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Kimberly Latortue

Get ready to be inspired! Join us as we chat with Anastasia Rubis about her debut novel, ORIANA. After 11 years of hard work, she published her first book in her 60s, and we’re betting it’ll be optioned for the big screen.

In ORIANA, Stacey explores the extraordinary life of journalist Oriana Fallac )(description below), and in our conversation, she opens up about perseverance, chasing dreams no matter your age, and shares how Oriana’s fierce determination became a role model for her own tenacity. Whether you’re an aspiring writer, a historical fiction fan, or need a little nudge to follow your dreams, this episode is for you!

We give the book 4 stars!  ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Get ORIANA

 

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Episode Summary

Interview with Anastasia Rubis (Stacey)

Introduction

In this episode, hosts Janette and Rachel interview Anastasia Rubis, known as Stacey, the author of ORIANA, a novel about the renowned journalist Oriana Fallaci. The hosts discuss Stacey’s background, her writing journey, and the inspiration behind her debut novel.

Stacey’s Background

  • Early Life: Stacey was born and raised in Queens, New York, until the age of eight, after which her family moved to Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey. She is of Greek descent, being a first-generation American.
  • Education: She graduated from Brown University and later earned a master’s degree in English from Montclair State University.
  • Career Path: Before becoming a writer, Stacey worked in advertising and public relations while pursuing her passion for writing in her free time.

The Writing Journey

  • Initial Writing Experience: Stacey began writing in New York City, contributing to publications like the New York Observer and the New York Times. She faced challenges in the freelance writing world, where acceptance rates were low.
  • Move to Montclair: After living in Manhattan for 14 years, Stacey moved back to New Jersey to be closer to family and chose Montclair for its vibrant cultural scene. She credits her time at Montclair State University and local bookstores for reigniting her passion for writing.

The Creation of ORIANA

  • Inspiration: Stacey’s interest in Oriana Fallaci began when she discovered Fallaci’s novel A Man while on vacation in Greece. This led her to explore Fallaci’s life and work, which she found compelling and inspiring.
  • Writing Process: The journey to publish Oriana took 11 years, during which Stacey faced numerous challenges, including working with multiple agents and navigating the publishing landscape during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Publishing Journey: After parting ways with her second agent, Stacey took control of her manuscript and submitted it to small publishers. She eventually found a publisher who appreciated the Italian aspects of her story, leading to the book’s publication.

Themes and Impact

  • Role Models: Stacey emphasizes the importance of having role models and support systems in the writing community. She highlights the need for stories about strong women and the impact they can have on readers.
  • Cultural Significance: The hosts discuss how Oriana Fallaci is a well-known figure in Europe but remains relatively unknown in America, raising questions about the visibility of women’s stories in literature and media.

Conclusion

  • Final Thoughts: Stacey encourages aspiring writers to persevere and not give up on their dreams. She shares her belief that age and environment play significant roles in a writer’s journey.
  • Recommendations: The episode concludes with Stacey recommending local spots in New Jersey, particularly along the Hudson River, and expressing her gratitude for the opportunity to share her story.

Closing Remarks

The hosts thank Stacey for her insights and encourage listeners to read Oriana, highlighting the importance of supporting local authors and bookstores, specifically the Watchung Bookstore in Montclair, NJ.

PRESIDENT OF FRIENDS OF HOWE HOUSE –

Meet Kimberly Latortue, the President of Friends of the Howe House, an organization that came together to save and preserve the first home owned by a former slave in Montclair, New Jersey.  It was for sale on Zillow! Join us as she shares with us the history and significance of the James Howe House. From the origins of the to the challenges faced in preserving its historical value.

Kimberly shares her personal experiences and insights. With her background as a realtor and her passion for community involvement, Kimberly delves into the importance of preserving black history and the role of homeownership in building strong communities. Listeners will be inspired by Kimberly’s dedication and the friendships that have formed through the Friends of the Howe House organization.

 

00:01:22 Preserving African-American history in Montclair.
00:10:53 Importance of community involvement.
00:24:19 Promoting homeownership.
00:31:10 Finding purpose in unexpected places.
00:34:46 Building friendships through shared goals.

“The friends of the Howe house? Who are these friends?
I’d say one big factor was the UUCM church in Montclair. That’s Ravanya, Maria Dionne Ford is part of that. Frank Godlowski, Mina Toller, Sarah Vasquez, Jeff Rockhill. “

Links:
Friends of Howe House
Black Home Ownership Matters
Kimberly at Weichert Realtors

When Kimberly isn’t saving historical homes, selling them, and leading the high school PTA, she loves to pop into one of her and our favorite restaurants
http://lesalbuen.com/

And a bit about Rachel and Kimberly’s high school connection in Dix Hills, Long Island 

 

 

Preserving History: The Friends of the Howe House

We will delve into the fascinating story with Kimberely Latortue, President of the Friends of the Howe House, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the historic James Howe House in Montclair, New Jersey. This house holds significant historical value as the first home in Montclair owned by an African American. Join us as we explore the mission of the Friends of the Howe House, their journey to save this important piece of African American history, and their plans for the future.

The History of the Howe House:

James Howe, a formerly enslaved man, was freed in 1817 and became the owner of the Howe House. The house represents the importance of homeownership for African Americans and their role in the growth of towns like Montclair. Over time, the house faced challenges, including attempts to demolish it and a fire, but it has been preserved and passed down through generations.

The Formation of Friends of the Howe House:

The Friends of the Howe House came together when there were talks of the house being sold. Community members and local historians recognized the historical significance of the house and the need to preserve it. The organization was formed to save, restore, and return the house to the community.

The Importance of the Howe House:

The Howe House symbolizes the safety and possibility of homeownership for the black community in Montclair. It serves as a monument to black history and the development of black communities in the United States. The house’s story is intertwined with the history of Montclair and sheds light on the struggles and triumphs in the area.

The Current State of the House:

The Howe House is currently occupied by tenants who have been respectful and supportive of the preservation efforts. After their lease ends in 2024, the house will be transformed into a historical learning center. Plans are underway to restore and showcase the original features of the house while also incorporating educational elements.

Connecting with the Community:

The Friends of the Howe House are actively reaching out to individuals with ties to Montclair’s black history for oral history interviews.
Collaboration with organizations like the Montclair History Center helps facilitate the preservation and sharing of black history in the area.

Conclusion: The Friends of the Howe House are on a mission to preserve and honor the history of the James Howe House, a significant landmark in Montclair’s history. Through their dedication and community support, they are ensuring that future generations can learn from and appreciate the legacy of James Howe and the importance of homeownership for African Americans. To learn more about their work and how you can get involved, visit their website and follow them on social media.

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