By Bonnie Newman Davis

Written November 2023

 I love the feedback, speaking engagements and unexpected opportunities I continue to receive one year after the publication of my book, “Truth Tellers: The Power and Presence of Black Women Journalists Since 1960.” It always takes my breath away when I walk into the home of a family member or cherished friend and see my book on full display. Or when a longtime colleague who is an executive at an NPR news station orders nearly 200 copies of my books for a MEDIA LITERACY PROGRAM!

OR when the Dean of Morgan State University’s School of Global Journalism provided 25 copies of my book to students! OR when the former chairman of the journalism department at my alma mater, North Carolina A&T State University, whipped out a check (or was it cash?? Aggies got money, honey) and purchased a dozen books for students! OR when I am Invited to speak at two national journalism conferences and leave one with a national book award and leave the other with an armful of newfound colleagues and friends! But, GOD! There is no better feeling! 🙏🏾❤️What a ride it has been! J

I just received a text from a friend who is visiting Williamsburg. She said she saw a Black woman journalist named Barbara Ciara being interviewed on the area’s CBS station. “Ummmm, Barbie’s in my book,” I replied. “She is retiring after decades in broadcast television. Can’t wait for her next chapter, which includes a husband! 😂😂❤️🙏🏾!” 🙏🏾❤️🦮🍷hashtag#happyscrappy. hashtag#happywife! I truly thank everyone for your continued support! Buy my book on Amazon (or from me) and help enlighten someone this holiday season!🎄🎄

PS: Thanks also to Padilla and Jeff Wilson, APR and Barbara Hamm Lee Hamm of WHRO and Jason Roop Roop, guest host – WRVA for having me as a guest earlier this year, too! I look forward to speaking to students at the University of Richmond and Virginia Commonwealth University in the next several days!

Thank you to my beloved guardian angels on earth Erin Stanley, LCSW/LICSW Lisa Braxton Jeff Wilson, APR Kadeja Tyler Raina Fields, M.S., APR Fields, M.S., Vinara Mosby, Dr. Linnie S. Carter, Shelia Solomon, Marylinn Minor, Dr. Teshana Gipson, Sarah Glover, John Rich and Michael L. Harvey! I love you all dearly for your ongoing support! Whew!! A sista is tired, but happy!❤️🙏🏾🙂Happy Holidays