups to work with health clinics and share safe-baby resources.

Get involved and work with organizations in your community so we can produce "Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies, Healthy Outcomes"!

Buy Black

August is a time when many prepare their children to get back to school. It's also a great time to plan one more family trip before the Fall. But August is also National Black Business Month! It's an awesome time to support Black businesses and services. Black Business Month was established in August of 2004 by engineer Frederick E. Jordan Sr. and historian John William Templeton to, of course, help Black businesses grow. But it's also a great time to discuss why many Black businesses struggle to receive bank loans and to identify ways to advocate for public policies to help their economic growth. 

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there are over 2.6 million Black-owned businesses in the United States. Finding ways to finance those Black-owned businesses shouldn't happen just in the month of August.  Here's a few ways to support Black entrepreneurs all year long:

*Shop: Be intentional when buying goods and services from Black companies. Check-out websites like The Black Wallet and WeBuyBlack.

 

*Share:  When you purchase from a Black-owned business, post on social media. Use #NationalBlackBusinessMonth to emphasize the item or event.

*Support: Invest in Black entrepreneurs through crowdfunding campaigns or by attending virtual or in-person events that celebrate them. 

*Stand up: Advocate for policy changes that promote equity and access to resources. Connect with local, state or national representatives to fight for changes.

Don't delay the chance to contribute to a Black-owned business. Who will you support today?

    

Triumph Over Trauma

Please see the latest edition of “Empowerment Magazine” attached . It is an awesome publication produced through First Church of God in Columbus Ohio. It includes great info, insights & an article I contributed. Enjoy

https://issuu.com/1stchurchempowerment/docs/empowerment_-_summer_2026

“The Fourth”

Many Americans will celebrate July 4th with parades, cookouts and of course fireworks. And since America will be turning 250 this year it will be very historic. However there are past events and current ones for that matter where our history has not been inclusive of all of our citizens. In July of 1852, Frederick Douglass delivered his famous address, "What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” at Corinthian Hall in Rochester, New York. He was invited by the members of the Rochester Ladies’ Anti-Slavery Society. Although Douglass’ original speech was more than an hour long, actor James Earl Jones read a portion of it on the TV broadcast of “Democracy Today” which aired on July 4, 2025. No matter your political views I hope you will listen to these words from our American history.

https://youtu.be/xX-AlsQcZgs?is=rAWPWN4NsU_8MM0d

Daddy Day

I love my Daddy so much! And although he passed away in 2009, I still carry his love in my heart. He was the most patient, most loving and most handsome man I ever knew. And as many people prepare to celebrate Father's Day this month, it doesn't mean I still won't find ways to honor my Father: Norris Allen Barton. I'm not naive to think everyone had a positive relationship with their Father. However, if you were blessed with a supportive Father or have a Father-figure who has been a friend and mentor, you can still find ways to honor him too.  Here are a few suggestions:

1) Honor Dad's Love of Sports: Take him to see a game in your hometown or honor his memory by gathering friends and family together to replicate one of his favorite pastimes.

2) Support Dad's Hobby:  If Dad enjoys painting, go to a painting class together. Take him fishing or hiking if he likes being outdoors. You can also honor Dad by planting a tree in his memory. There are various local and national non-profit organizations dedicated to reforestation.

3) Enjoy Dad's Favorite Foods: Take Dad to his favorite restaurant or attend a cooking class together. Honor Dad's memory by hosting a potluck with family and friends as everyone shares stories about their Father. 

Hope you have a Happy Father's Day celebrating the Dads in your life.

Another Motivating Message

It's so hard to believe I've been on this "Mommy Journey" for more than 20 years! Both of our daughters are now young adults, preparing for their future. They are completing college, looking for career opportunities and praying for which path to follow as they leave home to begin life on their own.  Although their hopes and dreams have changed over the years, I still stand by the following "Motivating Mommy Messages" I wrote many years ago to inspire myself and others. And I hope no matter where you are on your parenting journey, you will find these words are still relevant for you too!

1) Ask for Help:  You don't have to aspire to be a "Super Mom" to be a great parent. Reach out to others you can trust. Many Moms are not just managing their children, but they are also care givers to their elderly parents. Learn to ask for help from family members and friends so you can enjoy some well deserved me time.

2) Be Prepared:  Planning ahead can save time and money.  Get help as you plan your day-to-day schedule and your future.  If you have young children, prepare their school lunches the night before and set out their clothes. Get financial advice for your child's college plans and for your retirement. You may want to meet with experts or read reliable resources in the areas of physical health, organization and mental stability.

3) Complete your Tasks: When you start something, finish it. Keeping your promises will show others you can be trusted and it also shows you are reliable. Having a consistent track record can also make you a stand out candidate when it comes to promotions on your job and being recommended for leadership opportunities in your community.

4) Dress for Respect: It doesn't matter if your clothes are from the mall, a friends closet or the thrift store. Don't focus on the designer label. When you dress in a respectful way, you will gain respect from others. 

5) Encourage Someone: You never know who may need your support. Simple acts of kindness may make a big difference to a Mom who is having a tough day.  A smile, a positive word or a hug can make a Mom feel better. Give encouragement to another Mom and tell her she matters.

I hope these messages will uplift you as you travel your road through Motherhood.

Happy April

Welcome to April! A new month with new opportunities. Lots of great things happen in April:  April showers bring May flowers, we celebrate Easter, and for some of us, we can't wait to pull our annual prank on April Fool's Day.  Although these events may immediately come to mind, the month of April also includes other ways to celebrate, including: 

*Black Maternal Health Week (April 11-18): Many of us have heard the sad statistics: Black Moms in the United States are more than 2 times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than other mothers. This week was initiated by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance (BMMA) based in Atlanta. This year marks the organization's 10-year anniversary. The 2026 theme is "Rooted in Justice & Joy". Their campaign has launched awareness, policy changes and provided platforms to discuss education and activism. You can use this month to support organizations in your community with a similar mission or donate to national organizations like the March of Dimes or Queens Village.

*Stress Awareness Month: Since 1992, Stress Awareness Month has been observed in April. It's a nationwide campaign to educate people on the importance of stress management. Take the time to practice self-care through meditation, exercise or journaling. All of these can have positive effects on your mind, body and spirit. 

*National Jazz Appreciation Month: Jazz is an art form rooted in Black America. It grew out of the deep south at the turn of the 20th century. Use this month to introduce yourself to Jazz history, listening to some of the originators like John Coltrane and Ella Fitzgerald. Play the tunes of Grammy Award winning modern-day jazz vocalist Samara Joy. You can turn on the soundtrack of the Disney/Pixar movie Soul and enjoy the music written by composer and pianist Jon Batiste.

 

*Earth Day (April 22): Earth Day began on April 22, 1970. It started as a way to bring environmental issues into the national spotlight. And if we don't work to keep our planet healthy, who will? And even small steps can make a big difference.

1) Community Clean up: Organize or join a local cleanup event;             remove trash from a park, beach or your neighborhood;

2) Go Green with Transportation: If possible, instead of driving, ride     your bike or walk to your destination;

3) Conserve Energy and Water: Take shorter showers and turn off electronics to save energy.

Find your own special way to celebrate the month of April.

Women's History Month: Spotlight on Judge Yvette McGee Brown

Raised by a single mother on the Eastside of Columbus, Ohio, Yvette McGee Brown may not have been born with a silver spoon in her mouth. But as Proverbs 18:16 (NIV) says, "A gift opens the way and ushers the giver into the presence of the great."

I first met Yvette McGee Brown when she was the speaker at a luncheon sponsored by our sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She was so polite, professional and poised; just what you'd expect from a member of AKA. 

Ohio has some amazing Women. One of them is Justice Yvette McGee Brown. Throughout her life, she has celebrated many First experiences:

*She was a First-generation college graduate;

*She was elected the First African-American women to the Franklin County Common Pleas Court; and

*She was the First African-American woman to serve as a Justice on the Ohio Supreme Court.

Justice McGee Brown graduated from Ohio University with a degree in journalism/public relations. She would continue her education at The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law, where she earned her juris doctor. Justice McGee Brown also received honorary doctorate degrees from Ohio Dominican University, Wilberforce University and Central State University. 

Although Justice McGee Brown could have rested on her laurels, she chose a path of service. She has served as an active community and corporate leader, with the common theme of advocating for children and families. Justice McGee Brown served on the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, Ohio University, the OSU Wexner Medical Center and the National Council of the OSU Moritz College of Law. She is the former chair of the United Way of Central Ohio, The Ohio State University Alumni Association and the YWCA Columbus Board of Directors. Justice McGee Brown was inducted into the Ohio Women's Hall of Fame in 2008.

Yvette McGee Brown is married to Anthony Brown and at the time of this writing, they have three children and two grandchildren.

For more information on Justice Yvette McGee Brown, find books at your local library.

Women's History Month Spotlight: Marilyn McCoo

Many of us may remember Marilyn McCoo as the lead singer of the 5th Dimension, a popular singing group in the 1960's and 1970's. But her career began many years before that. I met Miss McCoo at a concert when I lived in Atlanta. It was such an awesome "sing-a-long" as the audience joined in to her big hits like, "Up,Up and Away", "Stoned Soul Picnic" and the song based on finding the love of her life, her husband Billy Davis Jr, entitled "Wedding Bell Blues".  She was phenomenal!

Marilyn McCoo was born on September 30, 1943 in Columbus, Georgia. At the age of 7, her family moved to Los Angeles. That's where Marilyn began to take dance, piano and vocal lessons and also modeling. By the time she was a teenager, she was already starting a professional career, making her debut on the Art Linkletter Talent Show. She would graduate from UCLA with a degree in business administration. In 1962, she entered the Miss Bronze California Beauty Pageant where she won Miss Grand Talent.

With her amazing gifts on display, Marilyn was asked to join various singing groups, which would eventually lead her to The Fifth Dimension. That's where she met her future husband, Billy Davis Jr. They were married in 1969.   The Fifth Dimension had much success, winning the Grammy for "Record of the Year" in 1969 for a melody of "Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In". "One Less Bell to Answer was another memorable hit.

Although Marilyn and Billy parted from The Fifth Dimension in  1975, they continued to win awards including the Grammy for Best R&B Duo for "You Don't Have to Be a Star (To Be in My Show)". They were also the first African American married couple to host a network television series, The Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis Jr. Show on CBS in summer of 1977. Through the years, they have performed around the world. Remember when they appeared on The Jamie Foxx Show as the parents of Jamie's love interest, Fancy? Marilyn even starred on Broadway in a production of Show Boat.

And despite now being in her 80's, Marilyn McCoo has not slowed down. She recently appeared in the remake of the Christmas special: The Waltons' Homecoming. 

For more information about Marilyn McCoo please find books at your local library.

Women's History Month: Spotlight on Susan L. Taylor

If you are a Black woman of a "certain age" and you lived through the 1980's, you remember the hair styles, the fashion and the monthly editorial in Essence Magazine. And what made those editorials so memorable were the words of it's Editor-in-Chief, Susan L. Taylor.  Although she had worked for Essence in various capacities prior to that appointment in 1981, that opportunity is where many felt she became the face, voice and vision of Essence. 

She was brilliant, beautiful and bold! I so admired Susan Taylor. I wanted to be Susan Taylor! Her monthly "In the Spirit" message brought the Black woman's narrative to life. She shared exactly what Black women were talking about: Empowerment and Dignity, Social Justice and Action, Black Love and Unity. And when you saw her on television, she would captivate the audience with her poise and her voice. She was and still is such a role model for women of any age.

When I had the opportunity to meet her, I was more than thrilled! Susan Taylor was so urbane and polished. She spoke as if we'd known each other for years. It was like talking to one of your girlfriends over lunch. Such a self-assured, confident woman. At that time she had just written her book "In the Spirit" and when I asked her for her autograph, she didn't hesitate. The book was so transparent. It showed that real life has real struggles, however if we hold on to our faith, we will make it to the other side! I still reference that book to this day when I'll looking for inspiration.

Susan L. Taylor was born in Harlem New York on January 23, 1946.  She is an author, journalist and writer. Susan served as the Editor-in-Chief of Essence Magazine from 1981-2000. American Libraries magazine has called her "The most influential Black woman in journalism today". Various organizations have honored her over the years including the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, New York Women in Communications and the American Society of Magazine Editors. Susan was the first African-American woman to receive the Magazine Publishers of America, Henry Johnson Fisher Award; considered one of the industry's highest honors. 

Although she has had some health battles along the way, even now at the age of 80, Susan continues to have influence. She is the Founder and CEO of the National CARES Mentoring Movement, established to recruit, train and deploy mentors for Black children; with a focus on breaking cycles of inter-generational poverty.

For more information about Susan L. Taylor, please get books at your local library.

Women's History Month: Spotlight on Coretta Scott King

When I attended college, worked and lived in Atlanta, Georgia, I was blessed to meet so many celebrities, political figures and activists . One person who left me totally in awe was Mrs. Coretta Scott King. Yes...THAT Coretta Scott King. 

When I worked at CNN (Cable News Network) in Atlanta, everyday there would be a well-known personality walking into the building. At that time, Mrs. King would come to CNN to record a weekly commentary related to a current event or a "hot topic" that had the public's interest. One week when Mrs. King arrived I was determined to meet her, but I was so nervous. This was the wife of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. She had marched along side him, survived their house being fire-bombed, kept her head held high as she was subjected to extreme violence and racist name calling. Unimaginable things that I don't think I could have handled with the style and grace she exhibited.  This was Civil Rights Royalty. On the day she arrived, I mustered up the courage, walked up to her and introduced myself. I wish I could remember exactly what I said, but I was so nervous I'm sure I sounded like a babbling idiot. Whatever I said, she was so friendly. So from that time on, when she came to CNN, after she would finish her recording, we would talk. We eventually become so comfortable chatting, she invited me to volunteer in her office at the King Center. I'd go every week and help, answer the phone or file some paperwork. Just being in her presence made me think "Wow! I know Mrs. Coretta Scott King and she knows me"! I learned so much being in her presence. After everything she had experienced, she was always thinking how she could help someone else. And despite her fame and notoriety, she was so welcoming and kind. So approachable and just a lovely person. 

And Mrs. King continued the work. She designed the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Non-Violent Social Change, that was dedicated in 1982, located in Atlanta. The King Center continues today as an international sight where history is shared about the past Civil Rights Movement with resources to encourage the next generation of leaders to continue the fight into the future. Mrs. King was also the reason Dr. King has a federal holiday; first observed in 1986. She could have had a musical career, because she had a beautiful voice. She earned a scholarship to the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston. However, she chose a life as an amazing wife, mother and leader, and continued to keep the dream alive and inspire others to achieve their dreams. Coretta Scott King was also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. I loved Mrs. King. She was beautiful and brilliant. Mrs King became a mentor and a friend and I miss her very much. 

For more information on Coretta Scott King, find books at your local library.

Today's History Makers: U.S. Representative Walter Fauntroy

As we've shared Black History Makers this February, here's a review about how Black History Month began.

Before there was the Black History Month we celebrate today, there was Negro History Week, created in 1926 by historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History. Although I've heard various beliefs of why February was selected, the truth is it was because it coincided with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln on February 12 and that of Frederick Douglas on February 14.  Black History Month started in 1970 and is now recognized in the United States, Canada, Ireland and the United Kingdom.

This Week's History Maker: U.S. Representative Walter Edward Fauntroy, Jr.

Walter Edward Fauntroy, Jr. was born in Washington, D.C. on February 6, 1933. He is a Pastor, Civil Rights Activist and Politician.  Fauntroy's political aspirations were realized in his home town as he was the Washington, D.C. delegate to the United States House of Representatives from 1971 - 1991. Fauntroy was also a candidate for the 1972 and 1976 Democratic presidential nominations as the favorite son.  He is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity. He graduated with honors from Virginia Union University in 1955 and earned a B.Div. from Yale Divinity School in 1958. Fauntroy was friends with Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and was an active member of the S.C.L.C. (Southern Christian Leadership Conference). Fauntroy also helped coordinate the 1963 March on Washington. Today at the age of 93, Walter Edward Fauntroy, Jr. is the last remaining survivor of the 13 co-founders of the Congressional Black Caucus.

For more information on Walter Edward Fauntroy, Jr. find books at your local library.

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.