To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven. (Ecclesiastes 3:1 KJV)
GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS
AMAZING GRACE — A native of Baltimore, Debrayta Salley is the mastermind behind the spiritually-empowering book entitled, “Grace FULL Seasons Anthology: Stories of Triumph, Victory And God’s Faithfulness Through the Seasons of Life.”
Because of whom she is and because of where God is taking her, Debrayta Salley didn’t just write the vision down and make it plain on the figurative tablet of her heart.
More than anything, she has diligently taken the vision and run with it.
“God gave me a glimpse of the vision for an anthology in 2012,” Salley, during a recent interview with Making Headline News, said, recalling the memorable developments that contributed mightily to her latest authorship milestone.
Much to her delight, Salley’s awe-inspiring vision — or her God-mandated topic, per se — didn’t come full circle until sometime in 2018.
A native of Baltimore, Salley is the mastermind behind the spiritually-empowering book entitled, “Grace FULL Seasons Anthology: Stories of Triumph, Victory And God’s Faithfulness Through the Seasons of Life.”
A MUST READ — A written work that is comprised of 100 pages in length, Salley’s “Grace FULL Seasons Anthology: Stories of Triumph, Victory And God’s Faithfulness Through the Seasons of Life” appropriately issues a pivotal remind to God’s people.
A book that is comprised of six brilliantly gifted authors, Salley’s Christian-based book is roughly a month removed from its much-anticipated release date, a feat that is a true testament of her immeasurable contributions to the Body of Christ.
“The main reason that I brought these ladies together for this writing project was to provide an outlet for them to tell their stories for their personal satisfaction and, most of all, for God’s glory,” said Salley, explaining what was the single, most underlying reason she chose to produce her latest book.
A written work that is comprised of 100 pages in length, Salley’s “Grace FULL Seasons Anthology: Stories of Triumph, Victory And God’s Faithfulness Through the Seasons of Life” appropriately issues a pivotal reminder to God’s people.
KINGDOM CONNECTED
That is, “In everything, there is a season,” said a spokesperson for Salley’s latest project at Amazon.com. “Whether your current place in life is indicative of the winter, spring, summer or fall seasons, never forget that God walks with us through them all.
“He will never leave you nor forsake you,” Salley writes, steadily reinforcing God’s splendor to His people through her newest book. “He will also extend to you a priceless gift: a measure of grace to sustain and strengthen you through it all.”
Salley’s “Grace FULL Seasons Anthology: Stories of Triumph, Victory And God’s Faithfulness Through the Seasons of Life” is her seventh book dating back to 2010, including four she composed in consecutive years from 2015 to 2018.
“Our decisions and connections must always be God-led, inspired and divinely aligned and never motivated by the quest for recognition or acceptance.”— Author Debrayta Salley
“After writing my memoir in 2012 (Back To The Scene Of The Crime: Breaking Unfruitful Patterns By Bringing Hidden Things To Light), I became aware of just how powerful it is to tell your story in your own words and on your own terms,” said Salley, an accomplished Biblical Life Coach, Inspirational Speaker, and Wellness Advocate. “Not only does it promote a sense of healing, renewal, and freedom for the writer, but it becomes medicine for someone else that may be encountering a similar situation.”
A book that is comprised of six brilliantly gifted authors, Salley’s Christian-based book is roughly a month removed from its much-anticipated release date, a feat that is a true testament of her immeasurable contributions to the Body of Christ.
As for her latest written work, Salley began assembling her chapter sometime in 2018, then subsequently compiled a team of authors in July 2019, a trend that has given way to a rather intriguing work of art.
“This book is related to my God-given purpose, because it provides a safe space for women to step out of their comfort zones, out of fear, and any shame they may have been holding onto about certain seasons of their journeys,” Salley explained. “(I’m committed to) supporting them in embracing the uniqueness of their stories.”
Salley said other books are surely forthcoming, much sooner than later.
Salley’s “Grace FULL Seasons Anthology: Stories of Triumph, Victory And God’s Faithfulness Through the Seasons of Life” is her seventh book dating back to 2010, including four she composed in consecutive years from 2015 to 2018.
“I have a few book projects that God has downloaded in my spirit, but I haven’t begun to assemble them yet,” Salley said. “Stay tuned. I’m certain that there are many speaking engagements in my future. However, in this current season, my primary focus is on rebuilding my life mentally, physically, and spiritually…shoring up my foundation so-to-speak, so that it’s secure enough to withstand all that’s to come. I’m expecting great things.”
Amongst the biggest reasons, by all accounts, is that more than anything, she has diligently taken the vision and run with it.
With God, her Helper, steering the way.
GOD’S LEADING LADY
“This book is related to my God-given purpose, because it provides a safe space for women to step out of their comfort zones, out of fear, and any shame they may have been holding onto about certain seasons of their journeys,” Salley explained. “(I’m committed to) supporting them in embracing the uniqueness of their stories.”
For more information about Randallstown, Maryland-based Author/Businesswoman Debrayta Salley, to inquire about her books, a public appearance, speaking engagement or book signing, connect with her via social media platforms under: @deelifmntrcoach. Also, send email to: info@deelifmentor.com.
CONNECT WITH THIS AWARD-WINNING JOURNALIST FOR MEDIA EXPOSURE
EDITOR’S NOTE: If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.
Andre Johnson is the award-winning Founder and Publisher for Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and a former staff reporter of sports for the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, send email to makingheadlinenews@gmail.com or to memphisgraduate@yahoo.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.
Then the LORD answered me and said, “Record the vision And inscribe it on tablets, That the one who reads it may run. (Habakkuk 2:2 NASB)
GOD’S VISIONARY
RAY OF SUNSHINE — Widely known as a woman who’s armed with an immeasurable, progressive vision, Tortica Anderson is the proud founder and CEO of A Family Affair Event Management LLC, an awe-inspiring endeavor that has given way to her having possessed more than 18 years in her chosen profession.
In case you don’t know her, Tortica Anderson would like to introduce herself.
Widely known as a woman who’s armed with an immeasurable, progressive vision, Anderson is the proud founder and CEO of A Family Affair Event Management LLC, an awe-inspiring endeavor that has given way to her having possessed more than 18 years in her chosen profession.
A native of Triangle, Virginia — a small town near Quantico Marine Base — Anderson’s A Family Affair Event Management offers a vast array of services, most notably event planning and production, team building and event management.
Also known as a community outreach advocate, co-author, an aspiring motivational speaker, and philanthropist, Anderson has established a rather impressive track record in her featured profession, one that includes putting on bridal and fashion shows, fundraisers, conferences, galas, trade shows, networking events, as well as corporate and community outreach events — most notably, Warner Theatre, Hyatt Regency, Hyatt Place, Hilton Mark Center, Morias Vineyard, Rosemont Manor, Greenock Manor, Effingham Manor Winery, and The Richmond Amtrak Station.
For Anderson, who currently resides in Stafford, Virginia, her rise to entrepreneurship success emerged amid humble beginnings.
“I lost my father in 1999,” Anderson told Making Headline News during a recent interview. “After his health had declined over the years, at that time, I thought that was the worst thing I had ever experienced. Little did I know, (I had no idea) what I was in store for (for me).”
Fast forward to 2005, Anderson had given birth to her daughter, Amiyah Shakyra.
During her pregnancy, in fact, Anderson had endured her share of difficulties, including complications from diabetes, all while savoring what she described as a thriving career while closing in on the age of 40.
A little more than a decade removed from its inception, it is due in large to Anderson’s wealth of experience in her selected line of work that, in turn, has fueled her desire to press and navigate toward her destiny — with God, her Helper, steering the way.
“I carried my angel full term, but unfortunately, she was born stillborn,” said Anderson, recalling what unfolded on November 8, 2005. “My life, as I knew it changed that day.”
A year or so later, Anderson had given birth to another daughter, T’kiyah Serenity, whom she describes as a “smart, witty and compassionate little girl.”
“She is the calm to my storm and my renewed faith,” Anderson said her youngest daughter’s presence.
Anderson is the mother of, T’kiyah, 12, Reynaldo, 29, and the late Amiyah, all of whom she describes as “my biggest fans, considering they motivate me to continue to pursue my passion & happiness.”
Speaking of renewed faith, Anderson’s rise to becoming a successful businesswoman was essentially discovered some 18 years ago when a family friend offered her the opportunity to plan her “all-inclusive” wedding.
WALKING IN HER DESTINY
“The wedding was a success and exceeded their expectations,” Anderson recalled. “Within no time, what started as a hobby shortly became her vision.”
And the rest, as they say, was history.
Much to her credit, Anderson’s A Family Affair Event Management has evolved mightily in recent years and, to the delight of her clients, it has become a continuous success.
Interestingly, since Anderson’s business has gone into full operations, this Virginia-born entrepreneur has been afforded the luxury of serving as a lead coordinator for weddings, holiday parties, and a number of special events, especially when she wasn’t working her Corporate America gig.
LEAST SHE FORGET — Speaking of renewed faith, Anderson’s rise to becoming a successful businesswoman was essentially discovered some 18 years ago when a family friend offered her the opportunity to plan her “all-inclusive” wedding.
In fact, it seemed that Anderson’s unexpected layoff from her job had ultimately become a blessing in disguise.
“I had grief from losing my dad and other close family members…the lost of Amiyah, a failed marriage due to grief, lack of communication and the lay off in 2010 during which at the time, my mother’s health declined and I became her primary care giver just months before the layoff,” Anderson said. “The layoff caused a financial burden, but I had to heal and rebuild. My mother was my priority and I still care for her today. Unwanted advances by two different clients promising award-winning opportunities made me revert into a shell, questioning myself and my abilities.”
But God…
“What seemed like bad timing was inevitably God’s timing as it had afforded me the opportunity to focus on cultivating AFA,” Anderson says with a victorious smile.
A little more than a decade removed from its inception, it is due in large to Anderson’s wealth of experience in her selected line of work that, in turn, has fueled her desire to press and navigate toward her destiny — with God, her Helper, steering the way.
Also known as a community outreach advocate, co-author, an aspiring motivational speaker, and philanthropist, Anderson has established a rather impressive track record in her featured profession, one that includes putting on bridal and fashion shows, fundraisers, conferences, galas, trade shows, networking events, as well as corporate and community outreach events.
“I formed A Family Affair Event Management LLC later that year, but getting into the industry was a struggle for me, but I was committed to being successful and happy,” Anderson said.
More than anything, achieving a sense of happiness, coupled with a renewed sense of faith was absolutely essential, particularly during Anderson’s fervent quest to garner entrepreneurship success.
Thank God she doesn’t mere look like what she’s been through.
“Before my father died in 1999, my brother, dad, and myself had plans to open a towing business. His health deteriorated quickly and he passed in August. My brother and I have an unbreakable bond, and the love for our father, so even though we were grieving, we were determined to continue our father’s legacy and opened the business in December of that year, as well as I had a commercial office cleaning business. Our bloodline is strong and our father taught us respect, loyalty to our family, diligence, morals, values, perseverance and honor. Entrepreneurship didn’t really start with the event planning. It was years before in 1998.” — Entrepreneur Tortica Anderson
“I was rebuilding, learning, healing and contemplating my next move to build my empire and a legacy for my children,” Anderson said. “I was committed to proving that I deserved a place in the industry.”
“When I look back on all of my responsibilities — physically and financially — I don’t know how I’ve made it this far,” Anderson continued. “I know God has a purpose for me. My journey hasn’t been the easiest, but my faith and trust in God brought me through it. Finding balance within my responsibilities was a challenge…no time for myself, self care was minimal, mind was cluttered and as I continued to pray for strength and clarity, God brought be out of the clouds and into the light.
“Having an authentic heart can be mistaken for a weakness, so you always have to work twice as hard to prove yourself among your peers, colleagues and in the industry. I finally value myself and demand others to do so as well, but it took years to honestly feel this way. I am still learning, but I have accepted the challenge. There is a standard by which AFA operates, which took years to develop.”
So far, so good for Anderson, one of the event planning industry’s best kept secrets.
More than anything, achieving a sense of happiness, coupled with a renewed sense of faith was absolutely essential, particularly during Anderson’s fervent quest to garner entrepreneurship success.
CONNECT WITH THIS AWARD-WINNING JOURNALIST FOR MEDIA EXPOSURE
EDITOR’S NOTE:If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.
Andre Johnson is the award-winning Founder and Publisher for Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and a former staff reporter of sports for the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, send email to makingheadlinenews@gmail.com or to memphisgraduate@yahoo.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.
Then the LORD answered me and said: “Write the vision And make it plain on tablets, That he may run who reads it.(Habakkuk 2:2 NKJV)
RAYE OF VIRGINIA SUNSHINE
SHE GOT THE RIGHT — Armed with more than 14 years of professional experience in her selected industry, Raye Elliott’s Right Array LLC specializes in entrepreneurship development, entity formations and compliance, minority certification preparation, government contracting preparation, as well as small business credit composition.
When Raye Elliott relocated back home, she essentially wasn’t the same person.
To her distinctly unique credit, in fact, she was armed with a remarkably compelling vision, one that would alter the overall landscape of her life.
“Well, I’ve always exuded confidence, been laser focused, concise and up for a challenge,” Elliott, during an interview this week with Making Headline News said, explaining the awe-inspiring developments that gave way to her becoming a progressive businesswoman.
Interestingly, when Elliott returned to her native establishment of Buckingham, Virginia, she wasted little time making her presence felt as an apparent newcomer to the world of entrepreneurship.
A company that accommodates individuals starting as early as 13 years of age and up, Right Array LLC is widely regarded as a development of an incubator program, particularly for youths in the state of Virginia. This program, Elliott acknowledged, is currently on the list of goals to achieve within the next 24 months.
“So when I recently made the decision to relocate back to my hometown, I quickly began to become aware of the high incarceration rate, how far behind the times the county and specific groups still are, the lack of entrepreneurship within the minority community, lack of community facilities such as daycares, recreational venues, access to information, little to no STEM/agricultural programs with minimal minority participation — if any — and the fact that the entire county is coded by the federal government as a HubZone,” Elliott explained.
“This is significant as it identifies Buckingham County as a historically underutilized business zone and economically disadvantaged area due to several factors such as a rural area or lack of or absence of broadband access,” Elliott continued. “With that information alone, I knew I needed to give back.”
Indeed she has, in large part considering Elliott’s quest to establish Right Array LLC, her Buckingham-based business consulting agency, had come full circle.
BROTHERLY LOVE — Elliott’s oldest brother, Augustus Harper, played arguably the biggest role — “whether he knows it or not,” she said — in her having maximized her fullest potential through entrepreneurship.
Armed with more than 14 years of professional experience in her selected industry, Right Array LLC specializes in entrepreneurship development, entity formations and compliance, minority certification preparation, government contracting preparation, as well as small business credit composition.
Since the startup of her credible endeavor, Elliott has had an immeasurable influential impact as a vibrant, resourceful businesswoman.
“I wanted to give back,” Elliott said. “I could give back and I definitely was going to pay it forward. To me, that meant coming full circle, beginning where my life all started…Buckingham County, Virginia, which is where I’m from, and I had the blueprint to lay the foundation and complete the implementation.”
A company that accommodates individuals starting as early as 13 years of age and up, Right Array LLC is widely regarded as a development of an incubator program, particularly for youths in the state of Virginia. This program, Elliott acknowledged, is currently on the list of goals to achieve within the next 24 months.
“Although I haven’t been blessed with my own kids yet, I realize that is so very important for the youth to understand the role they have today, tomorrow, and in society as a whole,” Elliott said. “The youths have a duty to themselves — their communities. And those are the ones that will determine what our economic systems resemble.”
As Elliott explained, paying special attention to minority startups and established businesses have become strategic focal points for her business.
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER — A military veteran, Elliott is a graduate of Buckingham County High School. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Information Technology from Herzing College and an MBA from the University of Phoenix (Dumwoody, Georgia campus). She also earned an MBA in Project Management from Keller Graduate School of Management.
“This business and its services targeted groups are those hungry for entrepreneurship, entity compliance, support and freedom,” Elliott said. “It’s also for those that are seeking assistance as a start-up or well established entity, but want to indulge in competing for government contracts, becoming minority certified to gain earmarked, and appropriated access to specific set-aside contracts, and especially those ready to start-up a new business and or expand using OPM — other people’s money — to elevate their business via building no personal guarantee and no personal credit check true business credit.”
A military veteran, Elliott is a graduate of Buckingham County High School. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Information Technology from Herzing College and an MBA from the University of Phoenix (Dumwoody, Georgia campus). She also earned an MBA in Project Management from Keller Graduate School of Management.
IN HER OWN ZONE — Interestingly, when Elliott returned to her native establishment of Buckingham, Virginia, she wasted little time making her presence felt as an apparent newcomer to the world of entrepreneurship.
As Elliott explained, her wealth of experience as a Senior Contracting Official with the Georgia Department of Defense and as a former government contractor is what fueled her desire to establish her current venture.
“I knew the importance of entrepreneurship first hand and the inside and outside of the minority government contracting world like the back of my hand,” Elliott said. “My life’s journey has been one of many ups and downs, to include active duty military service, a great civilian service career, a highly publicized fall from grace, followed by federal incarceration to my journey from prison to prosperity! Not to mention my oldest brother”
MASSIVE DESTINY STEPS
Since the startup of her credible endeavor, Elliott has had an immeasurable influential impact as a vibrant, resourceful businesswoman.
Elliott’s oldest brother, Augustus Harper, has played arguably the biggest role — “whether he knows it or not,” she said — in her having maximized her fullest potential through entrepreneurship.
“I’ve been doing business formations and consulting work for many, many years,” said Elliott, “but not as a complete entity per se, where I’m heavily marketed this.”
All the while having an immeasurable impact ever since she returned to the native roots.
Welcome home.
For more information on Buckingham, Virginia-area Businesswoman Raye Elliott of Right Array LLC, to schedule her for a public appearance or speaking engagement, call (470) 869-1820 (office)(404) 277-8281 (mobile), or connect with her via social media at: www.facebook.com/rightarrayllc. Email her at: info@rightarrayllc.com.
CONNECT WITH THIS AWARD-WINNING JOURNALIST FOR MEDIA EXPOSURE
EDITOR’S NOTE:If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.
Andre Johnson is the award-winning Founder and Publisher for Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and a former staff reporter of sports for the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, send email to makingheadlinenews@gmail.com or to memphisgraduate@yahoo.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.
If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small. (Proverbs 24:10 KJV)
PURPOSED FOR PAIN
GOD’S LEADING LADY — Lady Lawan D. Ferguson, an Upper Marlboro, Maryland-based author, recently unleashed an assortment of spiritually-empowering testimonies, an awe-inspiring trend that came wrapped up in a book entitled, “Overcoming Adversity: Pushing Past the Pain.”
Come hell or high water, say this about Lady Lawan D. Ferguson:
She’s undoubtedly going to find the strength to tell of God’s goodness and mercies, courtesy of a few life-changing testimonies.
Just recently, in fact, this Upper Marlboro, Maryland-based author steadfastly unleashed an assortment of spiritually-empowering testimonies, an awe-inspiring trend that came wrapped up in a book entitled, “Overcoming Adversity: Pushing Past the Pain.”
A book that made its ceremoniously launch in May 2019, but was released approximately a month later, Ferguson’s “Overcoming Adversity: Pushing Past the Pain” singles out the dreaded adversary, during which this writer says customarily unfolds in our lives to keep us paralyzed and from reaching our fullest potential in God, as mentioned in a detailed introduction of this book at Amazon.com.
“We feel trapped and oftentimes not able to find a way of escape,” said a spokesperson for Ferguson’s ‘Overcoming Adversity: Pushing Past the Pain.’ “Through the roughest of trials and tribulations, we forget that we serve a mighty God who can do all things but fail. ‘Overcoming Adversity: Pushing Past The Pain’ is a book of personal testimonies that will enlighten, inspire, encourage, teach and motivate you to push beyond those difficult times and to trust God when in the midst of it all.”
A 145-page book that Ferguson began assembling two years ago, her latest written work initially was comprised of a dozen authors, a few of whom fell off from the project amid what the featured writer describes as a flurry of “setbacks, restructures, and reorganizations.”
Consequently, that gave way to a brief delay until “God was able to cut out the riffraff,” Ferguson said, thus reconstruct a group with what she dubs a “chosen generation of eight amazing co-authors.”
A book signing for Ferguson’s latest book is scheduled for August 24 at the Holiday Inn Reagan National Airport, located at 2650 Richmond Highway in nearby Arlington, Virginia.
SAVE THE DATE
After forming a strategic team of authors, Ferguson had managed to spearhead and move forward with a spiritually-empowering book that figures to become a fixture in the Body of Christ — much sooner than later.
“This book is to encourage, inspire, motivate, and aid others to trust God in all they do,” Ferguson told Making Headline News this week. “God has called me to be a light in a world of darkness and to have compassion for people and deep passion for (Him). God has called me to be an ambassador for the kingdom, to minister the word of God and to aid others in reaching their fullest potential in a purposed-filled life.”
A book that’s a little more than a month removed from its release, the feedback for Ferguson’s “Overcoming Adversity: Pushing Past The Pain” has been mostly favorable, she said.
“(The) testimonials of the readers are very positive,” Ferguson said. “People are being healed, set free, and delivered as a result of reading these awesome and Holy Ghost-inspired testimonies.”
A native of Washington, D.C., Ferguson is an accomplished licensed minister and an ordained deaconess, who serves as a trustee at Christ Creative Baptist Church (or CCBC) in nearby Temple Hills, Maryland.
As for her notable authorship tenure, she’s made valiant contributions to other collaborative and bestselling projects: “Perfectly Imperfect: Seeing Yourself Through The Eyes Of God” (released in July 2016); “I Survived: Written By Survivors for Survivors” (released on April 5, 2019).
She founded and established leadership to the CCBC Women’s ministry, “Sisters Aiding In Transforming Sisters” (or S.A.IN.T.S.), which strategically focuses on and aids in cultivating, redesigning, transforming, encouraging, motivating, uplifting, and empowering women in their individual and spiritual lives.
Widely known throughout the Body of Christ as Lady Ferguson, this devout woman of faith is married to the Reverend Dr. George St. Anthony Ferguson, who is the Founder and Senior Pastor of CCBC.
A 145-page book that Ferguson began assembling two years ago, her latest written work initially was comprised of a dozen authors, a few of whom fell off from the project amid what the featured writer describes as a flurry of “setbacks, restructures, and reorganizations,” which consequently, gave way to a brief delay until “God was able to cut out the riffraff,” Ferguson said, thus reconstruct group with what she dubs a “chosen generation of eight amazing co-authors.”
Her educational resume includes having earned an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Business Management, a Bachelor of Arts in Religion and Theological Studies, a Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in Acquisitions, and a Master’s certificate in Government Contracts.
Interestingly, Lady Ferguson has served over 28 years in federal government and is presently a licensed coach, as well as a financial aid and college mentoring coach.
Widely known throughout the Body of Christ as Lady Ferguson, this devout woman of faith is married to the Reverend Dr. George St. Anthony Ferguson, who is the Founder and Senior Pastor of CCBC.
As for her notable authorship tenure, she’s made valiant contributions to other collaborative and bestselling projects: “Perfectly Imperfect: Seeing Yourself Through The Eyes Of God” (released in July 2016); “I Survived: Written By Survivors for Survivors” (released on April 5, 2019).
As for her latest book, Ferguson is especially grateful of the notion that it is as good as advertised.
“(I just want? to help someone get through a rough time in life by sharing encouraging testimonies of triumph over adversity,” she said.
Well said by this, a true overcomer in Christ.
For more information on Upper Marlboro, Maryland-based Author Lady Lawan D. Ferguson, to order her books, or schedule her for a book signing or speaking engagement, connect with her via social media at: https://www.facebook.com/lawan.ferguson. Email her at: Ladylawanferguson@gmail.com.
CONNECT WITH THIS AWARD-WINNING JOURNALIST FOR MEDIA EXPOSURE
EDITOR’S NOTE:If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.
Andre Johnson is the award-winning Founder and Publisher for Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and a former staff reporter of sports for the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, send email to andre@makingheadlinenews.com or to memphisgraduate@yahoo.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. (Jeremiah 29:11 KJV)
PURPOSED FOR PAYNE
WELL CONNECTED — For Maryland author Juanita Payne, all it took was a divine connection with one of her social media followers that impressed it upon God’s heart to position her to reap a supernatural blessing for such a time as now, a time that had ultimately given way to her putting her immeasurable spiritual gift on display for the entire world to see. Payne is one of 52 authors to contribute to the bestselling winning book entitled, “Soulful Prayers: The Power of Intentional Communication With God.”
DALLAS — God’s thoughts toward Juanita Payne undoubtedly are of peace.
Amongst the biggest reasons is that Payne is steadfastly armed with a solid, resilient bend-but-don’t-break prayer life.
“As a woman of God, I have always ministered to people willingly and in every place that I go,” Payne told Making Headline News this week. “It’s always comes natural to learn from, and to use my life experiences as a way to help empower people that I encounter on a daily basis. With being blessed with the opportunity, I’ve set out to continuing my ministry through the book project.”
The book project to which Payne is alluding is the globally-acclaimed, bestselling winning written work entitled, “Soulful Prayers: The Power of Intentional Communication With God.”
A book that was officially launched during a nationally-acclaimed ceremony here last weekend, “Soulful Prayers: The Power of Intentional Communication With God” is forwarded by award-winning and bestselling author/businesswoman Cheryl Polote-Williamson.
A book that was officially launched during a nationally-acclaimed ceremony here last weekend, “Soulful Prayers: The Power of Intentional Communication With God” is forwarded by award-winning and bestselling author/businesswoman Cheryl Polote-Williamson.
For Payne, all it took was a divine connection with one of her social media followers that impressed it upon God’s heart to position her to reap a supernatural blessing for such a time as now, a time that had ultimately given way to her putting her immeasurable spiritual gift on display for the entire world to see.
“I corresponded with a mutual friend and we came to the conclusion that the progression of my spiritual journey included the Soul Movement, and that this was something ordained from God,” Payne said. “I felt that was imperative that we both take part in the continuation of the project.”
And so it came to pass, the God-ordained contributions by Payne, one of 52 Soulful Prayers contributors, who wasted little time obeying the Voice of her Creator only to emerge as the beneficiary of a much-anticipated harvest.
So much for the slew of unfavorable situations and circumstances Payne has endured during this thing called life.
FOR STARTERS — Prior to joining forces with Soulful Prayers authors, Payne co-authored “Beyond Her Reflection,” a book that was officially completed around this time last year and a project that led to this writer being nominated for an IALA award for bestselling co-author.
What matters at this point, quite frankly, is that this devout woman of faith was destined to outlast and conquer virtually every obstacle that emerged in her life to challenge her faith, a trend that has greatly enabled her to live on the larger side of God as a result.
“As a single mother, one of my biggest challenges I faced was overcoming some of the long-term damage that was done in my family,” Payne recalled. “In Soulful Prayers, my divine message is a request of protection and safety for our children, especially our daughters.
“In noticing similar damage in other families, I feel that it is important to tell the world that we shouldn’t feel ashamed to come to God, as He is always available for us and ready to help,” Payne, a native of Queens, New York, continued. “Our daughters encounter both seen and unseen forces that they may not understand or be ready to deal with, and my prayer covers the topics of spiritual warfare, renewal of the mind, and the gift of favor from God.”
Prior to joining forces with the Soulful Prayers authors, Payne co-authored “Beyond Her Reflection,” a book that was officially completed around this time last year, a project that led to this writer being nominated for an IALA award for bestselling co-author.
And so it came to pass, the God-ordained contributions by Payne, one of 52 Soulful Prayers contributors, who wasted little time obeying the Voice of her Creator only to emerge as the beneficiary of a much-anticipated harvest.
“My contribution to this book covered what I had learned growing up in New York and how dealing with my mother’s addiction helped me along my spiritual walk with God,” Payne, who resides in Waldolf, Maryland, explained.
As for the immediate feedback she’s garnered since the release of Soulful Prayers, Payne describes it as nothing short of “amazing.”
“The general reception and the feedback I’ve received have nothing but amazing,” Payne said. “When I shared the story behind my book with a coworker, I felt an immediate sense of conviction from him. After thanking me, he told me that as a father to six daughters, he always felt the call to strengthen his prayer life for them. I’m so grateful, because in using my story with the guidance of wisdom of God, I’m able to help create powerful moments and improve other people’s prayer life.”
IN HER OWN WORDS — “As a woman of God, I have always ministered to people willingly and in every place that I go,” Payne told Making Headline News this week. “It’s always comes natural to learn from, and to use my life experiences as a way to help empower people that I encounter on a daily basis. With being blessed with the opportunity, I’ve set out to continuing my ministry through the book project.”
Which, all things considered, is synonymous to the purpose for which God has created her, Payne acknowledged.
“As a woman, I know that I always have to be a strong figure not only for myself, but for my children,” said Payne, announcing that she is almost certain she will take part in Polote-Williamson’s ‘Soulful Prayers 2.’ “In addition, my own mother was a dedicated prayer warrior and set an amazing example for me. In my continual walk with God and witnessing what my mother did for me, it led me to intercessory prayer. It’s an honor to be able to further extend my calling into other mediums, as the possibilities are limitless.
“My journey has also led me to study health and nutrition in-depth, as I wanted to fully understand how we can better our day to day lifestyles as Christians and how we can strengthen both our physical and spiritual connection to God,” Payne continued. “In 2017, I graduated from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition and became a certified health coach. My research has lead me to commit to my own book project set to release within the next two years.”
Now we know why God’s thoughts toward His beloved child undoubtedly are of peace.
For more information on Waldolf, Maryland-area Author Juanita Payne, to order her book, or schedule her for a book signing or speaking engagement, connect with her via social media at: https://www.facebook.com/juanita.payne.543. To order to her book, send payments to: PayPal.me/JPayne623. Also, send email to: chose2bchosn@gmail.com.
CONNECT WITH THIS AWARD-WINNING JOURNALIST FOR MEDIA EXPOSURE
EDITOR’S NOTE:If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.
Andre Johnson is the award-winning Founder and Publisher for Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and a former staff reporter of sports for the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, send email to makingheadlinenews@gmail.com or to memphisgraduate@yahoo.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.
Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.(Ephesians 3:20 KJV)
CASH FLOW SOLUTION
GOD’S PLAN — A credible business that accommodates different age groups — most notably individuals ranging in the age bracket of 45-and-up — Dee Bowden’s BCS Solutions emerged amid her tenure for Amherst Technologies Merrimack New Hampshire, a small IT company, during which she worked as a part-time collections clerk.
For Dee Bowden, 2016 essentially proved to be a defining moment, of sorts, in her tenure as a rising businesswoman.
That was, in fact, the year during which Bowden, an accomplished revenue recovery consultant, was recognized by the United States Coast Guard Headquarters for having recovered $7.5 million in a span of just one year.
For what it’s worth, such a feat, by all accounts, is what has fueled Bowden’s fervent desire to establish BCS Solutions, her Frederick, Maryland-based company that’s centered largely recovering what Bowden refers to as “old and owed” money.
“I enjoy speaking about the subject of cash flow and its impact on one’s business, positively or negatively,” Bowden, 57 told Making Headline News this week. “I love seeing how God gave me an idea to share the message, ‘How Secure Is Your Cash Flow.’”
A credible business that accommodates various age groups — most notably individuals ranging in the age bracket of 45-and-up — Bowden’s BCS Solutions emerged amid her tenure for Amherst Technologies Merrimack New Hampshire, a small IT company, during which she worked as a part-time collections clerk.
As Bowden explained, she recalls just how it all unfolded, a development she sensed was the prelude to a banner career, courtesy of her business-related heroics that caught the attention of the United States Coast Guard.
“They had $8 million in sales on the books, but not in the bank,” Bowden recalled. “I was assigned those accounts to collect the past due receivables.”
IN GOOD COMPANY — As Bowden explained, she recalls just how it all unfolded, a development she sensed was the prelude to a banner career, courtesy of her business-related heroics that caught the attention of the United States Coast Guard.
Then much to the delight of this resilient and resourceful businesswoman, the unthinkable had ultimately transpired.
“I successfully collected $6 million in 60 days working part time,” — Maryland Businesswoman Dee Bowden
As Bowden explained, it wasn’t longer thereafter that what seemed to be a much-needed turning point for a small IT company had eventually turned into an unlikely dead end.
“As phenomenal as that was, two months before Christmas, the CEO called us all together and said the following: ‘Thanks so much for all of the hard work. Unfortunately we have made a business decision to close down Amherst Technologies, and you have 30 minutes to grab your things and leave.”
For Bowden, such a shocking, tear-jerking development seemed difficult to stomach, this after she helped propelled the company to a much-needed breakthrough.
“It was a devastating time to go through,” she said. “It taught me a valuable lesson as a future business owner…to make sure you know the state of your flocks…sales, contracts, invoices and receivables. No business will last long without sales, contracts, accounts payable, and accounts receivables.”
A little more than three years removed from such a downtrodden turn of events, Bowden essentially has captured a new lease on life as the face of BCS Solutions, a company that is making a strong case to emerge as a national fixture much sooner than later.
DID YOU KNOW…
Amongst the reasons is that Bowden’s company has given way to an array of golden opportunities, which included her having served as a (virtual speaker) at Success Women’s Conference 2018, an event that included appearances by Robin Roberts of ABC’s Good Morning America and Lisa Nichols and the Millionairess Conference held by Dr. Jewel Tankard in 2019.
In addition, Dee has been a featured guest on several podcasts and radio shows such as Life Transformation Radio and the Swift Kick Radio Show.
Interesting the startup of her business allowed her to take part in Women Future Conference 2018.
A receivables management stint that spans more than a decade, Bowden also is crafty and gifted author, whose anthology entitled, “Entrepreneurial Elevation: 30 Lessons To Improve Your Impact Influence and Income,” is just days away from its release.
“My personal mission for doing this work is to share the message and change the conversation around collections and cash flow and revenue in one’s business,” Bowden, a native of Boston, said. “I know from personal experience that getting paid on time for your products or services is very important. I do this work, because I don’t want to see another IT or software or other company close its doors due to lack of cash flow management.”
A receivables management stint that spans more than a decade, Bowden also is crafty and gifted author, whose anthology entitled, “Entrepreneurial Elevation: 30 Lessons To Improve Your Impact Influence and Income,”is just days away from its release.
The book launch date is scheduled for July 20, Bowden announced.
“It is imperative that I esteem and encourage others daily, because those gifts were given to me as I decided to pursue this venture,” said Bowden, adding that Ephesians 3:20 is her anchor scripture. “I would not be sharing this story with others if I had not been encouraged along the way. Life and death are in the power of the tongue. It is important to speak life-affirming words over yourself and those in your circles of influence.
“I also believe that gratitude expressed often changes things. I am grateful to God for His favor in my life.”
The kind of favor that, like her successful entrepreneurship tenure, is a defining moment, of sorts, for this, a rising and progressive businesswoman.
CONNECT WITH THIS AWARD-WINNING JOURNALIST FOR MEDIA EXPOSURE
EDITOR’S NOTE:If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.
Andre Johnson is the award-winning Founder and Publisher for Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and a former staff reporter of sports for the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, send email to makingheadlinenews@gmail.com or to memphisgraduate@yahoo.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.
These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. (John 16:33 KJV)
POINTING TO THE HEAVENS
GOD’S FAITH STEPPER — If anyone can greatly attest to how essential prayer is, it’s Dr. Holmes, this devout man of valor, who were amongst more than four dozen authors who made eloquent contributions to the newly-released book entitled, “Soulful Prayers: The Power of Intentional Communication With God.”
DALLAS — Every time you turn around, there’s Dr. Eric Holmes, displaying his customary signature smile, all the while encouraging someone’s heart in the process.
He did it once again late Monday night, courtesy of a spirited social media post.
Said Dr. Holmes on his Facebook timeline before his 3,700-plus social media followers: “Prayer still works.”
He got that right.
Not only that, if anyone can greatly attest to this kingdom-enhancing notion, it’s Dr. Holmes, this devout man of valor, who were amongst more than four dozen authors who made eloquent contributions to the newly-released book entitled, “Soulful Prayers: The Power of Intentional Communication With God.”
A book that was officially launched during nationally-acclaimed ceremony over the weekend here, “Soulful Prayers: The Power of Intentional Communication With God” is orchestrated by award-winning and bestselling author/businesswoman Cheryl Polote-Williamson.
A book that was officially launched during nationally-acclaimed ceremony over the weekend here, “Soulful Prayers: The Power of Intentional Communication With God” is orchestrated by award-winning and bestselling author/businesswoman Cheryl Polote-Williamson.
For Dr. Holmes, his valiant contributions to a book that has created a national buzz comes in the wake of his already successful authorship success, a trend that’s accompanied by the sustained success of his written work entitled, “The Power of The Seed,” his 2015 released project that has become a fixture throughout Baltimore and the surrounding areas.
As for his latest authorship heroics, Dr. Holmes wasted little time buying into the visionary of the face of “Soulful Prayers: The Power of Intentional Communication With God.”
HE’S GOT A SEED IN THE GROUND
FOR STARTERS — For Dr. Holmes, his valiant contributions to a book that has created a national buzz comes in the wake of his already successful authorship success, a trend that’s accompanied by the sustained success of his written work entitled, “The Power of The Seed,” his 2015 released project that has become a fixture throughout Baltimore and the surrounding areas..
“Once (Polote-Williamson’s) vision was shared with me, it connected in my spirit, because I am a prayer warrior,” Dr. Holmes told Making Headline News this week.
Once Dr. Holmes had become spiritually empowered to contribute to a book that figures to garner a continuous massive presence throughout the Body Christ for years to come, he then commenced to executing a strategy to accomplished God’s will.
Interestingly, he needed only a few weeks to make it all come full circle, having assembled his chapter just in time for it to be edited and reviewed by the start of the New Year.
And the rest, as they say, was history.
And just like that, Dr. Holmes had appropriately taken yet another monumental step in the purpose for which he was created, a purpose that, fortunately for him, is a true testament of how he’s been used by God for such pivotal time as now.
Yes, brothas and sistas. Prayer still works.
“It was the timing and season of God,” said Dr. Holmes, a native of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. “And He allowed me to be apart and the experience I went through to be able to share (my prayer).”
As expected, the feedback for “Soulful Prayers: The Power of Intentional Communication With God” has been nothing short of remarkable, a trend that undoubtedly will linger amongst followers of Christ for quite some time.
To God be the glory.
As expected, the feedback for “Soulful Prayers: The Power of Intentional Communication With God” has been nothing short of remarkable, a trend that undoubtedly will linger amongst followers of Christ for quite some time.
Not to be outdone, though, Dr. Holmes has announced that other books are forthcoming.
“I have another book coming very soon,” said Dr. Holmes, referring to his written work entitled, ‘My Next Season Is Due Season.’
As for his itinerary, Dr. Holmes has several radio and televisions interviews scheduled, during which he will promote his books and conduct book signings.
To his credit and much to his delight, he announced that he has submitted the essential paperwork to the Enoch Pratt Libraries which, in turn, will enable him to generate book reviews.
AFTER YOU’VE SUFFERED A WHILE…
Dr. Holmes has appropriately taken yet another monumental step in the purpose for which he was created, a purpose that, fortunately for him, is testament of how he’s been used by God for such pivotal time as now.
Not only that, he emphasized he plans to enhance the promoting of his books on various social media platforms, which has given way to his reaping a considerable amount of authorship success.
“It was a divine assignment,” said Dr. Holmes, “and it will reach a nation, and everyone is in need of prayer.”
He got that right.
Once again.
For more information about Baltimore-area Author Dr. Eric Holmes, to order his books, or to schedule him for a public appearance or book signing, connect with him via social media at: https://www.facebook.com/eric.holmes.79462. Also, send email to: elynnk1306@gmail.com.
CONNECT WITH THIS AWARD-WINNING JOURNALIST FOR MEDIA EXPOSURE
EDITOR’S NOTE:If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.
Andre Johnson is the award-winning Founder and Publisher for Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and a former staff reporter of sports for the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, send email to makingheadlinenews@gmail.com or to memphisgraduate@yahoo.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.(John 16:33 KJV)
A LIVING TESTIMONY
WOMAN OF MANY HATS — A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Ieshia Nicole Leverette is Fredericksburg, Virginia-based entrepreneur, one who’s widely known for assuming a variety of roles. (Photos By Casandra Loiacono)
For what it’s worth, Ieshia Leverette was only keeping it 100.
“I could have been a statistic,” Leverette, an ex-felon, said during a recent interview with Making Headline News, recalling the slew of the obstacles and hurdles about which she had to clear and overcome during the course of her young life.
“I have seen a lot and overcome a lot by choice and circumstances, but I never let a closed door stop me.”
She’s got that right.
Credit Leverette’s fervent desire and steadfast determination to defy arguably the grandest of odds as the biggest reasons she’s managed to make continuous strides as a thriving, progressive businesswoman.
An entrepreneurship tenure that dates back to 2010, Leverette’s inspiration for functioning in her element stems from learning of the various challenges other women have faced.
A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Leverette, 31, is Fredericksburg, Virginia-based entrepreneur, one who’s widely known for assuming a variety of roles.
An entrepreneurship track record she’s been afforded to put on display in several of establishments around the country, Leverette is an accomplished real estate team owner/operator, as well as a life coach, author, T-Shirt’s and pod cast host.
While she doesn’t shy away from the notion that she could have very well been a statistic, amongst the things about which Leverette is appreciative of the fact that she’s gone to great lengths to embrace her imperfections, which has greatly enabled her to pour into the lives of others.
HOLDING IT DOWN — An entrepreneurship track record she’s been afforded to put on display in several of establishment around the country, Leverette is an accomplished real estate team owner/operator, as well as a life coach, author, T-Shirt’s and pod cast host.
“Through being a realtor, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting so many people from so many different walks of life, and I am most humbly fulfilled when I am able to pour into their lives,” Leverette said. “I am the one they call to celebrate with them, because I impact them in a very real way.”
As Leverette explains, her steadfast commitment to impacting and enriching lives essentially have become the feature objective, of sorts, to her divine calling as a successful businesswoman.
“I don’t worry about the buying and selling of the home as much as I do in mentoring them, guiding them and helping them see their own potential,” said Leverette, explaining how her competitive drive in life has propelled her to start a host of business ventures. “It’s an unmatched experience they get with me as a person. Everyone I come across, I tend to affect their life in a very real way, even if they don’t tell me until many years later. I have been called to pour into others’ lives and show them another side of them that they didn’t know existed.”
LEADING BY EXAMPLE — While she doesn’t shy away from the notion that she could have very well been a statistic, amongst the things about which Leverette is appreciative is the fact that she’s gone to great lengths to embrace her imperfections, which has greatly enabled her to pour into others’ lives.
To her credit, Leverette certain possesses the education and training, which have contributed mightily to her sustained entrepreneurship success.
A 2005 graduate of Cleveland Height High School — she actually graduated one year early thanks in large part the administration’s approval that allowed her to take additional classes — Leverette enrolled at Cleveland State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Public Relations and Advertisement in 2010.
Consequently, she’s enrolled at Argosy University of Hawaii, where she acquired an MBA in Marketing in 2012.
As for her assortment of business ventures that accommodate individuals ranging mostly between the ages of 27 to 55, credit Leverette’s wealth of wisdom, coupled with her spirit of compassion as the reasons those with whom she customarily crosses paths often come away overwhelmingly empowered and encouraged, thus acquiring a new lease on life.
Just like she has ever since she delved off into the ever-so-competitive world of entrepreneurship.
“My business allows me to watch others become confident in whom they are. I love building tomorrow’s leaders. I love seeing progression. I am even more enthralled to watch women regain their independence, because we often forget about ourselves taking care of others.” — Virginia Businesswoman Ieshia Leverette
Interestingly, what it all boils down to, Leverette emphasized, is devising way to impact lives — and to it daily.
For the rest of her life.
“To impact lives that would otherwise continue in the same pattern,” said Leverette, when asked what her personal mission is for running the day-to-day operations of her business. “To make people see themselves clearly and with power. To help people stop doubting their abilities. People ask me why I create my own competition, but honestly if you become better, then I’ve done my job.”
An entrepreneurship tenure that dates back to 2010, Leverette’s inspiration for functioning in her element stems from learning of the various challenges other women have faced.
STAYING THE COURSE
DESTINY STEPS — As Leverette explains, her steadfast commitment to impacting and enriching lives essentially has become the feature objective, of sorts, to her divine calling as a successful businesswoman.
“(I become inspired by) women who have lost their power in a marriage or after having children,” Leverette said. “People who are just as lost and don’t know where to start. It’s really just how my heart operates. I just want people to know all that there is to know about the life they live today and how to maximize that time and make it the most fulfilling.”
Talk about having mounted a dramatic comeback for the ages, from a felon to a successful entrepreneur, one who’s undoubtedly living her best life.
“I am just a woman that got a felony 12 years ago and didn’t let it stop me from becoming who I am today,” Leverette said. “I’ve always fought to overcome any things thrown my way. From having 3 jobs while on a full-time school schedule, to becoming an entrepreneur and dominating a male dominant industry purely off of me being genuine, caring, and motivational to others.”
All the while keeping it 100 in the process.
For more information Fredericksburg, Virginia-based entrepreneur Ieshia Leverette, or to schedule her for a public appearance, a book signing, or speaking engagement, call 571.386.1075 or connect with her via social media at: https://www.facebook.com/ieshia.leverette. Also, send email to: ieshialeverette@gmail.com.
CONNECT WITH THIS AWARD-WINNING JOURNALIST FOR MEDIA EXPOSURE
EDITOR’S NOTE:If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.
Andre Johnson is the award-winning Founder and Publisher for Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and a former staff reporter of sports for the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, send email to andre@makingheadlinenews.com or to memphisgraduate@yahoo.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.(Romans 8:28 NIV)
GOD’S MIRACLE CHILD
ALL FOR DAVID — Virginia author Christina Johnson needed somewhere in the neighborhood of seven months to produce the awe-inspiring book entitled, “Fighting for King David,” a memoir of this mother’s journey with her child, who’s fighting childhood cancer.
For Christina Johnson, it all started out as a journal, one that was assembled within the walls of a local hospital.
As she recalled vividly, it all unfolded amid her son’s battle with Neuroblastoma, which reportedly is one of the world’s top three childhood cancers.
“The vision was given to me while I was in the hospital with my son while he has been going through cancer treatment,” Johnson — widely known as Crissy — told Making Headline News during a recent interview. “Before it was a book, it was a journal that the hospital gave to me to keep up with what was going on with him each day. There was a place where I would write my feeling and next thing you know, it was a book.”
Johnson, in fact, needed somewhere in the neighborhood of seven months to produce the awe-inspiring book entitled, “Fighting for King David,” a memoir of this mother’s journey with her son, who’s fighting childhood cancer.
For Johnson, a Virginia-based author and alumna of Old Dominion University, her quest to assemble her book was accompanied a great deal of transparency.
“I decided to write the book to be as transparent as possible about what I dealt with as a mother and caregiver to my son,” Johnson explained. “I was also in my last semester of college at the time of my son’s diagnosis, six weeks away to be exact.”
Still, that Johnson demonstrated that kind of bend-but-don’t-break faith that ultimately kept her in high spirits, thus fueled her desire to remain focus on academics, even through her rash of adversities, virtually every goal and ambition was accomplished.
BOOK HER — Having accepted a few invitations to public share her stories and life-changing testimonies, Johnson is thoroughly convinced that “Fighting For King David” is synonymous to the purpose for which God has created her.
Yep, that’s just like God, providing for his child a valiant sense of direction in the midst of the storm, as only He could.
“I talked about my struggles in finishing my degree and also about the sudden death of my aunt all within weeks of my son’s diagnosis,” Johnson recalled. “I wanted to share my testimony and speak of how God kept me through all of this, how I still had to be a wife and mother to four children during all of this.”
Most importantly, Johnson was determined to encourage the masses just as God had strategically assigned her to through “Fighting for King David.”
As Johnson recalled, her vision to write her first book unfolded amid her son’s battle with Neuroblastoma, which reportedly is one of the world’s top three childhood cancers.
“I wanted to show the world that God is still performing miracles,” said Johnson, an accomplished businesswoman who is the owner and CEO of Crissy Designs LLC.
Now with her very first book having made its ceremonious presence on the market, Johnson emphasized that the divine message is rather direct and straight to the point.
“The divine message is that God still heals and He won’t put more on you then you can bear,” Johnson said. “Cancer does not discriminate.”
As expected, the feedback since the release of Johnson’s book has been overwhelmingly favorable.
GOD’S LITTLE BALLER
Johnson was determined to encourage the masses just as God strategically assigned her to through “Fighting for King David.”
“I have been given positive feedback about my book,” she said. “My story have touched so many lives. I have been asked how I was able to still succeed even through the struggle. I think my purpose is to be a voice for families who have a child that is struggling with cancer, to advocate and to bring awareness.”
Having accepted a few invitations to public share her stories and life-changing testimonies, Johnson is thoroughly convinced that “Fighting For King David” is synonymous to the purpose for which God has created her.
VICTORY STANCE
For Johnson, a Virginia-based author and alumna of Old Dominion University, her quest to assemble her book was accompanied a great deal of transparency.
To her credit and much to her delight, there’s other notable projects she endeavors to produce and pass along to the masses, she said.
“I plan to create a journal for caregivers with inspirational quotes to help them write out their thoughts as they go their cancer journey with their child,” Johnson said. “Sort of what I did when I journaled each day.”
With God, her Helper, steering the way.
For more information about Virginia-based Author/Businesswoman Christina Johnson, or to schedule her for a public appearance, book signing, or speaking engagement, connect with her via social media at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/353403191832093/. Also, send email to: crissysdesigns2@gmail.com.
CONNECT WITH THIS AWARD-WINNING JOURNALIST FOR MEDIA EXPOSURE
EDITOR’S NOTE:If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.
Andre Johnson is the award-winning Founder and Publisher for Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and a former staff reporter of sports for the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, send email to andre@makingheadlinenews.com or to memphisgraduate@yahoo.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.
LONG TIME COMING — After a 35-year drought, the Virginia men’s basketball program is back in the Final Four. The champions out of the South Region, the top-seeded Cavaliers (33-3) will face Midwest Region champion, fifth-seeded Auburn (30-9), Saturday at 5:09 p.m. CST from U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. (Getty Image Photo)
DALLAS — The Virginia men’s basketball program is back in the Final Four for the first time in 35 years.
Amongst the UVA alums who seems the proudest is Dallas Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle.
Prior to Friday night’s game versus the Memphis Grizzlies in the American Airlines Center, Carlisle spoke of how delighted he is to witness Virginia atone for last year’s NCAA Tournament’s first-round exit by reaching the national semifinals.
The champions out of the South Region, the top-seeded Cavaliers (33-3) will face Midwest Region champion, fifth-seeded Auburn (30-9), Saturday at 5:09 p.m. CST from U. S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis.
The second national semifinal matchup will pit No. 3 seed Texas Tech (30-6), the West Region champion, squaring off against East Region champion, No. 2 seed Michigan State (32-6).
For UVA, which became the first ever No. 1 seed to lose to a No. 16 seed when it was dealt a 74–54 drubbing by the University of Maryland-Baltimore County in last year’s opening round of the Big Dance, Carlisle applauded Cavaliers coach Tony Bennett for a job well done with a program that is making its third Final Four appearance in school history (1981, 1984, 2019).
IN RETROSPECT
THE LAST TIME — Carlisle (left) was a member of Virginia’s 1984 Final Four squad that lost in the national semifinals to Akeem Olajuwon and No. 2 seed Houston, 49-47, in overtime.
“They’ve been consistently great all year,” Carlisle said of the Cavaliers, winners of four straight and 13 of their last 14. “I think they’ve only lost two or three games by two or three points. They have a real resolve as a team.”
In reaching the Final Four for the first time since 1984, Virginia demonstrated some much-needed resolve in the waning moments of the South Region final against third-seeded Purdue.
The Cavaliers, in fact, needed a rather awkward buzzer-beater by junior swingman Mamadi Diakite just as time expired to tie the game at 70 and force overtime, then outscored the Boilermakers, 10-5, in the extra session to preserve the win, thus erasing the memory of last year’s opening-round heartbreaker to UMBC.
According to ESPN’s Matchup Predictor, Virginia has a 79.9 percent chance of defeating Auburn, which is making its first Final Four appearance in school history.
Michigan State, meanwhile, has a 61.1 percent chance to upend Texas Tech, according to ESPN’s Matchup Predictor.
As for who Carlisle’s predicting to win the first of two national semifinal games, well, that essentially goes without saying.
PRAYER ANSWERED — The Cavaliers needed a buzzer-beater by junior swingman Mamadi Diakite just as time expired to tie the game at 70 and force overtime, then outscored the Boilermakers, 10-5, in the extra session to preserve the win, erasing the memory of last year’s opening-round heartbreaker to UMBC. According to ESPN’s Matchup Predictor, UVA has a 79.9 percent chance of defeating Auburn, which is making its first Final Four appearance in school history.
“They have a style that you need into today’s game,” said Carlisle, who was a member of Virginia’s 1984 Final Four squad that lost in the national semifinals to No. 2 seed Houston, 49-47, in overtime. “They preach defense first thing and they really understand how to play with each other. You know, the way they won the Purdue game last week was really special.”
Now that they’ve atoned for last year’s postseason disappointment, can the grit and grind Cavaliers manage two more wins to capture the school’s first ever national title?
“They’ve got a real chance now,” Carlisle said.
With a slight grin.
That, much to his delight and to the satisfaction of the rest of the UVA faithful, is a far cry from last year’s disastrous turn of events in the Big Dance.
Andre Johnson is the award-winning Founder/Publisher & Editor In Chief of Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and a former reporter of sports for the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, call him at 901-690-6587 or send email to andre@makingheadlinenews.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.
That is, “In everything, there is a season,” said a spokesperson for Salley’s latest project at Amazon.com. “Whether your current place in life is indicative of the winter, spring, summer or fall seasons, never forget that God walks with us through them all.
EDITOR’S NOTE: If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.
For Anderson, who currently resides in Stafford, Virginia, her rise to entrepreneurship success emerged amid humble beginnings.
Anderson is the mother of, T’kiyah, 12, Reynaldo, 29, and the late Amiyah, all of whom she describes as “my biggest fans, considering they motivate me to continue to pursue my passion & happiness.”
“The wedding was a success and exceeded their expectations,” Anderson recalled. “Within no time, what started as a hobby shortly became her vision.”
“Having an authentic heart can be mistaken for a weakness, so you always have to work twice as hard to prove yourself among your peers, colleagues and in the industry. I finally value myself and demand others to do so as well, but it took years to honestly feel this way. I am still learning, but I have accepted the challenge. There is a standard by which AFA operates, which took years to develop.”
EDITOR’S NOTE: If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.
EDITOR’S NOTE: If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.
“We feel trapped and oftentimes not able to find a way of escape,” said a spokesperson for Ferguson’s ‘Overcoming Adversity: Pushing Past the Pain.’ “Through the roughest of trials and tribulations, we forget that we serve a mighty God who can do all things but fail. ‘Overcoming Adversity: Pushing Past The Pain’ is a book of personal testimonies that will enlighten, inspire, encourage, teach and motivate you to push beyond those difficult times and to trust God when in the midst of it all.”
After forming a strategic team of authors, Ferguson had managed to spearhead and move forward with a spiritually-empowering book that figures to become a fixture in the Body of Christ — much sooner than later.
A book that’s a little more than a month removed from its release, the feedback for Ferguson’s “Overcoming Adversity: Pushing Past The Pain” has been mostly favorable, she said.
EDITOR’S NOTE: If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.
“In noticing similar damage in other families, I feel that it is important to tell the world that we shouldn’t feel ashamed to come to God, as He is always available for us and ready to help,” Payne, a native of Queens, New York, continued. “Our daughters encounter both seen and unseen forces that they may not understand or be ready to deal with, and my prayer covers the topics of spiritual warfare, renewal of the mind, and the gift of favor from God.”
EDITOR’S NOTE: If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.
“I enjoy speaking about the subject of cash flow and its impact on one’s business, positively or negatively,” Bowden, 57 told Making Headline News this week. “I love seeing how God gave me an idea to share the message, ‘How Secure Is Your Cash Flow.’”
As Bowden explained, she recalls just how it all unfolded, a development she sensed was the prelude to a banner career, courtesy of her business-related heroics that caught the attention of the United States Coast Guard. 
For Bowden, such a shocking, tear-jerking development seemed difficult to stomach, this after she helped propelled the company to a much-needed breakthrough. 
A little more than three years removed from such a downtrodden turn of events, Bowden essentially has captured a new lease on life as the face of BCS Solutions, a company that is making a strong case to emerge as a national fixture much sooner than later. 
“It is imperative that I esteem and encourage others daily, because those gifts were given to me as I decided to pursue this venture,” said Bowden, adding that Ephesians 3:20 is her anchor scripture. “I would not be sharing this story with others if I had not been encouraged along the way. Life and death are in the power of the tongue. It is important to speak life-affirming words over yourself and those in your circles of influence.
EDITOR’S NOTE: If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.
And the rest, as they say, was history.
EDITOR’S NOTE: If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.
EDITOR’S NOTE: If you are an entrepreneur, business owner, producer, author, athlete, musician, barber, life coach, motivational speaker, cosmetologist, tax preparer, model, or pastor/minister who is seeking exposure and would like to share your story with an in-depth news feature, call Reporter Andre Johnson at 901-690-6587 or Facebook message him under “Andre T. Johnson” for details.
Andre Johnson is the award-winning Founder/Publisher & Editor In Chief of Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and a former reporter of sports for the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA Southwest Division from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, call him at 901-690-6587 or send email to andre@makingheadlinenews.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.