Local Business, Nonprofit Collaborate to Combat Teen Dating Violence
Author and entrepreneur Kaya Hebb, owner of All Things K, is soon releasing her second book focusing on children using their voices to overcome their fears, and she recently partnered with a local organization to further promote positivity for youth.
Hebb collaborated with a local nonprofit, Solid Foundation, and the Office of the Sheriff’s Department, to host an event raising awareness about teen dating violence and reducing the stigma of speaking up. The Feb. 25 event offered a rage room, where attendees could freely destroy clutter, along with resources, advice, and good music.
“The aim of the event was to recognize Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month and to open the discussion on pursuing and maintaining healthy relationships,” said Hebb. “I believe that the first step to success in any relationship is to establish a healthy relationship within yourself. Stress can affect how we feel mentally, emotionally and physically. I believe that we all need to have a healthy outlet to relieve stress.”
Hebb noted that no one is removed from the realities of teen dating violence and domestic violence.
“Even if you are not experiencing violence someone you know may be in some way. We want our residents to use their voices. If you know that someone needs help, ask. Be that voice for them. If you are in need of help please find your voice and ask for help. Support and resources are available.”
Solid Foundation Executive Director LaTasha Ward and Prince George’s County Sheriff John D.B. Carr (D) were proud to partner with Hebb on such an important issue.
“Mental health being on the rise contributes to some of the issues that we have dealing with domestic violence. So as soon as we can actually get to our teens and talk about positive relationships and what it means to be in a relationship, the better off we are,” said Carr.
County Council Recognizes Local Black Trailblazers
The County Council hosted its annual Black History Month Celebration on Feb. 27 while honoring those who have paved the way for Prince George’s and Marylanders of rising generations.
Proclamations were given to honor four awardees: entrepreneur Virginia Ali, centenarian Mattie Lee Coleman, Alonzo Black, a barrier-breaking policeman, and Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, the first Black governor to lead the state.
Ali co-founded Ben’s Chili Bowl in 1958 alongside her husband Ben Ali. Through the many Ben’s Chili Bowl and affiliate locations, Ali has provided hearty meals for DMV residents and visitors. Further, the establishment has been intentional about serving others through giving back and outreach to the community. Ali was presented with a proclamation for the Art of Food.
Coleman attributed her long life to well-balanced meals and growing up without fast food. Born in 1918, Coleman has lived a life where the Ku Klux Klan once rode through her neighborhood to now living in a majority-Black county and seeing the election of the first Black U.S. president and first Black woman vice president. She was presented a proclamation for the Art of Aging, and her great-granddaughter China Summers accepted it in her honor.
Black was the first Black Sheriff and first Black police officer in Prince George’s County. He was honored as a trailblazer in public safety and law enforcement. Sheriff John D.B. Carr and Police Chief Malik Aziz joined Councilmember Sydney Harrison (D- District 9) to award his proclamation.
As the first Black governor of Maryland and the third Black governor in the nation, Moore was celebrated as a barrier-breaking and compassionate leader. Dr. Antwan Brown of the Governor’s Office of Community Affairs, accepted the commendation on his behalf.