BLACK WRITERS GUILD OF MARYLAND, INC.

Participating Organization at the 2014 A.A.A.E

www.blackwritersguild.org

CHRISTIAN AUTHORS ON TOUR(CAOT)

Participating Tour at the 2014 A.A.A.E

www.christianauthorsontour.com

FEATURED AUTHORS APPEARING AT THE 2014 

AFRICAN AMERICAN AUTHORS EXPO

FEATURED AUTHOR

BERNICE L. MCFADDEN

BERNICE L. McFADDEN is the author of eight critically acclaimed novels including Sugar, Nowhere Is a Place, Gathering of Waters (a New York Times Editors’ Choice and one of the 100 Notable Books of 2012), and Glorious, which was featured in O, The Oprah Magazine and was a finalist for the NAACP Image Award. She is a two-time Hurston/Wright Legacy Award finalist, as well as the recipient of two fiction honor awards from the BCALA. Her sophomore novel, The Warmest December, was praised by Nobel Prize–winning author Toni Morrison as “searing and expertly imagined.” McFadden lives in Brooklyn, New York.

FEATURED AUTHOR VICTORIA CHRISTOPHER MURRAY

Victoria Christopher Murray always knew she would become an author, even as she was taking an unlikely path to that destination. A native of Queens, Victoria first left New York to attend Hampton University where she majored in Communication Disorders. After graduating, Victoria attended New York University where she received her MBA.

Victoria spent ten years in Corporate America before she tested her entrepreneurial spirit. She opened a Financial Services Agency for Aegon, USA where she managed the number one division for nine consecutive years. However, Victoria never lost the dream to write and when the “bug” hit her again in 1997, she answered the call.

Victoria originally self-published her first novel, Temptation and in 2000, Time Warner published that novel. Temptation made numerous best sellers list and remained on the Essence bestsellers list for nine consecutive months. In 2001, Temptation was nominated for an NAACP Image Award in Outstanding Literature. February 2014, Victoria received another nomination for an NAACP Image Award in Outstanding Literature for her novel, Never Say Never.

Since Temptation, Victoria has written fifteen other adult novels, including: Joy, Grown Folks Business, The Ex Files, The Deal, the Dance and the Devil, her newest novel, Never Say Never and the popular Jasmine Cox Larson Bush series.  In 2012, Victoria joined ReShonda Tate Billingsley to write two collaborations, Sinners and Saints, and Friends and Foes which pits Victoria's Jasmine character against Rachel Adams, a first lady created by ReShonda. In her latest novel, it has been quoted by USA Today as “a book club recommendation.”

Victoria has received numerous awards including the Golden Pen Award for Best Inspirational Fiction and the Phyllis Wheatley Trailblazer Award for being a pioneer in African American Fiction.  Since 2007, Victoria has won six African American Literary Awards for best novel, best Christian fiction and Author of the Year - Female.  Her 2013 NAACP Image Award nomination for Destiny's Divas was her second Image Award nomination.

In 2008, Victoria’s first novels in her Christian fiction teen series - The Divine Divas – were published and were optioned to become a television series.  She is currently in negotiations for her novel, The Ex Files, to become a movie.

With over one million books in print, Victoria is one of the country's top African American contemporary authors.

On February 3, 2014, Victoria and her writing twin, ReShonda Tate Billingsley, launch their very own boutique publishing co, Brown Girls Publishing. (www.browngirlspublishing.com)

Victoria splits her time between Los Angeles and Washington D.C. In Los Angeles, she attends Bible Enrichment Fellowship International Church under the spiritual tutelage of Dr. Beverly “BAM” Crawford and in Washington, D.C., she fellowships at Metropolitan Baptist Church under Dr. H. Beecher Hicks, Jr.  She is also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.

FEATURED AUTHOR SHERI BOOKER

Sheri J. Booker is a writer, poet, spoken word artist, and teacher. She is the author of the poetry book, One Woman, One Hustle (2003), Vook, I am the Poem (2011) , and memoir Nine Years Under: Coming of Age in an Inner City Funeral Home (2013), which won the 2014 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work by a Debut Author .

In 2007, she lived in rural South Africa where she helped to teach journalism skills to African women and worked as an editorial assistant for an international literary magazine. She has been featured in the New York Times, NPR, and Essence Magazine.

Most recently, Sheri has discovered a passion for teaching. She currently teaches a refreshing course called Mind, Body, Soul at the Baltimore Leadership School for Young Women.

Sheri has an M.F.A. in creative nonfiction from Goucher College. Visit her online at sheribooker.com.

FEATURED AUTHOR A'LELIA BUNDLES

FEATURE AUTHOR RYAN C. GREEN

"Dreams are MAN-made. Purpose is GOD-made. DESTINY is where the two of them meet!" ~RCG

​Ryan C. Greene’s leadership development began at a very young age. His single mother, Jacqueline, raised Ryan with his younger sister Stacie in the suburbs of Baltimore, MD. Ryan became the man of the house quickly as a “latch-key kid” at the age of eight. He attributes his determination, commitment to succeed and never give up attitude to watching his mother sacrifice her life for the life of her kids. Watching his mother fight to make ends meet, support her family and fight through her sickle cell anemia, gave Ryan the determined resolve to be the one to make a difference in his family.

Ryan graduated from Hampton University in Hampton, VA with a Bachelors of Science Degree in Marketing. He has two children and  currently resides in Mitchellville, MD with his wife Tyneka.

Ryan is making that difference today, as he is quickly becoming one of the most sought after speakers and trainers on the East Coast. In January 2005, Ryan founded Bakari Book Publishers (now GreeneHouse Media) and published his first book, "Success Is In Your Hand: 19 Keys To Unlocking The Successful Person You Were Designed To Be". His second book, "My Little Black Book Of Leadership: 15 Leadership Lessons I Learned From My Ex-Girlfriends", was released in the March 2008. In December 2008 Ryan released his third book, "Lead Wolf vs. Lone Wolf: You’re Only A Leader If Others Are Following" followed by his fourth book, the Amazon.com #1 Best Seller, "The Queens' Legacy" in April 2009. Ryan’s fifth book “Create A Better YOU!” was released in January 2013. His latest book "Re-Ignite Your Fire Within" is scheduled to be released in May 2014.

PARTICIPATING AUTHORS AT THE 2014 

AFRICAN AMERICAN AUTHOR'S EXPO

DONNA LYNN

Donna Lynn is an international fitness expert and founder of Donnacize Aerobics, Inc.  She is currently a full-time Professor at Howard University and an Adjunct Professor at Bowie State University.  She’s taught classes throughout Luxembourg, Germany, Belgium and France. 

Ms. Lynn became a familiar and trusted face in the fitness arena as many watched “The Donnacize Morning Workout” cable program in Baltimore Maryland. 

She has a Bachelor's Degree in Mass Communication, a Master's Degree in Public Administration and books titled “Lose Your Stomach Forever, the Donnacize Way” & “101 Ways to Stay Motivated and Lose Weight”. 

RITA J. LUCAS

Rita J. Lucas is an author, publisher and poet with a passion for Education and positive thinking. Some of her work includes a collection of poems entitled Love Order Chaos and a non-fiction title; Negativity Outta Here. She has written for her school newspaper, served as Poetry Editor of the school journal and submitted numerous articles and essays. Rita has also contributed to The Baltimore Examiner giving relationship advice. She spends most of her time expanding her craft by diving into photojournalism and public relations. Her goal is to be able to stay home and live out her dream as a writer; sharing her words and stories with the world.

 HOPE LEE

“What Colors Did You Eat Today?” is a book written for children to inspire them to eat their fruits and vegetables.  This is Mrs. Lee’s first book.  She has always been concerned about the eating habits of young children and she anticipates her book will make a difference for many of them.  

“I saw a lot of children and young adults eating ‘brown’ foods such as fries, mozzarella sticks, hamburgers, etc.,” author Hope H. Lee explains. Wanting to help children develop good eating habits at an early age, she offers her new book, “What Colors Did You Eat Today?”

“What Colors Did You Eat Today?” was written for the younger child who is beginning to recognize colors. “The message is simple,” Lee says, “the more colors you see on your plate, the more health benefits you will get.”

Lee offers a different attempt to address obesity in children, presented in a fresh way. “What Colors Did You Eat Today?” doesn’t dwell on nutrition or diet, but presents better eating options in an easy-to-read fashion that is both colorful and enticing to young readers.  The web site is www.whatcolorsdidyoueat.com/

 BERNICE LAYTON

Born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, Bernice Layton works full-time and is an avid reader of romantic suspense novels.  She is a member of Romance Writers of America and Black Writers' Guild of Maryland. Happily married, Mrs. Layton resides with her husband and is the mother of one daughter, NaTiki who inspires her to keep writing with this phrase in mind, "all things are possible with love and friendship, and the endless possibilities of past, future, and present encounters."

Mrs. Layton has published four romantic suspense novels for Genesis Press, Inc. Promises Made, Crossing the Line, Lies in Disguise and Mind Games.
 
Mrs. Layton plans to write more books and is currently securing a contract for her next release.  

C.NATASHA RICHBURG

C. NaTasha Richburg is a wife and mother of four grown children with a catalog of books focused on the reality of the Hip Hop generation. 

Mrs. Richburg is also the visionary for Jeremiah's Kall, an urban Spoken word and Hip Hop music platform presented in a manner that is "Real-Raw-Responsibly Rebellious" with indie artists accountable to the Word of God. 

Mrs. Richburg's brand of motivation includes promoting Jeremiah's Kall concerts and having inspiration sessions with audiences of all ages that combine her wisdom with artistry to present an electrifying brand of edutainment that motivates positive change.

STELLA ADAMS

Stella Adams was born in Winnsboro, South Carolina, but grew up in Baltimore, Maryland.  She is a product of the Baltimore public school system, having graduated from Carver Vocational Technical High School as a business major.   Despite the vocational training, Stella decided to go to college, and matriculated at Morgan State University (Morgan State College at the time) where she majored in history.  Upon graduation, though she had planned to teach high school social studies, the Federal Government presented a more attractive offer.

She is married and has two sons, one of whom is also a writer. In addition, she has two delightful granddaughters, who are the joy of her life. Over the years Stella has written plays, short stories, professional articles, and poetry.  Heavy Is the Rain is her first novel. 

LAVITA WEAVER

La Vita Weaver is an inspirational speaker, fitness trainer, and professional in the financial industry. She is the author of the faith-based health and fitness book Fit For God: The 8-Week Plan That Kicks the Devil OUT and Invites Health and Healing IN and appeared regularly as the co-host of Trinity Broadcasting Network’s (TBN’s) popular health and fitness show “TotaLee Fit.” Overcoming personal challenges ignited her passion to encourage all people to pursue total health and healing—spiritually, mentally, physically and financially— and was her inspiration to write Fit For God Financially: Seven Steps To Shape Your Financial Blessing. Now healed and renewed, La Vita’s enthusiasm and genuine joy for life is contagious.

CHERYL BARTON

Cheryl Barton was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland and is the proud mother of one daughter, Chynae Victoria.  She was raised in a very happy home with her two older brothers and is the proud daughter of parents who recently celebrated 50 years of marriage. Besides dedicating her time to writing, Cheryl also works full-time and enjoys time spent with family, reading mystery, espionage and romance novels, line dancing and Maryland steamed crabs. 

Cheryl is the owner of Barton Publishing, LLC, a media publishing company, where she not only publishes her own novels, but she’s working with two local writers to publish their works in 2014. 

More information on Author Cheryl Barton, her novels, her publishing company and her non-profit organization can be found on her website at www.cherylbarton.  You can also connect with her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/authorcherylbarton and on twitter @Mscbarton.  

KHARA  CAMPBELL

Khara Campbell holds a Bachelors of Fine Arts Degree in Creative Writing from Midland Lutheran University. She enjoys blogging about the happenings of life, faith, parenting, her publishing journey, marriage, fashion, and her Bahamian heritage on www.kharacampbell.blogspot.com.  She was born and raised in Nassau, The Bahamas. She resides in the Washington, DC metro area and is an online contributor to Black Literature Magazine, The Literary Network and The Praying Woman. NOT MY WILL is her debut novel.

ONDREA L. DAVIS

Ondrea L. Davis is a Washington, DC native and has 12-year old twin daughters and a 10-year old son.  She graduated in 2010 earning a degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting and received a Master of Arts degree in Christian Counseling in 2012.  Ondrea is an author with Foresight Publishing, co-authoring her debut novel, How could my husband be GAY?  She is also one of the contributing authors in the Weary & Willanthology.  She is currently working on two new projects to be released in 2014.  In addition to writing, Ondrea is an avid reader and reviews for Foresight Literary Lounge and Black Literature Magazine, and very active in her church.  For more information, please visit www.ondrealdavis.com.

YOUTH AUTHOR SHELIECE MARILIN

Sheliece Marilin is a twelve year old, first time author. She is the middle child, with a twin sister and younger brother.  A seventh grader in the Prince George's County Public School system in Maryland, she enjoys middle school life.  Her favorite subject is reading. 

Some of her favorite things to do are writing stories and poetry, singing and praise dancing. She is an active member of her church, where she participates in the youth choir. Sheliece has a blue belt in karate and is a championship grappling contender, winning a number of medals and competition swords.

Landin's Deal of a Lifetime is Sheliece's debut title. She is currently working on her second book in the Kids' Choice Series, Mikael's Close Call. 

Dr. Steven Haymon

Steven Haymon, Ed.D, has over 38 years of clinical experience as a psychotherapist/ consultant. He has treated thousands of clients for issues including childhood disorders, marital and couple counseling, family counseling, parent/child conflicts and chemical dependency. Dr. Haymon has also done extensive work with mood disorders, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders. He has a wealth of knowledge in conducting training, workshops and seminars in his various fields of study and research.

Dr. Haymon has a B.A. in Education, M.S.W. in Social Work and a Ed.D in Educational Psychology. He has also pursued and completed Christian educational course-work at Bethesda Temple Bible Institute, under the tutelage of Dr. Rachel Webb. Dr. Haymon is a member of Bethesda Temple Church of the Apostolic Faith in St. Louis, Missouri where the Honorable Bishop James A. Johnson, D.D. is pastor.

TREMAYNE MOORE

Tremayne Moore is the founder of Mayntre Manuscripts, LLC, a publishing company with a vision of writing to right the broken soul. Tremayne is committed to educate youth, parents, pastors, and community members concerning child sexual abuse/teenage suicide through social media and community involvement. Moore holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Florida A&M University and a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems from Florida State University. His book “Deaf, Dumb, Blind & Stupid: Michael Anderson’s Fight for Life” was listed on OOSA Bookclub’s The Best of 2012.

WILLIAM F. NOLAN

As President of the Young Timers Birthday Club Mentoring Group and author of My Life in Real Times: Short Stories with Long Lessons, William F. Nolan, Sr. mentors young men in thinking bigger and developing skills that will support them in creating a life that most people only dream of!  William has written several poems, short stories for children, including songs, and has been interviewed several times on Baltimore’s WOLB  1010 AM and Morgan State University’s Radio Station, WEAA.  Passionate about inspiring youth to dream again, William shares his gifts of creativity and 70 years of life’s experiences through thought-provoking poetry.  His goal is to advance the wisdom of the next generation by quantum leaps!

KEVIN WAYNE JOHNSON

With the fundamental belief that God uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things, Kevin Wayne Johnson lives to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ. His passion is reflected through his national best-selling book series (Give God the Glory!) that have earned 17 literary awards. since 2001, all published through his Christian-based publishing company - Writing for the Lord Ministries - as a former radio and television host, and in several leadership positions within the local church, the Christian publishing industry, and the National Association of the Church of God
(Anderson, Indiana).

ANN BAYAH

Ann Bayah was born and reared on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.  From an early age, her mother served as her primary inspiration for writing. Thus, Ms. Bayah’s love of putting pen to paper started when she was barely old enough to understand the power of the written word.  She never considered writing as a career option, but after completing her post graduate work, she toyed with the idea of writing prose, plays, poetry, and short stories as an avocation.  From the time she received the stunning news that she had won a statewide play writing contest, she began to dream of producing a novel one day.  Ms. Bayah is still a Maryland resident.

TRACEY D. SYPHAX

Tracey Syphax is an entrepreneur, community activist, motivational speaker and now author. He is also the President/CEO of two successful award winning corporations. Phax Group Construction & Design LLC… specializes in home and building improvements and rehabilitation services. The Phax Group LLC focuses on real estate development with multiple properties in Trenton New Jersey.

KISHIA WATKINS

Kishia Watkins is a native of Washington, DC.  Travel is her greatest passion, so much so that her three children, Chyna, Rome, and Denver, and her grandson, Rio are named after some of her favorite travel destinations. At age 17, Kishia spent time abroad, an experience that greatly impacted her perception and understanding of the world.  Reflections The Book Ministry is her first entrepreneurial venture. Through this ministry, Kishia desires to give voice to a variety of contemporary issues affecting women in the body of Christ. She is a member of The Soul Factory Church in Maryland.

SA'RESE

The best way to describe Sa'Rese as an author, is that she's indescribable. It's easy to look at her writings, see the tales of sex, drugs & violence & cast her off as "urban". But the level of transparency & gut wrenching detail that Sa'Rese provides through her stories transcend any sort of label the human mind can conjure. Sa'Rese with a pen is raw, in your face, & honest. A voice for the voiceless who feel their story isn't worth telling. While already penning critically acclaimed novels such as Stripping Asjiah (and its sequel), she has recently added The Color of Money to her arsenal and is currently working on various other projects. Sa'Rese sets out to continue the trend of not following the trend.  

BERMESOLA M DYER

Bermesola M Dyer is a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner, inspirational speaker and poet as well as an officer in the United States Navy. Her passion and mission in life is to enhance the health and well-being of others and inspire young women to walk in their purpose. As a strong believer in education, she has obtained numerous degrees and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Johns Hopkins University. Bermesola was born and raised in San Jose, California and is the oldest of five children. She currently lives in Laurel, MD

DEMETRIA ALEXANDER GRISSETT

Dee Grissett, a native of Baltimore, Maryland, graduated from Baltimore Polytechnic Institute.  She furthered her education at Johnson C. Smith University (BS) in Charlotte, North Carolina and Fayetteville State University (MBA) in Fayetteville, North Carolina.  

She was lead to publish her first book after being diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, a cancer of the bone marrow/plasma cells. Dee’s goal in publishing this book is to share her experiences in hope of encouraging and inspiring others who may be in the same or similar situation. You can contact Dee via email at author@deegrissett.com or you can visit her website at www.deegrissett.com.

JC GARDNER(Jackie Gardner)

Ever since the age of twelve, I aspired to be an author.  Writing stories became an escape, a way for my imagination to come alive.  A closet writer for many years due to my 7^th grade teacher humiliating me in class, when it came to sharing my writing, a cloud of self-doubt would follow that it wasn’t worthy or good enough; so it would stay buried, deep within a drawer or just locked up in my mind. I learned what God has placed in your heart, no one can take away.  

I understand what it is like being afraid to pursue what is in your heart because of naysayers or those who don't believe in your project/passion. I have been there, done that, and now it is time to give back and help others do whatever it is they believe their next level to be. After many years, I’m finally able to walk into my destiny.  I want to work with others to break out of their shell (like I did) to get started on their dreams.

We can do this together!

By day, JC Gardner is a manager at an international nonprofit. Her writing credits include a novel, Sinful Liaisons, published by Aberdeen Bay Publishing in 2011, two published short stories, ghost writing/coaching, and numerous articles for various publications. Visit her at www.booksbyjcg.com.

TAMARA NEAL

Tamara Neal is a Maryland Native, Certified Relationship Coach, Domestic Violence Advocate, Owner and founder of Taylor Made Assisted Living Center II and the Author of The World’s Top Ten Worst Men for Women Guide an affirming guide to help people to identify traits of a toxic relationship. Neal has been entertaining family and friends with her poetry, unique ability to impersonate people and funny sense of humor, since she was old enough to talk.  While in the process of writing another adult self-help book suddenly her fingers started typing "Kinship" a children's relationship book with a strong emphasis on diversity!  The manuscript for Kinship encourages love, relationship, and acceptance. Tamara, found her happy place writing for children and plans to continue. Neal is married to her first boyfriend and high school prom date, has two sons and enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, traveling and fishing. tamarasbooks@gmail.com, www.facebook.com/tamarasbooks

M. LYN WALKER

When M. Lyn Walker learned that God wasn't looking for the perfect, but rather the obedient, she excitedly began working on her first manuscript. A native Michigander married for twenty-six years, with two adult children and an energetic three year old grandson, she and her husband live in a suburb of Chicago.

CRYSTAL MARABLE

Crystal Marable is a mother, author, mentor and advocate for girls.  She has a sincere desire for girls to succeed in their lives spiritually, socially, academically and morally.  She encourages the development of positive thinking, positive knowing and positive doing.  She created Graceful Girlz to inspire, encourage and teach girls how to display and share the Fruit of the spirit with others and to use their spiritual gifts to impact their families, schools and communities. She encourages girls to celebrate and appreciate their beauty within, as true empowerment and self love begins with realizing who you are in Christ and what His promises are for your life.  Additionally, as the Mother-Daughter Connector, it is Crystal’s vision to provide inspired living resources that will establish strong, healthy bonds between mothers and daughters.  

ROBIN T. DORSEY

Robin T. Dorsey is a native of Washington, DC/Maryland. She is an extraordinary motivational speaker, entrepreneur, philanthropist, author, and mother. She is also the American Diabetes Wellness Ambassador in which she teaches Diabetes workshops. As an advocate, she raises money and awareness for the cure for Diabetes, Aids, Breast Cancer, and Lupus through her organization The Gem's Social Club.

Ms. Dorsey has always been driven to reach the highest mountains. She attributes being able to accomplish the goals that she set and met to her late mother "Renita T. Mock" who always encouraged her to live her dreams and to be all that she could be. Ms. Dorsey has been featured in numerous publications, and she is currently pursuing her PhD in Philosophy/Business.

Ms. Dorsey is the owner of Dorsey Publishing, LLC, she publishes her own book and her goal is to help other authors make their dreams a reality.

EMELIA ADJEI

QUEST DELANEY

Author Quest Delaney was born in Takoma Park, MD and raised in the Washington Metropolitan area. He is the eldest of seven siblings, as a result this was the birth of a leader, which shaped him into the man he is today.  After graduating from high school he later joined the police academy and became a Police Officer. Having his “First Love” as Basketball he became a youth basketball coach for Team CHAOS of Laurel, MD. He motivates, mentors, and inspires the youth of tomorrow.

As a father raising two young boys into men he believes that instilling a good foundation is the key to success. Mr. Delaney is an extraordinarily Entrepreneur he is an Author, Inventor, and Songwriter. He was inspired to write from GOD, about his journey to and from Heaven. To learn more about Quest Delaney visit http://questdelaney.tateauthor.com/.

MELLISA LAMBERT

“I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me", Philippians 4:13"

It is this very verse that explains Mellisa’s strength, drive, and determination to ensure future generations of her community are not lost to government statistics and negative stigmatisms. Through her role as an Author, Motivational Speaker, Life, Business and Health Coach she is ready to impact her community at large. She is a self-help author that is determine to help those who are open for a change in their life.

Mellisa’s passion to inspire, motivate and help people to understand the power of their words; was revealed in her second book “Open Your Mouth and Speak 365 Positive Affirmations and Powerful Quotes”. She then paired the book with an affirmation cd, affirmation t-shirts line and framed affirmations. Mellisa feels with each books, cds, t-shirts and all her product line brings her closer to reaching the lives of many across the world. She lives the transformation through her brand and will continue to inspire to help others to live their purpose.Mellisa Lambert’s prayer is that millions of people will be touched and their lives will be transformed when they read her book and affirmations, wear her affirmation t-shirts, clothing and jewelry. Mellisa desire is to plant a seed into many lives so they can continue to grow into the person God created them to be.

DR. IRVIN PEPDRO COHEN

In the transition from the Civil Right Movement something happen along the way to the social responsibility the Black church had to the African-American community.  A Charge to Keep examines the transition from the social mission of the Black church to an economic and evangelistic mission.  The author examines this through an education, health and economic lens.

A Charge to Keep further examines the current expectations of African-American parishioners in light of the social change brought about through the accomplishments of the Civil Rights movement and further ponders the question what is the role of the Black church in a post Civil Rights era.

JAYANA WOOD

Jayana Wood is a 9-year old author and aspiring entrepreneur who has combined her love of reading and art into her first children’s book, in a series of books for new and emergent readers, designed to inspire children to think about what they want to do and become as they grow up.  Jayana is a fourth grade student at John Hanson French Immersion School where she is learning to speak and write French.  Based on her love of learning a secondary language, Jayana decided to translate her first book, Opening My Imagination, into French.

LORETTA WOODWARD VENEY

Throughout her life, Loretta Anne Woodward Veney, author of Being My Mom’s Mom, has chronicled family events through journals, photos, and videos, seeking to capture every moment. After learning that her beloved mother Doris was the first female in the family to suffer from dementia, Loretta began documenting the details of doctor visits, and recording people, places, and things as a substitute for lost memory. Loretta, a motivational teacher and trainer, who has delivered speeches and presentations and conducted workshops throughout the US and Europe, through her first published work, offers a wealth of encouragement.

NANETTE BUCHANAN

EVERETTE TODD ADAMS

Participants at the 2013 AFRICAN AMERICAN AUTHOR'S EXPO  

ASSOCIATE SPONSOR

Media Sponsor

Promotional Sponsor

 FEATURED AUTHORS

JEARLEAN ALSTON-TAYLOR

Jearlean Alston-Taylor was born and raised in Southwest Baltimore, MD. She grew up in a happy home. Her parents had six children. Could they imagine one of their twin daughters would develop a rare form of cancer (Rhabdomysarcoma) at two years old? Doctors thought she would not live beyond  the age of three. Although her parents had a sick child that needed medical attention, their family's structure did not change. Her illness was discovered at University of Maryland Hospital in Baltimore, MD. After several consultations with the doctors, her parents were advised to seek another opinion with other hospitals that specialized in Jearlean's type of cancer.

Her chemotherapy and radiation treatments began at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. Because of this rare type of cancer, Jearlean's childhood included several reconstructive surgeries, lengthy hospital stays, and close evaluations of medical needs.

Jearlean's life was an journey of unexpected challenges. She never imagined struggling with low self-esteem, shame, insecurity, suicidal thoughts, severe medical complications, and a secret she hid for years. Jearlean had insecurities and they did not change overnight, but she learned to be a survivor. As a result of her struggles, journal writing would be the source of her internal healing.

Pretty Girl Blues: An Autobiography is an intimate journey into Jearlean's life of being a survivor. Her obstacles have made her strong. The adversities that she has overcome allow her to inspire, encourage, uplift, listen, understand, and spread her testimony abroad. She states, "It is no secret to what God can do, what he has done for others He can do same for you."

AUTHOR CRAIG GARNER

Craig Garner, author, Poet Laureate of the Township of Irvington and long time resident of Irvington has just completed having his seventh book published by Word Association Publishers. The name of the book is “Trouble?” This book is a semi-autobiography of Craig’s life with poetry and quotes inter-dispersed throughout the book.  It highlights Craig’s life beginning as a child in the projects of Newark to becoming an IT Manager at a Fortune Five hundred company.  And, his transition from a basketball star in the U.S. Air Force to the Poet Laureate of Irvington.  It is a very interesting and compelling story of redemption, enlightenment, and excitement during an era when many young African American men were struggling to define their role in this society.

Craig’s story is an American story that should reverberate throughout many folk’s minds allowing them to easily relate to it.  It is based in the fact that when someone decides to speak the truth they ultimately get labeled trouble for do so.  And once you are labeled trouble how you eventually have to pay for your convictions.  It is a testimony to the fact that there is a price to pay for speaking the truth.  A number of poems and quotes are used to make this point.

The cover of the book is the colors of Africa which symbolizes the trouble that Africans have been in since we got here.  The book is priced moderately at 12.95 and will be available on Amazon.com as well as Barnes & Nobles.com.  Craig can also be contacted via email at crggarner@yahoo.com or his website at www.craigspoetry.com

DR. KAREN S. BETHEA

Senior Pastor of Set The Captives Free Outreach Center

Dr. Karen Stanley Bethea is a Wife, Mother, Friend, Author, Teacher, Psalmist, Recording Artist, and Senior pastor of Set the Captives Free Outreach Center. She is known for the deliverance mantle on her life. Under her anointed teaching and preaching, many people have been set free from past addictions, pains, wounds, and negative lifestyles and have been brought into a spiritual and wholesome lifestyle. Dr. Bethea firmly believes that "she can do all things through Christ which strengthens her!" Her eagle mentality is contagious to those around her.

Perhaps her greatest challenge came in April 1997 when she was called to the pastorate. After three years of preparation, the church was planted and opened on April 9, 2000. Set the Captives Free Outreach Center, which has grown to over 2,000 members, is a center for healing and an incubator to discover and birth destinies. She is the author of Foundational Steps, an interactive Bible-based children's church curriculum through which children ages 2-14 learn Biblical concepts in a systematic manner. Many churches are using it successfully in their children's ministries. She has also written "Doors," (May 2011) and co-wrote "Testimonies From Overcomers" (Nov. 2010) and "Grow Wings" (Nov. 2012) with the Women Who Soar.

Dr. Bethea is under the spiritual covering of Bishop R. C. Hugh Nelson, D. Div. He is the pastor of the East Flatbush Church of God in Brooklyn, New York. She also serves as the apostolic covering and mentor for several churches and ministries in the United States and Bermuda.

In addition to being a minister, she is a wife and mother. She is married to Pastor Linwood E. Bethea, with whom she co-pastors. They have two beautiful children: Tiffany and L. Jamaal Bethea and two grandchildren Natalie and Jordan. As of February 14, 2012, they have been married for 31 years.

MARSHALL C. BELL

Midday Magazine Talk Show with Marshall Bell

WOLB 1010AM

Marshall's newest book, the eagerly anticipated, Baltimore Blues: Harm City, was released in August, 2012. When asked what motivated him while writing the gritty urban drama, Marshall responded, "It was important for me to be authentic when telling Cameron's story because I know he represents far too many of our youth in America today. They are truly the forgotten children."

   Marshall enjoys sports, shooting pool, mentoring young men, and is the proud father of two sons, Kyle and Jordan.

TANYA BLOUNT

Singer/Actress

Tanya Blount Trotter spent many years looking for something useful to do for the girls and young women she encountered in her career as an entertainer. As a artist who formerly topped Billboards Music Charts (Island Records) and a Soul Train Award Nominee this actress/singer/author and now SocialPrenuer best known for her unforgettable performance singing "His Eyes on the Sparrow" with Lauryn Hill in the hit movie 'Sister Act 2" on a daily basis watched girls and young women around the world struggle with their identity.

Her search ended when she married her husband Michael Trotter Jr who due to a previous marriage brought two little girls into her life, Michaela and Courtney. The mother of one teenage son before marrying Trotter, Tanya never understood the details and daily stress that goes along with raising young girls and young women in today's culture. In the process of co-parenting and surviving low-self esteem and depression herself Tanya's personal victories along with those two angels she channeled all of her energy into starting the I Am Beautiful Corporation.

In developing the I Am Beautiful Corporation in the United States, Tanya developed the Butterfly Beautiful Conference for Girls and Young Women. Girls of all backgrounds attended the conference which was filled with workshops, empowerment and inspiration. The conference gave the young girls the opportunity to develop self-reliance and resourcefulness.With this success Tanya's life mission is to assist parents and walk along side of them as they prepare their girls for future roles as mothers and wives, as professional women—in the arts, sciences and business.

Tanya Blount Trotter has not abandoned her musically roots in conjunction with the conference Tanya released a new single entitled "Butterfly Beautiful" which is available on I-Tunes as well as a new book "Butterfly Beautiful". All of the proceeds with go towards international trips, programs and workshops to help support the I Am Beautiful Corporation's initiative.

Tanya's first love is music however her social mission is to create a world where every girl and young women will have the inner strength and God Esteem to say three simple words without hesitation "I Am Beautiful"

JILL A CLOUD

Jill Cloud is the founder of Queen Be and Customized Solution Inc. - a company whose mission is "building people, sustaining organizations." She is the author of the book, “From the Hood to Harvard: Capturing the American Dream”.  Jill has degrees in Human Services Management and Psychology. She has been featured along with Judge Lynn Toler (of Fox Network's Divorce Court) in an explosive 2-day workshop titled "Taking Your Dreams Back From Life's Nightmares" and "Keeping Your Course In The Midst of Crazy." Jill was honored by the National Congress of Black Women for her tenacity, courage, and leadership ability. Some of her life changing workshops and seminars include:

• Freedom: Coming Out of the Shadows

• Instinct & Intuition: The Necessity of Feeling Your Own Feelings & Thinking Your Own Thoughts

• Lord He Gets On My Nerves: Embracing Differences

• Rules for the Road (for Youth): Saving Dreams from Life’s Nightmares

• Season’s Greetings: Mastering Times & Seasons

• True Identity: Reconnecting to Vision & Values

LARRY S. GIBSON

Larry Gibson began managing political campaigns in Maryland with the 1968 election of Judge Joseph Howard and the 1970 elections of State’s Attorney Milton Allen and Congressman Parren Mitchell.  He served as campaign manager for Baltimore Mayor Kurt Schmoke in his successful elections in 1987, 1991, and 1995.  During the administration of President Jimmy Carter, Larry Gibson served in the U.S. Justice Department as Associate Deputy Attorney General and as Director of the National Economic Crimes Project.  In 1992, he was Maryland State Chairman of the Clinton/Gore presidential campaign.

Since 2001, Gibson has served as a campaign consultant and political advisor to African political leaders, including Ellen Johnson Sirleaf the President of Liberia and Marc Ravalomanana the former President of Madagascar.

Professor Gibson has researched and designed several exhibits, articles, newspaper series, and other presentations on the history of civil rights and African American lawyers in Maryland.  Professor Gibson was the principal advocate for the law passed by the Maryland General Assembly that renamed the BWI Thurgood Marshal Airport.

His book, Young Thurgood:The Making of a Supreme Court Justice (Prometheus Books 2012), describes the environment, people and events that shaped Thurgood Marshall's attitudes, work habits, and priorities in his formative years

Rosa “Rambling Rose” Pryor

Rosa “Rambling Rose” Pryor, a native Baltimorean, graduated from Edmondson High School in 1963 and attended Community College of Baltimore and Morgan State University to study business and law.

Rosa’s trade name is “Rambling Rose”, a name that was given to her by the late great Nat “King” Cole when she was touring in the 50’s as his opening act. The color red has always been her favorite color and when she used to perform, she always dressed in red exotic, sexy gowns and gave out her favorite flower, a long stem red rose, which became her signature. During this time, Rosa was not only a singer, but a musician, playing piano and saxophone; she was a recording artist, record producer and song writer.

Rosa “Rambling Rose” Pryor was the Entertainment Editor, Account Executive and Entertainment Columnist for the Baltimore Times and the Annapolis Times for ten years. “Rambling Rose”, as her readers affectionately call her is currently an entertainment columnist and reporter with the Afro-American Newspaper, and has been since 1998; The Informer Newspaper, The Northwest Voice and she freelance for other periodicals and have over 200,000 readerships. Since May 2011 she is back writing also for the Baltimore Times Newspaper. Rosa is a long time member of the National Association of Black Journalist, (NABJ).

Rosa is the Founder, CEO, and Chairman of the Board of the Rosa Pryor Music Scholarship Fund, Inc. created in 1991.  The fund provides money for gifted and talented children aspiring musicians, ages 5-17 years old to help pay for tuition, voice and music lessons and purchase instruments. Her organization is the only one of its kind in the country. She is also the Co-founder & CEO of an entertainment company with her husband, William “Shorty” Trusty, called “RoseGarden Entertainment Enterprises, Inc.”. This is a company that provides entertainment, local and national for clubs, casinos, hotels, social events and racetracks, (but not active at this time).

In 2001, Rosa became Mrs. William (“Shorty”) Trusty. They are partners in Business and soul mates! She is the mother of 4 and grandmother of 22 and great- grandmother of 17. For additional information her email address is rosapryor@aol.com

GHISLAINE PIERRE

Ghislaine Pierre is an extraordinary woman, who is known for being one of the greatest multi-talented artists of her time. She is a singer, songwriter, poet, playwright, writer, entertainer, spiritual leader and radio anchor. She is an educator who travels the world spreading messages of LOVE, HOPE, WISDOM, and FAITH.

Within the rhythm of her creations, Pierre's humbled power captures a reader's mind through each line of her writings and every note of her songs. Her works change lives and make the weak regain strength.  She is called the voice of the voiceless. She empowers the young and the talented to live dreams that the world sees as impossible. She continues to engage in community programming and social challenges to break the walls of ignorance, intolerance and mediocrity. 

In 2011 Ghislaine started the radio show VCH and, became the Voice of the voiceless. The show is a blend of praise and worship, prayers, love songs and more: a bridge between the past and the present; every Sunday from 4: PM to 6: PM on wrcr.com.

Letisha Galloway

Letisha Galloway was born and raised in Woodstown, New Jersey and currently resides in Delaware.  She obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Wilmington University. She obtained a Master of Science degree in Administration of Human Services from Wilmington University. MS. Galloway is presently a Senior Social Worker/Case Manager in Delaware.

Ms. Galloway is a poet, author and inspirational speaker.  Ms. Galloway has recently co-authored a book entitled When New Life Begins. The book includes the stories of seven courageous co-authors’ who have overcome adversity to find hope and success due to their relationship with God. It is available by visiting www.letishagalloway.com.  Ms. Galloway’s solo debut entitled Victim to Victor: A Story of Love, Failure, and Faith was published in 2013 and is now available.

Letisha is regularly involved in bringing awareness to domestic violence. Surviving domestic violence herself, Ms. Galloway is a strong advocate for change and protection for those who feel they have no voice. Additionally, Letisha is involved in bringing awareness to child abuse. She is active in educating people on how to prevent child abuse.

Ms. Galloway served as the co-editor of K.I.S. H Magazine in 2013. Letisha is currently working on two upcoming projects to be released in 2014. Letters to Jordan is a book about her son Jordan who tragically passed away at exactly two months of age. It will include her journey through the grief process. The book will help anyone who has ever lost a loved one and wondered if they will make it. The second project is her first collection of poems. This poetry collection will inspire, encourage, and uplift the soul one poem at a time. Coming 2014!!!!

Ms. Galloway is the mother of one, a son she named Jordan who is resting peacefully in the arms of God. She is a board member of K.I.S.H Home Inc. a 501 c 3 nonprofit organization. She may be contacted at victimtovictor2013@gmail.com or letisha.nicole@gmail.com.  Additionally she may be reached at 302-420-8212 and at www.letishagalloway.com.

SHARON CLARKSON 

Sharon Clarkson is a new author, professor from the College of Southern Maryland, and CEO of SClarkson Books located in Cheltenham, Maryland.  Ms. Clarkson holds an MBA in Finance from Strayer University and BBA in Computer Information Systems from Howard University.  In 2011, she released her first book of poetry called, My Dream.  My Dream is a 70-page book that is filled with poems that are going to move readers spiritually and inspire them in different aspects of their life.  Readers will quickly discover the passion in her words, and the penetrating voice that comes through in this book.  You will find an array of inspirational poems such as Give Up, My Dream, Closer, You Shall Be Healed, Moment and Forgive. 

Ms. Clarkson has received very favorable reviews of her book from all over the country.  In addition, her book has been reviewed by the White House, Tom Joyner, O Magazine and the Midwest Book Review.  In 2012, Ms. Clarkson produced and released an amazing music CD consisting of sixteen selected spoken poems, from My Dream. 

In the fall of 2013, she will release her second book poetry consisting of 200 love and inspirational poems.  Go to her website, www.sclarksonbooks.com for more information or contact her directly at mydreambook@earthlink.net.

MENTAL FITNESS - PEBBLES ARMWOOD

Pebbles Armwood is a 30 year old native Baltimorean raised with her three siblings by a single mother. She attended Baltimore City Public Schools systems and graduated in 2000. After high school Pebbles attended Cosmetology school, Massage Therapy school, and she is presently a student at The Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC). Pebbles was introduced to the philosophy of Sankofa, and adopted it as a lifestyle. After adopting Sankofa she fell in love with the discipline of Africana Studies/History. This discipline gave her the passion to make changes around campus, so she ran for a position on Student Government. Pebbles served a year as a delegate, planning Meet and Greets, Town Hall Meetings, and SGA presentations for the college. Once her term was over she ran for Student President and won. To add to her accomplishments she became the first recipient of the Outstanding African Studies Award at CCBC, and she was chosen to be the student speaker for Advocacy Day in Annapolis, MD. Pebbles started a blog and Facebook page called Mental Fitness after being on The Dr.Oz Show, WBAL TV 11 news, and becoming the first feature on WBAL “Be More“. Mental Fitness was an idea she came up with after losing 50 lbs. Pebbles has an eagerness to enlighten people about mental, emotional, and physical fitness. Her blog discusses how Mental + Emotional = Physical Fitness. Pebbles uses the alter ego of Mental Fitness Girl to motivate, encourage, and inspire the guess on her blog. Mental Fitness Girl posts Every Tuesday at 5PM www.mentalefitness.wordpress.com.

TELEAH SCOTT-WILLIAMS

Teleah Scott-Williams’ life has been a courageous journey of tragedy and triumph. The unexpected death of her son, Timothy, sparked her to conduct research to deepen her understanding and knowledge about sudden cardiac death in young athletes.  In doing so, she gleaned a deeper insight on how important it is for children to receive heart screenings. A native of Harrisburg, PA, Teleah currently resides in Owings Mills, Maryland with her family.  Never ashamed of her testimony, Teleah is a living witness that God is bigger than any tragedy life can bring you.  She founded the Timothy Q. Scott Foundation, a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to help spread awareness about sudden cardiac death in young athletes.

HATTYE KNIGHT

Hattye Knight was born and raised in the Bronx and is a graduate of the esteemed Bronx High School of Science.  She attended Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. After her junior year of college, Ms. Knight joined the U.S. Navy as an Air Traffic Controller.  She quickly rose in rank and served as an Air Traffic Control Tower Supervisor at Roosevelt Roads (Roosey) Puerto Rico.  Unfortunately, Ms. Knight suffered a career ending injury and after serving 5 years was discharged while stationed in Norfolk, VA. Ms. Knight’s sense of adventure and her willingness to learn new things, allowed her to work in various positions.  Ms. Knight was a meter reader, an insurance specialist, an assistant to a General Manager of a large military entertainment facility, a substitute teacher, a mentor to Boys and Girls club students, and  a rater of standardized tests offered through Educational Testing Service (ETS).  She worked for several fortune 500 companies including USAA, T. Rowe Price, and Saks Fifth Avenue.

Ashanti Kenyatta

I am a twenty-eight year United States Postal worker who has been blessed to be able to attend the many shows, concerts, plays, book signings, VIP parties, and other venues put on by well-known celebrities with the opportunity to meet them.

In 1988, I was determined to meet Earvin “Magic” Johnson. Then I met Stevie Wonder. I thought to myself, If I can meet Magic Johnson and Stevie Wonder, I can meet anybody. What I found out was that they are just as real as you and me. However, because of their fame, they carry a regal spirit around them. This spirit will cause you, the fan, to become tongue-tied or shocked in their presence. 

Come inside and see how a blue-collar worker from Baltimore, Maryland, met and reacted in the presence of sixty-six well-known celebrities.