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Monica May
Sundays 6AM - 8AM & 5PM - 10PM
A radio & television veteran, community affairs expert, and founder of Let’s Spill the Tea, a nonprofit organization supporting parent/teen relationships. Her latest pivot is principal consultant with Monica May Communications.
In addition to keynote speaking, political forum moderation, and corporate consulting, Monica facilitates workshops on an array of topics including her flagship workshop, Let’s Spill the Tea®,(www.letsspillthetea.org) came to life after a heart-to-heart with her daughter and other young women who felt guarded when having conversations with their mothers. To expand its reach, she co-authored, Let’s Spill the Tea: A 21-Day Mother-Daughter Journal, with her daughter, Monique.
You can hear Monica on Star 94.5 during the following times:
Sunday mornings from 6-8a.m. hosting “Monica May’s Point Of View”; Conversations will be built on today’s hot topics and issues concerning African Americans. Local and national guests will share their points of view as well.
Sunday afternoons from 5-10 p.m., Monica will host her own show; playing the hits and integrating her warm, engaging, witty, and compelling personality
Monica May's Point Of View
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BEHIND THE SCENES: THE POWER OF POLITICAL SUPPORT
A conversation with various Legislative Aides in our community. They discussed their “Why” as well as their passion for not only politics but our community. Travaris McCurdy –contact Travaris.mccurdy@yahoo.com Charlean Gatlin – contact Charlean.Gatline@myorangeclerk.com 407/836-6335 Connect with Landra Wormack on LinkedIn Chester Glover – contact Chet.Glover@aol.com Reginald McGill – contact Reginald.McGill@cityoforlando.net 407/246-2221 Kyle Alexandre contact kalexandre@elfaonline.org 202/238-3433 Kristin Fulwylie contact Kristin@therdfgroup.com Monisha Perkins contact monisha@perksofmo.com
Download File--:-- --:--BEHIND THE SCENES: THE POWER OF POLITICAL SUPPORT
A conversation with various Legislative Aides in our community. They discussed their “Why” as well as their passion for not only politics but our community. Travaris McCurdy –contact Travaris.mccurdy@yahoo.com Charlean Gatlin – contact Charlean.Gatline@myorangeclerk.com 407/836-6335 Connect with Landra Wormack on LinkedIn Chester Glover – contact Chet.Glover@aol.com Reginald McGill – contact Reginald.McGill@cityoforlando.net 407/246-2221 Kyle Alexandre contact kalexandre@elfaonline.org 202/238-3433 Kristin Fulwylie contact Kristin@therdfgroup.com Monisha Perkins contact monisha@perksofmo.com
Download File--:-- --:--NONPROFIT LEGISLATIVE UPDATE/LIVIN’ BEYOND YOUR PAYCHECK
Candice Simmons – Lead Well and Enterprising Black Orlando and Brandon Johnson (Government Relations) talked about the legislative changes and how they’ll affect our local nonprofits as well as healthcare and SNAP benefits. These cuts will affect our local community organizations – by reducing appointments and services available. Enterprising Black Orlando has a workshop July 12th 9am – 2pm @ Second Harvest that will discuss these changes and how our local nonprofits can still operate and fill in the gap for the services reductions and more. To connect Enterprising Black Orlando https://eborlando.org/ and register for the workshop at Enterprising Black Orlando launch of The Community Exchange https://www.eventbrite.com/e/enterprising-black-orlando-launch-of-the-community-exchange-tickets-1280972907449 Chad McKendrick - Money Coach and Author of "Livin’ Beyond Your Paycheck” stated that 55% of our homeless population is 65 and over and that many never learned how to manage money. We spoke to several STAR listeners who claimed they were 40 or 59 years old and financially at zero. Chad has a simple prosperity plan for kids to take $1 and put it into 3 buckets to increase money - Share, Play and the same for adults (4 “Buckets”) Priority, Bills, Play and Share - To connect with Chad https://www.livinbeyondyourpaycheck.com/ Both guests suggest that we begin with advocacy and learning who our legislators are on the State and Federal level as well as their aides. Connect with them and let them know how these cuts are affecting us directly.
Download File--:-- --:--TOTAL CHANGING OF THE GUARD IN LAW ENFORCEMENT – WHAT THAT MEANS FOR OUR COMMUNITY
City of Ocoee Police Chief Vince Ogburn, Sr. joined the force 5 years ago as Deputy Chief before being appointed as the 1st African American. Chief Ogburn, a native New Yorker also served in the U.S. Navy, as a State Trooper for Florida Highway Patrol and was an Orlando Police Officer for 23 years before retiring. While he is very aware of the racial history of Ocoee, he encourages his team to lead with integrity and be servants to the community. Leading with an “open door policy,” Chief says they are hiring and looks for more African Americans and women especially to join the team. In her role currently serving as Deputy Chief of the Apopka Police force, Dr. Lovetta Quinn-Henry brings 30 years of criminal justice experience as she gets ready to move into her role as Chief in November. Defined as a visionary leader, Dr. Quinn-Henry exemplifies dedication to her field and welcomes the opportunity to continue serving the Apopka community. Like Chief Ogburn, they welcome community interaction and look to serve their community with integrity and transparency. As former Chief of Corrections for the Orange County Jail, Cornita Riley managed the fourth largest facility in Florida overseeing 30,000 bookings annually. Riley has been recognized for her compassionate and reform-minded approach to the inmates and those in facility operations. Now the Central Florida President of NOBLE (National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives), Riley wants to reestablish the organization and continue to engage the community about law enforcement.
Download File--:-- --:--FORMER ORLANDO FIRE CHIEF RODERICK WILLIAMS SETS THE RECORD STRAIGHT/HOMETOWN HERO BUILDS A MEDICAL FACILITY/BRIDGE BUILDERS EVENT/MEN’S HEALTH SUMMIT/COMMUNITY ACTIVATION
After almost a decade a jury found former Orlando Fire Chief Roderick Williams, not guilty and cleared him of all sexual and racial discrimination allegations. He had his name cleared after being dismissed by the department over 8 years ago. Chief Williams wants to now develop education for others in this same situation and help them remain steadfast in protecting their character. Alonzo Mitchell and James Benjamin with Bridge Builder Foundation invited those who were formerly incarcerated to the “Freedom Fest” Saturday June 28th 11am – 2pm at the Denton Johnson Community Center in Eatonville. Registration is free but please go online https://forms.gle/h9gmfNetUR4JPpEMz5 so the State Attorney’s office can research your case. Other agencies expected to be on site include the Clerk of the Court, the public Defender’s office, Second Chance employers, FRRC and Florida Rising. Call 407/283-4351 for more information Sherwin Lewis of Black-Tie Management spoke on behalf of Kerby Joseph, Detroit Lions Safety about his “Zupa Weekend of Events.” The former Jones H.S. football player’s story is one worth sharing. He was not slated to go off to college but was picked up by Illinois University. While there, he sat on the bench for 3 years before finally being given a chance – then put on the field as a receiver…when he finally played Safety, he excelled, and the rest is history. Though he was the 97th draft option in the NFL, Joseph has become the highest paid safety to play in the game. The 24 year old was welcomed back home to Orlando this weekend to be given the Key to the City, host a fitness day for the community at Jones H.S. and open a new medical facility in honor of his mother who suffered a stroke. 2ND Annual “Fully Alive Health Summit” is Saturday June 28th at the Center for Health & Well Being 2005 Mizell Avenue in Winter Park from 10am – 3pm. Dr. Ademola Adewale invites all men to receive FREE health screenings, learn how to cook & eat healthy, mobility exercises and enjoy a catered brunch. FREE registration online at www.ffamhs.eventbrite.com Join the quarterly discussion and be informed about community developments Saturday June 28th 11-3pm at Washington Shores Presbyterian Church 3600 Rogers Drive in Orlando. Larry Colleton shared that in the next few years both Lake Mann houses and Lake Lorna Doone Seniors Complex are set to be demolished and replaced with mixed income housing. Find out more at the open meeting offered at the Awakening Awareness Community Event. Call 321/287-3507 or 407/295-4741 for more information.
Download File--:-- --:--STOPPING STIGMA: IN BLACK FATHERHOOD, IN THE LGBTQ COMMUNITY AND IN MENTAL HEALTH
Young Fathers of Central Florida Executive Director, Haki Nkrumah and Qwazay Crawford discussed all the programs they offer in support of fathers 12-24. The non-profit guides dads through mentoring, employment and family mediation. They also present Fatherhood Week Events starting June 9th – 14th at the Callahan and Grand Avenue Community Centers. To find out more about the event and the programs offered visit their website www.youngfathersofcentralflorida.com or email youngfathersofcentralflorida@gmail.com Visit their office at 527 N. Mills Avenue in Orlando or call 407/286-4320. Come Out With Pride is a local organization that hosts the largest Pride Parade in the Southeast (Oct. 18th @ Lake Eola). Their support for the LGBTQ community includes the upcoming Juneteenth Celebration at the Central Florida Fairgrounds. “Love and Liberation” will be Saturday June 21st with the goal of pointing out that a person can be LGBTQ and still celebrate their black heritage. Note: Pride Month was started in June 1970 after the 1969 raid of the famous Stonewall nightclub in New York city. Many were injured or killed in the melee, but it was noted that a black trans woman spoke up asking, “So what are we going to do?” Hence the start of the Come Out With Pride movement. However, it wasn’t until former President Bill Clinton and later Barack Obama acknowledged the month officially. In our discussion we also talked about the suicide rate for people in the LGBTQ community because of ostracism…..if you or someone you know is thinking of suicide, please call 988. For more information about all their upcoming events (Family Trans Picnic – September 8th, Trans Day of Visibility in March 2026, etc.) visit www.comeoutwithpride.org Discussing the Stigma of Mental Health, Dr. Letitia Brown-James who has two companies to treat those in need, reminded us it is time to fight the shame, stigma, and fear of judgment of reaching out for mental health assistance. She said that our Body, Mind & Spirit must be in alignment for our mental health to balance. She gave simple daily remedies to do intentionally; read, move, talk to a friend, eat a snack, enjoy the sunshine, sing, or dance. When that doesn’t help, seeing a therapist might work and you should do so without stigma. Dr. Brown-James reminded us that kids who become silent, easily agitated, or isolated may be struggling with their mental health. If you have insurance call her Victorious Living Counseling service at 321/209-8219 ext. 1 or if you don’t have insurance call LBJ Behavioral Services 407/368-9848 ext. 1 The National Suicide Hotline 988 – Or Text the word HOME to 741741- Both lines are FREE and Confidential
Download File--:-- --:--ACKNOWLEDGING MEMORIAL DAY WITH TWO OF TODAY’S HEROE’S
Larry Colleton, Retired Naval Serviceman from 1983 – 2007 he now serves as President of the Florida Voters League, Treasurer of the RAFMAN Club of Orlando as well as NAACP Committee of Civil Engagement. Mr. Colleton was also an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the 18th Judicial Circuit in Seminole and Brevard Counties. We learned the difference between Memorial Day (the last Monday in May) honors men & women who died in service and Veterans Day – November 11th honors all who served. There is a service today in Taft, FL and tomorrow the 75th Gold Star unveiling will be at Woodlawn Cemetery with Mayor Demings as the speaker. For veterans service information call Jessica Smith 904/887-9502. Reminder about the Special Election for State Senate Seat 15 and House District 40 is June 24th….early voting – June 14-22 and plan to attend the candidate forum June 9th @ New Church of Faith 5000 Silver Star Road 6pm. Justice James E.C. Perry was the 1st African American appointed to the 18thJudicial Circuit in Florida by Gov. Charlie Crist. He is the Author of “Benchmarked” and tells the story of his journey through the Army into the halls of justice. Justice Perry shared the history of the advancement of black attorneys in this country and why it’s so important to stay true to your own beliefs. Go to Amazon.com to get your copy of his book or go to FLORIDA HISTORICAL SOCIETY - myfloridahistory.org
Download File--:-- --:--COMMUNITY COLLABORATIONS – HELP TO KEEP OUR KIDS SAFE
Candiss Ducksworth-Durange from the Florida Department of Health and board member of the Children’s Safety Village shared information about their upcoming “Safe Kids, Strong Futures Fair” May 31st 10am at 910 Fairvilla Road. This FREE safety fair is open to all residents to provide access to more than 20 vendors with information on everything from swim safety to mental health and human trafficking. Florida ranks high amongst teens trying to manage these issues and this fair will provide coping skills. The Children’s Safety Village also offers a Summer Hero’s Camp for youth 6-12 years starting June 6Th. For more info on the upcoming fair, the camp and more www.childrenssafetyvillage.org MAN Up Mentoring is partnering with Carver M.S. and Robinswood M.S. to encourage other male members of our community to join the “Clap Out” on the last day of school May 28th @ 2pm. The purpose of which is to encourage students and keep violence at bay as they head into the summer. Youth can join the Man UP Mentoring program that meets every Thursday 6-8pm @ Ivey Lane Community Center to connect with Chris Wallace 407/879-3687 or www.manupmentoring.com
Download File--:-- --:--ANNUAL MOTHER’S DAY TRIBUTE: Sister Anita Barnes, Pastor Tekoa Pouerie and Dr. Marcelline Girlie
Sister Anita Barnes – Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, Eatonville FL covered us in prayer from Proverbs 31. Her prayer to refresh, restore and reignite women who are new mom’s, seasoned, grandmothers, aunts or godmothers was a spiritual request for Peace and Joy! She hosts an annual Mother’s Day Breakfast that has been in existence since 1998 for women in our community. Follow her on FB @ Anita L. Barnes Pastor Tekoa Pouerie shared from her newest book, “I am Courageous” about the importance of speaking words of faith over your own life as well as that of your family, business and everything connected with you. When it comes to grief during Mother’s Day, Tekoa said “You have to Feel so you can Heal!” In order to change the outcomes for your finances, relationships or career you have to change internally – so begin to speak favorably into the universe through affirmations. The former VP of PACE Center for Girls National is now the new CEO of the SharingCenter.org which is a faith-based resource organization serving the homeless in Seminole County. Her book is on Amazon, and you can connect with her on all social platforms @ tekoapouerie.com Dr. Marcelline Girlie, Author, Mom and Family & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse shared with the grieving moms from her personal loss (husband Courtney) that there is “Peace where there is Pain and Glory can reside alongside Grief!” If you are struggling with an unhealthy relationship with your mom, Dr. Girlie said, “Accept the relationship as it is, and connect with someone else who can fill in that space.” Her book, “There’s a Juice for That!” helped her not only lose weight but realize that our gut is our 2nd brain – feed it well in order to feel good! Use the Yuka app to scan food ingredients Connect with her at www.vividmindscare.com or on all social platforms drmarcellinegirlie.com
Download File--:-- --:--Mother’s Day Concert Updates: New Opening Act – Singer Sisaundra Lewis and BBIF/ Real ID Info/ Mental Health Awareness and our Youth
Sisaundra Lewis is a staple voice in our community, who has sung with Peabo Bryson, toured with Celine Dion and even appeared on The Voice. She has her own television show on the Afrotainment Network and new music coming out this week. Lewis will open for Fred Hammond at this week’s 4th Annual Mother’s Day Concert. About Sisaundra: EPK | Sisaundra Live Tickets onsale now - info at STAR945.com. One of the sponsors for the 4th Annual Mother’s Day Concert is the Black Business Investment Fund who has been in our community for 35 years now. They service the entire state of Florida, and started providing loans in Georgia as well. Lamont Jackson, shared that Their goal is to be able to match the resources and give access to capital funds to help Black entrepreneurs and businesses. BBIF is focused on leveling the playing field, as well as providing the time needed to guide clients the opportunity to grow a successful business. They follow up monthly roundtables and offer free financial planning. One thing they shared is that if a business is offered a loan, repayment begins 30-45 days after closing. So make sure you are ready for the first payment. May 7th is the deadline for Real ID to go into effect. A 2005 mandate passed by Congress was recommended after 9/11 to set tighter security standards. You will need to be ID Complaint to travel domestically on planes in the US. Will need it to access Federal Buildings. Documents needed... Certified Birth Certificate Social Security Card, or W2 form with SS # on it. 2 forms of Residency, Utility Bill, Rental Agreement, If married or name change, bring Marriage Certificate. Florida is 99% Compliant – For more information www.octaxcol.com The Summer Slide is real and so is Mental Health Awareness when it comes to our students. Dr. Treshonda Baucom with Enriched Life Counseling discussed what’s causing stress with our kids today. School’s out for the summer, less activity and structure can lead to real turmoil Talk with your kids about a plan for their summer – whether it be camp, travel or at home. There has to be structure. She discussed the Mental and Social effects of isolation and boredom and told parents to Praise the Process - encourage your children, check in with them, ask questions on how they are doing and find ways to help . Want to create some sense of normalcy similar to the school year as well as provide options to keep children out of trouble. Schools create spaces for these children and keep them engaged. The food programs ensure children are fed over the summer. Connect with Dr. Baucom www.Enrichedlifecounseling.com or call 407-593-4500 Another way to keep kids engaged is through writing. PAGE 15 was founded in 2008, after joining forces with Parramore Kid Zone. It is a literacy based Non-profit, located at 363 N Parramore,Ave. Orlando, FL 32801 in the Grand Avenue Neighborhood Center. It is a FREE after school and summer program to help with Children’s literacy. It is a creative writing program to get them engaged. It gives children a chance to build resilience as well as find their voice. Helps them with creative storytelling and narrative therapy, which gives students a way to tell their life stories by changing the negative to a positive. Young author Jordan said Page 15, “Creates a safe space. and that Parents should think about how they felt when they were children and understand that they have the same feelings.” She will be one of the many students highlighted in their 13th Annual Anthology, “Inspired.” Meet the young authors May 8th Students participate through a Writing Contest Across Central Florida who chooses 15 authors to publish in their book. The event sponsored by the Orlando Magic at the Orlando Museum of Art May 8th and is FREE to attend. To find out more www.Page15.org
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