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Ms. Elizabeth Bruce's presentation at Tenley

  Join Esther Productions Inc., the Institute for African American Writing and The Black Student Fund in partnership with The Tenley-Friendship Library, this second program in the Series for an enriching afternoon of poetry with Ms. Elizabeth Bruce. ​Nov 09, 2024, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM EST Washington, 4450 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA MIDNIGHTROSE: A Reading Series of Poetry and Prose continues featuring three exciting poets and short story writers whose words and presentations will inspire and regal. Presented by Esther Productions Inc., the Institute for African American Writing and The Black Student Fund in partnership with The Tenley-Friendship Library, this second program in the Series. For those interested in learning more about this literary event, please feel free to reach out via email at  midnightrosereadingseries@gmail.com . https://www.estherproductionsinc.com/events-1/midnightrose-a-reading-series-of-poetry-prose-2-nov-9-2024 Ms. Elizabeth Bruce’s Unive...

Importance of being honest

Quote found on the Internet “Honesty serves as a cornerstone of trust in any relationship, whether personal or professional. When individuals choose to be truthful, they foster an environment where open communication can thrive. This transparency not only strengthens bonds but also encourages others to reciprocate with their own honesty. In a world where deception can often lead to misunderstandings and conflict, embracing honesty can pave the way for deeper connections and a more harmonious existence. The act of being honest is not merely about refraining from lying; it encompasses a broader commitment to integrity and authenticity. When people express their true thoughts and feelings, they allow others to see them for who they genuinely are. This vulnerability can be daunting, yet it is essential for building meaningful relationships. Moreover, honesty cultivates a sense of accountability, as individuals become more aware of their actions and their impact on others, leading to perso...

MIDNIGHTROSE: A Reading Series of Poetry and Prose features Mr. Kenneth Carroll, Ms. Elizabeth Bruce and Ms.Sasa Aakil

  “MidnightRose serves as a vibrant platform that highlights the diverse voices of multigenerational and multicultural writers from the Washington Metropolitan Region and beyond. This initiative is brought to life by Esther Productions Inc., in collaboration with The Institute for African American Writing and The Black Student Fund. The series aims to celebrate the literary talents within the community, showcasing a variety of poetic and prose works that reflect the rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives that define the region. Attendees of MidnightRose can expect to engage with a dynamic array of award-winning poets and authors, each bringing their unique narratives and artistic expressions to the forefront. The event not only serves as a performance space but also as a gathering that fosters dialogue and connection among writers and audiences alike. By immersing oneself in the powerful words and stories shared during the series, participants are invited to explore themes o...

Christmas Eve

  Quote found on the Internet It is Christmas Eve and I pray that those that celebrate Christmas prayers are answered. On this Christmas Eve, I would like my only prayer for a single hetrosexual male over the age of 30 to marry me. I believe that Christmas eve and Christmas are about genuine love, affection, showing compassion, demonstrating understanding, being trustworthy, loyal, faithful, having mutual respect and meaningful conversations without judgement, bias and prejudice. I do not want a hetrosexual husband that has no respect for himself and those that raised him to be a gentleman with standards, values, ethics, and self-expression.  I do not believe in the superficiality of Christmas eve and Christmas. I believe in the essence of gifts that come from the heart and treasured stories that have symbolism, inspiration and instill principles such as determination and purpose. Some of the movies that I watched in the past on Christmas Eve include Frosty Snowman and How the...

The intersection of poetry and prose within the D.C. art scene

  “The intersection of poetry and prose within the D.C. art scene serves as a catalyst for cultural dialogue and social commentary. Writers often address pressing issues through their work, reflecting the complexities of urban life and the diverse experiences of the city's inhabitants. This literary engagement not only captivates audiences but also inspires action and awareness around various social topics. As the art scene continues to evolve, the integration of literary forms with other artistic expressions promises to further enrich the cultural landscape, making Washington, D.C. a significant hub for artistic innovation and collaboration.” Join Mr. Miller, Ms. Ayala and Mr. Gilmore at Tenley on September 14th. For those interested in learning more about this literary event, please feel free to reach out via email at midnightrosereadingseries@gmail.com. Additional details can also be found on the official website of Esther Productions, Inc. at the provided link - https://www.est...

Implementation of innovative strategies

  In the upcoming months, specifically from the fall of 2024 through June 2025, I will be focusing on the development and implementation of innovative strategies to enhance the services I offer in the realm of art and consulting. This period will mark a significant transition in my professional approach, as I will no longer be providing complimentary or educational services. Instead, my emphasis will shift towards delivering high-quality, value-driven offerings that align with the evolving needs of my clientele. For those who are interested in engaging my services, whether they are prospective clients or previous clients, it is essential that all requests be submitted in writing. This formal approach will ensure that I can adequately assess and respond to each inquiry with the attention it deserves. By establishing this protocol, I aim to streamline communication and foster a more professional relationship with those seeking my expertise in art and consulting.

The job market in Washington, DC in 1992

    “In 1992, the job market in Washington, D.C. presented a complex landscape for African Americans, marked by both progress and persistent challenges. While the city's burgeoning government sector offered some opportunities, particularly in fields like social services and education, racial disparities remained deeply entrenched. African Americans often faced discriminatory hiring practices, limited access to higher-paying positions, and a concentration in lower-wage, service-oriented jobs. The legacy of segregation and systemic racism continued to impact employment prospects, leading to higher unemployment rates and a widening wealth gap compared to their white counterparts. However, the growing civil rights movement and increasing awareness of racial inequality fostered a climate of activism and advocacy, pushing for greater diversity and inclusion in the workplace. This period saw the rise of organizations and initiatives aimed at addressing these disparities, paving the w...

Values

                                                     This is a collage that I created many years ago and gave away. It was one of the pieces that I featured on my old greeting cards. I created this piece while I was a student at Bell from 1991 - 1993.    Values. Greeting card created and designed by Afrika Abney   I strive to demonstrate my levels of integrity, empathy, and compassion within my community. I chose the following colors: blue, pink, yellow, black, and purple because it each of those colors have a relationship to one another and meaning. For example, I am a black, so black represents my roots, heritage, culture, and skin color. Without my ancestors and cultural beliefs, I would not be able to have values. Values are apart of who I am. Colors are embedded within me. "Blue symbolizes trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, intellige...

Promoting cultural expression through literature and the arts

I am actively involved in offering my services, brand, and creating digital artwork. On August 27,2024 and August 29, 2024, I personally distributed flyers to promote an upcoming event organized by Esther Productions Inc., The Institute for African American Writing, and The Black Student Fund. This event is set to occur on September 14, 2024, at the Tenley Library, and it promises to be an enriching experience for all attendees. The event will take place from 2 PM to 4 PM, providing a fantastic opportunity for participants to delve into the realms of poetry and prose. It aims to celebrate the richness of African American literature and foster a deeper appreciation for the art of writing. Attendees can expect a vibrant atmosphere filled with engaging discussions and performances that highlight the talents of various writers and poets. By attending this event, individuals will not only enjoy a captivating afternoon but also connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for li...

Dance

Quote found on the Internet  Ms. Afrika Abney specializes in West African dance, having honed her skills at NationHouse in D.C. With a unique style that blends traditional and contemporary elements, she inspires individuals of all abilities to embrace movement. Committed to fostering confidence, self-esteem, and personal expression through dance, Ms. Abney actively engages the community and empowers others to discover the transformative power of dance. When she went to Dance Place, years later, she studied Dunham Technique from Dr. Sherrill Berryman Johnson. DR. SHERRILL BERRYMAN JOHNSON "DR. J." ​"Dr. Sherrill Berryman Johnson was the Founder/Artistic Director of the first HBCU B.F.A. Dance Program at Howard University in Washington, DC. Dr. J, as we all fondly called her, was Dance. She was a woman of verve, grace, and intelligence; many academic achievements and an advocate of service. Dr. Sherrill Berryman Johnson, who, for many, many years taught, choreographed, adv...