Category Blog

USBO Welterweight Championship Fight

On Saturday July 15, 2017, GQ Promotions presented another professional boxing event located at The Sphinx on K, 1315 K Street, NW, Washington, DC 20005. The event started at 7pm. The Ring Announcer was Henry “Discombobulating” Jones. 

I provided Media Coverage on the ringside at the Media Table.  I sat between two other media representatives from other outlets who I knew from the last event or met for the first time.  It was a pleasure interacting with the media reps. At times, during the rounds we were hit with a lot of sweat that flew off the boxers, but thankfully no blood splatters. Being that this was my second boxing event that I provided coverage, I started to learn more about boxing.  During this event I learned the difference between a TKO (Technical Knock Out) and a KO (Knock Out).  A technical knockout is when the referrer calls it a rap with the match because the opponent is no longer able to continue due to injuries and the winning boxer is then announced.  A knock out is when the boxer is knocked down to the ground by their opponent and unable to get up on their feet within a specific time frame.

I could get great visuals of the boxing matches through photography and videography on behalf of Celestial Caring Enterprise, LLC and DC Life Magazine.  There’s so much visual content that all boxing matches (Boxer vs. Boxer) will be presented separately so the boxers can have their own features in our Blog.  We’ll feature the winning boxers on DC Life Magazine.  This is also a great opportunity for their exposure, awareness, visibility, and credibility with their boxing career.  The feature placements will either consist of an interview, biography, or article. 

This was not just an event that they participated in, but an opportunity to open doors in other market areas for endless possibilities from others that have read their features.  Each boxer will be given the credit they deserve with their participation and the major part they played in making this event a success.

Luther “Lights Out” Smith Boxing Recap

Video Credit: Tishawn Marie, Celestial Caring Enterprise, LLC

The hype during the matches from the spectators that packed around the ring from VIP on the first level all the way up to the public being able to view leading through to the second level was filled with excitement.  The ten (10) boxing matches had the crowd so pumped during each round that it set the right tone for the boxers in the ring.  Some of the boxers came onto the ring ready to fight their opponent with the confidence that showed in their face and body language, but on the other hand, a few lacked the confidence that was needed to drive them towards a successful fight.

There were several long intermissions, such as the “Feather Lady,” Cat Taylor whom came on the ring before Gerome “GQ” Quigley, the Undefeated IBA World Champion boxer came out to fight his opponent, Luis “La Roca” Hernandez, whom no boxer could stop him on the USBO Welterweight Champion card.  She gave two glass trophy awards to the Ring Announcer, Henry “Discombobulating” Jones and Gerome “GQ” Quigley’s Manager/Father Jeff Gatling and his mother.

In between the fights, the music was played by DJ Young Music.  I found myself bumping my head at times, but for the most part stayed focus during the breaks for note-taking.  As I looked around, many people were grooving to the sounds of music while waiting for the next fight. 

Video Credit: Tishawn Marie, Celestial Caring Enterprise, LLC

There were many special moments, such as when a little boy named Noah approximately at the age of 3 ½ entered in the ring and put on a show by his talented dancing.  He truly was entertaining to the crowd.  Noah rocked all around the ring in precise movements to the beat.

We also stood in silence when we heard the beautiful voice of the Star Spangled Banner.

I didn’t do any interviews at the event which was fine with me because I had no intentions on missing any fights. I pride myself on keeping events alive throughout the months after the event. 

I want you to enjoy taking this boxing event journey with me as we go down memory lane on the event held a few months ago.  This event will take months to prepare as there’s several boxers being featured in various formats, so please bear with me as the placements occur.  Please be advised that the placements will be in the order of the boxing matches.  No boxer will be left behind. I have 20 boxers to feature and the placement formats depends on whether they won or lost. 

Sneak Peak of Gerome “GQ” Quigley Giving Luis “La Roca” Hernandez Many Shots to the Body & Head

Video Credit: Tishawn Marie, Celestial Caring Enterprise, LLC

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If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Tishawn Marie directly at 209.CARING3 (227.4643) or fill out the contact form.

The boxers along with their opponents were as follows:

1. Dante Cox, Debut from Laurel MD vs. Archie Weah, 1-7-0 from Norcross, GA

2. Rashad Kilpatrick, Debut from Oxon Hill, MD vs. Martegus Martin, Debut from Columbus OH.

3. Leo Alcanera, 1-0-0 from Fort Washington, MD vs. George Sheppard, 0-1-0 from Newport News, VA

4. Justin Bell, 1-0-0 from Destrict Heights, MD vs. Erik Plumeri, 0-4-1 from Lockport, NY

5. Francisco Bustos 5-0-0 (KO 3) from Rockville, MD vs. Latrail Purdue, Debut from Huntington, TN 

6. Jahmal Dyer, 2-0-0 from Baltimore, MD vs. Lawrence Martin, 2-2-0 from Akron, OH

7. Jason Bell, 1-0-0 from District Heights, MD vs. Dameron Kirby, Debut

8. Luther “Lights Out” Smith, 8-1-0 (KO 7) from Bowie, MD vs. Martez Williamson, 3-19-1 from Akron, OH

9. Sam “Vanilla Gorilla” Crossed, 5-0-0 (KO 3) from Greenbelt, MD vs. James Jones, 4-10-o (KO 3) from Nashville, TN

10. Gerome “GQ” Quigley Jr. 16-0-0 (KO 15) from Germantown, MD vs. Luis “La Roca” Hernandez,

    16-4-0 (KO 9) from Puerto Rico.

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On July 14, 2017, I had the opportunity to attend the exclusive press conference and weigh in prior to the boxing event, “The Quest for Another Title,” that was held the following night.

“The Return of Gerome (GQ) Quigley,” Boxing Championship Part Two” event was presented by GQ Promotions.

The press conference and weigh in was held at, “The Sphinx on K,” 1315 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20005 on the lower level at 12 pm.

Upon my arrival, the third set of boxers were done with the weigh in.  I started taking photographs and recording the boxer’s weight beginning with the fourth set of boxers.

I’m going to list each boxer from when they started the weigh in because Mr. Henry “Discombobulating” Jones came to me at the end to ask, if I need any information that I missed.  I said, “Yes, I need the beginning sets of boxers names and weights.”  We headed to the row of chairs to sit down and go through the details I needed.  It was such a blessing for his assistance.

1. Dante Cox from Laurel MD weight was 133.8 vs. Archie Weah from Norcross, GA weight was 135.
2. Rashad Kilpatrick from Oxon Hill, MD weight was 145.2 vs. Martegus Martin from Columbus OH weight was 142.2.
3. Leo Alcanera from Fort Washington, MD weight was 165.8 vs. George Sheppard from Newport News, VA weight was 166.5.
4. Justin Bell from District Heights, MD weight was 175 vs. Erik Plumeri from Lockport, NY weight was 170.4.
5. Francisco Bustos from Rockville, MD weight was 159.6 vs. Latrail Purdue from Huntington, TN weight was 160.
6. Jahmal Dyer from Baltimore, MD weight was 135.6 vs. Lawrence Martin from Akron, OH weight was 160.
7. Jason Bell from District Heights, MD weight was 176.6 vs. Dameron Kirby weight was 168.
8. Luther “Lights Out” Smith from Bowie, MD weight was 199.4 vs. Martez Williamson from Akron, OH weight was 191.
9. Sam “Vanilla Gorilla” Crossed from Greenbelt, MD weight was 196.8 vs. James Jones from Nashville, TN weight was 198.8.
10. Gerome “GQ” Quigley Jr. from Germantown, MD weight was 149 vs. Luis “La Roca” Hernandez from Puerto Rico weight was 149.2.

Here are some of the photos from the Weigh In: Boxers and the Boxer Opponents:

Photo Credit: Celestial Caring Enterprise, LLC

 

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Not Too Much is Romantic About this Psychological Thriller 

Bestselling Multi-Genre Author, Rachael Tamayo released the Cover Reveal and Book Trailer of, “Crazy Love” on June 19, 2017. Reading into the mind of a psychopathic man goes to any extent to catch his prey, a beautiful young woman, Emily. She’s interested in another man, Isaiah not knowing her worse nightmare is too close to home, living right in her attic. The chills from Noah’s creepy thoughts teaches readers to be extra careful of who they let into their lives and the signs to know when to flee or be caught in a crazy love that closes you into a danger zone. “Crazy Love” is published by Solstice Publishing and set to be released this summer.

I love Emily. I know she loves me too, I just need to show her. One day, we will be together forever, I’ll make sure of that. She’s only with this guy she’s been hanging around with to test me, see if I’ll stand true. Emily wants me to fight for her, to see if I can win her. Of course, I will. Once she sees how I’ve been caring for her, all the plans I’ve made, and the lengths I’ve gone to in order to be with her, she will be so proud of me. If only she would stop pretending so I could stop hiding in her attic.

Reach deep into the mind of mentally ill millionaire, Noah Burrell as he turns Emily’s world upside down. His deranged love just might be her undoing.

Emily is happy with her quiet life. A young pharmacist in a Houston area CVS, single and living on her own. Noah, a middle-aged millionaire, comes in to see her daily. Emily chalks it up to a man with a crush on a younger woman, assuming that it’s harmless, although mildly annoyed by his daily visits.

Later in the evening, while Emily is busy attending her close friend’s engagement party, Noah heads to Emily’s home. Knowing where she keeps her hidden keys, he lets himself in and make himself at home, as he has been for months. Noah takes some clothing and checks her computer, but avoids spending the night in the attic like he often does, watching her though holes.

During the party, Emily runs into Isaiah, a previous one night stand. Overcoming her slight embarrassment after remembering how she left months before, the two strikes up a conversation and hit it off. Before leaving, while chatting in the driveway, Emily spots a strange vehicle and happens to mention it to Isaiah, who is a detective with the Katy Police Department. After a quick phone call, they discover that the vehicle belongs to none other than Noah.

“I’ve discovered that I love writing thrillers and believe I’ve found my genre. I doubt I’ll be returning to contemporary romance anytime soon, but everything I write will always have some element of romance,” said Tamayo.

Rachael Tamayo has written Romance, Paranormal, and now this Best-Selling Author is trying her hand at Thrillers. When she’s not writing, you can usually find her with her family. Tamayo is a Mom of a four-year-old son and infant daughter, and Wife of thirteen years. Her full-time profession as a 911/Police Dispatcher in the Houston area gives her an interesting perspective into people that others might not have. Rachael was born and raised in Southeast Texas, where she lives with her family. Her website is http://www.rachaeltamayowrites.com

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Here is the Book Trailer for, “Crazy Love” created by Tamayo:

Solstice Publishing was started in March 2008 under another name. In 2010, we teamed up with a marketing company who suggested that we change the name. Solstice has been growing for many years and we plan to have many more to come.

For Media and Blogger Inquiries, please contact Tishawn Marie, Book Publicist
Synopsis with Spoilers is available upon request.

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Gerome “GQ” Quigley Jr. is a Professional Boxer 16-0 (15) KO’s and a 2X Champion (Virginia State Welterweight Champion & IBA International World Champion.) He’s  from Washington, DC and resides in Gaithersburg, MD with his family.

On March 24, 2017, I was in attendance with Charles Shelton of Goldmind Entertainment & Media, LLC for a boxing weigh in and press conference held at the Cities Restaurant & Lounge, 1909 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20006 for “The Return of Gerome “GQ” Quigley” event held that next evening.

When we arrived at the venue, we knew exactly where to go. We saw a long conference table with the officials of the boxing event. I assumed they were getting organized for the weigh in. I sought out Courtney who was the Media POC whom informed me of the do’s and don’ts regarding the media in attendance. We were only approved to take photographs on the scene, but no interviews. That was a great situation because this was my first boxing experience. We had our Photographer, Donald E. Cooper, Jr. aka DJ of My Own Creative Outlook, LLC on deck. I had my pink notebook that fits right in my purse for note taking and used my cell phone to take my own photographs on behalf of Celestial Caring Enterprise, LLC, a Public Relations Boutique Firm.

We walked up a few steps leading to another floor where all the boxers waited patiently for the weigh in to begin. The way the venue is set up, I would assume the area was the VIP section with rounded table booths. I saw a few media guys present as well. At the top of the steps, Shelton introduced me to Gerome “GQ” Quigley. As our three-company team scoped out the exclusive area, we had to figure out how we were going to proceed. I looked at the different boxers walking around the floor and sitting at the booth tables conversing amongst one another. Then in the middle of the room was a long table where I saw other media outlets looking through some papers. I thought I was supposed to fill out paperwork, for instance due to any liabilities, etc. I immediately went to the table to only see documents that didn’t look like it had anything to do with needing our signatures. I asked Courtney, if we had to sign anything, she said all was covered for media. Great! It’s always best to stay on your P’s and Q’s to ensure you do what’s correct at events when providing media coverage.

While we waited for the weigh in to begin, I walked around the room writing my notes and taking photographs, while at the same time directing Cooper on getting specific angles of boxers. At this point, you would’ve thought I’ve been involved with boxing press conferences in the past.

I noticed the officials were clearing out the middle of the floor. I knew the weigh in was about to start, but I wasn’t sure how it would all take place. The long table was moved between the media and other attendees and the weigh in area. On the other hand, officials were making sure the weight scale was working properly then introduced themselves.

I was in the way back, so I glided through the crowd and made it to the front, literally right at the table that had a clean white cloth covering it. I set myself up to be organized and ready for the weigh in to begin while standing up. I happened to be between a very nice and informative media rep from another company. This cameraman helped me keep track of the names of the boxers as they were going on and off the scale. Being new to this, it was moving fast or I was moving a bit slow. I sometimes couldn’t hear the names or remember the names due to writing down the number order and weight. I thought it was going to be a few boxers, which were listed on the flyer, but to my surprise, it was 22 boxers that weighed in.

The boxers would unclothe themselves, men down to their briefs and the women were either in a bikini or two piece work out attire enough to cover their private areas. Only one woman was fully clothed, not showing her body below her face. The boxers would then stand on the scale one by one, all doing the same poses, front face with arms to the side to be officially weighed and weight announced. Next, held their hands in front of their body before flexing their muscles to show their physique. This is where the seriousness came into effect between the opponents after being weighed, both boxers would stand on the floor to face each other with fists by their face and then they would face the media for photos. When they exited the weigh area, the routine continued with all the boxers.

The boxing participants had more men boxers than females. When the weigh in was over, boxers, media, and the officials either stayed at the end to engage with one another and/or take photos. Our team took photos from the top floor steps to the bottom of the floor. Before leaving, I could get Gerome “GQ” Quigley’s attention away from the boxing officials to take photos with him, thanks to Shelton knowing Quigley very well. I had just met GQ that day.

Courtney informed me that I could interview 3 boxers at the boxing event. I needed to send her the 3 names. I had the choice to do interviews before the boxers were getting in the ring or after their fight. I chose to do interviews after they came out of the ring. My 3 options consisted of Gerome “GQ” Quigley, Justin Bell, and Luther Smith. I had a backup boxer just in case I couldn’t get an interview from one of my selected boxers, the other one was Dravontay “Speed” Rawis.

It was a pleasure and great experience to have the opportunity to being a part of the boxing weigh in & press conference. I look forward to providing media coverage for more weigh in and press conferences for GQ Promotions.

 

 

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Charles & I are hanging out with Greg Hackett & Don Hollingsworth.

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Tyrese, Lee Daniels, & Amiyah Scott Speak Out

On February 13, 2017 I interviewed Tyrese, Lee Daniels, and Amiyah Scott from the Fox TV show, “Star.”  The new episode airing today, Wednesday February 15, 2017 will influence how Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, and Transgender’s are viewed.  I hope for others to have a better understanding on an issue that is needing to be addressed.  Our conversations should help others build a positive reflection on what is negatively judged.

It’s time for others to reflect on how they treat those who are considered different from themselves.  Many are so quick to judge, yet to be judged.  Amiyah Scott had to not only play the character role of Cotton, but is a transgender. 

“I know I was playing a role, but even just me acting, felt so uncomfortable.  You can only imagine how it would feel in real life, if that happened.  People think they can pray over you.  People think something is wrong with you.  Why is there something wrong with me for wanting to be who I am.  And I think that the people who do judge individuals in that way would look at how they come off.  Some are monstrous.”

People of different races are always hating one another just because of their race in which one doesn’t have a choice on choosing their own race when born.  Lee Daniels, the creator of the hit shows, “Empire” and “Star” gets to the root of the problem.

“Me living as a gay man is not a choice, however it’s my choice to believe that it’s not a choice.  Just like it’s your choice to believe or Tyrese’s choice to believe that it wasn’t a choice that we are black people or we were born into our blackness.  So I think that it’s really an open discussion.  It brings open a conversation.  I think that Jamal being put in the trash had laid down the foundation for us to step it up a notch and to talk about other issues.”

The upcoming new episode on, “Star” deeply sheds light on LGBT. With the direction taken in this episode, I asked Tyrese how it directly affects the pastors because he plays the character of Pastor Bobby Harris.  In the show, he’s in a relationship with the character Carlotta played by Queen Latifah and together they face a hardship concerning Cotton.

“I think the way it’s going to affect pastors is that pastors will be able to say, ‘Well, the cameras weren’t rolling; Lee Daniels wasn’t directing me; but I’ve done this multiple times.  I’ve prayed over men who have confessed to being child molesters.  I’ve prayed over men who are sex addicts or men who have problems with gambling.  I’ve prayed over men who are married to women, but find themselves desiring men while their married.’  And their running and turning to God.  Everybody else turns to God.  All of whatever those reasons are.  So, I just think at the end of the day when you enter the preachers’ quarters and enter the church and they say come down to the alter, everybody is walking to the alter with their own individual things that their trying to turn to God on because obviously, some of their things are much bigger than us.  If we all had the answers, then most of us wouldn’t be in church.  Some people like going to church to be around folks, but when I go to church, I go because I’m trying to evolve, grow, and climb up even further of the spiritual ladder because I pray that I get to always meet a better version of myself.  That’s why I go to church.”

Tyrese goes into saying that he is not putting those that are gay into the category of the different men he stated above who have committed crimes; has addictions; habits, etc. He is simply using those types of people in general as an example of the real-life situations that the pastors face with their church members. 

“When it comes to our individual experience or relationship with God, we all fall short.  We all run to God for our own individual things, issues, and stuff.  And so for you to condemn or look down on somebody because their stuff is different from your stuff than you’re doing God’s job which is judging.  That’s not your job.”

Tonight, is the night that many will tune into the new episode of, “Star” and experience such a touchy topic within scenes that could change the way in which people see others, as well as how others should be treated and not mistreated. Furthermore, Tyrese talks about this controversial subject with The Breakfast Club. 

Tyrese has a sit down with Wendy Williams to discuss tonight’s show coming on at 9p EST

Follow Tyrese on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

Follow Lee Daniels on Twitter and Instagram.

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I’m introducing Published Author Rachael Tamayo from Houston, Texas.  Not only is she my Critique Circle Friend, but I’m her Book Publicist. It is a pleasure to work with her as she launches her first book, “Chase Me” in the Friend-Zone Series.

Who is she???  She’s a police dispatcher/911 operator, and a Romance writer. She’s a wife and mother living in Houston, TX with her husband of twelve years and her three year old son. They all live happily with their yellow Lab, Daisy and their African Grey parrot, Sassy.

When she’s not writing or working, you can usually find her at home enjoying quality time with her husband and son, or maybe a large family get together with her fantastic extended family.

                                                                Photo Credit: Adriana Lopez

Her first novel, “Chasing Me” in the Friend-Zone series is published by Solstice Publishing set to be released on July 1, 2016.  We’re so excited about the wonderful promotions leading up to the release date for her reading fans and new fans.  You do not want to miss all of the fun!!!  Let’s see what Rachael has in store for you….

My name is Adrienne Lawrence and my friends are my life. I wish I could say the same about my family, we just don’t get along.  One summer day after a barrage of comments from my Mom about not having a date for a family wedding, I fell headfirst over my own big mouth and lied about having a boyfriend.

Thank God for my lifelong friend, Clint Montgomery. He knows me well enough to play the part, and is sweet enough to step in and save me from a week of embarrassment at a venue wedding across the country.

It sure doesn’t take long for things to heat up between us, and man is that confusing. It’s hard to remember that you’re pretending when It just feels so real. His history of philandering has a way of cooling me off, but when he kisses me, I keep forgetting that I don’t want to be one of the women left in his wake.

How to connect with Rachael Tamayo:

You can find her on Facebook.

You can find her on Twitter.

You can find follow her on Pinterest.

You can find her on Goodreads.

For Media Inquires or Bloggers please contact:

Celestial Caring Enterprises

Tishawn Marie, Book Publicist

tishawnmarie@celestialcaringent.com

209.227.4643

We look forward to hearing from you!

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It’s a beautiful Sunday evening. I spent my morning reading my first Danielle Steel book, The Sins of the Mother, which I couldn’t put down. Then I found out that my story in Book One of the Faith Series is finally on the Main Spotlight to be critiqued. Furthermore, I received an awesome message on my scratchpad that another writer really loves my work. A few minutes later I was notified by email that I had my first critique, and it was an awesome critique that put a great big smile on my face. Reading this critique confirmed that my writing is getting better, I’m learning more about my style of writing, and others are loving my story thus far, and is looking forward to reading more from Book One, Faith Series. This is very encouraging and enlightening! I received my second critique which was great as well, but I need to use more description in my writing, which I lack. I can’t wait to get my writing fingers moving and grooving so I can become a better writer through the Faith Series Writing Journey.

I look forward to rewriting the ending to my first chapter, rewriting the first part of chapter two which has been critiqued by a different site and adding the second part of chapter two with the chapter two revision. Once completely revised and combined, I will submit the entire chapter two for reviews.

Moving on….it’s September. School has started for my children about a week ago. I’ve been beyond busy with appointments between my children and I. Not to mention, starting my second business, handmade products, such as beaded jewelry. I’ve had some challenges along the way with taking several different medications to manage my Bipolar Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, Rape Trauma Syndrome, and Depression while still dealing with PCOS. These complications has caused me to become manic because my insurance won’t approve the medication that really works for me.

I’ve been making decisions that haven’t been in our best interest. In the process, I’ve realized abusers cannot be helped by their victim.…To this day I continue to live with the side effects.

People cannot change their ways unless they’re aware of what they’re doing to others; understanding their behavior is changing and effecting their livelihood, including their career; and they have a willing heart to want to seek professional help. I don’t know what God is doing, but I know that prayers speak volumes and anything is possible through prayer and seeking a relationship with the Lord.

What do you do when your back is against the wall? When you think about what is in the best interest of your children, as well as yourself, you’re doomed, if you do, and doomed, if you don’t. Writing really is a major outlet to help me express my world from a realistic literary fiction perspective.

During my travels on the train, I’ve been focused on writing more to Book One. Since my story hits so close to home, I decided to make a few changes in regards to my characters. I also chose to add chapter three to be the ending of chapter two. My chapter four is now chapter three. Chapter five is now chapter four. Chapter six moves into chapter four. The reason for all of these changes is because I wanted the plots to stay in the same chapter oppose to splitting the plots. These changes make for a better story flow, and fits my style of writing.

Three days ago, I started writing chapter five, but I’m not finished. I’m hoping to write chapter five and six by the end of the Labor Day holiday. The story is moving in so many different directions due to Faith meeting new people, falling into unexpected situations beyond her control, and on the flip side, making decisions within her control which were not too street smart.

As a writer, I’m hoping to show my readers how life can instantly take many different turns in less than one year. More so, Book One really sheds light on the start of abusive relationships, and a young woman who is dealing with multiple victimization. Book One is really going to open up the eyes of many, and I’m pretty sure others can relate to Faith and realize that they are not alone.

Our career goals have a great impact on the decisions that we make. These choices can also hinder our goals in the long run. Faith shows the reader how her career moves has made and broke her, all at the same time.

If this is speaking to your spirit, please share your story with my blog readers. I would love to hear from others. Remember, sharing your story could help others who are currently going through similar experiences.

I welcome words of encouragement, uplifting, and spiritual guidance as I currently get over this hurdle that we’re facing. I appreciate any comments. Thank you!

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Lately I’ve been doing many critiques and having my writing critiqued as well, but have not shared the Chapter One Extension critiques as promised. So this Saturday afternoon, I’m sharing my second, third, fourth and fifth critiques. I hope this is helpful during your writing journey.

At the same time, I’m waiting for my WordPress blog themes to show up completely. The internet is a bit slow for some reason. I’ve decided to start a separate blog site specifically for the Faith Series. The domain is www.faithserieswritingjourney.wordpress.com. Please visit once the site is completed. I’m hoping to help many writers and authors along the way as I take on this writing journey myself.

Also, for my readers, I hope to bring insight to the Faith Series so they can get a glimpse into the creation of the novels. Currently, I’m on Book One. I’m not really sure how many books the series will have, but I’ll have a better idea once I keep writing the story. So let’s get into it!

Second Critique

After reading the entire critique, I only want to respond to one comment by the reviewer.

I don’t mope about my destructive life cycle. I don’t cry over spilled milk. I don’t regret my loose cannons from exploding in a moment that left me worthless, used and abused.
I don’t mope about my destructive life cycle Not sure what this means.

I don’t cry over spilled milk. Too many metaphors consider eliminating one of two.

The reviewer is not sure what “destructive life cycle” means. To me, destructive life cycle is when a person’s life keeps moving at the same pace, which is the cycle. It doesn’t change. Where you started is where you keep ending up, over and over again. In this case, Faith has a life that is very destructive due to being victimized during different moments that have left her feeling worthless, used and abused.

Third Critique

After reading:
You have a good start here. Keep writing! I hope my suggestions are helpful.

Yes, the reviewer’s suggestions were very helpful. It really helped me to revise the Chapter One Extension Rewrite.

Fourth Critique

It was dusk as the night was approaching. I headed back downtown to unwind. I’m always putting a band aid on my pain by dancing the night away and getting drunk enough to only feel that good feeling. When I’m in the zone being swirled into the loud music, I became the beat.
Sounds like a fun character. Try to use active voice instead of passive whenever possible. For example, “It was dusk” could become “Dusk fell over the city, as I headed back downtown to unwind.”

Yes, Faith is a fun character when you get to know her Writing in active voice is something that I really need to work on.

Sometimes I would drink too much just so I would be too drunk to fight back. Saying no to men never stopped the vultures in sheep clothing from wearing out my jewel. It was easier for me to cope with being in powerless situations opposed to fighting an uncontrolled battle that I have never won.
Try to avoid redundancy in word use. For example, the first sentence has drink and drunk in it. Nothing’s really wrong with that, but it might be more interesting to mix up the words a bit. Maybe something like: . . . just so the booze would render me helpless. Could maybe throw in a metaphor, like: Serving as a puppet in these battles somehow protected my pride from the feeling of failure.

This analysis is very deep and sad. Good job being able to express it.

Pride has nothing to do with the situations. Faith is not protecting her pride. I don’t think the reviewer understood where I was coming from in this paragraph.

In regards to the sentence about feeling of failure, I don’t quite agree with the word “failure.” When someone is a victim, we don’t necessarily have feelings of failure. We more so have feelings of defeat. When I think of failure, it’s more as though one has failed something one was trying to do, not doing something one has no control over.

She hit it right on the nail. I was able to express it because the character Faith is actually me. This was a very deep and sad time in my life. Some fiction novels have a lot of truth to the story. This is my truth that many can relate to. I’m not alone. You’re not alone. Together we can overcome our past to not let it affect our future.

“When you get downtown, stop by McDonald’s to pick me up two Double Cheeseburgers,” said Darius.
OMG, of all the nerve. Good job making him come across like a jerk.

Ha, Darius is a jerk! Usually when one abuses his girlfriend, they act like they have done no wrong. Life continues to move forward with the abuser as if all is normal. Victims are so used to doing what the abuser wants them to do no matter how bad the abuser has hurt the victim. The victim begins to self-blame and being remorseful to the abuser as if the abuser is the victim. The victim begins to care for the abuser’s needs and wants just to keep the peace.

A lot of people walked around, down the sidewalk, street and drove bumper to bumper. There was a row of club spots, bars and jumbo pizza places. It was hard to choose where I wanted to go considering that I was all by myself. I was determined to have a good time, although I felt so sad inside.
Wouldn’t she rather be with a friend? Or would a friend hold her accountable? (Not let her drink too much and become powerless)?

Yes, Faith would rather be with a friend, but that wasn’t the case. Faith usually had to go out by herself because she couldn’t get a hold of her friends. Faith seemed to believe that she was strong enough to protect herself while she was out. The type of friends that Faith had during that time, were not the type that would hold her accountable. She usually still was in bad situations around her “so-called friends.” They never stopped her from drinking too much nor did they protect her from becoming powerless.

Closing comments

Great story line. I’m intrigued by her attitude that it’s easier to get drunk and be powerless than to stay sober and be in charge of oneself. And I’m also intrigued by what is going to happen in the club to change her life.
My biggest suggestion is to pay attention to your tense and try to stay completely in past tense (or present tense, but just be consistent).
My second biggest suggestion is to try to minimize verbs like is am are was were when possible. Your writing will be more bold and will have more to visualize in your descriptions when you substitute other verbs.
Good job.

Yes, this reviewer gets it after all!!! I’ve always had issues with tense since I’ve been writing the Faith Series, Book One. I definitely need to work on minimizing the verbs in order to write with more description for my readers to visualize. I’m currently reading two writing books to help me along the way. Studying these books have been great tools during my writing journey.

What tools do you use to help you with your writing journey?

Fifth Critique

You’ve written a piece that is intriguing and even captivating, but there are some issues that need to be worked out.

I did the rewrite already which is currently up for review. This reviewers suggestions really helped me during my rewrite. I greatly appreciate the feedback.

Do you use critiquing sites to help with your writing journey? If so, which ones?

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After having such a very rough day the other day, I thought I would end that night with sharing the last five critiques that I received from the extension to Chapter One in my Faith Series, Book One. When reviewing my critiques, I hope to help others who may be having similar writing issues.

Originally, this extension was going to be my second chapter, but after writing much, I realized that this content flows better with my first chapter. I have already started writing my second chapter, which I look forward to sharing soon, once I’m ready to submit for review.

Looking at the date, I realized that I’m actually past the deadline date that I set for myself to have chapter one completed. I’ve been so busy with work these past few weeks that I haven’t had a chance to focus on my writing. No more excuses! I gotta meet these deadlines regardless! Anyhow, I’m not going to post the entire critique, but only the review content that I want to address.

First Critique

Sometimes I would drink too much just so I would be too drunk to fight back. Saying no to men never stopped the vultures in sheep clothing from wearing out my jewel. It was easier for me to cope with being in powerless situations opposed to fighting an uncontrolled battle that I have never won.
I would be careful about getting melodramatic here. You make these sweeping and very serious statements with no backdrop for the reader. I know you’re trying to keep the reader interested, but don’t overdo it.

Really? Do you think I overdid it here? I absolutely love how I worded this paragraph. I hit it right on the nail. Other reviewers liked this paragraph. So I need help from others. What do you think?

After driving around in circles, I finally found a parking space a few blocks away. It’s wasn’t too far from U Street. I took one last look in the mirror for a make-up check. I freshened my lips with glossy natural lip stick. I’m puckered up! I blew a kiss at the mirror and made that, “I know I’m sexy” look. I checked to ensure my windows were closed. I looked around constantly as I exited my sedan.

It’s => It

Of course practice makes one a better writer, but one suggestion is to put a little more visualization into your narrative. Draw the reader in a little better. For example,
I blew a kiss at the mirror. She looked back at me hot and sexy!

Don’t waste a lot of words on mundane descriptions. Make your writing efficient. Does closing the windows and checking constantly as you exit really have a lot of meaning to the story. I would take a little different tack. Maybe re-emphasize how she narrowly misses getting hit by a passing car or some guys go by and yell out something making the reader see that she looks hot.

This has been my biggest problem….writing with more visualization. What helps you write in a visualized manner? I’m still having a lot of issues telling instead of showing.

I think you basically create an interesting backdrop where the reader wants more information on the story which is good. But it seems a bit awkward at times. One suggestion would be to work on how you tell the story. This is where your style will emerge. So rather than just a narration of events and dialogue, draw the reader more into your imagination. It is difficult, but try removing the adverbs in the dialogue description. Use action and dialogue more to convey the image of the characters and backdrop you want to elicit from the reader. Hope my critique is of some help to you.

All I can say about this…I really need help in this area. He hit it right on the nail. The critique was very helpful. This chapter one extension is definitely in need of a major rewrite. I don’t want to put all 5 critiques on the same posting so I will post one critique per day. I hope this was helpful to you as much as it was to me. In regards to my questions, if anyone is able to get back to me, that would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much!

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Today, in honor of National HIV Testing Day Celestial Caring Enterprises and our client, Essence Magazine Bestselling Author, Tia Hines encourages you to get tested for HIV. HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) that causes AIDS.

The only way to know if you have HIV is to get tested. Many people with HIV don’t have any symptoms. In the United States, 1 in 7 people living with HIV don’t know they have it.

Even if you don’t feel sick, getting early treatment for HIV is important. Early treatment can help you live a longer, healthier life. Treatment can also make it less likely that you will pass HIV on to other people.

Am I at risk for HIV?

HIV is spread through some of the body fluids, semen (cum), vaginal fluids, and breast milk. HIV is passed from one person to another by:

• Having sex (vaginal, anal, or oral) without a condom or dental dam with a person who has HIV.
• Sharing needles with someone who has HIV.
• Breastfeeding, pregnancy, or childbirth, if the mother has HIV.
• Getting a transfusion of blood that’s infected with HIV (very rare in the United States.)

Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, the health care reform law passed in 2010, insurance plans must cover HIV testing. Talk to your insurance company to learn more. Free HIV testing is also available at some testing centers and health clinics.

“HIV does not discriminate.” ~ Tia Hines

The Most Talked About Youth Discussions
Teens Are Not Exempt from HIV

Author Tia Hines is spreading a message through her YA Urban Fiction novel series, “ That Girl is Poison” to shed light on the most talked about youth discussions involving the following topics: Sex, Promiscuity, HIV, Abuse, Teen Rape, Child Sexual Assault, Pregnancy, and Neglect.

This sexual assault survivor is a youth mentor that has a very fascinating way of reaching the young generation and inspiring adults to set goals to create dreams and never stop striving to achieve new heights.

The first book in the two part series was published by Urban Books in 2012, this work is about Desire Jones, a young, hot-to-trot teen who lives life on the edge. Abandoned by her mother, she yearns for love and attention. Her uncle shelters her, but life is impossible to bear with his abusive wife. To make things worse, she gets involved with Malik, who shatters her hope and trust by leaving her pregnant and infected with HIV. So hardened, she decides to do the unspeakable, purposely infecting people with her disease. Of course, no one knows of her intent, not even her best friend, Jennifer, who unwittingly helps Desire find her victims. Will Desire realize the error of her ways before it’s too late? The forthcoming second book, “That Girl is Poison Too” will follow.

“The powerful lessons in my book reflects on respect, love, and protection. Many can relate to my own growing pains which is displayed in my fictional character experiences,” said Tia Hines.

That Girl is Poison ($12.68, 288 pages, 5.5 x 0.9 x 8.2, paperback, ISBN: 1-60162-517-0, is available at online booksellers and distributed by Kensington Publishing Corp. Urban Books is one of the nation’s largest African-American owned book publishing company located in New York and founded by book mogul and best-selling author, Carl Weber whom has published over 2500 African-American topic based books. For more information, please visit www.urbanbooks.net.

NOTE TO MEDIA: To arrange for an interview with Tia Hines, write a feature story, book review, or quotes, please contact Tishawn Marie, Publicist 209.227.4643.

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