GARDEN CITY, N.Y. -- News Release
FEMI Magazine’s 2013 Purple Ribbon Affair: A Night of Inspiration
FEMI Magazine hosted its “2013 Purple Ribbon Affair” to expose the monstrosities of domestic violence that occurs across the globe and within Long Island communities. Held on September 28th at the American Legion Hall in Valley Stream, the affair drew much needed attention to the frequency of abusive relationships.
FEMI Magazine honored Keynote speaker, Dr. Gloria Nixon-Pone, former owner and manager of an open home that serviced women of all backgrounds involved in abusive relationships. Dr. Nixon-Pone passionately discussed the issue regarding domestic abuse and broadened its relevancy to women worldwide. She emphasized: “every three-seconds” a woman is abused or worse, killed. Her words of truth conveyed an almost palpable vision of the pain these victims experience. Though most of Dr. Pone’s work seems to be primarily based in Long Island and New York City’s boroughs, a small area when compared to the nation and the world as a whole, her service yields a great impact. Her powerful speech left listeners speechless and inspired by her compassionate and giving spirit.
During this night of honor, FEMI awarded Stony Brook graduate, Johanna Milord for her dedication to the youth in her community. Ms. Milord is the Founder/CEO of “Youth 4 Change Revolution.” Her organization, which began simply as a vision is now based in Queens, NY, is known for their steadfast dedication to community service. Johanna is an active member of her local church, where she is a Eucharistic minister and president of the Dance Ministry. She is currently seeking a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling, and continues to inspire youth in her community to “take action.” To learn more about Johanna Milord and Y4CR, please visit them on Facebook.
On a note of inspiration, gospel-singing group, “Vessels of Praise” delivered breathtaking performances of “The Storm is Over Now” and “Dry Your Eyes” to attendees of the Purple Ribbon Affair. FEMI’s founder, Sadanya S.L. Cuadra and Editors, Shajuan Jackson and Tashi Thomas are members of the stellar group driven by passion and motivation. Member, Denise Brantley told FEMI Magazine, the goal of Vessels of Praise is to “increase confidence” by combining factors including “community, devotion, and support.” The affair served as their second major performance, yet their perfectly blended sound gave off the impression that they perform daily.
Vessels of Praise were not the only gospel artists to shine at the affair. Soloist, Vickie Iregbulem who is a contemporary gospel artist performed a gorgeous rendition of Andre Crouch’s “My Tribute.” Her inspirations in the gospel industry consist of “The Hawkins Family, Kirk Franklin and Yolanda Adams.” Iregbulem is a retired nurse but now puts God first and said, “Singing keeps [her] young.” Her mother sang when she was a child, and now she continues the cycle of inspiration by teaching her own children to perform.
Poet, Phoebe Elijon-Jones, brought the affair’s theme of domestic violence to life with her poems, “For Her Sake,” written for a battered mother she’d met in the past, and “Her New Best Friend.” While she leads a normal lifestyle as a teacher at Long Island’s Bayside High School, she takes on her poetry persona of the “Blue Poetress” whenever she performs. She remembered a quote she loves and said, “Poetry is, therefore I am.” Her beautiful poetry was not only touching, but strongly empowering.
FEMI Magazine’s mission is to empower, motivate, and inspire as a family. The Purple Ribbon Affair was a combination of these and much more. Each Attendee of the affair received a slice of this delight to keep forever.
To learn more about FEMI Magazine or how you can donate a book or toy during this upcoming year, please send an email to femimedia@gmail.com or call 516-395-8057. You may also visit www.femimagazine.net.
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Sadanya S L Cuadra
