by Jeriah Brumfield | Jul 18, 2024 | Stories
THE STADIUM lights blurred as Leslie Henley Trussler raced down the runway, her heart hammering a counterpoint to the roaring crowd. The wind whipped past, whispering doubts such as “too fast” and “not strong enough.” But she ignored them, gripping the pole tighter. A...
by Jeriah Brumfield | Jun 15, 2024 | Stories
WALKING THROUGH the double doors, a medley of grunts, thuds, and sneakers squeaking against polished floors fills the air. Bodies blur across the spring floor, twisting, leaping, and defying gravity. A young girl, eyes narrowed in focus, launches herself skyward in a...
by Jeriah Brumfield | Jun 15, 2024 | Stories
A SMALL ROOM is full of warm light, and there’s a gentle murmur of conversation, emphasizing the anticipation that rises before a special event. One lively character plays the guitar, the others tell jokes, and an infectious sense of fun radiates through the room....
by Jeriah Brumfield | Jun 15, 2024 | Stories
THE SUN shimmered off the asphalt. The constant squeak of sneakers against cracked pavement echoed between the siding of the Shady Grove mobile homes. It was a counterpoint to the distant wail of a police siren. Sweat beaded on Daniel Ray’s forehead — two points...
by Jeriah Brumfield | Jun 15, 2024 | Cover
ONE THING that sticks out in Christie Conlee’s memory of growing up in Houston, Texas, is her respect for the American flag. Her inner patriotism led to countless days of daydreaming of one day wearing the uniform and engraving her name in the legacy of those who...
