Artisan Café Winter Edition: Happy Anniversary and Thanks for the Style

Posted by I'esha GaptoothDiva ⋅ December 10, 2012 ⋅ 6 Comments

Yes! We just wrapped up a great year of having Artisan Café grace us with its fabulous presence. I’m looking for more of the unity and urban collaboration that we have come to expect from Adriane and Melody. The winter edition of Artisan café was held at the very chic Dovetail Construction Company off Chamberlayne Avenue in Richmond, Virginia. I never have been there before, so when I got there it was way beyond my expectation. The event was held indoors, but a portion of the vendors was extended outside covered by tent. I thought it was lovely, so much so I did not want to leave… again. It is getting to the point; they are going to have to carry me out there by security one day. When I say I LOVE Artisan Café, it’s because there are no other words to describe my appreciation for what this event has done for the Richmond business community. By bringing everyone together, with great music, networking, and what we all love… shopping, Artisan Café still maintains my top spot of favorite events to attend. I only missed the first one, and I have not missed one since. My support for this venture is solid, and I hope you feel the same.

Saturday was filled with cozy fashions and warm use of bold colors. I’m especially impressed with how unique and creative Richmond’s fashionable has become. Many attendees stepped far out of the box with certain aspects of their ensemble, it was so different… it was perfect. I’ve made a few adjustments to my style as well, deciding to throw caution to the wind and dress how I feel. There were some classic looks present as well, however although the looks were classic or “classic Inspired”, individuals chose to still add certain details to make even an ordinary look their very own.

From naturals to meticulously straighten curls and waves, women were sporting their made up dos with pride. You rarely ever see an unsmiling face in the crowd, which was flooded with beautiful people. The atmosphere drives you crazy. Never has a person felt so alive, forgetting that the babysitter does have to get off the clock eventually.

I want more Richmond events to adopt some of the style that Artisan Café exudes. It’s all about how the people dress who attend, because honestly neither Adrienne nor Melody can control that. It’s about the support that comes through door. It’s about the attitude of the individuals invited. Everyone know you come to support, to shop, to connect with new and old friends, and to simply have a fantastic time overall. There is no shade, other than the tent. There is no hate, other the feeling of having to go home. These folks come together with purpose and passion, for their business, their crafts and art, and for each other.

When I’m there, I feel like I’m at a family reunion. I’m drawn to the smiling faces and open arms of people willing to embrace each other’s difference and unite for something bigger and more positive. I’m impressed and infatuated with what’s next for our city. I feel like I belong. When other happenings occur, some of us are on the defensive. We don’t know what to expect, how it’s going to turn out, and if we are going to get our money’s worth. However, at Artisan Café these questions never arise. You can grab your friends and family and walk around feeling great. With amazing tracks pouring out of the speakers, DJ Nobe (@deejaynobe) spins records that are the perfect soundtrack of excellence. I’m jamming in the middle of a graveled floor, forgetting where I am and I loved every minute of it.

I don’t know if you’ve ever read a review of Artisan Café and still haven’t made up your mind if it’s for you. I’m telling you it is! Trust when I say, that everything you want in Richmond Nightlife minus a free bar full of all the alcohol you can drink, this event has got it. There is no need to question should you go. You need to be in the building. I feel like I’m apart of the graduating class of urban art, culture, music, and business. I feel like this is where I belong.

Check out more amazing photos of my night at the Winter Edition of Artisan Café on my Facebook fan page. Be sure to like us for more of the Baddest Creative Motivation, you’ve come to love.

Support Artisan Café by going to there website – http://www.artisancafeva.com

Also, follow them on twitter @artisancafeva

Email them for more information at info@artisancafeva.com

For more of the Baddest Creative Motivation, follow me on Twitter @GaptoothDiva

What Do You Love the Most about Artisan Café?

Artisan Cafe’ Fall Edition (naturaltalentclothing.wordpress.com)
9 Observations About Richmond, Virginia From A Person Raised In New York City (thoughtcatalog.com)
Local organization brings HIV/AIDS awareness to Richmond (wtvr.com)
26th Annual Court End Christmas (wtvr.com)
Steven Spielberg reflects on his experiences with Richmond and ‘Lincoln’ (timesdispatch.com)
Area wrestlers compete at Virginia tournament (goerie.com)
Communities In Schools of Richmond Receives $100,000 as Part of AT&T Aspire (sys-con.com)
Virginia Candidate Terry McAuliffe Explains Building Plants in Mississippi (abcnews.go.com)
Richmond woman with double hand transplants loves talking with them (wtvr.com)
Sneaker Speaker by Ray Kingston Inc. (dezeen.com)

Artisan Café Sets the Summer Off With More Space and Culture, Now Let’s Support Them

Posted by I'esha GaptoothDiva ⋅ June 20, 2012 ⋅ 3 Comments

GaptoothDiva and Adrienne Cole of Artisan Cafe

: GaptoothDiva and Melody Short of Artisan Cafe

Melody Short and Adrienne Cole did it again, with another spectacular edition of Artisan Café. I’m so blown away how I honestly feel like I’m somewhere else in the world at each rendition of this event. This brought my summer in right, especially since my options these days are so rare. I was scheduled to attend another event the same day and the same time, however it was so hard to pull myself away once I was in the building.

The energy is electrifying and contagious, like a wave of support just gushes over each person involved. I love seeing the smiling and happy faces networking, almost in a vibe and connecting, each making lasting impressions on one another. It’s amazing! The vendors transcend the level of retail that we come to expect from average events and touch on our sense of sight, touch, hearing, sound, and even taste. There is no table of half-ass marketers only looking for you to buy, but sections of people wanting to call you family. “Check out my art, but let me tell you a story”, words pouring from a vendor into my ears. I love it. Even if your pockets are small, you still enjoy the atmosphere of eclectic style and so much love. Artisan Café is definitely the place I want to be every time.

I was pleased to see familiar faces like Wild Child Dzigns and Jay Sharpe. I was even more pleased to see new faces on the creative and retail platform, like newcomer Melanie Wade of Modgyrl. I was so proud that she was able to participate and sell her beauty products (which we all adore).

There was also an incredible performance by BlackRVA, which was so amazing that you really had to be there.

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See more pictures on my Facebook Fan Page - www.Facebook.com/gaptoothdivaonline

There is no question the level of success that comes from this event, which is why I did not hesitate to support them immediately. They still need our support as they compete in the The Entrepreneurial Trilogy/i.e. Start-up Competition this Thursday June 21, when their Start-Up competes for the title of the Region’s Next Best Start-Up and $10,000 in cash!

I really want them to win! It would change the game for artist, entrepreneurs, and creators all over RVA if they did.

Go to Facebook:

Help the ARTisan Cafe to become the Region’s Next Best Start-up!!! http://www.facebook.com/#!/events/484942991532066/

From the event’s page: “The ARTisan Cafe is a Finalist, and we would love to have you attend! We want to pack the entire theatre with our supporters and loved ones who have experienced the Cafe and would like to see us take it to the next level of a consistent weekend market for business owners to do commerce in Richmond, VA.

We are excited, and now we need you to be pumped up! Bring yourselves, your friends, your kids, spouses, and parents. This will be a fun event…and we NEED your support through attendance.

The judges will collectively decide the winner, based on our presentation and reviewed materials throughout the competition. However, there will also be a Crowd Favorite Award based on the electronic votes from the audience that night!! Again, we NEED your support through attendance!!

Lastly, we encourage you to get in the spirit and make signs, and posters, and other fun gadgets. We are rounding up at C’est Le Vin (15 N 17th street) on Wednesday, June 20th from 5:30 – 7:00 to create some posters. Let us know if you plan to join us!!

Thank YOU for all that you have done so far. We couldn’t have done it without you!! Now let’s spread the word and get our networks to this event! The ARTisan Cafe is a Finalist, and we would love to have you attend! We want to pack the entire theatre with our supporters and loved ones who have experienced the Cafe and would like to see us take it to the next level of a consistent weekend market for business owners to do commerce in Richmond, VA.”

Attending the event is FREE, you can register here -

http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07e5znq82u2f272a93&llr=ylh4ynbab

Location: Richmond’s CenterStage – 600 East Grace Street Richmond, Virginia 23219

Let’s support something bigger than ourselves for a change, something not associated with making any one person the star. Let’s stand behind a positive movement in our culture that will turn around the face of what we see everyday, something to be proud of. I’m so excited and I pray that I can get you excited as well. Let’s help Artisan Café!

The Saint Paul’s Baptist Church, Richmond, VA Names Byron Cage as New Minister of Music (praiserichmond.com)
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts hosts Maharaja exhibit (americanturban.com)
Visual Arts Center of Richmond Media Kit (elisagoliver.wordpress.com)
Art for Your Heart – Virginia Art Therapy Association (arttherapyblog.wordpress.com)
Can The Old South Rebrand Itself? Richmond Tries, With A Dynamic New Logo (fastcompany.com)
City Council, Richmond mayor races fill up (timesdispatch.com)
Fed Beige Book – Richmond: Economy Improved Modestly (forexlive.com)
Women’s rights activists accept deals in Capitol protest (timesdispatch.com)
Specialty Markets in Richmond (apartmentguide.com)
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3 displaced by Battery Park house fire (timesdispatch.com)

This week in Richmond – As We Grow Childcare Turns 1 Years Old, New Music from Young Richmond OutKasts, and More

Posted by I'esha GaptoothDiva ⋅ April 27, 2011 ⋅ 1 Comment

Brynan Avery – “So Dearly”

Support this young lady trying to work towards her dreams.

Happy Anniversary As We Grow Childcare & Learning Center

Thanks to the hard work of Cherrelle Hurt and her staff, As We Grow Childcare and Learning Center are embarking on their second year at their Southside location. Things have picked up enormously and now they are currently enrolling in their summer Enrichment program for the summer months. Plans are underway for a celebration, so more details to come. Contact their office for more info on how your little genius can be apart of a growing family. Did I mention that Cherrelle Hurt was 2010’s school board candidate and also one of the very witnesses in Richmond to personally watch President Barack Obama sign a new small business law back in September of 2010? Well, now you know. Give it up for As We Grow Childcare!!

Phone (804) 233-4116

451 East Belt. Blvd. Suite E

Richmond, Virginia 23224

Young Richmond OutKasts Expected to Drop Two Exclusive Music Videos Today and Noon

Watch out for the two hot new videos dropping today at noon

Go to http://www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?gid=181567016218 for the launch

Also download that album because it’s hot potatoes‘!!

Click here to download… http://www.datpiff.com/Young-Richmond-Outkasts-Im-An-Outkast-And-I-Dont-Care-mixtape.192110.html

Check out Rager Atmosphere by Ragerific Knights

http://www.reverbnation.com/play_now/song_8128514

I listened to this song and my booty involuntarily started shaking, I love this. Check them out, they’re very creative!

GaptoothDiva Radio – Featured Artist of The Week, Young Richmond OutKasts Tonight 4/26 at 9pm (gaptoothdiva.com)
Richmond Naturals Throws an Event at Aloft Richmond West Hotel (gaptoothdiva.com)
Richmond jet-fuel facility ‘bad for everyone,’ say critics (theprovince.com)
2011 Spring Bada Bing – Richmond Craft Mafia.wmv (gaptoothdiva.com)
GaptoothDiva Food Choice – Richmond Virginia’s Jaudon Delectables (gaptoothdiva.com)
Allen, Allen, Allen & Allen Launches Sober Ride Home Initiative in Richmond, Virginia for Innsbrook Afterhours 2011 (prweb.com)
Homelessness & the Church (keenanbj.wordpress.com)
Camper in a storm – Richmond, VA (travelpod.com)

Promotion Opportunities Available w/ GaptoothDiva.com

Posted by I'esha GaptoothDiva ⋅ April 11, 2011 ⋅ 11 Comments

Are You Interested In Promoting Yourself & Your Projects?

GaptoothDiva Radio & GaptoothDiva.com are seeking Artist, Writers, Non-Profit Organizers, Promoters, Dancers, Actors, Entrepreneurs, and Musicians who are interested in promoting their new projects and/or events. This is a FREE opportunity to promote your project to a national audience, including Europe & Australia. No, you don’t have to be a veteran in the industry to get media attention. You just need an ounce of professionalism & dedication to promoting what you are passionate about to a broad audience of people who want to hear your story.

To inquire about this opportunity and others, follow this link… http://gaptoothdiva.com/gaptoothdiva-radio/gaptoothdiva-radio-booking-inquiries/

Small Businesses & Entrepreneurs… National Internet Radio Show Seeks Sponsors & Advertisers

National Internet Radio Show seeks advertisers & Sponsors interested in promoting to a large audience in the United States & Canada, also including Europe & Australia. Offering very low and reasonable rates, quality work and production, and the opportunity to be as creative as you would like. No gimmicks or hidden agendas, no loopholes or addendums. Straight promotion for the duration you choose, including flyer distribution and social media management. If you prefer to make money instead of tweeting & face booking, If you don’t have time to push flyers and get the word out, or if you just prefer to have a staff that handles that for you, Contact us at… http://gaptoothdiva.com/sponsorshipadvertise/sponsorshipad-packages/

Seeking Individuals with Interesting Fashion Choices

Do people always compliment you on your outfits? Are you known for buying the most interesting fashion finds, and everyone wants to know where you got it? Do you consider yourself a trendsetter or a fashionista? Well, we want to hear from you. GaptoothDiva is in search of stylish people who know how to find unique clothes and accessories. We want to know your story. Did you go from rags to riches or have you always been creative & stylish? Contact us now for an opportunity to be featured in our new online magazine and via our website and internet radio show. Why not let the country in on your story, telling everyone how you became the trendsetter and style maven that you are?

For more information, contact GaptoothDiva (@) hotmail.com

Follow @GaptoothDiva on Twitter

Facebook.com/GaptoothDiva

GaptoothDiva Radio – How Anyone Can Spot Business Opportunities in the Current Economic Downturn Anywhere In The World, Interview w/ Author & CEO Victor Kwegyir of London, UK

Posted by I'esha GaptoothDiva ⋅ April 5, 2011 ⋅ 6 Comments

Are you ready to fire your boss? Are you getting sick and tired of working hard for someone else, with nothing to show for yourself? Maybe it’s time to consider entrepreneurship but you don’t know how to even begin taking that leap. GaptoothDiva talks with International Business Consultant and CEO Victor Kwegyir, to find out how we can still come out on top during these hard financial times.

Victor Kwegyir is the founder and CEO of VIKE INVEST (UK) LTD, a growing
International Business Consultancy firm in London, UK. He holds a Masters degree (MS in International Financial Systems) with other qualifications. He also speaks internationally at seminars, challenging and equipping people with the knowledge and practical tools in starting and growing a business.

Victor is a regular guest speaker and contributor to entrepreneurial development and business growth & profitability radio shows. He also has his own blog as well as contributes to other blogs and business finance and management websites. He is the author of a recently released book, which addresses the subject of – How Anyone Can Spot Business Opportunities and Take Advantage of the Current Economic Downturn Anywhere In The World.

Contact Victor …

victor@vikebusinessservices.com
Web: http://vikebusinessservices.com
Blog: http://vikeinvest-life.blogspot.com/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/vikek
Linkedin: http://uk.linkedin.com/pub/victor-kwegyir/21/a86/73

Tonight on GaptoothDiva Radio at 9pm Est.
LISTEN LIVE

www.blogtalkradio.com/gaptoothdivaradio

CALL IN LIVE

(646) 378 – 0442

GaptoothDiva Radio Featured Hot Stars of 2010 List – Thanks to All of You Who Inspired Everyone. Happy New Year!

Posted by I'esha GaptoothDiva ⋅ December 31, 2010 ⋅ 17 Comments

When we first opened up the airwaves for GaptoothDiva Radio, it began as a show dedicated to promoting individuality and motivation. However, after we have steadily evolved, we would like to thank all of those featured artist and guest that made the movement more profound and more creative than when it began. Please check out our wonderful super stars of 2010 and follow them in 2011, to see what new and more motivational projects they’ll have for the new year.

Wilma Fleming aka Black Pearl – Poet and Advocate Facebook: 1BlackPreal Email: blkpearl_2010@yahoo.com

Vileeta Fleming aka Ms. V – Singer/Songwriter and Model Facebook: Vileeta Fleming Email: vileetaf@yahoo.com

5yve Footaz (ChargedUp Ent.) – Richmond Rap Group Twitter: @5yvefootaz, www.chargedupent.com, Facebook: Da 5yve Foota Movement

Lez – Author & Self Publisher “A Lesson Learned” Email: Lezcover2cover@aol.com or http://www.lezcover2cover.webs.com

Frederick Eberhardt aka Breeze(Ilifethis) – Poet Facebook: brzbch 1 or breezeilifethis Email: trnd2go@yahoo.com

Official Freeze (ChargedUp Ent.) – Richmond Rapper Twitter: @Official_Freeze , Facebook: Josh “Freeze” Reed, Email: Freezeaintdead@aol.com

Vincent Ellis White – Author & Mentor “Fully Seasoned Man’s Relationship Recipe” Email: vew_nsugrad@hotmail.com , Facebook: Vinny.blanco or http://www.lifelovereligion.com

Tony Kinte Brown – Comedian Facebook: Kunta Kinte (the slave that got away) or Email: Kinte.brown@yahoo.com

Infamous (Just Watch Ent.) – Producer, Musician, Lyricist Facebook: Brandon Michael Smith or Email: infamousbeats08@yahoo.com

De’Angela Anthony (Blakk Box Inc.) – CEO of Revelationz@Sunset Facebook: blakkboxinc , Twitter: @Blakkboxinc, Email: Mzdee81@hotmail.com

Ryshonna Addison Stith – Certified Life Coach Facebook: Ryshonna Addison Stith, Email: stith3@aol.com, or essentialinspirations3@gmail.com

FREAKe – Rapper Facebook: Derrick Freake Williams

J’Lee Maldonado – Songstress & Poet Facebook: J’lee Maldonado , Twitter: @JLeeSings

Fam Thick – Richmond Rap Group Facebook: Fam Thick – The Fan Page , Twitter: @FamThick, myspace.com/famthick

Shardee’s Hair Salon & Day Spa – Williamsburg Rd. Beauty Salon Facebook: Shardee’s Day Spa , www.perfectrosedesigns.com/z_shardees/welcome.htm

Marcus Campbell – Author & Self-Publisher “Club S.E.X” Facebook: Marcus Campbell , Email: macmactony@gmail.com

Stone aka Gladstone Petrie Jr. – Writer/Poet Facebook: Gladstone Petrie Jr., Email: mrmischief2000@yahoo.com

D.O.E The Paperboy – Lyricist Facebook: DOEthepaperboy Thurman , Email: Vaskpaperboy@gmail.com

Imani Misfit – Baltimore Rapper/Porn Star Facebook: Imisfit1, Twitter: ImaniTMisfit, Myspace.com/Misfitradioone

Suzanne A. Roberts – Author “The Undercover 10” Facebook: Suzanne A. Roberts , Email: Sroberts703@aol.com

Cherrelle L. Hurt, CDA – Childcare Provider/Community Activist & Politician Facebook: Cherrell Hurt , Email: Chrrllhur@yahoo.com

Amber Morgan – Community Advocate (Virginia Cooperative Extension) 701 North 25^th Street Richmond, Virginia 23223, (804) 786-4150

Luke “Its Louie” Turner – Petersburg Lyricist Facebook: Lukeitslouieturner , Email: lturner23@tmo.blackberry.net

Dangerous Lee – Activist & Author “Keep Your Panties Up & Your Skirt Down” Facebook: Dangerous Lee , Email: askdangerouslee@hotmail.com

Danny Kofke – Author “How to Survive (or perhaps thrive) on a Teacher’s Salary” Facebook: Danny Kofke , Email: kofketd@windstream.net , http://www.dannykofke.blogspot.com

Kimberly Johnson & Ann Werner – Authors “The Virgin Diaries” Facebook: Kimberly A. Johnson , Twitter: @arkstories , http://www.arkstories.com

Darshan G. Shanti – Motivational Speaker & Author “The 24 Hour Champion” Facebook: the24hourchampion , http://www.the24hourchampion.com

Yung OG’s – Richmond Rap Duo Facebook: Yung Ogs , Email: yungogs@hotmail.com

Bridget Selby – Teacher, Best Friend & Entrepreneur (Geshur Inc.) Facebook: Bridget Selby , Email: geshurintl@aol.com

Mark Anthony – Psychic Lawyer phone: 321-724-0707 or website: www.healgriefwithbelief.com

Ann Leister – Owner/Director of Splash Model Management www.splashmodel.net or www.vafashionweek.net

Kelly Collins – Psychic Medium and Author “The Rise of The Shadows” Facebook: theawakeningpsychics , Twitter: @awakeningradio , http://www.kellyhuntcollins.com

Ladonna Smith – Author “I Married Satan” Facebook: ladonnamsmith or website http://www.ladonnasmith.com , Email: philatonian@yahoo.com

JuniperGreen – Virginia Musician Duo Facebook: juniper.green 1 , or Email: JuniperGreen1@aim.com

Janid Ortiz – Electronica Artist/Singer “ALIAS” (Zonisphere Records) Facebook: Janid , website: www.Janidworld.com , Twitter: @Janid, website: www.Zonisphere.com

Kaydean Phillips – Zonisphere Records www.zonisphere.com , Twitter: @Kaydean

Elinor Stutz – International Trainer, Motivational Speaker and Entrepreneur “Nice Girls Do Get The Sale: Relationship Building That Gets Results” website: http://www.smoothsale.net , Twitter: @smooth sale

Mr. Funny Green – Richmond Rapper Facebook: Green Corlous, Email: germiiah202@aol.com

Irnise Fennell RN – Health Professional & Health Advocate

Brandy Bacote – Entrepreneur (NatashaB1980) Facebook: Natashab1980 or Brandy Bacote , Twitter: @Natashab1980 , www.Natashab1980.com , Email: info@natashab1980.com

Listen to past shows at www.blogtalkradio.com/gaptoothdivaradio

A very special thanks to all of those that listened and supported GaptoothDiva.com and GaptoothDiva Radio in 2010, and we look forward to providing you more creative motivation in 2011. If you have been featured on the show, but your name does not appear above, please charge it to my head and not my heart. Send me an email and I will send out a special shout out to you before the 2011 ball drops at midnight. Thanks to all of the ambitious and like-minded individuals who we had the chance to network with this year, get excited because in 2011, we are going in even harder. Hope everyone has a great holiday and please be safe and responsible.

I’esha GaptoothDiva

http://www.GaptoothDiva.com

Twitter: @GaptoothDiva

Facebook: GaptoothDiva

GaptoothDiva@hotmail.com

If you are interested in being booked on GaptoothDiva Radio for the 2011 year, please email GaptoothDiva@hotmail.com for more

Follow GaptoothDiva to The Alter Ego Event Saturday 10/30 @ 7:30 to Promote Community Empowerment using Fashion & Music. Come Step Outside the Box! (gaptoothdiva.com)
GaptoothDiva Radio – Featured Artist of The Week Mr. Funny Green Tonight at 12/28 @ 9pm. (gaptoothdiva.com)
GaptoothDiva Radio – Get Your Body Right for 2011! w/ Special Guest Co-host Brandy Bacote of Natashab1980.com, also featuring Health Information from Irnise Fennell, RN BSN Tonight 12/30 @ 9pm (gaptoothdiva.com)
Facebook bigger than Jesus online in 2010 (go.theregister.com)
Facebook and YouTube Rise To The Top Most Search Keywords For 2010 (reelseo.com)
2011: The Year of the Social Email Inbox (marketingvox.com)
GaptoothDiva Radio New Year brings New Life Changes, What Changes Are You Ready To Make? Interview w/ Certified Life Coach Ryshonna Addison-Stith Tonight 12/14 @ 9pm (gaptoothdiva.com)

GaptoothDiva Radio – Who Doesn’t Need Childcare Advice? Speak to the Richmond Childcare Expert Cherrelle L. Hurt, CDA For Advice and Tips Tonight 10/14 @ 9pm

Posted by I'esha GaptoothDiva ⋅ October 14, 2010 ⋅ Leave a Comment

GaptoothDiva gets tips and advice about childcare and parenting from one of Richmond’s most profound childcare providers, Cherrelle L. Hurt. Ms. Hurt will discuss how she became the go-to person for new parents and individuals seeking a career in childcare and what are the best techniques & methods parents should use to ensure adequate childhood development in our infants, toddlers, teens, and young adults.

Cherrelle L. Hurt, CDA (Child Development Associate) has been working in the field of helping profession for over 19 years. She is currently the owner of As We Grow Child Care & Learning Center /REIGN, LLC. Previously the Coordinator of the Earliest Beginnings Parenting Project for Children’s Health Involving Parents (CHIP) where she worked most of her young adult life. Ms. Hurt certifications and trainings include; MELD (Minnesota Early Learning Design) Site Coordinator, Born to Learn, Parents as Teachers- Parent Educator and recently a graduate of Hope in the Cities- Community Fellowship Program and the Black Caucus – Minority Political Leadership Program. In 2006, Endorsed by Councilman Marty Jewell, Ms. Hurt ran for her local school board and impressed by placing second in a 5 man race. As a committed community volunteer with service hours as Vice President of her Woodland Heights Civic Association, President – of Cities in Schools, Community Advisory Group and facilitator for Offenders Aid Restoration (OAR) where she taught Anger Management classes to inmates preparing for re-entry into the community. She is the proud mother of college student and honor roll elementary student.

As business owner of As We Grow Childcare & Learning Center/ REIGN (Reaching Each Individual in Guidance and Nurturing her mission is to provide affordable, safe and nurturing environment to all children. Currently she is building up the nonprofit that will provide free services to other business professionals and the community. The quote that best describes her passion for her work is “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, “What are you doing for others?” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Check her out…

As We Grow Childcare & Learning Center

451 Belt Boulevard Suite E
Richmond, VA 23224
(804) 233-4116

Open Weekdays 6:30pm-10:30pm; Sat 8pm-11pm

Also, featuring Professional Flute Player Michael G. Hawkins. Michael G. Hawkins musical experiences include playing at numerous events such as community events, weddings, and receptions. He has participated with groups that opened for performers such as gospel recording superstar, Ms. Shirley Caesar. One memorable event that took place involved him playing in Coax, Switzerland. At that event, he had the opportunity to play in front of many individuals from different parts of the world. Upcoming events include October 22, 2010 at Refresh Lounge at 7 p.m. (Artist Signing at Faith Landmarks Ministries).