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Beautiful Readers of The Soultown,

It’s Black History Month and this is the month we all are celebrating that four-letter word, LOVE. The Soultown is excited to feature our very own Advice Columnist, Quenton Angelo Richardson, also known as Big Q. He is revealing some personal, intimate thoughts about love; as it pertains to his friends, family and himself.
NAACP member and guest writer, Carole Yates shares valuable facts about the restoration process of Iowa Voters, and Just Joaquin focuses on the illogical arguments regarding the pay teachers receive.
PushBlack reiterates the power in knowing your rights by highlighting the step-by-step instructions on the proper behavior to display when arrested. Hometown Phonics word of the month is Pinnochioism and the recipe we have all been waiting to add to our recipe card files from Mnteme’s Recipes -- Peach Cobbler.
Queen Gabby shares artists to be added to your workout playlist, including Kirk Franklin, Bob Marley, and Lauryn Hill. Finally, The Soultown’s publisher, Cherie Chillin’ Kabba -- author of the Sankofa Vow -- could not let another issue pass without sending condolences to the families of Kobe and Gianna Bryant and the other passengers that lost their lives in the helicopter crash. This month is filled with stories to be shared.
I am Haisan 2X, Truth Seeker and Editor of The Soultown Magazine. I’d like to wish everyone a Happy New Year and thank everyone for having SOUL!

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Published by thesoultown, 2020-02-19 17:35:08

Volume III Issue IV February 2020

Beautiful Readers of The Soultown,

It’s Black History Month and this is the month we all are celebrating that four-letter word, LOVE. The Soultown is excited to feature our very own Advice Columnist, Quenton Angelo Richardson, also known as Big Q. He is revealing some personal, intimate thoughts about love; as it pertains to his friends, family and himself.
NAACP member and guest writer, Carole Yates shares valuable facts about the restoration process of Iowa Voters, and Just Joaquin focuses on the illogical arguments regarding the pay teachers receive.
PushBlack reiterates the power in knowing your rights by highlighting the step-by-step instructions on the proper behavior to display when arrested. Hometown Phonics word of the month is Pinnochioism and the recipe we have all been waiting to add to our recipe card files from Mnteme’s Recipes -- Peach Cobbler.
Queen Gabby shares artists to be added to your workout playlist, including Kirk Franklin, Bob Marley, and Lauryn Hill. Finally, The Soultown’s publisher, Cherie Chillin’ Kabba -- author of the Sankofa Vow -- could not let another issue pass without sending condolences to the families of Kobe and Gianna Bryant and the other passengers that lost their lives in the helicopter crash. This month is filled with stories to be shared.
I am Haisan 2X, Truth Seeker and Editor of The Soultown Magazine. I’d like to wish everyone a Happy New Year and thank everyone for having SOUL!

Keywords: The Soultown,Cherie Kabba,Chillin,Soultown,Waterloo,Urban,Black Magazine

IMMORTALIZING OUR STORIES TO IMPLORE POtShIeTsIoVuEltPowRnO.GcoRmES•S IINntOerUnRatCioOnMalMMUaNgIaTzIiEnSe
Digital & Print Magazine
Photo by Kevin Richardson • Illustration by The Soultown
REMEMBERING
Feb. • Mar. 2020KOBE
BRYANT

RECIPE FOR LOVE HIStory
Significant others
reveal secrets to

longevity

VOLUME IV•ISSUE 2•THESOULTOWN.COM Big Q Shares Intimate
Thoughts On
COPYRIGHT © 2017 KABBA KREATIONS LLC Black Love

FEB. - MAR. 2020
www.thesoultown.com

US $6.00

Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com

ABOUT THE SOULTOWN Table of Contents
Publisher/ Innovative Extraordinaire:
Cherie “Chillin’ da Conscious Poet” Kabba The Soultown
Editor-in-Chief: Haisan 2X is up close and
Authentic Advisor: Tyra Nelson-Reck personal with
Editor-in-Chief: businessman,
Priscilla Culp father and Advice
Advertising / Marketing Columnist, Big Q.
Phone: 319.505.4020 Remembering
Website: thesoultown.com Kobe Bryant.
Email: [email protected] OR
[email protected] Contributing Artists.......................................................................................................4
Design & Layout: Subscription Information............................................................................................. 6
Cherie “Chillin’ da Conscious Poet” Kabba Hometown-Phonics Phrase Phenom ............................................................................ 7
Director of Photographer: Michael Muhammad Puptown Stories ......................................................................................................... 8
Illustration: Tammy Laughlin - Laughlin Out Loud Teachers Pay ...............................................................................................................9
Postmaster: NAACP ................................................................................................................. 10-11
Send address changes to: Long Distance Relationship Feature ......................................................................12-13
The Soultown c/o Kabba Kreations LLC Meme’s Recipes .........................................................................................................14
Address of Publication: Cover Story - Black Love ....................................................................................... 15-18
505 Walker Dr. Suite 7 Biz Wiz .................................................................................................................20-21
Mountain View, California 94043 Just Call Me Tyra .......................................................................................................22
Print Subscription rates: $80 Annually The Griot ...................................................................................................................23
Digital and Print $117 Annually Dear Gabby ...............................................................................................................24
Entire contents copyright © 2017 Celebrating Black History ..........................................................................................26
Kabba Kreations LLC • All rights reserved Faith Enthusiast ........................................................................................................28
PRINTED IN THE USA The Sankofa Vow - Remembering Kobe Bryant........................................................29-31
COPYRIGHT © 2017 KABBA KREATIONS

DISCLAIMER
© 2017 The information on thesoultown.com website and in print

form is for information purposes only. The Soultown Magazine or

Kabba Kreations LLC assumes no liability or responsibility for any

inaccurate, delayed or incomplete information, nor for any actions

taken in reliance thereon. The information contained about each

individual, event or organization has been provided by such

individual, event organizers or organization without verification

by us.

The opinion expressed in each article is the opinion of its author

and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editor, authors,

publisher, or any other party associated with The Soultown

Magazine or Kabba Kreations LLC. Therefore, The Soultown

Magazine or Kabba Kreations LLC. carry no responsibility for the

opinion expressed thereon.

Comments are welcome, but they should be on-topic and

well-expressed. Abusive, antisocial or off-topic comments will

be deleted by layout and web administrators. All comments,

suggestions or concerns should be sent to thesoultown@

thesoultown.com.

Any form of reproduction of any content on this website without

the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. The

Soultown Magazine or Kabba Kreations LLC is a trademarked

company; all rights reserved. ,

Contact The Soultown Magazine:
319-505-4020

thesoultown.com
[email protected]

The Soultown Digital & Print International
Magazine Library of Congress

2 Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com

Editor's Note

Beautiful Readers of The Soultown, EDITOR’S NOTE

It’s Black History Month and this is the month we all are celebrating that four-letter word, LOVE. The Soultown is
excited to feature our very own Advice Columnist, Quenton Angelo Richardson, also known as Big Q. He is revealing
some personal, intimate thoughts about love; as it pertains to his friends, family and
himself.

NAACP member and guest writer, Carole Yates shares valuable
facts about the restoration process of Iowa Voters, and Just Joaquin
focuses on the illogical arguments regarding the pay teachers
receive.

PushBlack reiterates the power in knowing your rights by
highlighting the step-by-step instructions on the proper behavior
to display when arrested. Hometown Phonics word of the month is
Pinnochioism and the recipe we have all been waiting to add to our
recipe card files from Meme’s Recipes -- Peach Cobbler.

Queen Gabby shares artists to be added to your workout playlist,
including Kirk Franklin, Bob Marley, and Lauryn Hill. Finally,
The Soultown’s publisher, Cherie Chillin’ Kabba -- author of
the Sankofa Vow -- could not let another issue pass without
sending condolences to the families of Kobe and Gianna
Bryant and the other passengers that lost their lives
in the helicopter crash. This month is filled with
stories to be shared.

I am Haisan 2X, Truth Seeker and
Editor of The Soultown Magazine. I’d
like to wish everyone a Happy New
Year and thank everyone for having
SOUL! ,

HAISAN 2X

Haisan 2X is a lifelong student, supplicant, and Cubs fan. He is an only brother, an only son and sire to only one. Genuine and reflective; indefatigable and passionate, his energies spread
across many endeavors. Email: [email protected] • thesoultown.com

10% OFF
AN ANNUAL PRINT SUBSCRIPTION

EMAIL THE [email protected] USE PROMO CODE SOUL10 • THIS OFFER IS NOT VALID WITH
OTHER DISCOUNTS. •SUBSCRIPTION MUST BE PAID FOR ENTIRE 12 MONTHS.

THE SOULTOWN DIG & PRINT MAGAZINE • 505 WALKER DR. SUITE 7 • MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA • 94043

Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com 53

Contributing Artists

IMMORTALIZING OUR STORIES IN OUR COMMUNITIES TO IMPLORE POSITIVE PROGRESS

The Soultown’s February 2020 Contributing Artists
The Griot Puptown Stories Faith Enthusiast Phrase Phenom

DR. PIERRE MVUYEKURE DIQUAN RICHARD DR. DAVID RAINEY “HOMETOWN”

Publisher / Dear Gabby!

Innovative Extraordinaire

Truth Seeker / Editor

CHERIE CHILLIN’ KABBA

HAISAN 2X QUEEN GABBY

Big Q! Authentic Advisor International Correspondent Guest Writer

QUENTON RICHARDSON TYRA NELSON - RECK AZLINE NELSON-SHELBY CAROLE YATES

NOT PICTURED: JUST JOAQUIN

Celebrating Black History Month!

From the Contributing Artists of The Soultown

24 Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com

BOOM SHAKALAKA!

https://bit.ly/2tnIQ8l

Millions of Americans have Who should get tested?
Hepatitis C, but most don’t know it.
• Anyone who has injected drugs, even just
People with Hepatitis C often have no symptoms. Many once or many years ago.
people can live with an infection for decades without
feeling sick. • Anyone with certain medical conditions,
such as chronic liver disease and HIV or
The only way to know if you have Hepatitis C is to get AIDS.
tested. Early detection can save lives.
• Anyone who has received donated blood
or organs before 1992.

• Anyone age 18 through 65+ (especially
those born from 1945 to 1965).

• Anyone with abnormal liver tests or liver
disease.

• Health and safety workers who have been
exposed to blood on the job through a
needlestick or injury with a sharp object.

• Anyone on hemodialysis.
• Anyone born to a mother with Hepatitis C.

905 Franklin Street, Waterloo We offer Hepatitis C
(319) 874-3000 testing.

www.peoples-clinic.com Data pulled from IDPH website.

Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com 5

©2017

Digital & Print Magazine

IMMORTALIZING OUR
STORIES TO IMPLORE
POSITIVE PROGRESS IN
OUR COMMUNITIES.

LET US SHARE
YOUR STORY TODAY.

AARRIIZZOONNAA
CCAALLIIFFOORRNNIIAA
CCOOLLOORRAADDOO

GGEEOORRGGIIAA
IIOOWWAA

IILLLLIINNOOIISS
MMAASSSSAACCHHUUSSEETTTTSS

MMIINNNNEESSOOTTAA
PPEENNNNSSYYLLVVAANNIIAA

TTEENNNNEESSSSEEEE
TTEEXXAASS

VVIIRRGGIINNIIAA
WWAASSHHIINNGGTTOONN DD.. CC..

WWIISSCCOONNSSIINN

THE SOULTOWN DIGITAL & PRINT MAGAZINE!
550055 WWAALLKKEERR DDRR.. SSUUIITTEE 77 •• MMOOUUNNTTAAIINN VVIIEEWW,, CCAA •• 9944004433
EEMMAAIILL:: tthheessoouullttoowwnn@@ggmmaaiill..ccoomm
WWEEBBSSIITTEE:: wwwwww..tthheessoouullttoowwnn..ccoomm
331199--550055--44002200

Subscribe for only $6 a month!66 Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com

PINOCCHIOISM
/pi/ + /noh/ + /kee/ + /oh/+ /izem/

HOMETOWN-PHONICS

PHRASE PHENOM

One who has a proclivity for being untruthful stretching
the truth and telling lies.


Having delusions of grandeur of being something or
someone who you are not


A person could and can suffer from PINOCCHIOISM.

Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com 7

Diquan Richard
ARTIST • MUSICIAN • POET

Diquan Richard is a Bay Area Native who is currently pursuing an education at San
Francisco State University. He is majoring in Studio Art while minoring in Computer
Animation. Since the age of 13, Diquan has always had a passion to express himself
creatively through his art, music, poetry and his global humanitarian work. He has
dreams of gaining employment at Pixar Animation Studios as a computer animator.
He hopes to help change the lives of children via animation, just as his life changed
after viewing Toy Story for the first time. When Diquan is not hitting the books, or
drawing another comic strip, you can find him donating his time to helping those
less fortunate.

Contact Diquan: [email protected]

https://vimeo.com/1542983248 Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com

Education At Its Best

Illogical Arguments Regarding

s

BAY AREA, CA - Just Joaquin is a high school I owe out of pocket for two degrees and guess mortgage is “death pledge” and it’s never been
English teacher who has spent the majority of the what, State school credentialed teachers are more accurate. You’re going to die trying to keep
last decade struggling to get by in the Bay Area. broke too. this promise.
Below is a list of illogical arguments regarding
teacher pay that he has chosen to no longer 3. You became a teacher. Didn’t you know 6. The tech and/or housing bubble will
engage within 2020: what you were getting yourself into? Did you burst.
think you’d make millions?
1. You’re young and single. You don’t Gambler’s Fallacy. You’ve been staring at a
understand that there’s more at stake than Another false dichotomy. Of course, I didn’t roulette wheel land on red all night, so you think
pay. If they pay teachers more, they’ll make us expect millions. I also didn’t expect to live black is due. Relying on the failures of others
pay for health insurance. paycheck to paycheck or to have to work three sounds as healthy as it is plausible.
jobs to do more than get by. Luckily, there are lots
Black-and-White Fallacy. There has to be of numbers before a million that would alleviate 7. Move to another state.
more than two options. Have you considered that. I’m hopeful we can settle on one that’s No fallacy here, but there are hints of
asking why teachers have to choose between reasonable compensation for the profession that solipsism. This isn’t a problem until it’s happening
their financial stability and health care? Or anyone makes all other professions possible. to you.
in the United States for that matter? 8. You’re the only one who feels like this.
4. This isn’t how progress works. These I guess we all have our bandwagon. Except
2. Maybe you shouldn’t have gotten such things take time and patience. mine is real and you can see the three-year
an expensive education if you knew you were attrition rate it carries.
going to live off a teacher’s salary. Appeal to Nature. This is an acceptance of 9. Stop stressing. You’re young. It’ll work
how things are and probably the most problematic out. It’s not that bad.
False Cause. You’re correlating my struggling response. I’m finding out that complacency is a How many teachers do you know that live
economic status with my accrued degrees and strong current to swim against. alone? Rent or own? Wait. Before you answer,
it’s coincidental at best. I went to a community exclude anyone who established a home before
college for my General Ed, transferred to a public 5. All you millennials want everything now. 10 years ago, inherited property, capital or married
university, worked as a Resident Adviser for room There’s so much entitlement. someone who can subsidize their existence.
and board, earned scholarships for grad school What’s your total count? 1 maybe 2 out of dozens
and worked in a Title I school for loan forgiveness. An Ad Hominem is an argument directed of staff members? We call this fallacy an anecdote.
I won’t apologize for getting a seat at a good against a person rather than the position they I am Just Joaquin with Education At Its
school just like they won’t stop hiring us while that are maintaining. This isn’t a “me” issue or my Best, and I’d like to thank every teacher from
seat’s still warm. Most people are lucky to get two generation issue. We aren’t entitled or unwilling California to Maine for having SOUL! ,
quarters at a California public university for what to put in the work. The issue is that the work is
infinite, like the chasm between the median salary
and ends meet. The direct French translation of

Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com 9

NAACP

Restoring Iowa Voting Rights

Process Improves The Governor’s
mailing address is:
IOWA- In December, 2019, the Iowa Department “There are so many individuals in the system,
of Corrections simplified the process for restoring and we watch the news and try to figure out why Governor Kim
the voting rights of former felons. People who are something in politics is happening. I think that Reynolds
being discharged from the corrections system now our numbers should count, our votes Iowa State Capitol
Des Moines, IA

50319

receive a one-page auto-completed form from the should count, because we have

Department. Former felons will no longer have to an opinion,” he explained.

complete a four-page application that included a Gantt plans to register to sign an executive order

financial statement and background check. vote at the courthouse immediately restoring

“This really does streamline the process to as soon as he has voting rights to

get voting rights restored,” said Ken Kolthoff, his voting rights felons, according

First Judicial District director, Iowa Department restored. to a Des Moines

of Corrections. “Our clients complete just two of The county Register article

14 questions, sign the form, and send it to the and state NAACP from Dec. 11,

Governor’s office.” organizations both 2019.

Iowa is the only state that permanently strongly support this Attempting to

takes away voting rights change because of reach former felons

of all people with felony the racial disparities in who were out of the

convictions. Under the new the Iowa prison system. Iowa prison system

policy, anyone convicted LaTanya Graves, Black before Dec. 11, 2019,

of a felony in Iowa, federal Hawk County Branch NAACP the First Judicial District
put the new one-page form on its
court, or in any other state President says, “For too web site under Information Links. Here is a direct
link: http://www.firstdcs.com/information_links/
may apply to have their Iowa long civil rights workers and Application%20for%20Restoration%20of%20
Voting%20Rights.pdf
voting rights restored. Any activists fought for African I am Carole Shelley Yates, a social justice
advocate, writer, and avid reader of The
person applying must also ROBERT Americans to have the right Soultown Magazine. I’d like to thank you for
have paid their fines or have GANTT having SOUL! ,
a payment plan in place, Right to vote to vote. Losing this right
Kolthoff said.
restored in the first place is just a

contrivance to keep voters,

Kolthoff said if people especially African Americans,

have questions, they can contact Denise Cooper, disenfranchised.” BETTY
According to data from ANDREWS
assistant district director, at 319-292-1268. Iowa President
the First Judicial District,
Restoring voting rights makes people eligible 1,267 clients from Black of NAACP

to register to vote and to hold public office. This

new policy could affect up to 5,000 people in Hawk and Grundy Counties are serving time for
felonies. Of that number, 484 (38%) are African-
Iowa, according to a spokesperson for the Iowa Americans while the total population of African- CAROLE YATES
Department of Corrections in that same Des Americans in Black Hawk County is only 9.7%,
Moines Register article. The First Judicial District according to the U.S. Census Bureau estimate for NAACP
includes Black Hawk and 10 surrounding counties. 2018.
Learn more about the NAACP at
Robert Gantt, Waterloo, was discharged from Betty Andrews, President, Iowa/Nebraska thesoultown.com
the system on Jan. 10, 2020, and given the auto- NAACP State Conference of Branches, said she is
completed form. He signed it and mailed it to the pleased with the new application process. However, Email Me: [email protected]
governor’s office on Jan. 16, 2020. He happily said she said, the Iowa-Nebraska NAACP will continue
he did receive his certificate restoring his voting to strongly encourage Governor Kim Reynolds to
rights in early February.

1100 Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com

NAACP

Kim Reynolds OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR Adam Gregg

GOVERNOR LT. GOVERNOR
 

Application for Restoration of Voting Rights

(and the Right to Hold Public Office)

1. CONTACT INFORMATION

Name: ______________________________________ Date of Birth: __________________________
Social Security Number: ______________________ Are you a U.S. Citizen? ​ ⬜ Yes ⬜ No

Address: ____________________________________________________________________________

Street City State Zip Code

Email Address: __________________________________ Phone: _____________________________

This form in its entirety can also be found at thesoultown.com & waterloonaacp.org.

2. CRIMINAL FELONY CONVICTIONS

Most Recent FeVloOnyTCINonGvicCtiHonA: N__G__E__S__•___W___H_A__T__Y__O__U___N_E__E_D___T_O___K__N__O__W___________

The IowWa Lehgieslanturwe paasssedyaonuewrvocteor indevntiificcat-ion?Ab_s_e_n_t_e_e_V_o_ti_n_g________ Register In-person: Black Hawk County
tion bilWl inhthee rsperinwg 2a01s7 syesosioun.rHecreoʼsnwvhaitcittion?An ​a⬜bsentIeoe wbalalot(mCayobuenretqyue:st_ed_1_20_d_a_ys____C_ou_rt_ho_us_e,_31_6_E_5t_h S_t._, W_a_ter_lo)o, IA ⬜ Federal Court
means Afourdaitollr'vsooteffrisc,ea.⬜ccordAingntootthheeBlracSk Htaawtek
County (Stasbteatfreotirneagthn2e9dedleaCcytisoobnue.fAnobretseyann)te:eel_ebcat_liloo_nts_(wu_silel_dbe_tom_bae_il4e_0d____OC_ethd_earr_F_al_llsocC_aitt_yioH_nas_ll,_22_lis0t_eCd_lay_S_ta.,t_:Ce_d_ahrt_tFpa_:/ll_s/,wI_Aw_w_.- __)

2Vl1Bleic..aeoeRAsnetltswg1Peeai0DWHAswrrytdesietarLirhatyhpadtaeoysvkaoebwevueeyyornyftteooeoooCyrudveidrnhuuootI:dthateirfheu.disrevneenetlpgrepiʼyrcocseleticalleootiiscnn​,eiiouc.nvdthsnweech/aaeonpvarloemlnrey-doofoppuiyebenrlolfaiaveeteeoutsrtraiʼest,roeecnyndootosedAgIbdujotraraeburwisnlysvrlAeaeoeesdp,b)nrtrd.s'avstrsaageeoeleentqelnerimitlcunbreeenoeadecnIsttlDislelttoboeeefonatrco/nsnalrnalemmroftonadctso?n.ud'sev-sto1protPi1p,tbIeteNaade​rirus⬜aanrynnytemtousccmriyemubʼoilssevYbutefIoeenoDdirrendnte1consoh0lonuiuttnmddrhetepahebdgryeret⬜slhereaaflebaeboireecrnsrfnteeoilINotno?rhodnyetweesoinaae.r?pyrocobcNftinorhnao⬜⬜.obeItvnloasiotcwiotkfcrYYa-fahanitnacieeinwedgoosskos/hS./nwritpoab.rs.peupasB⬜⬜?abc/laieral2aot0rcyst8lkoNNu/iGvrsolRoooeseefrguto?ttii⬜esnohutrsg_eavptl_oibiiosYsstn_a:et-eLlae_lofdovcso_aatrot._iionaln_als⬜tlb_hol_eef_N_o__JO_I_NIN_MI_NTonE_GtRhlEyTSHMTEeEeDtNinAgIsNA: CP?
• Beginning Jan. 1,If20y18e, rseg​,ispterleedavosteers emxuspt lain on the back of this applicationHiogrh Sachsoeopl aStruadteentssh- Ifeyeoutaroef17,pbuat wpilel r. 2nd Thursdays
show a driverʼs license or non-operatorʼs ID before 515 Beech St.
Registering to Vote not have to do be 18 years old by the general election, you can Waterloo, Iowa 50703
voting. the county or register to vote.
If you d3o.noAt hFavFe yIoRur IMD, inA20T18IoOnly,NyouAwilNl beD RIfEyoLuEareAalSreaEdy registered, you do College Students - If you are going to school •
anything unless you move within in Cedar Falls or Waterloo, you can vote there. You President -
asked to sign an oath that you are who you say you apmpulsitchaavteiaon nID thiast hcaos amn exppilreatitoen daatne odn itt. Arue. LaTanya Graves
are. YoIu csawn theenacrastoarregauflafribramllot. Itnh20a19t,antdo theoutbsideesoftthoe fcoumntyy. knowledge, my
•paonueo,toIpfmaleyaiIa.ortneiugcgaaidlsemluotyenrntbeaocedhtkyiohvssoiaurtnvoeeeirdgzrocanaeteanfhroetvdefeehrtVheiefoIoycts/oeeraiGwstIItDDeiossota,cvaynfroodJeru.urrtTwwehndioellgoicarir’asdRhBOlteiOtyntpBnuslr:imfn/grnUf/aearimlmn:c=iyl%e:mcy2PvhfrdtVin.ooa.iottewptrhRoaIepedbgofaolits.rtiggtmracoa,vrtaii/foeniAltnleciRictoeoaogutnuinnshttte/ycarfoLoomtgrprinetle?htrceelioyssirntdionsrfaoptracRfeieofmoletlorleentrntguyabeare/ctoiinauninnnigofnivirdngeecnisrqiscuCghitmteyaiistrtzIgiDtzaeroeecdeyasntnfnormnosrsbiomnht-geebAtihehppeuiouesss/rseysnhrodseetni.ergdfmcvoi,ohnlthbvientiacygsvteew.driftgionhhifettassehGaonvyBelaEsrcmwktnahaa@tiaolet:wregrwlkomaoCtaneoiarul.lanoccotopymn.oBarargacnpch
state sStaritgednmaaitliungrVeot:er_I_D _ca_rd_s _in_D_ec_em_b_er____pEle_enc_,tiao_nnd_Dm_eap_ialr_ittmt_oe:_nBt_l,ac3_k16_Ha_Ew_k5t_Cho_uSnt_.t,y_WA_uadt_eitro_loro_,_IA____po_na_ied-p_oargea
2017. Dpfoaryammteeanvt:api_llaab_nle_in_opnl_alicn_ee._Tah_ned_y c_mom_aipl_lei_tte_tao_____F_ac_eb_wo_oakte:rflaocoenbaoaockp.com/

• If you did not receivMe thaeiVlotoerrIDdcaerldiovrelorst tit,o: O5f0fi7c03e of the Governor, Iowa State CGaopveirtnoorlK,imDReesynoMlds'ooifnfice,sI,owIaoSwtatae C5ap0it3ol,19. P.O. Box 304
the BH County Auditorʼs Office can re-issue one. Des Moines, IA 50319. Waterloo, Iowa 50704

Call 833-3007. 319-214.3434

(https://governor.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/Application%20for%20Restoration%20of%20Voting%20Rights.pdf)

Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com 11

International Correspondent

Meeting the family of your significant Saphir and Azline
other for the first time can evoke mixed
emotions and often makes someone Saphir and I have so much in common and after
evaluate their strengths, weaknesses, and many 6-hour phone conversations,
personality flaws. Connecting with family is
a core value for me, and first impressions are we started a long-distance relationship one month after we met.
extremely important. I was preparing to embark
on a journey to Spain to meet my boyfriend’s -- Azline
parents and extended family, and because English
was not their native language, I needed to speak from Canada, Belgium, United Kingdom, Congo, Secretly, I believed I was being hazed.
French to communicate my positive intentions. and Portugal; totaling 25 people. There we spent The birthday celebration was an all-white attire
four days hanging out with his cousins; playing
My boyfriend, Saphir, is from the Democratic soccer, Uno, and consuming plenty of alcohol. event in which we danced the night away with
Republic of Congo. He graduated from Temple Saphir serving as the DJ. We all made memories
University in Philadelphia and is a Senior Consultant Large family dinners with lively, engaging popping bubbly, and spilling quite a few drinks.
at Deloitte Consulting LLP. We met in September conversation filled each night as well as card The global spread of food included lamb, cassava
2018 during a Wharton MBA informational session games, and a sink full of dirty dishes. Every night leaves, Spanish rice, ceviche, and many dishes
for the Lauder program. We are both interested Saphir’s step-mother insisted that I wash the found all over the world. Unexpectedly, Saphir’s
in global studies and speak french, and the dishes, and -- while I certainly did not grow up with a stepmom asked me to help make the rice for
Wharton/Lauder MBA/MA dual degree program will silver spoon in my mouth I helped out with a smile. dinner. Normally I can get down in the kitchen, but
enhance our professional skillset and international
network to build global careers. Saphir and I
have so much in common and after many 6-hour
phone conversations, we started a long-distance
relationship one month after we met. Saphir lives
in Philadelphia but travels weekly for his job, and
I live in Atlanta. We have been in a long-distance
relationship for 16 months and we are starting to
include one another in our family engagements.
Saphir’s family has seen me on social media and
he shares our photos and other funny stories about
me when he is with his family, so I did not feel like
a stranger.

I met his parents and extended family for the
first time in Altea, Spain. It was his father’s 60th
birthday, and members of his family had traveled

12 Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com

International Correspondent

Courtesy Photos

Wall hangings in the family home.

my limitation is rice -- which I cannot cook unless Above, extended family in Altea, Spain at Saphir’s father’s 60th birthday. Below, Azline relaxing in the pool in Spain.
it is the boil-in-bag kind. Rising to the challenge,
however, I prepared it and it was received with no Americans only spoke English and had no desire
complaints. to learn another language. As initially awkward as it
was staying in a house with my almost 30 members
One of my favorite moments of the trip was of Saphir’s international family, I felt surprisingly
when Saphir’s oldest brother encouraged me to comfortable in my American skin.
join the family pictures. Saphir has six siblings on
both sides of his family and not everyone grew After a fantastic weekend together many of us
up with both parents; which resulted in a diverse agreed to maintain our connection through social
spectrum of adolescent living experiences. I also media. Saphir’s father sent me Swiss chocolates
have four siblings and we did not grow up around for my birthday a few weeks later, so I knew the love
our father. Saphir and I share the desire to raise was real. Everyone was so kind and welcoming. I
children in a stable two-parent household, so felt comfortable being true to myself, the French-
early in our relationship, we decided to court and speaking American, in the chaos of an affluent
will consummate on our wedding night. This is our African family that is the polar opposite of my family
approach to ensure we remedy negative feelings of origin dynamics.
of not having both parents as primary caregivers to
build a strong family dynamic of togetherness and I am Azline Nelson, International
commitment. Correspondent for The Soultown Magazine.
I’d like to thank Saphir and his family for
On the last night in Altea, Saphir, his twin having SOUL! ,
cousins, their girlfriends, and I went to a bar museum
that his family has owned for decades called La
Mascarada in the Plaza de la Iglesia. It was such a
magical evening full of history, good conversation,
and Spanish pizza. The bar is designed as a ship --
symbolic of the owner who sailed around the coast
of Africa to collect masks; hence the name of the
bar, meaning masquerade and masks. As such, La
Mascarada is decorated with thousands of masks
that represent the owner’s experiences meeting
locals in African cities while playing his banjo and
guitar. Love was in the air as we lounged under the
stars, drank mojitos, and reminisced the night away.

Several times during the weekend, the family
gave us their blessing, in French and English.
It was during this time that I had shocked and
impressed his family by speaking French that
I cultivated after a decade of academic and
professional experiences. They had assumed that

Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com 13

Meme's Recipes

CHICAGO - It only seems proper to usher in to make it a double layer, double the ingredients.) s Meme’s Recipe
Black History Month with a family heirloom: Meme’s
Peach Cobbler. Honestly sharing, there isn’t a written Ingredients a simmer, reduce the heat to low and cook for 10
record of her recipe; this recipe is a recollection by • 1 stick of unsalted butter (4 tablespoons) minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool until
way of her daughter, Pauletta. • 1 ready-made deep dish pie crust warm.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, plus for dusting the
Since the age of four, Pauletta looked forward work surface Pour peaches mixture into prepared pan and
to Saturdays when Meme was home from work • 1 1/2 tablespoons agave syrup spread in an even layer to cover the bottom. Grate
preparing breakfast. She would start early in the • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg the zest of half the orange onto the peaches.
morning. “I would wake up and sit at the table • 2- 29 - ounce cans sliced peaches, drained
and watch her prepare our weekend meals and • Kosher salt Top with the second pie crust, then brush with
breakfast, lunch, and dinner. She always baked a • 1/2 orange egg mixture.
nice dessert for us to have with our soul food dinner • 1 egg, whisked
after church that usually lasted most of the week. Poke a couple of holes in the crust to allow
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a steam to escape (this helps the crust hold its shape
I would watch her get out all the ingredients 13-by-9-inch baking pan with 1/2 stick of butter. and cook evenly). Bake until golden brown and the
quietly. When she prepared the ingredients for a peach juices start to bubble, 40 minutes.
cake my brother, Tyrone and I would lick the spoon. Roll out the pie crust on a lightly floured work
When she baked pies she would give us a taste surface until large enough to cover the baking pan; Serve with your favorite vanilla ice cream.
before placing the mix inside the dish for baking.” set aside. On behalf of The Soultown Magazine,
we would like to thank Meme for her soulful
Smelling the food cook was always a pleasure. Melt the remaining 1/2 stick butter in a large
Her desserts were the best and good for our soul. skillet over medium heat. Add the agave, nutmeg, Peach Cobbler recipe and for having SOUL! ,
peaches, and 2 pinches salt; mix well. Bring to
(This recipe is for a single layer of peach cobbler

Courtesy Photo

14 Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com

Cover Story

In 1926, the precursor to Black 1155

History Month was created in the
United States. Historian Carter G.
Woodson and the Association for
the Study of Negro Life and History
announced the second week of
February to be Negro History Week.
As The Soultown Magazine pays
homage to Woodson and his team,
we are making Soultown history
by getting up close and personal
with Quenton Angelo Richardson
-- our very own, Black Male Advice
Columnist -- learning about his
thoughts on Black History Month in
our communities and Black Love.

Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com

Cover Story

“The act of love is one of the most important I believe that love involves a physical, mental, and spiritual connection
elements in the entire world and is a beautiful between two individuals and can never be compromised ...”
thing when it is true and unconditional.” Quenton
shares. “I believe that love involves a physical, -- Quenton
mental, and spiritual connection between two
individuals and can never be compromised due to reading, restoring cars, travel, fitness, looking days 29 this year. During this month we
age, race, or gender. Some people take love for should honor and celebrate accordingly. I
granted whether it is received from family, friends, good, smelling good, and spending time with his must admit I need to do better in recognizing
or lovers, but one thing that is guaranteed is that Black History Month, our ancestors and the
life is so much better if someone loves and cares children, family, and friends. “The most important accomplishments and hardships endured
for you.” over time.”
things at this point in my life,” Quenton shares are
Quenton Angelo Richardson is a single man When asked about the art of Black Love
born in Chicago, Illinois. He currently resides in “God, family, health, and wealth, in that order.” Quenton states. “If I was going to describe
the lovely state of Iowa. He says, “Every day I love using the five human senses. Love would
strive to remain humble and appreciative of all the As a business owner and a father that focuses look like the sun setting on a warm summer
things God has allowed me to acquire in my life. evening. Love would sound like Mary J. Blige
Some have been positive and some not, but at the on balancing Black History Month and Black or Sade singing directly in my ear. Love would
end of the day it has developed me into the man I smell like my grandmother’s kitchen on a
am now.” Quenton takes pride in staying focused. Love, he shares, “Well luckily Sunday afternoon after church. Love would
In his words, “I stay in my own lane and mind my taste like a juicy pineapple or strawberries
own business.” Valentine’s Day is only one cut up with sugar sprinkled all over them. And

He is the owner of Big Q’s Clothing and is day of the month, the 14th.
currently finishing his doctorate at the University of
Northern Iowa. Quenton’s hobbies include writing, Black History Month

is 28

Courtesy Photos

Quenton enjoys the beach with daughters Britan and Cheyenne.

1166 Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com

Cover Story

last, if you could touch love it would probably feel Left, Quenton’s daughters Taraji and Britan. Above Quenton Jr. with his dad.
like how my daughter felt when I held her at the
hospital when she was firstborn. Love is life and When I look at my daughter’s faces, it melts my heart. I am so blessed
the only reason that I have survived this far and
became the man that I am today.” because they are gorgeous, intelligent, athletic, and respectful to others.

Quenton also has a deep, defining love for all -- Quenton
types of music. “Some people from my generation
dislike the music of today, but I have an open mind if it wasn’t for the guidance and love that he had or make excuses for some of the decisions that
and like to stay current on what’s new and relevant received from his grandmother, he would have Black men have publicly made.” Quenton states,
on the radio. I love listening to old school rap and ended up going in the wrong direction in life. “I’m “It is simply to let the readers know that African
R&B because it brings back memories both good a walking and living testament that a woman can American males have the deck stacked against
and bad throughout my lifetime, but at the same contribute strongly in raising a man.” them from birth. We have to work harder than our
time I love listening to the new stuff, it contributes counterparts to succeed and navigate through life
to my turn up.” His lists of favorites could go on Businessman and Father, Quenton admits his and society. Personally, the challenges that I have
and on. However, Tupac, Dr. Dre, and Nas are just biggest challenge is being an African-American overcome have made me more humble, patient,
a few of his favorite old school rappers. Today’s man in the United States of America. “America is and appreciative of still being able to live, while
rappers include Da Baby, Drake, and Meek Mill. gradually changing and progressing when it comes maintaining a decent life outside of jail or in the
As for R&B Sade, Chris Brown, Jacquees, and to racism and equal rights ... we still have a long grave.”
Tory Lanez ranked at the top. way to go.” Quenton asks, “Can you imagine what
it would be like to walk in the shoes of a Black man Quenton also speaks to his love for a healthy
Family is first in Quenton’s world. He is a in America? Excuse my french, but HELL NO, you lifestyle. For the last year, he has taken the time to
proud father of three beautiful daughters and two can’t, unless you are a Black Man in America. The learn more about his body and physical health. He
sons. Quenton had never imagined having “... often daily challenges we experience are: admits, “One day I was looking in the mirror and
three wonderful little ladies to love and cherish. • Discrimination when it comes to acquiring good I wasn’t satisfied with what I saw, not to mention
When I look at my daughter’s faces, it melts jobs. how I was feeling physically. So I took the advice
my heart. I am so blessed because they are • Frequent contact with law enforcement due to of my close friend Terrance Redding (Big Tee) and
gorgeous, intelligent, athletic, and respectful to the color of our skin. started a food regiment called the Whole 30 and
others.” Also, Quenton spends a lot of time with • Early exposure to drugs, alcohol, and violence began working out.”
his grandmother Laura Jackson who he states due to the communities. The facts that I am stating
is the most important woman in his life and the is not to gain sympathy from people of other races His set goals included reducing his core
glue to his entire family. Quenton believes that by eating more healthy meals, and “... getting

Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com 17

Cover Story my sexy back.” Within the first 30 days, he lost
20 pounds of fat with ease. “Unfortunately,” He
Above, Laura smiles for a photo with her grandson. Below, the owner of Big Q’s Clothing in his place of business. remembers, “ … I went right back to my old diet
and gained all the weight back within 60 days. I
regrouped and decided to do the Whole 30 for
60 days and start working out 6 days a week. I
refrained from consuming sugar, alcohol, grains,
legumes, soy, and dairy for two months.” His
results were mind-blowing. After he completed the
two months he became even more serious about
his health. “Every day is a work in progress, but
I have managed to eliminate pork and pop from
my diet and easily drink eight cups of water a day.
I also have limited the amount of alcohol, beef,
bread, sugar, and fried foods. So I guess it’s safe
to say that I’m beginning to learn more about my
physical being and I love it!”

Short and long term goals keep motivation in
Quenton’s life. “My most important short term goal
is to graduate with my Doctorate this year and
officially become Dr. Quenton Angelo Richardson.
If everything aligns, I will finish my dissertation
by this Spring and be eligible to graduate in May
2020. If there are unavoidable challenges, I will
graduate in December 2020.” His long term goals
are to continue to raise his two young daughters,

18 Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com

Cover Story

and relocate to his dream city. Marriage is also in Third from the right, Quenton poses with friends in Los Angeles in front of mural of the late, Nipsey Hussle.
his future, as well as landing a career working to
develop African-American youth.

Quenton is the Black Male Advice Columnist
for The Soultown Magazine. His advice regarding
love is to look past a person’s outer appearance
and focus on their heart. He says, “Everybody
would like to have an attractive person on their
arm, but sometimes you have to look beyond that
and see a person for who they truly are.”

Regarding having SOUL, he says, “It is internal.
Everyone has a SOUL, but everyone does not
have SOUL. You can see SOUL within a person
by the way they talk and walk. Real SOUL is about
culture, struggle, victories, losses, enjoyment,
resilience and many other factors. True SOUL is
universal. You can possess it regardless of age,
gender, race, sexual orientation, or disabilities.
SOUL is about being comfortable with who you
are and not trying to be something that you’re
not; while standing up for what you believe in.” My
name is Quenton Angelo Richardson and I have
SOUL.

On behalf of The Soultown Magazine, we
would like to thank Quenton, his family and
friends for having SOUL! ,

Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com 19

Biz Wiz

Join The Soultown’s

BizWiz Section

Join The Soultown’s BizWiz section by sending a copy of your business card to [email protected].
20 Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com

Biz Wiz

Join The Soultown’s BizWiz section by sending a copy of your business card to [email protected]. 21

Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com

Just Call Me Tyra

Poet T Reminisces About ‘Just The Other Day’

Just the other day while in the café they tend to forget that they’ve been degraded. that the thirst for my knowledge
I listened to what 3 white men had to say It just trips my trigger, I guess I just figure will never be quenched.

Though 3 should be wise There’s nothing worse than an educated n*gger. Though slavery is gone, we can still hear its tone:
I was quite surprised The last one stood up with his coffee cup We need to learn what we need
And said, as he let out a brief hiccup… to know on our own! ,
With what they described as who they despised That’s where you’re wrong:
One was still young It’s a fact that’s well known POET T

not yet good with his tongue What’s worse is a n*gger who can think on his Just Call Me Tyra
He stumbled over words that could have been own! Learn more from our Authentic Advisor at:

sung As I turned to leave, I could not believe the thesoultown.com
What do I hate? message from these 3 that I received: Email Me: [email protected]
I can’t even rate. College is cool but as goes the rule
It’s between being stood
up and not having a date. Black folks come out being educated fools.
The next was some older, Degrees are nice though and our options do grow
his words were much bolder
He needed support so he grabbed his dad’s but
They’ve still controlled the information we know
shoulder: We should be yearning what we are not learning
Left up to me, you would never see a black man And the pages of black written words should be

at a college or university turning.
They become emancipated once educated and So, because of their ignorance, I am convinced

2222 Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com

The Griot

The Griots Know What The Caged Bird Feels

Dedicated to Kobe & Gigi Bryant and other victims of helicopter crash in Calabasas, CA

Dedicated to Kobe & Gigi Bryant and other “If you’re so unhappy, then I’ll set you free.”— Zora Neale Hurston felt it:
victims of helicopter crash in Calabasas, CA Their eyes were watching God—
Toni Morrison felt it: Gayl Jones felt it:
Tell you who knows what the When Violet heard that Joe had fallen for Mosquito carrying
Caged bird feels? Why the Dorcas, an eighteen-year old girl, Coyotes (Illegals) across US-Mexican border.
Caged bird beats its wings? She “took the birds from their cages and set Ursa (Corregidora) making generations through
Explain to you why the them Blues. Hysterectomy. “Soot crying out of” her
Caged bird sings? And Out the windows to freeze, including the parrot eyes—
What they did about it? that said, Alice Walker felt it:
Very well, grandchild, I will ‘I love you.’”
Tell you, without slant: When Dorcas fell for a younger man, Womanist prose—
Joe shot her to keep the love going— “Womanism is to feminism as
The following griots know what the Purple to lavender.” The color
Caged bird feels. They know why the The griots know what the Purple possessing the secret of joy—
Caged birds beats his wings. Caged bird feels. UncleIsh felt it:
Why he looks heavenward and sings— They know why the Oakland Neo-HooDooism
Sassafras reciting Dunbar— Caged bird beats his wings.
Sympathy in the majors when They know why the This poem can be read in its entirety at
Malindy sings in the minors— Caged bird sings. thesoultown.com
Indigo’s talking fiddle calling gods—
August Wilson felt it: Note to the Editor: As part of Black History Month,
Maya Angelou felt it: Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom. the octave-stanza-structured poem immortalizes
I know why the Gertrude Ma Rainey felt it: Paul Laurence Dunbar, “the Poet of the People,”
Caged bird sings— Slave to the blues. those who have artistically responded to his poem
Alicia Keys felt it: Prove it on me— “Sympathy,” and those who have made freedom the
Caged bird’s songs in a minor— Bessie Smith felt it: underpinning theme of their works. Unlike artists
J. Cole felt it: St. Louis Blues—Composed by who have looked at Dunbar’s caged bird from the
Black males behind bars. W.C. Handy—Father of the blues— perspective of a song, the poem emphasizes the
“It’s just like the caged bird I sing a song caged bird’s feelings before the latter are vocalized
Billie Holiday felt it: in a song.
Hoping they open up these bars and” Lady sings the blues.
Send me home— Strange Fruit hanging on a tree— I am Dr. Pierre Mvuyekure, Griot for The
Myles Cameron felt it: Nina Simone felt it: Soultown International Magazine. I’d like to thank
“Time teach a caged bird how to fly.”— She sang Strange Fruit— the African storytellers for having SOUL! ,
Tobe Nwigwe felt it: Kanye West felt it:
“We come from where most don’t break free. Yeezus walks on DR. PIERRE MVUYEKURE
We had to learn why caged birds sing. Blood on the leaves—
But we fly even though they poisoned the Faith Enthusiast
sky.”— The Prez felt it: Learn more from The Griot at:
Lester Young could sing with his horn.
Buju Banton felt it: Did anything happen between him and thesoultown.com
“Have you heard a caged bird sing?” Lady Day? The way she writes about him…— Email Me: [email protected]
“I searched for freedom the gate word sings.”— Billie passed it to Lawson Fusao Inada, a
Even the Nashville Cast felt it: Japanese boy caged/interned in the camps:
No one clipped your wings. Do not Legends from camps: “Black shoyu/Let me
Not be a caged bird— Taste the blues” à la Muddy Waters—
Miniature Tigers felt it:

Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com 23

Dear Gabby

Add Franklin, Marley & Lauryn to Your Playlist

Dear Queen Gabby, DEAR GABBY Dear Just the Way I Am,
I joined the gym the first of the year and I am Yes, you should always try something new. No
feeling motivated. I created a playlist for me Female Advice Columnist one wants to do the same thing over and over. Ask
to workout, but I’ve noticed that I have grown your significant other what they had in mind and
tired of the same old songs. I hope this isn’t ----------------------------------------------- go for it. You two could start a new tradition, who
too personal, but can you share the top 25 knows? Get creative. Pinterest can be your best
songs in your motivational playlist. I just need Learn more about Queen Gabby’s advice at friend with things like this. If I were you I would
some variety. I hope Big Q has some good thesoultown.com surprise my significant other with an itinerary of
ones, too. things to do on this special day. Shake it up with
Email Me: [email protected] new ideas and make sure to keep the relationship
~ Seeking Musical Motivation fresh. Don’t be boring, especially if they are
in the Bay Area, and do enjoy the beach. It’s free expressing that they are tired of the same old
Dear Seeking Musical Motivation, and you can always make your fun. Pack some thing. Life is too short, be adventurous.
Good job on joining the gym. I hope you keep it food and drinks and sit out and enjoy nature. The
up and reach your weight goal! My playlist differs; winter does get a little cold, but only “hoodie” cold, ~ Queen Gabby ,
I’m spiritual, a bit of an islander, and ratchet all in so you might enjoy a bonfire. I’ve also gone hiking,
one. What can I say… Mama raised me to be well which is free of cost. I almost passed out walking SCAN THE QR CODE TO GET
rounded. When I am working out I listen to EDM “The Dish” in Palo Alto, but it is a great workout. THE SOULTOWN MAGAZINE
music. I know that sounds whack, but it keeps my Go see Fisherman’s Wharf, the entertainment ON YOUR MOBILE DEVICE.
momentum up. It has the same fist-pumping beat on the pier is excitement enough, plus you can
and doesn’t allow me to slow down. I wouldn’t get some great food and sweets along the way.
dare listen to this type of music otherwise, but I The Crooked steps on Lombardi street have no
usually pull the playlist up on Apple Music and cost and are pretty unique, and just going to take
get to it. If I’m working out at home, I usually a look at the Golden Gate Bridge always creates
play my go-to list. It consists of some hits from memories. You don’t have to have money to have
Kirk Franklin, some Bob Marley, Lauryn, Rihanna, fun, and the Bay Area is full of things you can do
Meg, Da Baby, Future and whatever is thrown in without breaking your pockets. Do not forget to
the rotation. I will tell you, that I end up having a bring a jacket, the water and wind can feel like
karaoke session vs actually working out. I hope Chicago at times, lol.
this helps, and do a squat or two for me, please.
~ Queen Gabby
~ Queen Gabby Dear Queen Gabby,
Valentine’s Day is here and I’m content with
Dear Queen Gabby, what I love, who I love, when I love, how I love,
I love the outside, the fresh air, the animals, and where I want to display love. I guess some
and all of the natural beauty of the outdoors. would say I’m set in my ways. My significant
I am planning an outdoor date with my other asked me if we could try something new
significant other. I live in the Bay, so the to celebrate Valentine’s Day? I don’t want to.
weather is manageable in the winter. What Should I?
ideas do you have that we could do that are
not so expensive? ~ Just the Way I Am

~ Fresh Air Freak

Dear Fresh Air Freak,
Well, this is not my area of expertise. I have
allergies, and can’t stand to be outside. I have lived

24 Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com

Big Q!

What is Waterloo Schools doing
differently to commit to diversity

and equity in education?

All principals, assistant “One of my primary goals as the
principals, lead teachers and Associate Superintendent of
instructional coaches participate in
monthly professional learning around Educational Services is to ensure
diversity and equity and lead the that education truly is the great
charge back in their buildings. equalizer for our students. This
Spanish Immersion Program entails working on a daily basis to
at Highland Elementary (K,1,2) decrease both the opportunity gap
and a French Immersion Program and achievement gap for our black
at Lou Henry Elementary (K,1,2)
and brown students.”

-Dr. Stephanie Mohorne

Removed barriers for our African-American History
black and brown 8th grade students classes offered at East and West
to earn at least one high school course
in middle school, paving the way for a (beginning Fall 2020)
Specific focus on African-
smooth transition to high school
American student achievement and
decreasing the achievement gap
while accelerating learning for all
students on the assessment

Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com 25

Celebrating Black History

with pushblack.org

Lift Every Voice and Sing

Push Black Lift every voice and sing
You have the right to remain SILENT. You’ve probably heard that before, but that’s because it’s true, and Till earth and heaven ring
it’s YOUR RIGHT. You can make a request to speak with your lawyer and not say anything else. This is just Ring with the harmonies of Liberty
one of the important things to remember if you’re getting arrested. Anything you say to the police WILL
be used AGAINST you. So, it’s better to say nothing than give incorrect information or possibly incriminate Let our rejoicing rise
yourself, even if you didn’t do anything wrong. You have the right to a local phone call, and police shouldn’t High as the list’ning skies, let it resound loud as the
be listening in on your conversation. The ACLU warns: “Do not resist arrest, even if you believe the arrest is
unfair. Follow the officers’ commands.” If you’re being violated: “Write down everything you remember, rolling sea
including officers’ badge and patrol car numbers, which agency the officers were from, and any other Sing a song full of faith that the dark past has
details.” When you can, you have the right to make a complaint to the appropriate authorities with the
agency that placed you under arrest. Remember to try to retain as much information as you can, including tought us
the numbers of friends and relatives in case you end up in a jail cell! Have discussions with your family and Sing a song full of the hope that the present has
friends about what to do if you’re arrested. You don’t have to wait until it actually happens - and trust, it can
happen to ANY of us. , brought us
Facing the rising sun of our new day begun

Let us march on till victory is won
Stony the road we trod
Bitter the chast’ning rod

Felt in the day that hope unborn had died
Yet with a steady beat
Have not our weary feet

Come to the place on witch our fathers sighed
We have come over a way that with tears has been

watered
We have come, treading our path through the blood

of the slaughtered
Out from the gloomy past, till now we stand at last

Where the white gleam of our star is cast
God of our weary years
God of our silent tears

Thou who has brought us thus far on the way
Thou who has by thy might
Led us into the light

Keep us forever in the path, we pray
Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where

we met thee
Lest our hearts, drunk with the wine of the world,

we forget thee
Shadowed beneath the hand

May we forever stand
True to our God

True to our native land

Poem/song by James Weldon Johnson, and his brother John.

LEARN MORE ABOUT PUSH BLACK & SUPPORT PUSH BLACK https://pushblack.org/

26 Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com

Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com 27

Faith Enthusiast

IOWA - I am convinced that you are here DR. DAVID RAINEY that limit potential and faith. That tumultuous past
for a purpose. Our very existence came as the and the possibilities of the future are like coming
result of a strategy of God. The prophet Jeremiah Faith Enthusiast to a positive critical mass – that place of extreme
had a conversation with God that included an opposites. In Business Administration class I was
amazing comment. “Before I formed thee in the Learn more from our Faith Enthusiast at: taught the term chaos theory; meaning there has
belly I knew thee…” Centuries before, King David thesoultown.com to be an extreme polarity before there can be a
encouraged himself by observing: “I am fearfully reorganization, which is just another way of saying
and wonderfully made… how precious also are Email Me: [email protected] is that some storms in life come to clear a path.
thy thoughts unto me, O God!”
Learn to not cling to a mistake just because
Many biblical convey that you and I were we spent a lot of time making that mistake. Do
a ‘set up’ from the beginning of time. We are not become addicted to an event no matter how
strategies of God from eternity past born for traumatic. Choose Ye this day. Free ourselves
such a time as this. Even the difficulties in our from any excuse. Excuses have a prophetic tone
lives were designed by God to “work together for and are often the language of defeat, a reason to
good”. Longevity is teaching me every day that fall short of our potential and miss the glory of the
hardships are life’s way of coaxing the best out of sacred now.
us, refining us to reveal a divine purpose. There is
something latent within us that, if awakened, can If I have born negative fruit in my life, I will
overcome tests, trials, temptations and the like. repent and adjust my decrees. For we live by our
decrees. I am commanding my mind and body
One of my mentors encouraged me, “David, into a new destiny. When we make a decision, all
our very lives are sparks from heaven that have of creation begins to align itself to make it happen.
fallen into the dark crevices of this world. Those
sparks desire expression. Once those sparks Now let the weak say, “I am strong.” Let the
are released, we can overcome this world’s poor say, “I am rich.”
challenges and release the hidden glory within
us.” Because of what the Lord has done for us…
give thanks!
Yes, the humans that we are, we will
miss the mark from time to time but have The just shall live by faith. Be encouraged.
hope, faith that God in THIS life will allow a I am Dr. David Rainey, Faith
comeback from a setback. How does the Enthusiast for The Soultown
comeback commence? (I am glad that International Magazine. I’d like to thank
you asked). We look within, we look God for having SOUL! ,
up and then we look out to a new
horizon. “Before

Learn to release I formed
ourselves from
excuses thee in the belly

I knew thee ...”

-- Hebrews 11:1

26

Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com

The Sankofa Vow

THE SOULTOWN, USA - If you have never been to the state of California,
you must visit. At the very least, I implore you to listen and re-listen to the rap
lyrics where the reference of California’s love is unique and intoxicating.

In the hip hop track -- by the late Tupac Shakur and Dr. Dre -- hip hop fans
bobbed their heads on a dare and threw their hands in the air, just like they didn’t
care when the lyrics blared.

Now let me welcome everybody to the Wild Wild West
A state that’s untouchable like Eliot Ness
The track hits your eardrum like a slug to your chest
Pack a vest for your Jimmy in the city of sex
We in that Sunshine State where the bomb-ass
hemp be
The state where you never find a dance floor
empty
If these lyrics did not pique the curiosity of
listeners, Snoop Dogg offered a similar
lyrical visual that fed the fantasies
of weed smokers, womanizers,
and Laker lovers.
… A lot of homies
like to wear the
pizzerm
Hair
longer

Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com 29

30 Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com

The Sankofa Vow

Nicknamed the ‘Black Mamba’, Kobe created this alter-ego
to help him push through the lowest point of his career.

-- Chillin

than hers, sharp with the fizzur not have to know Kobe personally to mourn his

Doggy Dizzogg, you know I like to bizzall loss, we all were graced with his presence, skills,

Like Kobe to Shaq so take that … and love for his family that each one of us will keep

Some may define California Love in a his memory and legacy. Even though Los Angeles

contrasting way. California is called “The Golden has suffered a couple of losses in a small period,

State” because gold was discovered there in 1848 including their very own rapper Nipsey Hussle, they

and because golden yellow poppy fields cover the are still able to stand strong and be there for one

state in the spring. Nevertheless, for the past 20 another. The most heartfelt memory that will forever

years the name, the person, the Laker basketball be imprinted in my mind is witnessing the tears of

player, Kobe Bryant is synonymous with California, his fans standing and staring at the Staples Center

specifically, Los Angeles. And now he is gone. in disbelief. We are all shocked and hurt.”

Bryant died on January 26, 2020, in a helicopter The obvious love and overwhelming feeling of

crash in Calabasas, California with eight others, sadness that hovers over the state of California

including his 13-year-old daughter Gianna Bryant, are strong, it’s never-ending and both emotions

and college baseball coach John Altobelli, his wife, transcend cultures, generations, genders, and

Keri, and their basketball-playing daughter Alyssa; sports fans.

mother and daughter Sarah and Payton Chester; Kobe’s last words in his final game were, “What

Mamba Academy basketball coach Christina can I say, Mamba out.”

Mauser; and pilot Ara Zobayan. On behalf of The Soultown, our

Nicknamed the ‘Black Mamba’, Kobe message to Kobe is … know you are

created this alter-ego to help him push loved, you are a legend in your own

through the lowest point of his career. time and you are gone too soon. Your

The husband, the father of four daughters name will forever be synonymous with

and the legendary basketball player was California Love.

41 years young with a history of scoring I am Chillin’, Publisher &

81 points in a single game. Innovative Extraordinaire for The

Dozens gathered to mourn and The Soultown International Magazine. I’d

Soultown’s International Correspondent QUEEN like to thank -- all 9 passengers that
/ Advice Columnist, Queen Gabby GABBY
traveled to Los Angeles to honor the Advice Columnist / lost their lives -- for having SOUL!
9 people that lost their lives in the R.I.H. ,
Photographer Learn more about the Sankofa Vow at

helicopter crash. “Kobe Bryant meant so much to thesoultown.com

his wife, his daughters, Los Angeles, to Basketball Email me:

… to everyone. I still remember when Kobe’s [email protected]

firstborn entered the world, and then came Gigi,

the daughter we grew to know and love because

she shared the same passion for the sport. Fans,

including myself, watched his family grow. We

mourn as fans of Mamba. As I approached the

Staples Center, I felt the sadness, but I also felt the

love from the Laker community. People from all over

the world were present to pay their respects. The

number of flowers, photos, jerseys, and shoes was

showered alongside the center, with farewell notes

planted on the cement. The city’s colors appeared

as if more gray, due to grief than purple and gold.

Photos of Kobe and Gianna’s pictures

were everywhere,” Gabby continues,

Photos by Queen Gabby “What is very interesting is … you did

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32 Feb. 2020 • Immortalizing Our Stories to Implore Positive Progress In Our Communities • thesoultown.com


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