WINSTON WEEKLY^[1]

November 3, 2024

Vol. 2, No. 44

WHO IS RUBY JEAN?

Ruby Jean continues to inspire Christopher “Chris” Goode and his family long after her passing. She may soon inspire the entire Kansas City community and other communities, near and far. The back cover of Christopher’s new children’s book, Ruby Jean’s Garden, includes this phrase: “May we shape our children through a healthier lens.” Christopher’s book is uplifting while also tackling the struggles of hunger, diabetes, and heart disease following the difficult loss of his beloved grandmother, Ruby Jean.

October 26, 2024 was a beautiful fall day in Kansas City; the perfect day for a collaboration between Lead to Read KC and Ruby Jean’s Juicery.[2] Teaming up for an outdoor reading of Christopher’s book, the event included games and educational resources. As children and adults sat before Christopher, they listened intently. At the end of the reading, Chris asked questions about healthy food and drinks and encouraged everyone to commit to a healthier lifestyle.

Ruby Jean is a reminder that people and communities can be transformed, and difficult subjects can be addressed in inspirational ways. My negative memories of Troost Avenue from 35+ years ago have faded as the area has transformed into a vibrant new community. Ruby Jean’s Garden is an enduring reminder of how individuals and organizations can make a difference, and why healthier matters.

THIS WEEK’S ACTIVITY

If you are in the Kansas City area, visit Ruby Jean’s Juicery and Lead to Read KC. If not, check out their websites and see how you can help. Purchase Ruby Jean’s Garden for yourself, a teacher, a friend, or a colleague. Commit to a healthier you.

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[1] Copyright November 3, 2024. Winston Weekly is a weekly newsletter and blog by Alysen Bayles available at www.baylesconnect.com or by e-mail at baylesconnect@gmail.com. Please feel free to share with the appropriate attribute.

[2] Lead to Read KC, www.leadtoreadkc.org. Ruby Jean’s Juicery, www.rubyjeansjuicery.com.