JOY THOMAS MOORE

“My sister said it best when she said ‘Our mother wore sweaters so we could wear coats.’ My mom sacrificed everything for her children and no words can express how thankful I am for her. She showed her love by her actions, and I am a better man because of the woman I call mom.”

Wes Moore, CEO of Robin Hood, Army Combat Veteran and Best-Selling Author

MARSHA JACKSON ALLENDER

“From the moment my memories begin, there has been one constant in my life – my Mommy. She has never not been there for me. Whether celebrating my successes, or helping me put the pieces back together after a failure of some sort, I cannot thank my Mother enough for all she has done to support me. I couldn’t be more thankful for her giving spirit and generous love. Mommy, you have and continue to be the epitome of everything I have ever needed and more. Happy Mother’s Day. Love always, Erin

Erin M. Bruce, Senior Manager, The Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson

LINDA MILES

“My mother has always championed ‘her girls.’ For example, school was always a challenge for me but my mom worked with me diligently and also paid for tutors even though it was a struggle financially. At a young age, I decided that I wanted to be a beautician. She called her best friend who owned a salon and could mentor me and who gave me valuable, hands on experience that would last a lifetime. After graduating college and getting a job away from home, my mom would travel hours to visit me because she thought I sounded down on the phone. When I told my mother that I was going to run for Baltimore City Council, her first words were that I would be perfect for the position.”

Shannon Sneed, Baltimore City Councilwoman District 13

LAVERNE NICHOLSON SYKES

“A special Mother’s Day tribute to LaVerne Nicholson Sykes who has been instrumental in not only the long-term success of our family, but in the day to day operation. She goes out of her way to help with logistical challenges as they arise during ‘the grind.’ She provides the strongest of role models for her three granddaughters, even in semi-retirement, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the love, support and encouragement that she so generously gives. Happy Mother’s Day.

John-Allen Sykes II, Account Manager, Tolmar, Inc

ROBYN BURRELL-STOKES

“It has been approximately 1.5 years since my mom passed and it stills seems like yesterday. She has and always will be my favorite girl. My best friend for 40 plus years and counting. The bond we have, no matter here on earth or not, will not and can never be broken. My mom was part of my daily routine and remains part of it in some form or fashion. I hope I am still making you proud. Always and forever your sonsband. Happy Mother’s Day.”

David Pridgen Jr., Broker/Owner, Realty ONE Group Excellence

LILLIE MAE BELL

“My mother, who is now deceased, was not just my mother. She was my best friend, my confidant, my mentor and my companion. She had a high school diploma and married young when she became pregnant with her first born, a daughter, one of four girls to be born to her. Later, as a divorcee and single mother, she faced enormous challenges as do most single parents. It was her drive on behalf of her ‘girls’ that led her, with no prior work experience, to propel herself into steady employment at the post office which ultimately lead to her becoming Director, White House Office on Mail Analyst. She served in this role through four Presidents, retiring shortly after President William Clinton took office.”

Diane Bell-McKoy, President/CEO, Associated Black Charities